Ever since Feb. 2020 with the release of the “Sonic The Hedgehog” movie, subsequent films and games, Sonic as a brand has rejuvenated itself in the eyes of common consumers, critics and diehard fans. “Sonic Racing: Crossworlds” is no exception to this Sonic renaissance, with the franchise’s high grossing movie at the box office and positively received games that stick to the core of the brand’s identity, not to mention the highly notable crossover characters in this newest game. The game showcases the Sonic brand’s return to confidence and positive bravado with varied and highly customizable gameplay.
At the beginning of 2025, Sega initiated their Racing Around the World campaign with different Sonic video games, animated media and merchandise in a multimedia campaign for their newest racing game. This campaign has had collaborations with McLaren Racing with an event hosted in Trafalgar Square on July 2-3 in London, which brought Sonic and co. to the racetrack in a free event for racing fans.
As well as high profile crossovers backing this game, “Sonic Racing: Crossworlds” offers a highly customizable and fast-paced racing experience. This racing game feels like it rewards those who love the Sonic franchise’s history, characters and world as well as those who just enjoy a varied and chaotic racing game.
“Crossworlds” is a traditional arcade racer similar to “Mario Kart.” However, what sets apart this title from its competition is its layers of variety. From complete customization over cars and “Extreme Gear” to the brand new crossworld mechanic, these mechanics all coalesce into an immensely unique and chaotic gameplay cycle of constant races where vehicles transform over different terrains; players are brought to completely different worlds and getting first place isn’t as easy as sticking to the front or back.
Alongside varied races, players have the ability to customize gadgets; these gadgets are special equipment that alter players vehicle stats and gives new abilities, such as faster tricking or faster boost charge. This acts as another form of customization and allows players to play to their style in races. One fun example of this is turning into a giant monster truck at the beginning of a race.
“Sonic Racing: Crossworlds” provides plenty of uniqueness throughout its gameplay experience alone, taking elements old and new while confidently using them to make a completely new game play experience. It exudes confidence in both its marketing, gameplay and identity as a Sonic crossover racing game.
