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Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds
Item: Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer, Racing

AvailableSep 25, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One

DeveloperSonic Team

Overview

Race across land, sea, air, space, and time in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds! Warp through Travel Rings into new dimensions where something new awaits around every twist and turn.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds thrills with blistering speed, wild portal-based racing, and a rivalry system brimming with character flair—yet stumbles by ditching story depth. While fans of arcade chaos and Sonic nostalgia cheer, critics call out its narrative void, shallow interactions, and missed lore chances. A polarizing split: racing purists love the chaos; story-seekers hate the emptiness. Speed over substance? Maybe—but it’s a risky bet for a franchise legacy.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

33%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The reviews for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds highlight several positive aspects, particularly its focus on racing mechanics and unique world-crossing elements. Critics like TheXboxHub praised the game’s “driving story beat introduced by Dodon Pa,” which frames races as part of a broader tournament structure, while GameSpot noted the “unique twist inspired by Sonic movies,” where tracks involve crossing into different worlds via rings, adding unpredictability. The rival system is another standout feature, with Checkpoint Gaming and VideoGamer highlighting how character interactions and references to past encounters add personality and stakes. Additionally, Vandal and Gamepressure appreciated the “portal mechanic” and “dimensional travel,” which allow for varied racing experiences and collaborations with characters from outside the Sonic universe. These elements collectively create an arcade-style experience that emphasizes speed, competition, and nostalgia for the franchise’s legacy. However, the lack of a traditional story mode is a recurring criticism. Multiple reviewers, including Generación Xbox, Atomix, and But Why Tho?, pointed out that the game lacks a single-player campaign or narrative depth, with But Why Tho? calling it a “disappointment.” IGN and IGN Adria specifically noted the absence of a mission-based story mode, which some felt diminished the game’s potential for deeper engagement. While GamesRadar+ and Hobby Consolas acknowledged the rivalry system as a narrative substitute, others like Gameliner and Game8 criticized the minimal interactions between rivals, arguing that the game’s focus on racing over storytelling left players wanting more. The lack of historical or franchise-specific content, as mentioned by IGN France and IGN Italia, further underscored the game’s narrative shortcomings, with some critics feeling it missed opportunities to expand on Sonic’s lore. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds prioritizes racing mechanics and arcade fun over narrative, with mixed reactions to this approach. While TechRadar Gaming viewed the absence of a story mode as a “positive change” from previous titles, others like IGN Spain and MeuPlayStation saw it as a limitation. The game’s strengths—such as its rival system, portal mechanics, and crossover celebration—were praised by TheXboxHub, Vandal, and Combo Infinito, but many felt these elements couldn’t fully compensate for the lack of a cohesive story. Ultimately, the reviews reflect a divide between fans who value fast-paced racing and those who expected a more narrative-driven experience, with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds leaning heavily into the former while leaving the latter largely unaddressed.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a wild, chaotic ride blending inventive dimension-hopping, sleek vehicle customization, and dynamic tracks that keep races fresh. Critics praise its bold creativity, polished chaos, and modern twists on kart racing—yet gripes about clunky handling, balance issues, and repetitive grind undercut its polish. A flawed but fiercely ambitious standout.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is widely praised for its innovative mechanics, variety, and engaging design. Critics highlight its unique dimension-hopping and vehicle transformation systems, which add layers of unpredictability and strategy. For instance, IGN and GameSpot commend the CrossWorlds mechanic, which shifts races between dimensions, while Eurogamer and Noisy Pixel emphasize the thrill of tight controls, drifting, and item-based chaos. The game’s emphasis on customization—both for vehicles and gadgets—is frequently lauded, with IGN Spain and GameBlast noting how it enhances replayability and personalization. Additionally, the inclusion of dynamic track changes, such as Travel Rings and world portals, keeps races fresh, as noted by WellPlayed and Impulsegamer. Many reviewers, including Shacknews and Eurogamer Germany, praise the blend of classic kart racing with modern twists, while TechRadar Gaming highlights the polished, fast-paced experience and rich gadget system. Overall, the gameplay’s diversity and creativity are seen as its strongest suits. Despite these positives, several critics point to notable flaws that detract from the experience. TheSixthAxis and Malditos Nerds criticize the awkward vehicle handling and chaotic feel, with the former describing a sense of unfairness and the latter noting that the second-lap track unpredictability can be jarring. Pocket Tactics and IGN France mention balance issues, such as unbalanced item systems and frustrating progression mechanics, while Wccftech and Cultura Geek highlight control challenges at high speeds or a lack of momentum in vehicle physics. Game8 and VideoGamer also note that the rival system and grind-heavy progression can feel repetitive, and IGN Spain acknowledges the initial chaos and unclear objectives. These critiques suggest that while the game’s ambition is evident, some mechanics require refinement to fully realize their potential. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority praising Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds as a fun, dynamic, and creatively ambitious entry in the kart racing genre. While some issues with handling, balance, and pacing are acknowledged, these are often framed as minor drawbacks in an otherwise engaging package. IGN, GameSpot, and Eurogamer emphasize the game’s accessibility, depth, and variety, while Noisy Pixel and Checkpoint Gaming celebrate its chaotic yet rewarding gameplay. Even critics with reservations, like TheSixthAxis and Malditos Nerds, acknowledge the game’s strengths, suggesting that its flaws are outweighed by its innovation and entertainment value. The widespread enthusiasm for its unique mechanics and customization options underscores a strong critical reception, positioning CrossWorlds as a standout title for fans of the genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds dazzles with vibrant, dynamic visuals and creative track designs via Unreal Engine 5, but technical flaws, motion blur, and lack of originality undermine its polish, falling short of Mario Kart’s refinement despite its energetic charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

62%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds are largely praised for their vibrant, colorful, and dynamic presentation, with many critics highlighting its energetic aesthetic and creative track designs. Multiple reviewers, including IGN Brasil, GameOver.gr, and Shacknews, lauded the game’s ability to blend iconic Sonic elements with diverse environments, such as the "Kaleidoscope of colors" described by CGMagazine and the "stunning visuals" noted by IGN Deutschland. The use of Unreal Engine 5 was frequently cited as a strength, with IGN Adria and Omelete praising the high-quality textures, reflections, and animations that bring tracks to life. TheXboxHub and XboxEra emphasized the variety of routes and secrets in the maps, while GameBlast and LevelUp highlighted the nostalgic nods to classic Sonic locations. Overall, the game’s visual identity is seen as a strong selling point, with Worth Playing and WellPlayed noting its "gorgeous visuals" and "stunning" environments that keep players engaged. However, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks, particularly in terms of technical polish and originality. Eurogamer and Gamepressure criticized the lack of detail and "simple" art style, comparing it unfavorably to competitors. Push Square and IGN France highlighted issues like excessive motion blur, which detracts from the visual quality, while Saudi Gamer and Eurogamer Portugal mentioned inconsistencies in smoothness and resolution drops. IGN Brasil and TierraGamer noted concerns about originality, with tracks resembling Mario Kart’s Coconut Mall and other games. TheSixthAxis and GameInformers pointed to half-baked customization options and underdeveloped character models, while IGN Italia and Multiplayer.it called for better vehicle-terrain interaction. These critiques suggest that while the game’s visuals are lively, they often fall short in technical execution and creative uniqueness. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics leans toward appreciation for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds’ visual ambition and charm. While GameSpot and Gamepressure noted it lacks the "visual richness" of previous Sonic titles, many praised its "breathtaking transitions" (Loot Level Chill) and "vibrant, engaging" environments (Xbox Tavern, Generación Xbox). The game’s reliance on Unreal Engine 5 and its colorful, fast-paced aesthetic were seen as strengths by Combos Infinito and Finger Guns, even if some felt it was "overwhelming" (But Why Tho?). While there is a clear acknowledgment of technical and originality flaws, the majority of reviewers, including IGN Spain and Atomix, viewed the visuals as a standout feature that aligns with the Sonic franchise’s legacy, even if it doesn’t fully match the polish of top-tier racing games like Mario Kart World.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds’ soundtrack shines with high-energy, nostalgic remixes and over 100 tracks that nail the franchise’s vibe, but chaotic sound design, repetitive voice lines, and a janky Jukebox mode let it down—still, the audio remains a key highlight, elevating the fast-paced action despite minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment among critics regarding the sound design and music of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is largely positive, with many praising the soundtrack for its energetic, nostalgic, and immersive qualities. Generación Xbox and XboxEra both highlight the incredible and remixed iconic SEGA tunes, respectively, which enhance the racing atmosphere. Atomix and Combo Infinito also commend the music for its familiar themes and original compositions, while CGMagazine and GameCritics note the inclusion of nostalgic tracks and a jukebox with great Sonic game references. Additionally, IGN Adria and IGN Benelux appreciate the SEGA-inspired soundtrack, and IGN Italia mentions contributions from well-known artists. TheSixthAxis and TierraGamer praise the engaging and urgent feel of the music, and Cultura Geek and Pocket Tactics emphasize the nostalgic appeal reminiscent of Sega's golden era. These reviews collectively suggest that the soundtrack is a strong point, effectively complementing the fast-paced and dynamic nature of the racing gameplay. However, some critics express concerns about the sound design and music, pointing out certain drawbacks. Eurogamer Germany notes a lack of impactful item sound effects, while IGN Deutschland describes the sound design as chaotic and overwhelming, with a fast-paced soundtrack that can become annoying. GamesRadar+ and Movies Games and Tech mention that while the music is fitting, it can be mediocre or generic at times. TechRadar Gaming criticizes the Jukebox mode for being random and lacking track-specific music assignment, and Eurogamer points to inconsistency in the quality of classic songs, some of which are described as catchy and others as annoying. Additionally, Loot Level Chill highlights repetitive voice lines that detract from the experience, and Multiplayer.it criticizes the monotonous engine sounds. These negative aspects suggest that while the music is generally well-received, there are areas where it falls short of expectations. Despite the mixed feedback, the overall consensus among critics leans toward a positive assessment of the sound design and music in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. Many reviewers, including Generación Xbox, Atomix, and IGN, commend the soundtrack for its energy, nostalgia, and variety, with some noting the inclusion of over 100 tracks. While there are criticisms regarding the sound effects and certain repetitive elements, the music is consistently seen as a key strength that enhances the racing experience. The game's audio design, particularly its remixes and original compositions, is praised for maintaining the Sonic franchise's signature sound, even if some aspects, like the Jukebox mode or engine effects, are less impressive. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature that contributes significantly to the game's appeal, especially for fans of the series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds shines with authentic, charming voice work from original cast members, elevating its energetic, fan-service-rich racing experience—especially standout moments like Hatsune Miku’s theme. But repetitive, grating lines for Sonic and Amy, plus lifeless DLC/guest characters, undercut depth and broader appeal, leaving a mixed legacy where core charm outweighs flaws, but misses chances to expand its audio excellence.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds receives generally positive feedback, with many critics highlighting its authenticity and charm. Atomix and Hobby Consolas praise the use of original actors from previous Sonic games, which adds a sense of continuity and familiarity to the characters. The performances of specific figures like Hatsune Miku are particularly lauded, with CGMagazine and Critical Hits noting her rendition of the main theme during races as a standout moment. GameCritics and GameSpot emphasize that character dialogue enhances the racing experience, with rival interactions—such as a character asking to "catch up"—adding personality and depth. GamingTrend and Noisy Pixel also commend the playful banter and fan-service elements, suggesting that the voice work effectively complements the game’s energetic, character-driven style. These reviews collectively underscore the voice acting as a key strength, especially for long-time Sonic enthusiasts. However, several critics point to notable shortcomings, particularly regarding the lack of voice lines for DLC and guest characters. But Why Tho? and DBLTAP criticize the absence of custom dialogue for DLC racers, calling them "lifeless" compared to the core cast. IGN Deutschland and The Jimquisition highlight repetitive and grating lines, with Amy’s counting and Sonic’s dialogue being singled out as annoying. TechRadar Gaming and WellPlayed note that non-Sonic characters, including guest stars, often lack voice acting, which they view as a missed opportunity. GamingBolt and Loot Level Chill also mention that certain lines, especially from Sonic, become monotonous over time, detracting from the experience. While the main cast’s voices are praised, these critiques reveal a disconnect between the core and supplementary characters, which some feel undermines the game’s potential for broader engagement. Overall, the consensus leans toward a balanced assessment, acknowledging the voice acting’s strengths while recognizing its flaws. Most critics agree that the original cast’s performances and rival interactions elevate the game’s charm, as seen in reviews from Game8, IGN, and IGN Benelux. Yet, the lack of voice work for DLC and guest characters, coupled with repetitive dialogue, is a recurring point of criticism. Pocket Tactics and Worth Playing note that while the voice acting is well-executed when present, its absence in certain areas limits the game’s depth. Despite these issues, the majority of reviews suggest that the voice acting remains a commendable aspect of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, with its positives outweighing the negatives for fans of the franchise. The mixed reception reflects a game that successfully leverages its established talent but struggles to extend that quality to all its content.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds shines on PS5 and Xbox with silky-smooth performance, but Switch struggles with inconsistent frame rates and resolution issues. PS5 Pro and Switch face technical hiccups, yet the game remains a stable, cross-platform racer with a strong foundation—proving solid, but in need of sharper optimizations.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds receives largely positive feedback across platforms, with notable strengths on the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. On the PlayStation 5, multiple critics highlight smooth gameplay, stable frame rates, and minimal technical hiccups. For instance, CGMagazine notes the game runs at a consistent 60fps on the PS5 Pro, while COGconnected and Combo Infinito praise its ability to handle chaotic action and online play without major issues. Finger Guns and GameSpew emphasize the absence of visual stutters or slowdowns, even during intense racing moments. The Xbox Series X also earns praise, with Generación Xbox acknowledging stable performance despite occasional FPS drops and XboxEra noting rare framerate drops and minor collision issues. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch sees mixed reviews, with Pocket Tactics commending its smooth performance during chaotic gameplay, though Nintendo Life criticizes low frame rates and resolution issues, particularly in split-screen mode. However, technical concerns emerge across platforms, particularly on the PlayStation 5. Critical Hits points to occasional bugs and vehicle physics issues, while Eurogamer and Eurogamer Portugal highlight lower frame rates, rough details, and resolution drops that detract from immersion. IGN Benelux raises alarms about performance issues on the PS5 Pro, and IGN France criticizes transitions between circuits and overuse of effects. Saudi Gamer and Vandal note graphics quality and motion blur problems, respectively, while IGN Italia mentions vehicle-terrain interaction flaws. On the Switch, Nintendo Life and Cultura Geek flag control and performance inconsistencies, though Pocket Tactics offers a more optimistic take. These negatives suggest that while the game is generally stable, platform-specific optimizations and technical limitations remain areas for improvement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds delivers a technically solid experience, particularly on the PlayStation 5, where most reviews praise its stability and performance. CGMagazine, COGconnected, and Push Square all highlight smooth gameplay and minimal issues, while XboxEra and Generación Xbox acknowledge minor but manageable flaws on the Xbox Series X. The Nintendo Switch’s performance remains polarizing, with Pocket Tactics offering a rare positive note amid broader criticisms. While some technical shortcomings exist—particularly on the PS5 Pro and Switch—the game’s cross-platform appeal and overall stability are widely recognized, with IGN Adria and LevelUp emphasizing its strong technical foundation. The mixed feedback underscores the importance of platform-specific optimizations, but the majority of critics agree that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a technically competent entry in the series.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds thrives on customization, dynamic modes, and multiplayer chaos, but its single-player grind, limited tracks, and repetition risk tiring players. While flaws exist, the CrossWorld gimmick and online depth make it a high-replayability pick for racing fans—though not without its hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment among critics regarding the replay value of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is mixed, but many highlight its positive aspects. Several reviewers, such as GameSpot, Gameliner, and GamingTrend, praise the game for its extensive customization options, diverse game modes, and the ability to create unique racing experiences. IGN Spain and Critical Hits note that the variety of characters, vehicles, and tracks ensures a different experience each time, while GamingBolt and TierraGamer emphasize the appeal of time trials, unlockable content, and chaotic multiplayer modes. VGC and Vandal also point out that the game’s progression system and planned post-launch content contribute to its long-term appeal. Many critics, including Combo Infinito and ScreenHub, appreciate the dynamic nature of the races and the CrossWorld gimmick, which adds novelty and encourages experimentation. However, several critics express concerns about the limitations that may reduce replay value. TheSixthAxis and Wccftech argue that the lack of rewarding gameplay and a modest track collection can lead to players exhausting the content quickly. COGconnected and The Jimquisition highlight the lack of single-player content and the grind required for unlocks, which may cause burnout. GamesRadar+ and Pocket Tactics also mention that the repetitive nature of single-player progression and the grind for unlocking features can make replaying less appealing. IGN Brasil and IGN France note that the limited variety of modes and the game’s accessibility issues for casual players may hinder its replayability. Additionally, GameCritics and GamerRD suggest that while the game has a lot of content, more would be needed to fully satisfy long-term players. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among the majority of reviewers leans toward a positive assessment of the game’s replay value, especially when considering its multiplayer and customization features. While some critics point out limitations in single-player and content variety, many others, such as GAMINGbible, CGMagazine, and IGN Italia, emphasize that the game’s strong foundation in modes, character and vehicle customization, and online play makes it highly replayable. PlayStation Universe and LevelUp also note that the CrossWorld gimmick and competitive gameplay can keep players engaged for extended periods. Ultimately, while Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds may not be perfect in every aspect, it is generally seen as a game with enough depth and variety to justify multiple playthroughs, particularly for fans of racing and customization.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is largely positive, with critics praising its energetic gameplay, vibrant visuals, and engaging mechanics. Many highlight its fun and chaotic racing experience, with Eurogamer noting it as a “chaotic and fun kart racer” that appeals to genre fans, while IGN Brasil and GameSpew emphasize its replayability and accessibility for both Sonic enthusiasts and arcade racing fans. The game’s dynamic track designs, customization options, and lively soundtrack are frequently lauded, with JeuxActu and GameBlast praising its “colorful graphics” and “creative use of the Sonic universe.” Additionally, Multiplayer.it and Shacknews commend its strong fundamentals and track variety, positioning it as a worthy competitor to Mario Kart. The game’s multiplayer modes and fast-paced action also receive consistent praise, with XboxEra and Generación Xbox calling it one of the best kart racers available. However, several critics point to notable flaws that prevent Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds from reaching its full potential. The game faces criticism for its lack of polish, with Eurogamer and Malditos Nerds noting it falls short of the refinement seen in top-tier titles like Mario Kart. Nintendo Life and Pocket Tactics highlight the Switch version’s poor visual quality and pricing issues, respectively, while IGN Brasil and Noisy Pixel criticize its overpriced content and repetitive mechanics, such as the “Travel Rings” gimmick. GameOver.gr and LevelUp point to shortcomings in multiplayer and solo content, respectively, and Game Informer notes its “less content and replayability” compared to competitors. Additionally, IGN Adria and COGconnected mention the lack of robust single-player progression, which some feel limits its long-term appeal. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics is that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a solid, enjoyable entry in the kart racing genre. While it doesn’t surpass Mario Kart, it is widely regarded as a strong alternative, with Gamepressure and TechRadar Gaming calling it a “strong competitor” and ScreenHub hailing it as a “bright and creative addition.” Many reviewers, including GameSpew and Finger Guns, recommend it for fans of the genre, emphasizing its fun gameplay and nostalgic appeal. However, the game’s flaws—such as its pricing, content gaps, and technical issues on certain platforms—mean it’s seen as a “solid but not groundbreaking” experience. Ultimately, critics agree it’s a worthwhile purchase for Sonic fans and racing enthusiasts, even if it doesn’t fully innovate or match the polish of its rivals.

TL;DR

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is a fun, fast, and colorful kart racer with great replayability and multiplayer, but its lack of polish, overpriced content, and technical issues on Switch hold it back from being a standout title. A solid alternative to Mario Kart, it’s worth playing for fans but falls short of groundbreaking.

MONSTER

Reviews

151 reviews found

Loot Level Chill

PlayStation 5

Sep 18, 2025