A new hands-on report from 4Gamer has uncovered even more gameplay features for Sonic Racing CrossWorlds, highlighting innovations not seen in earlier previews. The report details a strategic gadget system, expanded vehicle customization, a player-controlled world-shifting mechanic, and a rival system that directly impacts gameplay and rewards.
One of the biggest highlights is the new Gadget Plate system. Before each race, players equip hexagon-shaped gadgets into a board that enhances their vehicle’s stats or abilities. These gadgets include boosts to drift speed, support effects, and item modifications. Some gadgets combine effects into kits, offering layered benefits in a single slot. Since each gadget takes up a specific amount of plate space, players must plan their layout carefully to maximize performance. Equipped gadgets are shown during races, making active effects clear at a glance.
Vehicle customization goes far beyond appearance. Each machine falls into one of five performance types: Speed, Acceleration, Handling, Power, and Boost. These affect how each vehicle controls during a race. Players can unlock and apply new body parts, color schemes, decals, horn sounds, and aura effects using in-game tickets earned through racing.
Boost-type vehicles include the return of hoverboards from Sonic Riders, known as Extreme Gear. These boards prioritize speed and high-skill handling, with better drift and air trick performance. Their inclusion not only brings back fan-favorite mechanics but adds a new layer of technical mastery. Watching characters zip across tracks on boards alongside traditional vehicles creates a dynamic and nostalgic visual mix.
The Grand Prix mode introduces a fully interactive rival system. Each cup pits the player against a designated rival with exclusive dialogue and more aggressive AI. Beating that rival grants bonus rewards, and players can choose which character to face before each Grand Prix, as well as set their difficulty level. This turns the rival system into a strategic element that directly affects progression.
CrossWorlds’ Travel Ring mechanic also adds a fresh twist to traditional lap-based racing. Races follow a three-lap structure. The first lap runs on a base course, but at the end, a Travel Ring appears. The racer in first place chooses which alternate world the entire race will shift to for lap two. The final lap returns to the original setting. These alternate worlds include unique hazards and scenery, such as ice-covered roads under glowing auroras and jungle zones filled with roaming dinosaurs. This feature gives leading players influence over race direction and strategy.
As in Sonic and All-Stars Racing Transformed, terrain shifts mid-race. Vehicles morph between land, air, and water forms depending on the track, and players can boost by drifting, performing aerial tricks, or collecting rings. Gadgets further enhance this system, creating a gameplay loop that rewards technical mastery and strategic planning.
Additional modes like Race Park and Time Trial were briefly mentioned, suggesting a wide range of content beyond Grand Prix. With cross-play support, online multiplayer for up to twelve players, and a massive roster that includes Hatsune Miku, Steve from Minecraft, and other crossover icons, Sonic Racing CrossWorlds is shaping up to be a standout entry in Sonic’s spin-off legacy.
Stay tuned to Sonic City for more exclusive updates as we speed toward the September 25 launch.
Source: 4Gamer
