Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and Mario Kart World Launch in 2025: Kart Racer Showdown Hits Nintendo Switch

2025 is shaping up to be a landmark year for kart racing fans, with Nintendo and Sega both delivering high-profile entries in the beloved genre.

"Mario Kart World," the anticipated launch title for the Nintendo Switch 2, and Sega's latest "Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds,” are both poised to capture the attention of millions.

The late September release of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds brings the iconic rivalry between Mario and Sonic into a fresh chapter—one that highlights the strength of both brands and their sustained influence in the racing game market. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds marks a major milestone for Sega’s Sonic Team, arriving globally on September 25, 2025, across multiple platforms, including Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC.

In contrast, Mario Kart World drives the launch of Nintendo Switch 2 as a hardware exclusive, once again positioning the Mushroom Kingdom’s karting classic at the forefront of Nintendo’s new generation. Despite the competitive timing, Sonic Team’s approach to development remained focused and independent of Mario Kart’s timeline.

In a recent interview with Traxion, Takashi Iizuka, longtime series producer at Sonic Team, clarified that the Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds’ release schedule was simply a coincidence and not a deliberate response to Mario Kart World.

“We don’t have insight into Mario Kart’s roadmap, so when their new game was announced, it really surprised the dev team,” Iizuka explained.

He added that new Nintendo hardware typically launches alongside major installments of Mario Kart, so the possibility was on their minds.

“Regardless of Mario Kart’s plans, our goal was always to craft the best Sonic racing experience,” said Iizuka, emphasizing that their creative vision did not hinge on competitor releases. CrossWorlds distinguishes itself in several key ways.

Unlike the Switch 2-exclusive Mario Kart World, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds features robust crossplay functionality, connecting players across PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation, and Xbox platforms—a first for the franchise.

The game also introduces new gameplay mechanics, most notably the Travel Rings system, which offers dynamic race tracks and streamlines the inclusion of crossover characters, further enhancing replay value and diversity. Sonic Team and Sega have set ambitions high, confident that the combination of innovative features, broad platform accessibility, and a signature Sonic twist will secure CrossWorlds’ place in the crowded kart racing landscape.

This optimism is backed by years of franchise momentum and positive anticipation from the gaming community. With both Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and Mario Kart World debuting in close succession, kart racing fans are uniquely positioned to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Rather than fostering rivalry, this rare convergence signals a boon for genre enthusiasts eager for new experiences on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and beyond. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds officially launches on September 25, 2025.

For those seeking varied kart racing action—and to see which title takes the pole position—this year is set to deliver unforgettable competitive thrills.

Mario Kart Nintendo Switch Mario Kart World Nintendo Mario Sonic Team Switch Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Sonic Kart Takashi Iizuka Sega Traxion Nintendo Switch 2 PlayStation 5 PlayStation 4 Xbox Series X|S Xbox One PC