- Open network testing from August 29th to September 2nd with cross-play and preloading enabled.
- Six modes: Grand Prix, World Match, Friend Match, Race Park, Time Trial and Custom Match with split screen.
- CrossWorlds mechanics with dimension hopping, new tracks, and transforming vehicles.
- Launching September 25 on consoles and PC; Early Access on Steam; and plans for Switch 2.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds returns to the grid with news after its visit to the fair, showing a trailer packed with gameplay details, tracks and multiplayer optionsThe project, now in the hands of Sonic Team, seeks to establish itself as a fast-paced and accessible competitive arcade game.
In addition, SEGA has set a date for a open network test with cross-play, which will allow everyone to get a pretty clear idea of the title's tone before release. In this article, we've gathered Highlights from the announcements and a guide to downloading the game test for free on different platforms.
A new playable look from Gamescom
The latest trailer focuses on the pure speed and variety On the track: straightforward arcade driving, dramatic drifts, and extra spectacle on every lap. The production signs a change of study compared to previous racing installments in the saga, and takes advantage of it to bet on a more robust competitive structure and on the cross-play integration since the first day.
Another playable key is the adaptation of the vehicle to the terrain: The car becomes a hydrofoil in aquatic sections and an aircraft in aerial segments, a transition that seeks to maintain clear control and understanding of the layout even when the pace picks up. All of this is supported by eye-catching effects, without losing sight of the driving weight in front of objects.
Confirmed game modes
The proposal includes a range of options to play solo, local and en línea, with customizable rules and cross-platform matchmaking. These are the modes confirmed so far:
- Grand Prix: glasses of four races in which points are added up to determine the champion. It can be played solo or in split screen.
- World Match: online games against others 11 players, with ranking points and rank progression.
- Friend Match: private rooms for up to 12 participants, with full control of rules (speed, AI, items, tracks and equipment).
- Race Park: festive mode with six formats of race and alternative rules to vary the competition style.
- Time Trials: time trials to fight for the best time on each circuit and climb the leaderboards.
- Custom Match (offline): custom games in split screen for up to 4 players, with the same rules sliders.
A further addition is made Rival System: During a Grand Prix, the game assigns a specific opponent who will activate challenges and dialogues contextual, which tightens the fight for the podium without complicating the formula. For those who prefer a couch and home-cooked snack, there are local cooperative for four in split screen.
Circuits and the jump between dimensions
The name of the game is not accidental: the mechanics CrossWorlds introduces portals that allow you to change scenery between laps. After crossing the finish line, the The leader chooses one of two rings and the entire grid jumps to an alternate dimension for the next lap., then returning to the original track. This twist adds tactical variety and a very recognizable visual rhythm.
The trailer has seen clues inspired by the hedgehog's recent adventures, such as Kronos Island (Sonic Frontiers), Northstar Island (Sonic Superstars) or the ethereal White space (Shadow Generations), with iconic elements reinterpreted for the racing format. There are also crazy variations that alter rules—more accelerators, constant boosts, specific objects—to introduce meaningful surprises.
Template, cameos and voices
The mixed squad Sonic characters with guests from other franchises. Among the confirmed crossovers are Pac-Man within the season pass, and it won't be the only illustrious visitor: SEGA has announced additional collaborations that will expand the grid with new drivers and vehicles.
Regarding the voices, the team has explained that the priority is on the interactions of the 23 Sonic characters, with a large number of reactive lines in the race. Due to third-party review and approval issues, most guests they will not have their own voice; one notable exception is Hatsune Miku, which will feature phrases generated by its synthesizer.
Open Network Test: Dates and How to Participate
SEGA will hold an Open Network Test from August 29 to September 2. Habrá preload so that everything is ready on time and cross-play will be activated, so you can easily fill grids and play with friends regardless of the platform.
The test will include options online and offline; in some cases you will be asked to complete a previous Grand Prix before jumping into public matches, and will be offered customizable lobbies In addition to global matchmaking. Progress from the trial will not carry over to the final game, but a participation bonus (cosmetic stickers and an in-game title), redeemable using the same account and platform.
During these days, players will be able to try out a selection of circuits and pilots and form equipment to compete online or practice against the clock. ONT's goal is to fine-tune servers, balancing, and matchmaking in preparation for the retail release.
You can participate on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and S or on PC from Steam o Epic Games. From this Sega website You can access the different test versions for the mentioned platforms.
Release and versions
The premiere of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is planned for September 25 en PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch and PC. On Steam there is a early access on September 22 for those who reserve the Digital Deluxe Edition.
SEGA has also confirmed plans for Nintendo Switch 2: digital release during the Christmas campaign and physical edition planned for early 2026, in addition to cross-matchmaking and an upgrade plan from the standard Switch version. Cross-play will be fully integrated between compatible platforms.
On the progress side, the garage promises hours of fine-tuning: more than 40 vehicles, more of NO gadgets and over NOTE 100 to modify performance and aesthetics. The Gadget Plate offers six slots to equip upgrades of different sizes, and the collection of Red Rings in the race it becomes Tickets to be exchanged at the workshop store.
There are only a few weeks left to see how everything fits together: a fast-paced arcade with dimensional jumping mechanics, varied modes, an online base with cross-play, and a rotating ration of cameos. The open test will serve as a thermometer to fine-tune the final details before the starting flag.
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