Approximately one month before the official release of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, Sega is offering another chance to try out the game through its new Open Network Test. This is an excellent opportunity to get a preview of the upcoming racing title.
A new trailer, published on the official Sonic the Hedgehog YouTube channel, provided a detailed overview of the upcoming beta test, including its duration and available customization options.
When Does the Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Open Network Test Begin?
The exact start dates for the network test depend on your time zone. For those in the US Pacific Time (PT) zone, the test will run from August 28 to September 1. For the Eastern Time (ET) zone, the UK, and Japan, the dates shift to August 29 – September 1. It`s important to note that the start time is globally simultaneous; the date difference is solely due to time zone variations.
Start Dates:
- August 28, 9 PM PT
- August 29, 12 AM ET / 4 AM UTC / 1 PM JST
End Dates:
- September 1, 9 PM PT
- September 2, 12 AM ET / 4 AM UTC / 1 PM JST
How to Participate in the Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Open Network Test?
All you need to do is visit the storefront of your chosen platform (PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Steam, or Epic Games Store) and download the Open Network Test client. Preloading is already available before the test officially begins this week.
What`s Included in the Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Open Network Test?
The test offers extensive content: nine unique courses such as Metal Harbour, Mystic Jungle, and Colorful Mall. Additionally, you`ll encounter seven different CrossWorlds to traverse during races, including Magma Planet and Holoska.
Players will have access to 12 characters, including Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Shadow. From August 31, you`ll also be able to play as Persona 5`s Joker. The test further features 21 vehicles across five types and 42 gadgets to customize your playstyle.
Game modes include the standard Grand Prix (typically four races in one cup), World Match (online races against 11 other players with a World Rank to increase), and Time Trials (a mode for setting best times on tracks).
There will also be a Joker Festival, starting August 31 at 12:01 AM ET and running for 24 hours. Players will be divided into three teams, earning points and Persona-themed titles. The winning team will receive an exclusive title.
Important Note: Progress from the test version will not carry over to the full game.
Regarding technical aspects, a PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass subscription is not required for online play. However, to participate in World Match and Festival modes on Nintendo Switch, an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription will be necessary. Cross-play is also enabled for the network test.
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to release on September 25 for PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and PC.