Though Sonic’s speed doesn’t require vehicles, even hedgehogs need breaks from sprinting. Sega’s iconic character has built a robust lineup of arcade-inspired racers over decades, some forging dedicated followings despite competing with Nintendo’s flagship kart series. Hot on the heels of Mario Kart World’s debut, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds arrives to challenge the throne. Does it accelerate past expectations, or stall at the starting grid? Let’s burn rubber through the details…

Building on contemporary mascot-racer conventions, CrossWorlds features adaptive vehicles shifting between terrains, chaotic power-ups, and momentum-building mechanics like aerial flips and drift boosts. Earlier Sonic racers leaned into sim-like handling, but this entry embraces arcade physics: karts feel light and nimble, emphasizing accessibility over realism. While seasoned players might miss weighty momentum, the game compensates with blistering pace—even mid-tier speed settings deliver exhilarating dashes.

Customization introduces fresh depth, letting players swap vehicle parts and equip “gadgets” that modify stats and abilities. While chassis options are limited, over 70 gadgets spice up the meta—experimentation rewards creative builds. The item roster, however, mirrors Nintendo’s playbook (Green/Red Gloves=Shells, Blue Wisp=Boost Mushroom), but the familiar arsenal works better here than in past titles. Luck occasionally robs victories, but weapons feel balanced for most skill levels.

The CrossWorld twist reimagines race dynamics: after lap one, the leader chooses a portal teleporting all racers to a randomized biome for lap two. These alternate tracks sometimes include Frenzy modifiers—think warp tunnels or obstacle storms—before returning to a remixed original course for the finale. Cup structures merge three unique tracks with a hybrid fourth race. While inventive, limited CrossWorlds (15 total) cycle repetitively across 24 base tracks, dimming the novelty over time.

Track design flirts with déjà vu, echoing Mario Kart 8’s gravity loops and thematic zones (jungle ruins, neon metropolises). The homage borders on imitation, making Sega’s throwback marketing ironic. Still, the courses shine through sheer spectacle—Unreal Engine 5 renders kinetic, vibrant environments (PS5 stutters briefly during portal transitions). For players craving Mario Kart 8’s snappy rhythms over World’s open sprawl, CrossWorlds’ retro-flavored intensity hits the spot.

Where CrossWorlds falters is content breadth. Single-player options feel sparse: Grand Prix, time trials, and Rival Challenges recycle 8 cups and variants. Completing all modes takes under five hours. Multiplayer’s Race Park adds objective-based team races but lacks staying power. Post-launch DLC promises crossover characters (SpongeBob, et al.) and tracks via a $20 pass—a bitter pill given the slim base offering.

This review utilized a PS5 copy of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds courtesy of Sega.

8

WCCFTECH RATING

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds