Get ready for a wild ride, as Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is officially expanding its universe far beyond Sega! Following earlier leaks, Sega has now dropped the bombshell confirmation that iconic characters from various Nickelodeon franchises will be joining Sonic and his pals on the racetrack.
The major crossover was formally announced during the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, much to the surprise and excitement of fans. The reveal validates previous rumors that had circulated online, teasing the inclusion of unexpected guest racers. Sega has previously stated that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will feature the largest roster in the series’ history, and this collaboration certainly helps fulfill that promise by bringing in major non-Sega IPs.
Nickelodeon Invades the Race!
Headlining the Nickelodeon lineup is none other than SpongeBob SquarePants himself, accompanied by his best friend, Patrick Star. These beloved characters from Bikini Bottom will be available as part of the game’s paid Season Pass.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! The Nickelodeon integration will also extend to characters from other fan-favorite shows, including the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and the Avatar universe (likely drawing from Avatar: The Last Airbender or The Legend of Korra). Beyond just characters, players can look forward to themed vehicles and tracks inspired by these iconic Nickelodeon worlds, adding fresh visual flair and challenges to the racing experience.
More Guest Stars & Sonic Content
The Season Pass is packed with more than just Nickelodeon legends. It will also feature pixelated icons from the world of Minecraft: Steve, Alex, and the infamous Creeper are confirmed to join the fray, bringing their blocky charm to the racing circuit.
For those seeking new racers without the extra cost, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will also offer free game updates introducing additional guest characters. Confirmed to appear as free racers are the virtual pop star Hatsune Miku, the stylish thief Joker from the Persona series, and the unforgettable hero Ichiban Kasuga from Yakuza: Like A Dragon.
Of course, the game hasn’t forgotten its roots. Players can also anticipate dedicated content packs centered around the Sonic universe, including a Sonic Prime Pack and a Werehog Pack.
Release Details and Pricing
Sega previously announced that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is scheduled to launch for the Nintendo Switch on September 25, 2025. The standard digital version for Switch will be priced at $59.99 / £54.99.
Looking ahead, a version for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is also confirmed and will arrive at a later date. The Switch 2 version, along with releases on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, will be priced slightly higher at $69.99 / £64.99. Sega has committed to offering a paid upgrade path for players who initially purchase the game on the original Switch and wish to upgrade to the enhanced Switch 2 version down the line. More details on this process are expected soon.
For dedicated fans, a digital deluxe edition will be available for $79.99 / £69.99, including the Season Pass, Sonic Prime content, and more. A premium physical collector’s edition is also in the works via Limited Run Games, set at a higher price point of $249.99. A new trailer showcasing the game’s high-octane action and some of these revealed characters has also been released.
With a roster spanning across Sega, Nickelodeon, Minecraft, and other major franchises, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is shaping up to be one of the most ambitious and diverse racing games yet.
What do you think about these massive cross-franchise character reveals? Let us know in the comments!
