Tag: Sonic Racing: Crossworlds

  • Sega to Use AI in Game Development for Cost Efficiency

    Sega to Use AI in Game Development for Cost Efficiency

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sega Sammy Holdings plans to use AI in game development to improve efficiency amid rising costs.
    2. The company aims to balance between large projects and improving development efficiency, rather than fully focusing on big-budget games.
    3. There is caution regarding AI’s application in creative areas like character design to avoid backlash from fans and industry professionals.
    4. Despite successful game launches, sales fell short of expectations due to competition from indie and AAA titles.
    5. Sega intends to integrate AI into non-creative tasks while maintaining its fanbase, with upcoming releases set for 2026.

    The parent company of Sega, Sega Sammy Holdings, has announced its plan to incorporate AI in game development to boost efficiency as development costs rise. They emphasized the importance of using AI in “appropriate use cases” to avoid negative reactions.

    In a recently published English Q&A summary from their Q2 2026 financial report on December 3, Sega Sammy Holdings addressed investor concerns regarding increasing video game development expenses. Investors asked whether the company would lean towards larger projects as development scales grow or if they would prioritize efficiency.

    Response from Executives

    The executives explained their strategy: instead of fully embracing the trend toward big-budget projects, they will also focus on improving efficiency by utilizing AI. They acknowledged that AI implementation might face resistance in creative fields like character design, so they will carefully evaluate suitable applications, particularly in streamlining development tasks.

    Sega’s interest in AI comes amid a growing backlash against the technology due to financial strains. The Entertainment Contents division, which includes popular franchises like Sonic, Persona, and Yakuza, reported sales of 141.7 billion yen and an operating income of 18.7 billion yen for Q2 2026.

    Sales Performance

    Despite successful launches like Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and Football Manager 26, these sales figures fell short of Sega’s expectations. The report indicated that repeat sales were below forecasts, and while new titles received positive reviews, they did not perform well commercially, aligning with Sega’s predictions.

    The executives noted that this underperformance was largely due to gamers favoring indie and AAA titles, which left Sega’s AA games struggling. Sega’s shift towards AI technology comes shortly after a Japanese studio expressed concerns about AI’s impact on the industry.

    A report by the Japanese news outlet Daily Shinko revealed that an unnamed developer now requires candidates for video game artist roles to create character designs or concept art during their interviews. This decision followed experiences with “AI frauds” who failed to meet expectations in their work.

    Sega’s Strategic Move

    In contrast, Sega aims to establish itself as a sensible player in the expanding AI sector by integrating AI into non-creative tasks. The company is keen on not alienating its loyal fanbase while aiming to enhance profitability with upcoming releases such as Yakuza Kiwami 3 & Dark Ties, Football Club Champions 2026, and a yet-to-be-named title under the Super Game initiative, which is set to launch in March 2026.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Waze as GPS Voice Assistant with SEGA

    Sonic the Hedgehog Joins Waze as GPS Voice Assistant with SEGA

    Key Takeaways

    1. SEGA and Waze are introducing a Sonic the Hedgehog feature for navigation starting October 15, 2025.
    2. Users can activate Sonic’s voice as their GPS guide through Waze’s sidekick settings, replacing standard navigation prompts.
    3. The feature includes customizable Sonic-themed icons and the ability to change in-app vehicles to the “Speedster Lightning.”
    4. This update is free for both iOS and Android users and supports Waze’s community-focused model without in-app purchases.
    5. The collaboration is part of SEGA’s “Racing Around the World” campaign to celebrate Sonic’s 35th anniversary in 2026.

    High-speed gaming has now merged with daily travel, as SEGA and the navigation app Waze, owned by Google, is introducing a Sonic the Hedgehog feature. Starting from October 15, 2025, drivers all over the world can enjoy having the speedy blue character as their personal GPS guide.

    The two companies shared in a press release, “Prepare to feel invincible because Sonic the Hedgehog is going to take you on the ride of a lifetime with Waze.”

    Sonic Joins Waze

    Users of Waze can activate this new feature through the app’s sidekick settings, which are found in the hamburger menu on the left side. Sonic joins a list of 50 celebrity voices, including other gaming icons like Master Chief from Halo and Thrall from World of Warcraft, who replace the usual navigation prompts with Sonic’s unique and confident remarks.

    The voice of Sonic in Waze is provided by long-time voice actor Roger Craig Smith in English, with a French version also accessible. Sonic gives directions that are full of his characteristic style. For example, he might say, “Alright, let’s roll, keep your eyes on the road, never know when a loop-de-loop or spike trap will be in the way” for general guidance and “Turn right, excellent handling, no notes from me whatsoever” when making turns.

    Customizable Features

    In addition to voice navigation, this partnership also improves the Waze experience with Sonic-themed icons that can be customized, which adds a personal touch to the app’s social mapping features.

    Drivers can replace their in-app vehicle with the “Speedster Lightning” car, taken straight from Sega’s new game, Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, which was released on September 25, 2025. By choosing the “Energetic” mood option, users can change their avatar—visible to other Waze users on the community map—to show a face inspired by Sonic.

    This free update is accessible worldwide for both iOS and Android users who download the latest version of Waze. It is easily found through a noticeable Sonic banner in the app’s left-side menu and does not need any extra in-app purchases, reinforcing Waze’s community-focused model.

    Celebrating Sonic’s Legacy

    This collaboration comes as a highlight of Sega’s “Racing Around the World” campaign, a year-long global initiative by Sonic Team to mark the franchise’s 35th anniversary in 2026. The campaign began in June 2025 and includes a long-term partnership between Sonic and McLaren Racing.

    The initiative has also led to a Sonic-themed redesign of an AirAsia jet’s interior, featuring elements from Sonic Racing: Crossworlds and the soon-to-be-released battle royale game Sonic Rumble, which is set for November 2025.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Sega x Puma Sonic the Hedgehog Capsule Collection: Sonic, Shadow, Tails

    Sega x Puma Sonic the Hedgehog Capsule Collection: Sonic, Shadow, Tails

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sega and Puma launched a special collection of Sonic the Hedgehog sneakers to coincide with the release of Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, which sold over 500,000 copies in its first week.

    2. The collection features three main sneaker designs inspired by Sonic, Shadow, and Tails, each with unique features and colors reflecting the characters.

    3. Prices for the sneakers range from $70 for kids’ sizes to $140 for adult models, with the collection set to launch on October 30, 2025.

    4. The collection includes apparel and accessories, such as a Track Jacket and distressed hoodie, inspired by Sonic Racing: Crossworlds.

    5. This collaboration follows a previous partnership in February 2020, where Puma released the Puma x Sonic RS-0 alongside the Sonic the Hedgehog movie.

    Sega and Puma have announced a special collection of Sonic the Hedgehog sneakers, just after the debut of Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, a new competitor to Mario Kart: World, which has already sold over 500,000 copies in its first week across all platforms.

    Unique Designs for Fans

    This collaboration takes classic Puma styles and injects them with Sonic, Shadow, and Tails vibes, allowing fans to feel speedy like the Blue Blur while looking fashionable. Puma had previously teased these sneakers back in August, but Sega has now unveiled the entire collection.

    Three Iconic Models

    At the heart of this collection are three sneaker designs, each celebrating one of the franchise’s beloved characters. The Puma Inhale shines in Sonic’s bright cobalt blue, featuring lace shrouds shaped like Sonic, removable hook-and-loop heel tabs, and interchangeable Formstrips that mimic Sonic’s quills, all accented by a golden ring hanging from the laces.

    Shadow’s dark and mysterious style is reflected in the Puma Inverse, which comes in a black base with striking red chrome details inspired by his hover shoes, along with the same modular features. Finally, Tails is represented in another Inverse model, boasting a cheerful yellow-and-orange color scheme, complete with Miles’ Tails Prower silhouette on the tongue and the curve of the lace loops.

    Pricing and Availability

    The prices for the collection range from $100 to $140, depending on which model you choose, with a kids’ GS version of the Inhale set at $70. The Sonic x Puma collection is set to launch on October 30, 2025, available on Puma’s website, flagship stores, and selected retailers.

    Apparel and Accessories

    Additionally, the collection extends to clothing and accessories, taking inspiration directly from Sonic Racing: Crossworlds. The Track Jacket and Track Pants sport a sleek black design accented with bold red piping, a nod to Shadow. There’s also a distressed hoodie featuring Sonic’s silhouette emblazoned on the back, celebrating the Blue Blur.

    Puma makes its presence known in Sonic Racing: Crossworlds as well, offering a free decal pack that includes eight different designs, which can be unlocked at no additional cost for all game purchasers.

    Previous Collaborations

    This isn’t the first partnership between Puma and Sega. Back in February 2020, they collaborated to launch the Puma x Sonic RS-0, which was released alongside the Sonic the Hedgehog movie.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Sega’s Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Criticizes Mario Kart World

    Sega’s Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Criticizes Mario Kart World

    Key Takeaways

    1. Rivalry Resurgence: Sega’s Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds takes a playful jab at Nintendo’s Mario Kart: World, reviving the classic rivalry from the 90s.
    2. Sega’s Strong Presence: Despite moving away from hardware, Sega remains influential in gaming through its software and character-driven games.
    3. Bold Advertising Strategy: Sega’s advertisement contrasts Sonic’s fast-paced gameplay against Mario’s open-world design, using humor and visuals to attract attention.
    4. Cross-Platform Play: Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds supports cross-platform play, allowing players from various systems to compete, unlike the exclusive Nintendo Switch availability of Mario Kart: World.
    5. Character Variety and Future Content: The game features a diverse roster from various franchises, with promises of additional characters and content through Season Passes and DLC.

    The competition between Nintendo’s famous plumber and Sega’s speedy blue hedgehog continues with Sega’s new game, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, taking a shot at Nintendo’s Mario Kart: World. This playful rivalry echoes back to the 90s when Sega famously taunted Nintendo with the slogan, “Genesis does what Nintendon’t.”

    Sega’s Legacy in Gaming

    Even though Sega has moved away from making console hardware, it remains a strong player in the gaming world through its video games and software offerings. In its latest advertisement, Sega leans into the idea that Sonic and his adventures are seen as more exciting compared to Mario’s escapades.

    A Bold Advertisement

    Recently, the official Sonic the Hedgehog account on X shared a quick 30-second ad, saying, “Leave the open road behind and come race at our level.” This line criticizes the open-world design of Mario Kart: World while promoting the interdimensional levels in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds.

    The ad showcased Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on a giant LED TV attached to a powerful 10,000 hp dragster. Meanwhile, Nintendo’s Mario Kart: World was depicted as being mounted on a sluggish RV that struggled to move and puffed out white smoke at the starting line, while a turtle had already zoomed ahead on the race track.

    Cross-Platform Play

    Sega highlighted that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds supports cross-platform play, allowing gamers from different systems to race against each other. In contrast, Mario Kart: World is only available for Nintendo Switch 2, meaning only players on that system can join in the fun together, either online or in co-op mode.

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds aims to be the “Super Smash Bros. of kart racers” by including a diverse array of characters from Sega’s various franchises. The roster features popular characters like Joker from Persona 5, Ichiban Kasuga from Like a Dragon, Hatsune Miku from Crypton, Steve from Minecraft, SpongeBob and Patrick from SpongeBob SquarePants, and even Pac-Man and his Ghosts.

    Exciting Future Content

    This is just a taste of the characters to be included in the game, as Sega has yet to reveal eight Season Pass characters and ten free DLC racers, with NiGHTS already rumored to be one of them.

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will have an “Early Unlock” feature starting on September 23 for those who buy the Digital Deluxe Edition on Xbox, PlayStation, and PC. Unfortunately, Nintendo Switch users won’t have access to this early unlock due to the platform’s restrictions on early access.

    While currently available as a digital download for the Switch 2, Sega has announced plans for a full cartridge release of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds in early 2026.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Box Art Leak Shows NiGHTS as DLC Character

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Box Art Leak Shows NiGHTS as DLC Character

    Key Takeaways

    1. New DLC Characters: A leak revealed potential new racers for Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, including Ichiban Kasuga from Like A Dragon and Joker from Persona 5.

    2. Surprise Addition: Nights, from the classic NiGHTS into DREAMS, was unexpectedly included as a racer in the game, exciting longtime fans.

    3. Open Beta Success: The Open Network Test, which ended on September 1, 2025, allowed players to experience gameplay and special events before launch.

    4. Demo Release: A playable demo is set for mid-September, with the official game launching on September 25, 2025, and early access for Digital Deluxe Edition pre-orders on September 22.

    5. Ties to Previous Content: The leak connects to hints from SEGA’s TailsTube web series, which featured Nights and showcased the game’s vehicle designs.

    Sega is stirring excitement with its upcoming title Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, as a recent leak has sent fans into a tizzy. Just weeks before the launch, pre-order box art has revealed a new DLC racer that many were not expecting.

    Exciting Discoveries

    The buzz around the game intensified when a user on Reddit discovered potential new characters for the post-launch DLC. The post, shared by user Any_Skill_6710 on the r/SonicTheHedgehog subreddit, showed a pre-order cover from New Zealand featuring artwork that hinted at some free DLC characters. Among those mentioned was Ichiban Kasuga from the Like A Dragon series, alongside Joker from Persona 5, which Sega had previously confirmed.

    A Nostalgic Addition

    However, tucked within the artwork was a surprise racer that fans were not anticipating: Nights, the whimsical dream-flying character from the 1996 classic NiGHTS into DREAMS on the Sega Saturn. Nights has been a familiar face in various Sonic games, making appearances in titles such as Sonic Adventure 2 and Sonic & All-Stars Racing: Transformed, among others.

    The excitement for Sonic Racing: Crossworlds has been building ever since the game launched its open beta, officially called the Open Network Test, which wrapped up on September 1, 2025. This test allowed players to experience the gameplay, tracks, and initial crossovers, including a special Joker-themed event inspired by Persona 5.

    Upcoming Demo and Release

    A playable demo is set to release in mid-September, allowing fans a preview before the official launch on September 25, 2025. Those who opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition can access the game three days early on September 22.

    This leak aligns perfectly with hints dropped in SEGA’s TailsTube web series, which featured an episode on Sonic Racing: Crossworlds, showcasing a vehicle inspired by Nights. While Nights has primarily appeared in cameo roles since its last main title in 2010’s NiGHTS: Journey of Dreams for the Nintendo Wii, the character remains a beloved figure in various Sega spin-off games.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags:
  • Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Launch Physical Cart on Switch 2 in 2026

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to Launch Physical Cart on Switch 2 in 2026

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will have a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2, addressing concerns about digital-only releases.
    2. The digital launch is scheduled for Holiday 2025, while the physical version for Switch 2 will arrive in early 2026.
    3. The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99 and the Digital Deluxe Edition at $89.99, with pre-orders for the original Switch starting at $59.99.
    4. Players can upgrade from the original Switch version to the Switch 2 for a fee, rumored to be around $10, allowing progress transfer.
    5. The game features extensive customization options with over 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and 100 parts and decals for creating unique vehicles.

    SEGA has revealed that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will be getting a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2. This news eases worries among fans about Nintendo’s tendency to use the Game-Key Card system, which only provides a license to access the game instead of a full physical copy.

    Release Dates for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

    Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is set to launch digitally in Holiday 2025. However, those eager to play it on the Switch 2 will have to wait until early 2026 for the physical version. SEGA has assured players that the physical cartridge will include “the full base game on the cartridge.”

    A Win for Collectors

    This announcement is a significant victory for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, especially in a time when digital keys and Game-Key cards are becoming increasingly common. This trend has frustrated many collectors and gamers who wish to own a tangible copy of their favorite games. Although the price for the physical edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is still pending, the digital pricing has been confirmed.

    The Standard Edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will cost $69.99, and the Digital Deluxe Edition is priced at $89.99. For those who own the original Nintendo Switch, including the Switch OLED and Lite models, pre-orders are now available starting at $59.99.

    Upgrade Options for Players

    Moreover, players who purchase Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the original Switch will have the opportunity to upgrade to the Switch 2 version for a fee. While the price of the Upgrade Pack has not been officially announced, rumors suggest it could be around $10. This allows players who buy a Nintendo Switch 2 later to transfer their progress without needing to buy a completely new game.

    Pre-orders for the original Switch version are currently open, but SEGA has yet to start pre-orders for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the Nintendo Switch 2.

    In a recent trailer, SEGA demonstrated how players can combine racers, vehicle components, and gadgets. It appears that the developers are taking customization to new heights in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, offering more than 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and over 100 parts and decals. This will enable players to create thousands of unique custom vehicles.

    SEGA’s efforts in enhancing the gaming experience are clearly aimed at providing players with more creative freedom than ever before.

    Source:
    link

    Tags: , ,