Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds – A Thrilling Ride Through Nostalgia
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds isn’t just a game; it’s a collection of memories. With 39 tracks and 24 characters, it shines as one of the best racing titles in the Sonic universe. I’ve logged over 35 hours racing, customizing vehicles, and challenging friends, and I can tell you, it’s a blast.
From the get-go, the controls are simple: accelerate, drift, brake, and use items. The racing mechanics quickly become intuitive. Zip through shortcuts and master tricky turns, all while chaining drifts into jumps and boosts. But beware! Opponents will throw items your way, adding excitement to every race.
What sets CrossWorlds apart is the unique CrossWorlds mechanic. In the second lap of each race, you get transported to a different track. This keeps you on your toes, requiring you to adapt your strategy. For example, a vehicle designed for speed might struggle on twisty tracks but shine where speed matters.
New forms of play enhance the fun. When racing, you can transform into a boat or plane at specific gates, adding variety. While handling can be clunky in water, flying is a smooth experience. Some tracks even alter during the final lap, bringing fresh challenges and opportunities.
The courses themselves are well-designed, blending risks with rewards. For instance, routes with more rings boost your speed, while those with more hazards challenge your skill. The track Pumpkin Mansion stands out for its deceptive giant pumpkins that often trip me up.
Items also add chaos to the races. With 24 different items, including familiar Sonic elements like Wisps, expect moments of thrill or frustration. My favorite is the Tornado, which negates attacks while taking out opponents. The gadget system lets you customize your vehicle further, offering bonuses like improved stats and special starting items.
Additionally, the game’s rival system finds a great balance between challenge and fun. Each Grand Prix features a rival with their own personality, adding a narrative layer to the races. Their intelligent behavior and banter keep the races lively.
The in-game currency, Donpa tickets, adds another dimension. After each race, you earn tickets based on performance. They’re crucial for unlocking parts, customizing vehicles, or retrying challenging races without starting over. However, the costs for some cosmetic upgrades can be steep, suggesting a grind ahead for dedicated players.
Excitingly, new characters and tracks are already on the horizon, sparking anticipation for both fans and newcomers. SEGA’s commitment to monthly updates will ensure that players always have new content to explore.
CrossWorlds also offers a Race Park with various rule sets. Friends can join in for modified races, making for a fun local multiplayer experience. However, newcomers might find the gadget system a bit overwhelming without pre-set options tailored to different playstyles.
The Time Trial mode, initially a side thought, quickly became a favorite of mine. Racing against my ghost and aiming for personal bests while listening to the series’ beloved soundtrack kept me engaged and wanting more.
Lastly, the online functionality has performed well in early tests, allowing for seamless crossplay. Balancing the need for fair play and competition, the game ensures that racers who quit mid-match lose points, adding a layer of accountability.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is not just about speed; it’s a journey through Sonic’s history, complete with engaging mechanics, rich customization, and endless excitement. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, this title promises to be a thrilling ride.
