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Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Hits Switch 2 in December, $5 Upgrade Deal for Early Adopters

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Hits Switch 2 in December, $5 Upgrade Deal for Early Adopters

November 9, 2025 Off By Ibraheem Adeola

Sega has locked in December 4, 2025, as the digital release date for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on Switch 2. If you already own the original on Switch, there’s a paid upgrade that lets you jump to the new hardware, and it starts at just $5 if you act fast. The standard Switch 2 version will run you $69.99 for fresh buyers. Sega also confirmed a physical release arriving sometime in early 2026, but hasn’t pinned down that exact day yet. If you’re a cartridge collector, expect the entire base game on board whenever it lands.

Early Birds Get a Half-Price Upgrade

sonic crossworlds
Image credit: Sega

It’s not just a simple re-release. Sega is offering current Switch owners a direct path to the upgraded version, and you don’t have to pay full price to access it. The usual upgrade fee is $10, but during the launch promo window (from December 3, 5 pm PT / 8 pm ET until December 10, 5 pm PT / 8 pm ET), you’ll only pay $5 to step up. For those who’ve already spent time in CrossWorlds, all your content and progress come with you. No need to start from scratch or worry about losing those customisations and unlocked characters if you grab the paid upgrade.

Sonic’s Karting Answer to Mario Kart’s Big Shift

Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Trailer

If you’re on the fence about whether CrossWorlds is worth picking up again, it’s worth considering how it compares to Nintendo’s new path for Mario Kart. VGC’s review nails the mood: “CrossWorlds is a brilliant karting game with satisfying handling, a fun portal mechanic and useful customisation options.”

The review points out the rivalry that’s driving both franchises right now. With Mario Kart World embracing open-world chaos, Sega’s CrossWorlds goes the opposite way, doubling down on classic, lap-based kart racing. “Nintendo’s decision to tweak its formula for Mario Kart World makes Sega’s offering the best option for those seeking a ‘traditional’ karting game,” the review says.

There are some knocks, too: the weapons don’t have quite as much impact, and there’s a big question mark around what will keep players locked in for the long haul. Still, it’s a strong “genuine, more traditional alternative” if Mario is getting a little too experimental for your tastes.

Bottom line: if you want classic Sonic racing action on Nintendo’s next console, you’ll have your shot in December. Just don’t miss the $5 launch week upgrade if you already own it on Switch, it’s the most affordable way to race next-gen.