The world of karting is hugely popular in the world of video games, proving that crazy races are a fantastic source of fun for players around the world and on all platforms. Proof of this can be seen in the last generation, where Mario Kart 8 Deluxe was the best-selling title in the entire history of Nintendo Switch, even though it wasn't a completely new proposal. With the arrival of Mario Kart World, everything pointed to Mario reigning supreme in the genre once again, but SEGA wants to put up a fight.

And there's no better way to do that than to turn to its mascot, Sonic, who has also experimented throughout his trajectory in the sector with the racing world. In this sense, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is the new instalment that aims to prove that not only Mario knows how to drive at the speed of light against his friends, but that the fastest character in the world of video games also knows how to apply his tremendous speed to racing vehicles with a fun and crazy proposal that could be a great alternative to the Nintendo title.

With entertaining gameplay and a cast of characters that will enchant fans of the blue hedgehog, Sonic Racing CrossWorlds takes advantage of the enormous momentum the franchise is experiencing, especially after the release of its three films in cinemas, to prove that there is life beyond Mario Kart.

The craziest driving in the Sonic universe

Sonic Racing CrossWorlds breaks away from the established norm with a driving style that rewards agility and daring. The races feel incredibly fast, with gameplay that leans towards pure arcade style, where drifting and the strategic use of power-ups are the keys to victory. However, SEGA has managed to integrate the essence of Sonic's speed into the gameplay itself. Each character has a unique ability that can be activated to gain a temporary advantage, such as Sonic's supersonic acceleration or Tails' ability to launch gusts of wind that slow down rivals. This layer of customisation in the gameplay adds a strategic component that feels very fresh.

In addition, the game introduces a 'Cross Boosts' system, which allows players on the same team to boost each other when passing close by. This mechanic encourages teamwork and makes the races much more dynamic and chaotic, as the order in the pack can change in a matter of seconds. The circuit design is another strong point; the tracks are a reflection of the Sonic universe, full of loops, corkscrews and gravity-defying ramps. Shortcuts are abundant and often require a boost or a specific skill to be accessible, which rewards exploration and knowledge of the track layout. There is no shortage of items scattered around the track, from homing rockets to protective shields, which turn every lap into a feast of explosions and unexpected twists. It is an experience that, while familiar to lovers of the genre, feels genuinely unique and true to the brand it represents. The action is so frenetic that there is not a single moment for rest, forcing the player to be attentive to what is happening on the map at all times.

A striking and colourful visual style

The graphics in Sonic Racing CrossWorlds are undoubtedly one of the pillars on which its success rests. The game boasts a vibrant and colourful visual style that catches the eye from the very first moment. The character models and their vehicles are incredibly detailed, with fluid animations that perfectly capture each one's personality. The tracks, which are the setting for the craziest races, feel alive. The title lives up to its name, taking players through a variety of worlds drawn from the franchise's rich history. You can compete on a circuit that runs through the iconic Green Hill Zone, with its palm trees and distinctive checkerboard patterns, and then dive into a track that passes through the dark and dangerous ruins of a lost civilisation.

This focus on visual variety not only makes each race feel unique, but also offers a real feast for the eyes of Sonic fans. The lighting effects are spectacular, especially when boosts are activated and the environment fills with sparks and flashes of colour. The soundtrack, with compositions inspired by the music of the classic games, perfectly complements the action on screen and adds an extra layer of nostalgia to the experience. The attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the textures of the roads to the characters' reactions when taking a corner or being hit by an object. The artistic style is not limited to being a simple imitation of cartoon graphics, but creates its own identity for the franchise, proving that its universe can be as rich and varied as that of any other giant in the genre.

In short, Sonic Racing CrossWorlds is not just a simple competitor to Mario Kart, but a genuine and robust offering that has the potential to redefine the genre. With frenetic and crazy gameplay, a cast of iconic characters, a striking visual style and track design that pays homage to the series, SEGA's game is one of the big bets of the year for racing lovers. The battle for the karting throne has already begun, and this time, the blue hedgehog is not willing to be left behind.