Sonic Racing: Crossworlds | Review Thread

Draugoth

Draugoth

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Game Information​

Game Title: Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

Platforms:

  • PlayStation 5 (Sep 25, 2025)
  • PlayStation 4 (Sep 25, 2025)
  • Xbox Series X/S (Sep 25, 2025)
  • Xbox One (Sep 25, 2025)
  • Nintendo Switch (Sep 25, 2025)
  • PC (Sep 25, 2025)
Trailers:

Developer: Sonic Team

Publisher: SEGA


Critic Reviews

COGconnected - Jaz Sagoo - 80 / 100

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Digitec Magazine - Cassie Mammone - German - 4 / 5

"Sonic Racing: Crossworlds" stands alongside "Mario Kart" at the top of the fun racer genre – even if its DLC pricing policy is far from ideal.
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GAMES.CH - Roger Sieber - German - 86%

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GameSpot - Steve Watts - 7 / 10

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a well-crafted and remarkably flexible arcade racer with an almost overwhelming amount of customization and a whizbang portal-hopping mechanic.
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Gameblog - French - 8 / 10

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IGN Italy - Luca Rago - Italian - 9 / 10

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds' strenghts are in its distinctly arcade feel and sense of speed, it's an incredibly fun kart game with a strong personality that clearly sets it apart from the competition. If you're looking for a kart game and don't own a Nintendo console, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the answer, but it's also a solid alternative for everyone else, with cross-play undoubtedly adding value to the package, along with the extensive post-launch support already announced.
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Loot Level Chill - Lyle Pendle - 9.5 / 10

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the best kart racing game you'll play in 2025, with tons of fresh ideas and more content than you could shake a Chao at.
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Manual dos Games - Luiz Henrique Silva - Portuguese - 9 / 10

With a enjoyable gameplay, a customization system that allows players to express their skills, creative tracks that make excellent use of vehicle transformation mechanics and the new track-switching feature during races, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds finally earns its place on the podium of kart racing games.
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One More Game - Vincent Ternida - 8 / 10

Sonic Racing: Crossworlds has proven to be a pleasant surprise, offering a fun and accessible experience, along with enough depth to satisfy kart racing enthusiasts. With a lineup of engaging DLC characters on the horizon, the game shows strong potential as a live service title with lasting appeal.
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PSX Brasil - Ivan Nikolai Barkow Castilho - Portuguese - 85 / 100

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds features fun, challenging gameplay, a diverse number of characters and tracks. There are also plenty of customization options. Multiplayer is the game's strong point, with a variety of modes both online and offline. However, the single-player content leaves something to be desired, becoming monotonous after a few hours. Furthermore, the Donpa Tickets grind is unnecessarily excessive.
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Pizza Fria - Filipe Villela Barroso - Portuguese - 8.3 / 10

The game presents itself as much more than a simple derivative of the arcade genre, the combination of creative tracks, transformable vehicles and a good dose of customization makes each race unique, placing the player in situations that require both skill and strategy.
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PlayStation Universe - Joe Richards - 9 / 10

Despite my initial trepidation, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds defies the odds and managed to hook me. Strong fundamental gameplay is paired with genuinely cool customisation options and fantastic track design to make for a compelling and addicting racer that I've had to tear myself away from to even write this review. We'll see how online balance plays out in a realistic sample size, but so far, I'm massively impressed.
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Push Square - Stephen Tailby - 8 / 10

Some small gripes aside, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a rock solid kart racer that carves its own path. The dimension-hopping races are fun, varied, and fast, and the robust customisation allows players to really tinker with how the game feels. With energetic action, a good range of race types, and plenty of post-launch content on the way, this is an entertaining entry for casual players and hardcore Sonic fans alike.
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República DG - André Custódio - Portuguese - 8.4 / 10

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the complete package for anyone with high expectations for a kart racing game. With a large roster of racers and extensive customization options, the game guarantees hours of fun.
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Restart.run - Luis Joshua Gutierrez - 4 / 5

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a fantastic kart game that doesn't feel like a half-baked carbon copy. It has many different modes that stand on their own, as well as the portal system that changes up each track and keeps you on your toes. It has a low entry point but a high ceiling, which makes it ideal for anyone to pick up and enjoy.
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Shacknews - Ozzie Mejia - 8 / 10

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The Outerhaven Productions - Keith Mitchell - 4.5 / 5

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a return to form for the Sonic kart-racing series, while adding exciting mechanics like portals that shift your race mid-race. The plentiful roster, the tracks are creative and colorful, the visuals shine and the racing and fast and fun. On the downside, handling can feel loose in tighter turns, rubber-banding and item chaos sometimes detract from competitive racing. Still, if you're looking for a fun, fast-paced kart racing, then Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds delivers.
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TheSixthAxis - Dominic Leighton - 6 / 10

While it gets plenty of the fundamentals of right, the dimension hopping, character roster and some of the extra modes don't quite stick the landing. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds isn't the best karting game out there, and thirteen years on from Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed, it's not even the best karting game with a blue hedgehog in it.
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Tom's Guide - 4 / 5

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is one of the most memorable entries in the Sonic the Hedgehog series, and it upstages Mario Kart World in several ways. Packed with chaos, fun and presenting a bit of a learning curve, CrossWorlds wins big when it comes to smooth drifting and air tricks that give you significant boosts. Extensive kart and 'Gadget Plate' customization enable you to strategize in different ways and fine-tune your style. While there aren't enough courses at launch and some items can feel overpowered at times, CrossWorlds makes a big splash as a multi-platform karting game. PC Deals2 deals availableDownload $69.99 $60.89View $82.06 $66.71ViewWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by
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Video Chums - Mary Billington - 8.9 / 10

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds features some of the best track variety in the genre as well as a visceral driving experience that has you seamlessly take to the skies, water, and road. If you love kart racers, it's an absolute must-play. 🏁
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I urge people to play the demo fist. I am a big fan of the first game and transformed but this one felt really bad to me. Very Stiff. it is not the same.
 
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I know one fatfrog will be annoying to deal with, Sega will probably pay him an extra from all the job he did lmao

As for me, seems weird theres some concerning negatives but yet they still give high scores at the end.
 
RoboFu said:
I urge people to play the demo fist. I am a big fan of the first game and transformed but this one felt really bad to me. Very Stiff. it is not the same.
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I also highly recommend changing some settings around, because that's kind of how I felt UNTIL I set the camera to dynamic, which makes it sway far more like other kart racing games, and I adjusted the controls, then it felt excellent and I had an absolute blast with the online test.
 
After trying the Switch demo, I'll get it when they get a Switch 2 version out, shocked they couldn't nail down an upgrade patch prior to release. Knowing Sega it'll be at least 20% off by then too.
 
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Nvzman said:
I also highly recommend changing some settings around, because that's kind of how I felt UNTIL I set the camera to dynamic, which makes it sway far more like other kart racing games, and I adjusted the controls, then it felt excellent and I had an absolute blast with the online test.
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Setting the camera to dynamic helps a lot! its still not perfect but much much closer to the old games now. thanks!
 
touchfuzzy said:
After trying the Switch demo, I'll get it when they get a Switch 2 version out, shocked they couldn't nail down an upgrade patch prior to release. Knowing Sega it'll be at least 20% off by then too.
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Oh bummer, guess I will wait for the Switch 2 version as well. Maybe Nintendo declined to bless Sega with enough Switch 2 dev kits
 
Was pretty impressed by the network test so to see it actually scoring high is a relief, they needed a win after the disaster that was Team Sonic Racing.
 
CrimsonTide said:
Solid scores

Not a major kart racing fan really. But I will try the free demo.

We need a souls-like Kart racer :lollipop_smirking:
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SRC is hard carried by its excellent track design (both in terms of layouts and visuals) but I really wish kart racers had more complex mechanics, gear shifting, breaks actually being useful etc
 
snapdragon said:
SRC is hard carried by its excellent track design (both in terms of layouts and visuals) but I really wish kart racers had more complex mechanics, gear shifting, breaks actually being useful etc
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It's a novel idea. Wonder why it's never been done before? Or has it? Maybe like a simulation kart racer right?
 
Fat Frog said:
It jumped to 83, the early results were dragged down by the usual suspect Gamespot.

Gamespot for certain reasons always bashed great Sega games from Alien Isolation (6/10) to Shadow Generations and now Sonic Crossworlds.
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It's the classic "Sega 7" rating, which meant that your only choice as a consumer was to take a chance because either the Sega game you were about to play will be terribly jank or it might be the funnest "7" of that year for you.

This has been happening since the PS360 gen. Resonance of Fate and The Club are both perfect examples of what I'm talking about.
 
Roughly what I expected. I'll grab this when it's on sale.

I'm still enjoying MK World at the moment, though.
 
Was really excited for this but no ultrawide support + 60 FPS cap = DOA.

I'll consider the Switch 2 version depending on performance.
 
Is there a Switch 2 version planned? I tried the demo and the 30fps was nauseating. The game itself seems just alright. Nothing worth getting on day one.
 
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Kacho said:
Is there a Switch 2 version planned? I tried the demo and the 30fps was nauseating. The game itself seems just alright. Nothing worth getting on day one.
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Was just about to ask this, so I guess you answered my question.

This would be a perfect game to get on Switch 2, where I could bring it to my nieces'/nephews' houses for some fun kart racing. But no deal unless we get a 60fps version.
 
Dacvak said:
Was just about to ask this, so I guess you answered my question.

This would be a perfect game to get on Switch 2, where I could bring it to my nieces'/nephews' houses for some fun kart racing. But no deal unless we get a 60fps version.
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Seems like a major release for Sega, so the lack of Switch 2 version is odd. I'm sure they have no issue getting dev kits for their teams.
 
Kacho said:
Seems like a major release for Sega, so the lack of Switch 2 version is odd. I'm sure they have no issue getting dev kits for their teams.
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There's been some weirdness with Switch 2 releases across the board and I can't quite put my finger on why. Like, it seems like devs have to choose between releasing a Switch 1 or a Switch 2 version, without the ability to simply patch the S1 version with S2 enhancements. (Even though a few of Nintendo's games do exactly that.)

Like for Silksong, if you want to play the game on both S1 and S2, it's my understanding you need to buy the S1 version and then use the free upgrade in the eshop to download the S2 version. And while I haven't tested this, I'm guessing that the save file does not transfer between S1 and S2.

I think Nintendo may be treating games like that as individual licenses, which might mess with things like digital game card sharing. I can't remember off the top of my head, but there were at least a few other games that basically required you to buy a dedicated S2 version (sometimes at a discount, sometimes not) to get the enhancements.

So I'm sort of wondering how Sega will tackle this if/when we get a S2 version. Will they have to sell a completely separate S2 version at full price, even for people upgrading? And if not, does that mean the user would effectively have two digital licenses for the game?

I dunno. The whole S1/S2 thing seems wonky, so I bet there's some messiness in the background for devs. I'd like to understand it better.

Come to think of it, are there any 3rd-party games that have gotten S2 patches for increased resolution, etc?
 
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Dacvak said:
There's been some weirdness with Switch 2 releases across the board and I can't quite put my finger on why. Like, it seems like devs have to choose between releasing a Switch 1 or a Switch 2 version, without the ability to simply patch the S1 version with S2 enhancements. (Even though a few of Nintendo's games do exactly that.)

Like for Silksong, if you want to play the game on both S1 and S2, it's my understanding you need to buy the S1 version and then use the free upgrade in the eshop to download the S2 version. And while I haven't tested this, I'm guessing that the save file does not transfer between S1 and S2.

I think Nintendo may be treating games like that as individual licenses, which might mess with things like digital game card sharing. I can't remember off the top of my head, but there were at least a few other games that basically required you to buy a dedicated S2 version (sometimes at a discount, sometimes not) to get the enhancements.

So I'm sort of wondering how Sega will tackle this if/when we get a S2 version. Will they have to sell a completely separate S2 version at full price, even for people upgrading? And if not, does that mean the user would effectively have two digital licenses for the game?

I dunno. The whole S1/S2 thing seems wonky, so I bet there's some messiness in the background for devs. I'd like to understand it better.
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Yes, the whole situation is convoluted and inconsistent.

I pre-ordered the deluxe Final Fantasy Tactics for Switch because no Switch 2 version exists. The upgrade for the Switch 2 is free but you have to do a separate "pre-order" for that. Wut.

Trails in the Sky requires a $1.00 upgrade to get the Switch 2 version. Wut.

There is no upgrade path for Suikoden. You have to pay full price to get the Switch 2 version if you own the original Switch version. Wut.

Xbox has the best, most consumer friendly system in place.
 
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Kacho said:
Yes, the whole situation is convoluted and inconsistent.

I pre-ordered the deluxe Final Fantasy Tactics for Switch because no Switch 2 version exists. The upgrade for the Switch 2 is free but you have to do a separate "pre-order" for that. Wut.

Trails in the Sky requires a $1.00 upgrade to get the Switch 2 version. Wut.

There is no upgrade path for Suikoden. You have to pay full price to get the Switch 2 version if you own the original Switch version. Wut.

Xbox has the best, most consumer friendly system in place.
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Will Smith Lol GIF by HBO Max
 
The network test on Xbox had this weird issue where the game just looked dim, as if a screen dimmer was activated. Apparently the same applies to the full version.

However, a XboxEra mod played it on PS5 Pro as well and it's super bright and vibrant with the colours and everything. What a weird oversight by the devs and now we gotta wait and see if they fix this.
 
The last reviews are even more outstanding. (this journalist took the time to understand the game).

m.jeuxactu.com

Test Sonic Racing CrossWorlds : oui oui, il est bien supérieur à Mario Kart World

Test Sonic Racing CrossWorlds Si on a déjà qualifié 2025 comme étant l’année du ninja, et à juste titre d’ailleurs, on peut également dire que 2025 est aussi l’année du karting racing games.
m.jeuxactu.com m.jeuxactu.com
"Faaaar superior" to Mario Kart due to the learning curve, risk taking, and the skill needed (Crossworlds punishes bad drivers)

"Sonic Racing CrossWorlds isn't just another entry in the franchise, it's a full-on evolution of the karting formula that finally outshines Mario Kart World. Faster, more demanding, and packed with depth thanks to its gadget system, CrossWorlds mechanic, and unprecedented vehicle and character customization, SEGA has delivered a game that rewards skill, strategy, and risk-taking. Yes, hoverboards feel awkward and the UI could use some love, but on the track, the action is relentless, the races unpredictable, and the fun absolutely infectious. There's no contest : Mario Kart World has finally met its master, and it's called Sonic Racing CrossWorlds."

Alexios Alexios
You'll see 😎.
It's the same for journalists or random players:
6t2H9qkHNB3BHwB4.jpg

They'll all change their minds after playing a long time to understand the game, the real efficiency of gadgets, the skill based gameplay (you touch the grass, you're punished. Simple... don't blame the game but your poor skill, guys 😆).

It's Initial D team's first Kart Racer and already a classic.
Period 😎
 
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Day one! Had a great time with each of the network tests. Game oozes charm and racing online is a blast. I love that it seems to have a fairly high skill ceiling. Items aren't as cheap, and there are plenty of defensive options. The gadget mechanic is a welcome addition that adds depth as well.

Pretty much my only gripe is the 60fps cap, which I assume is for cross play parity (poor SW1 players though…).
This is one of those games that makes 60 feel downright sluggish; the game begs to be played at 90+ fps. Pre-ordered on Steam primarily to play at hfr which is a bummer, but at least online will be free. Might double dip on a console physical copy if the final code turns out as good as I'm sure it will.
See you on the race track, broskis.
 
Stratostar said:
I love that it seems to have a fairly high skill ceiling. Items aren't as cheap, and there are plenty of defensive options. The gadget mechanic is a welcome addition that adds depth as well.
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Yeah, DEPTH is the key word here.
That's why it'll have even more good reputation over time.
 
Dacvak said:
There's been some weirdness with Switch 2 releases across the board and I can't quite put my finger on why. Like, it seems like devs have to choose between releasing a Switch 1 or a Switch 2 version, without the ability to simply patch the S1 version with S2 enhancements. (Even though a few of Nintendo's games do exactly that.)

Like for Silksong, if you want to play the game on both S1 and S2, it's my understanding you need to buy the S1 version and then use the free upgrade in the eshop to download the S2 version. And while I haven't tested this, I'm guessing that the save file does not transfer between S1 and S2.

I think Nintendo may be treating games like that as individual licenses, which might mess with things like digital game card sharing. I can't remember off the top of my head, but there were at least a few other games that basically required you to buy a dedicated S2 version (sometimes at a discount, sometimes not) to get the enhancements.

So I'm sort of wondering how Sega will tackle this if/when we get a S2 version. Will they have to sell a completely separate S2 version at full price, even for people upgrading? And if not, does that mean the user would effectively have two digital licenses for the game?

I dunno. The whole S1/S2 thing seems wonky, so I bet there's some messiness in the background for devs. I'd like to understand it better.

Come to think of it, are there any 3rd-party games that have gotten S2 patches for increased resolution, etc?
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A few, right?
No Man's Sky is the big one off the top of my head.
 
Dacvak said:
No, NMS does a bespoke upgrade pack, similar to Silksong. It's not just an automatic upgrade, as far as I know.

www.nintendo.com

No Man's Sky – Nintendo Switch™ 2 Edition upgrade pack for Nintendo Switch 2 - Nintendo Official Site

Buy No Man's Sky – Nintendo Switch™ 2 Edition upgrade pack and shop other great Nintendo products online at the official My Nintendo Store.
www.nintendo.com www.nintendo.com
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I guess I don't know how that makes a difference in terms of mattering to the end user?
They are free upgrades that are optional. Options are good.
Hypothetically, a game could get a Switch 2 upgrade that ups the textures/visuals/resolution to a game, but at the cost of a 30fps patch, that previously had an uncapped framerate and ran poorly on Switch 1, but the brute force BC brought the fps waaaay up on Switch 2. Some people might prefer the higher fps over the Switch 2 visual upgrades.

That is slightly diverging from you point though. It definitely is weird.

I think the reason why it isn't automatic could be Nintendo being more than 20 years behind everyone else when it comes to anything like this. DLC is as far as they've gotten. I mean, we couldn't even redownload our libraries to a new console, it had to be transferred, ffs.

We DO know that they are treating their Switch 2 SDK and dev units like the Arc of the Covenant, so it's also entirely possible Nintendo is purposefully sandboxing all Switch 1 code simply because of how exploitable that software could potentially be, in terms of piracy/running unsigned code.
 
Stafford said:
The network test showed a huge roster of characters,many of which you couldn't see. Are all those in-game characters or also paid dlc?
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There will be free DLC characters from Sega every months.

New free characters for one year.
Unless the game is successful (it is)...

With good sales Sega is ready to add new content, characters for years... 🤩
 
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