Published on: August 26, 2025
SEGA has officially announced the open network test dates for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, giving fans of the iconic blue hedgehog an early chance to experience the high-speed kart action ahead of the game's worldwide launch.
Developed by SEGA, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is slated for release on September 25, 2025, on a wide range of platforms, with the Nintendo Switch 2 version arriving digitally later in the year and a physical edition scheduled for 2026.
The highly anticipated open network test will run from August 29 to September 1, 2025, and will be available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
Notably, the Switch 2 version is not included in this test phase, as its dedicated port is still under development and will launch after the initial release window.
Players on the original Nintendo Switch, as well as those using Switch 2 via backwards compatibility, can pre-download the network test client now to join the action as soon as the servers go live at 12:01 a.m.
ET on August 29.
According to SEGA, the Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds network test will feature an impressive roster of 12 racers and 16 dynamic courses, splitting the tracks between nine classic circuits and seven unique CrossWorld layouts.
Competitive players can also look forward to robust crossplay functionality across all supported platforms, providing a unified multiplayer experience regardless of hardware.
The test will showcase 42 customizable gadgets, hinting at the depth of personalization available in the full release.
SEGA has clarified that while offline split-screen play will not be part of this network test, online play will be fully functional.
One key detail for Nintendo Switch players is that participation in online matches will require an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
In contrast, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC users will be able to access the test's online features without any additional premium services.
It is important to note that progress or save data from the network test will not carry over to the final retail release, ensuring a level playing field when Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds launches in September.
For further information on the available characters and tracks, players can visit the official CrossWorlds website, which offers comprehensive breakdowns of the content included in the test.
Looking forward, SEGA has announced exciting post-launch content for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds.
Notably, a Pac-Man-themed DLC is already in development, with reciprocal Sonic content confirmed for Pac-Man World Re-Pac 2.
Fans can also anticipate a new animated teaser for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds as the September launch approaches.
With SEGA's continued commitment to high-quality, cross-platform gaming experiences and the upcoming open network test, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is positioned to become a flagship racing title for the Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC audiences in 2025 and beyond.
Nintendo Switch Nintendo SEGA PS5 PC Xbox Series X Xbox Switch Xbox Series X|S Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Xbox Series Sonic X S Sonic Racing CrossWorlds Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Online