Alongside introducing fresh gameplay elements, Sonic Team leader Takashi Iizuka joined us at IGN Live to discuss Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and why this ambitious crossover kart racer deserves your attention.

Following the game's Summer Game Fest reveal featuring surprise guest characters like Hatsune Miku, Like a Dragon's Ichiban Kasuga, Persona 5's Joker, and Minecraft's Steve, Alex, and Creeper, Iizuka shared insights into the character selection process.

"We aimed to ensure the second lap would deliver unexpected thrills by venturing into surprising new worlds," Iizuka explained. "While Sega IP worlds were obvious choices, we wanted to incorporate other franchises to truly shock players. The idea of racing through Minecraft's universe with its iconic characters felt like a perfect fit."

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds features an innovative three-lap structure where the race leader selects the next course via Travel Rings after the initial standard lap.

"The three-lap system creates accessible yet dynamic racing," Iizuka noted. "Rather than repeating the same track, we implemented Travel Rings to introduce new environments mid-race. We've also added third-lap surprises to keep the experience fresh."

Discussing power-ups, Iizuka highlighted how the game honors legacy Sonic Racing titles with returning favorites like Rocket Punch and Wisp items. His personal favorite is the Monster Truck transformation: "It lets you dominate the track by rolling over opponents."

Set for release on September 25, 2025, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will feature additional elements including hoverboards from Sonic Riders, unrestricted character-vehicle combinations, 12-player online races, and cross-play functionality.

The game launches on PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC, and Nintendo Switch, with plans to expand support to Switch 2. Players can expect over 23 racers across this expansive crossover experience.

For additional details, check out our Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds preview and complete IGN Live coverage.