SEGA has announced that players worldwide can get an early taste of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds through a free Open Network Test (ONT) running from August 29 at 12:00 PM to September 2 at 12:00 PM (UTC+8). Available across PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch™, Steam, and Epic Games Store, the ONT gives fans a chance to experience online racing, offline modes, and even a limited-time crossover event.
Joker Joins the Race in the Joker Festival

Alongside the ONT, SEGA is launching the special Joker Festival event from August 31 to September 1 (UTC+8). During this one-day showdown, players can race as Joker from Persona 5 Royal and his sleek vehicle, the Arsène Wing.
While Joker and Arsène Wing will officially join the game via a free post-launch update, this festival marks the very first chance to take them for a spin. Teams of players will complete challenges, rack up Festival Points, and unlock exclusive decals and horns to use during the test.
Open Network Test Content
Players jumping into the ONT will have access to both offline and online modes, including crossplay support across all platforms.
Offline Modes
- Grand Prix – Compete in a four-race series to score the highest point total.
- Time Trial – Race against the clock to set your best time.
Online Modes
- World Match – Up to 12 players race together worldwide (available in two phases: Aug. 29–31 and Sept. 1–2).
- Joker Festival – A special team-based event (Aug. 31–Sept. 1) featuring unique challenges and crossover content.
All ONT participants will also receive an exclusive in-game title and decal as a bonus once the full game launches.
About Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds
Launching on September 25, 2025 (with PC versions arriving September 26), Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is SEGA’s boldest racing project yet. Players will race across shifting courses of land, sea, and air, using gadgets to customize vehicles and adapt strategies.
The game features the largest roster in Sonic racing history, with 23 Sonic characters and DLC racers from beyond the Sonic universe, including:
- Hatsune Miku
- Joker (Persona 5 Royal)
- Ichiban Kasuga (Like a Dragon)
- Steve (Minecraft)
- SpongeBob SquarePants
With over 70 customizable gadgets, crossplay support, and large-scale online events, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds promises to redefine multiplayer racing when it officially launches.
Open Network Test Details at a Glance
- Schedule: Aug. 29 (12:00 PM) – Sept. 2 (12:00 PM) [UTC+8]
- Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Steam, Epic Games
- Participation Bonus: Exclusive sticker & title for the full game
- Event Highlight: Joker Festival (Aug. 31–Sept. 1, UTC+8)
Players can learn more and sign up at the official Open Network Test website.