Is Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Outdoing Nintendo?

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds aims to compete directly with Mario Kart World, boasting features like crossplay and extensive customisation. However, while it offers a unique experience, many believe it lacks the charm and gameplay finesse that has made Mario Kart a beloved franchise. Let's dive deeper into the comparisons, gameplay mechanics, and unique features of both games.

Last updated: 25 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds emphasises crossplay but may not rely solely on it for success.
• Mario Kart World has a proven track record with over 68 million copies sold.
• CrossWorlds introduces a unique two-lap mechanic that transports players to different crossworlds.
• Customisation options in CrossWorlds are extensive, allowing for a highly personalised gaming experience.
• Despite innovations, CrossWorlds struggles to match the charm of iconic Mario Kart tracks.
• Both games offer engaging multiplayer experiences, but each has its unique strengths and weaknesses.

Understanding the Rivalry: Sonic Racing vs Mario Kart

As the gaming landscape evolves, competition between franchises intensifies. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is Sega's latest attempt to capture the kart racing audience, particularly those who may feel underwhelmed by Mario Kart World. Despite Sega's fervent promotion of CrossWorlds, suggesting it offers superior gameplay due to its crossplay feature, the reality is not so clear-cut.

The Significance of Crossplay

Crossplay allows players on different platforms to compete against each other, a feature many modern multiplayer games embrace. This functionality in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is touted as a significant advantage, yet Mario Kart has thrived without it. The franchise's immense popularity, exemplified by Mario Kart 8 Deluxe's impressive sales, showcases that a game's success isn't solely reliant on crossplay capabilities.

Sales Figures and Market Performance

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe set a record with 68.86 million copies sold, establishing a benchmark for racing games. The recent release of Mario Kart World on the Nintendo Switch 2 further solidifies its foothold in the kart racing genre, making it a formidable opponent for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, which has yet to prove its commercial viability.

Gameplay Mechanics: A Closer Look

Vehicle Handling and Dynamics

One of the first points of comparison between the two games is vehicle handling. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds presents a different driving experience compared to its predecessors, with vehicle control reported as feeling stiffer, particularly when navigating water sections. This shift necessitates players to adapt quickly, especially regarding the replacement of drifting with charge jumps in water. Although this change can lead to initial frustrations, mastering the handling can enhance the overall racing experience.

Counter Drift: A New Technique

CrossWorlds introduces a new technique called "counter drift," which allows players to maintain their drift gauge while steering. This mechanic is especially useful during aerial sections where tight turns are less frequent. The ability to build up a stronger boost by utilising counter drift adds an additional layer of strategy to races.

Race Structure and Unique Features

Unlike Mario Kart World, which offers an expansive open world, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds focuses on traditional racing circuits. Each race consists of three laps, with the second lap transporting players to one of 15 unique crossworlds. This feature, while engaging, may lose its novelty over time. The racing tracks are well-designed and visually diverse, yet they may not possess the memorable quality of Mario Kart's iconic tracks, such as Rainbow Road or DK Spaceport.

Customisation Options: Personalising Your Experience

One area where Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds excels is its extensive customisation options. Players can modify their vehicles significantly, from stat upgrades to aesthetic choices like colours and decals. This depth of customisation allows players to tailor their racing experience to their preferences, making each kart feel unique. Unlocking these features requires collecting Donpa Tickets through gameplay, ensuring players remain engaged.

Single-Player Mode and Additional Features

While Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds offers various multiplayer modes, its single-player content is somewhat limited. Players can engage in standard Grand Prix and time trial modes, but the absence of a robust single-player campaign akin to Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed may leave some solo gamers wanting more. The inclusion of Race Park for split-screen multiplayer and team-based race types provides some variety, but these modes may not reach the excitement levels of Mario Kart's Knockout Rally mode.

Incentives for Engaging with Modes

Despite its limited single-player content, CrossWorlds provides incentives for players to explore all game modes. Unlocking characters like Super Sonic through Grand Prix participation and gaining new vehicles by defeating AI opponents in Race Park adds layers of motivation. Additionally, performing well in time trials can reward players with new music for the in-game jukebox, enhancing the overall racing experience.

Soundtrack and Music Customisation

While Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds features a soundtrack that some may find lacking compared to the classic Sonic tunes, the ability to customise the in-game music adds an interesting element. Players can set up their own playlists, a feature that many believe enhances the racing experience, particularly when compared to Mario Kart World’s renowned soundtrack.

DLC and Post-Launch Support

CrossWorlds has made an impressive start with promises for multiple downloadable content (DLC) packages. With free characters like Joker from Persona 5 and a paid season pass offering crossovers with franchises like Minecraft and Pac-Man, Sega aims to keep the game fresh and engaging. In contrast, Nintendo's silence regarding potential DLC for Mario Kart World raises questions about ongoing support for its flagship racing title.

Online Play and Community Engagement

Online gameplay is a crucial component of modern racing games, and Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is keen to foster an active community. With plans for monthly events and unique rewards tied to online rankings, Sega appears committed to maintaining player engagement. Although the early online experience primarily featured bot opponents, the game's stability during the open beta suggests a promising competitive environment.

Final Verdict: Which is Better?

So, is Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds truly a better racing game than Mario Kart World? While CrossWorlds brings innovative features and engaging gameplay to the table, it ultimately falls short of capturing the essence and charm that have made Mario Kart a staple in the racing genre. The handling, while unique, may not resonate with everyone, and the absence of memorable tracks comparable to those in Mario Kart is a notable drawback.

Both games have their strengths and weaknesses, offering players distinct experiences within the kart racing genre. As such, the ultimate winner depends on personal preferences – whether players favour Sonic's fast-paced innovation or Mario's nostalgic charm and consistent quality.

As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, the rivalry between these two franchises underscores the importance of offering compelling gameplay experiences. With both Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds and Mario Kart World available, fans of the genre can revel in the variety that both titles provide. Which racing style do you prefer: the nostalgic charm of Mario Kart or the new thrills of Sonic Racing? #SonicRacing #MarioKartWorld #GamingCompetition

FAQs

What platforms can I play Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on?

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is available on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC.

When was Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds released?

The game was released on 25 September 2025, with early access available from 22 September 2025.

How much does Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds cost?

The standard edition is priced at £64.99, while the digital deluxe edition costs £79.99.

Does Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds have a single-player campaign?

Unfortunately, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds does not feature a single-player campaign mode like its predecessor, focusing instead on Grand Prix and time trial modes.

What unique features does Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds offer?

The game features a unique two-lap mechanic that transports players to different crossworlds, extensive vehicle customisation options, and a variety of multiplayer modes.

Will there be downloadable content (DLC) for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds?

Yes, Sega has announced plans for regular free and paid DLC, including characters, tracks, and vehicles from other franchises.