Sega Launches "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" Open Network Test Across Platforms
Sega has initiated an expansive open network test for its highly anticipated title, "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds." This trial, accessible to players across the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC, commenced on August 29th, 2025, and is scheduled to conclude on September 1st, 2025. This multi-platform event provides an invaluable opportunity for fans to delve into the game's dynamic online racing features and explore a segment of its single-player experience before its official release. Participants are not only invited to race as their beloved Sonic characters but also have the unique chance to play as Joker from the Persona series, along with unlocking special in-game rewards, enhancing the excitement and engagement for the community.
The network test serves as a critical pre-launch phase, offering players a glimpse into the fast-paced world of "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds." Sega facilitated early access by making pre-loads available across all supported platforms starting August 26th, 2025. The test encompasses a variety of content, including nine distinct courses and seven "CrossWorlds," allowing for extensive character and vehicle customization. A key highlight of this pre-release event is the confirmed cross-play matchmaking functionality, enabling players on different systems to compete against each other, fostering a more connected and competitive environment. Additionally, engagement in this test grants exclusive decals and titles, providing tangible incentives for participation.
In a strategic move to broaden its appeal, "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" will also feature a collaboration with the iconic Pac-Man, who is set to join the game's Season Pass roster. This inclusion is part of a larger initiative to integrate characters from diverse gaming franchises, such as Minecraft, SpongeBob, and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, into the Sonic universe. This cross-franchise integration aims to offer a fresh and exciting gameplay experience, attracting a wider audience beyond traditional Sonic fans.
The full version of "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" is slated for a global release on September 25th, 2025, available both digitally and physically. For Nintendo enthusiasts, a dedicated version for the Nintendo Switch 2 is anticipated during the holiday season of 2025, with a physical release for this platform scheduled for early 2026. Moreover, Sega has announced a paid upgrade path for owners of the existing Switch version, ensuring that their progress and unlocked content can seamlessly transfer to the newer Switch 2 console, demonstrating a commitment to player convenience and a smooth transition across different generations of hardware.
This comprehensive network test underscores Sega's dedication to delivering a polished and engaging racing title. By allowing a broad player base to test the game's infrastructure and content, the company can gather valuable feedback, refine gameplay mechanics, and ensure a robust online experience. The inclusion of fan-favorite characters from other franchises and the forward-looking approach to next-generation console support position "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds" as a significant release in the kart racing genre, poised to captivate a diverse audience upon its official launch.
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