An Enjoyable Spin on Sonic Racing
There’s something inherently charming about Sonic games that allows me to relax and simply enjoy the experience without overthinking it. I’m pleased to share that my time with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds has been genuinely fun. During a quick session at Summer Game Fest, I found myself immersed in a game that captures the core elements of a great kart racer: lightning-fast and adrenaline-pumping races, power-ups that can dramatically change the outcome and spark moments of frustration, and a lively atmosphere that pays homage to Sonic’s iconic universe. It offers more than just the standard racing formula, introducing features and mechanics that set it apart from previous Sonic racing titles.
Introducing the CrossWorld Mechanic for Dynamic Races
One of the most innovative features of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is its CrossWorld mechanic, which injects unpredictability and variety into each race. The race begins on a selected track, but after the first lap, the race leader gets the power to choose where the next lap will take place. This warp can transport racers to diverse environments — from shimmering icy worlds under the northern lights to treacherous stormy seas amidst shipwrecks, or even volcanic zones with laser grids acting as deadly obstacles. The third lap typically returns players to the original track, but this rotation keeps each race feeling fresh and unpredictable. Over time, players will likely get used to this mechanic, but it effectively adds an exciting layer of variability to each race, encouraging strategic thinking and quick adaptation.
Variety in Vehicle Transformations
During these cross-worlds, racers will find themselves flying, hovering, or surfing depending on the location. This variety significantly enhances the gameplay experience because vehicles are not limited to ground drifts alone. The flying sections are particularly impressive, offering precise controls that allow for a sense of verticality rarely seen in kart racers. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is visually chaotic — filled with explosions, particle effects, and vibrant backgrounds — creating a spectacle that’s as exhilarating as it is frenetic. While this visual overload can sometimes make it challenging to follow what’s happening on screen, it’s clear that the game prioritizes spectacle over strict realism or competitive clarity.
Deep Customization for Competitive Play
Beyond the chaotic visuals, the game offers substantial depth through vehicle customization. Players can modify parts like the body, tires, and boosters to influence stats such as top speed, acceleration, and handling. More intriguingly, you can equip perks to your kart, functioning as loadouts with six attachment slots — some perks take up multiple slots. For instance, I used a three-slot acceleration booster and a two-slot perk that improved recovery time after being hit. These modifications significantly impacted my performance, allowing me to recover quickly from setbacks like rockets or collisions and even overtake opponents. For dedicated players, this system provides an added layer of strategy, making it possible to fine-tune your kart for competitive advantage.
Race Modes and Competitive Elements
During my time with the game, I explored the Grand Prix mode, which involves a series of four races where points are awarded based on finishing positions. The overall winner is decided at the end of the series. A notable feature is the introduction of a rival who is declared mid-series, becoming more aggressive and competitive as the races progress. The final race offers bonus points for first place, allowing skilled players to potentially overturn a points deficit and secure victory. While this mode provides a solid foundation, I’m eager to see how other race types and modes will develop, as the core gameplay is fun and energetic, but longevity will depend on Sega’s ability to introduce innovative and engaging alternatives.
Crossover Characters and Sega’s Rich Heritage
One of the most exciting aspects of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is its roster of crossover characters, which not only includes Sonic’s universe but also celebrates Sega’s broader history. During Summer Game Fest, Sega revealed that characters like Kasuga Ichiban from the Yakuza series, Joker from Persona 5, and Hatsune Miku, the Vocaloid superstar, will all be part of the lineup. Seeing Ichiban relive his days in a cart racing game reminiscent of Dragon Kart from the 2020 RPG is a delightful nod to his character, while Miku zooming through Sonic worlds on a hoverboard adds a fantastical flair. This roster highlights Sega’s diverse catalog, and such crossovers have been a staple in Sonic racing games — but with Sega’s expanding universe, there’s potential for even more creative and meaningful integrations.
A Fun and Celebratory Racer Ahead of Launch
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds doesn’t aim to reinvent the kart racing genre; instead, it seeks to be a joyful, carefree experience that celebrates Sonic and Sega’s legendary characters. It’s a vibrant, chaotic, and highly entertaining game that I’ve enjoyed thoroughly, and I look forward to drifting through its colorful tracks when it launches on September 25 on PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo consoles, and PC. Whether you’re a casual fan or a dedicated racer, this game promises a lively ride filled with memorable moments and Sega nostalgia.
Emma Blake
Emma is a tech-savvy news editor who thrives on staying ahead of the curve. With a background in digital journalism and media studies, she brings readers up-to-the-minute updates on gaming, tech, and entertainment trends. Emma’s writing is sharp, insightful, and always backed by credible sources. Her mission is to keep the community informed and curious about the fast-changing digital world.
