Sega has announced a second year of post-launch support for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, extending well into 2027. The announcement came during Summer Game Fest, despite Sega's own admission that the game was not selling as well as the company had hoped. The year two plans include new free characters, a second paid season pass with crossover content, and a permanent price reduction.
New Characters and Crossover Tracks
Year two will continue adding free Sega characters as racers, including Bayonetta and Persona 3's Aigis. A second paid season pass will introduce crossover characters and racetracks. The first two crossover DLC packs, Godzilla and Evangelion, were previewed. The Godzilla racetrack adapts the iconic City Escape level from Sonic Adventure 2, with Godzilla serving as an obstacle. The Evangelion track features racing through Tokyo-3 as it is attacked by a monster, with the EVA-01 mech appearing on the third lap.
New Duel Rush Mode and Free Content
The new Duel Rush gameplay mode is a 1v1 experience designed to be more skill-based than normal races. Items and performance-boosting gadgets remain available, but players can see what items their opponent has, adding a strategic element. The mode includes a unique duel boost that gradually charges and serves as a comeback mechanic. Free content also includes a McLaren race car and a McLaren team outfit for Sonic, as well as vehicles based on the Mega Drive, Dreamcast, and Saturn consoles.
Comparison to Mario Kart World and Price Cut
Sega's post-launch support contrasts with Nintendo's approach to Mario Kart World, which has seen only minor free updates since its launch. Mario Kart World has sold 15.39 million copies, making it unambiguously more successful. The article questions whether the reliance on crossovers will benefit CrossWorlds in the long run. The permanent price cut, reducing the standard edition to £34.99 from £64.99, is highlighted as the smartest part of the year two plans. A new year one edition with the first season pass will cost £49.99, and the year two season pass is £24.99.
By the end of 2027, CrossWorlds could be one of the most content-rich racers, assuming Nintendo does not release DLC expansions for Mario Kart World. The article notes that even without DLC, CrossWorlds remains a strong alternative for players who felt short-changed by Mario Kart World.
