Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Adds Nickelodeon Characters as Playable DLC on Nintendo Switch

At the recent Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, SEGA delivered a surprise announcement for fans of both racing games and beloved animated franchises.

The highly anticipated Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will feature new downloadable content (DLC) that introduces characters from Nickelodeon's popular series as playable drivers.

This cross-brand collaboration is set to launch on the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and other major gaming platforms. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, developed and published by SEGA, is scheduled for a worldwide release on September 25, 2025.

The game builds on the legacy of previous Sonic racing titles, offering fast-paced action and franchise-spanning characters.

In a move that delighted both Sonic aficionados and Nickelodeon fans, SEGA confirmed that SpongeBob SquarePants and his iconic companion Patrick Star will join the roster at launch.

Both characters will be fully playable and drive the themed Krabby Patty car on the Bikini Bottom raceway, complete with Easter eggs for long-time viewers of the show. Responding to fan excitement, SEGA clarified in the reveal trailer that, despite SpongeBob’s lack of a standard driver's license, driving the sandwich-shaped vehicle is totally permissible within the whimsical world of CrossWorlds.

This attention to detail showcases the game’s signature blend of humor and homage to source material.

The studio had already announced Minecraft characters as part of the season pass, but the Nickelodeon DLC elevates CrossWorlds' appeal with even more diverse content. Looking beyond launch, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will continue expanding its character lineup.

SEGA confirmed that future DLC will include members from TMNT Mutant Mayhem and Avatar Legends.

However, the development team stated that none of these collaboration characters—whether Nickelodeon celebrities or SEGA icons like Joker from Persona 5 and Kasuga Ichiban from Like a Dragon—will feature voice acting.

While this omits one layer of fan service, the prospect of dashing through imaginative tracks as SpongeBob or racing against Hatsune Miku is unprecedented. Gamers eager to experience Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds can secure three days of early access by pre-ordering.

The title will be available digitally via the Nintendo eShop and at retail.

SEGA’s collaboration with Nickelodeon underscores the company’s commitment to refreshing its beloved kart racing formula while leveraging the broad appeal of licensed characters.

As the release date approaches, anticipation continues to mount for what could be the most ambitious crossover racer on Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 yet.

Nintendo Switch 2 Nintendo Switch Nintendo SEGA Switch 2 Switch Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Sonic DLC Nickelodeon SpongeBob SquarePants Patrick Star Krabby Patty car Bikini Bottom raceway TMNT Mutant Mayhem Avatar Legends Joker Persona 5 Kasuga Ichiban Like a Dragon