Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Year Two Update: New Characters, Modes, and DLC Guide

Entering Year Two: What to Expect in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds

As Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds (Steam AppID: 2486820) enters its second year, developers have unveiled a massive roadmap of updates designed to evolve the competitive racing experience. Starting November 3, 2026, the game is set to receive significant gameplay overhauls, new characters, and a dense schedule of premium DLC content. Whether you are a casual player or a competitive racer, understanding these changes is essential to maximizing your experience on the track.

Mastering the New Dual Mode

The most significant gameplay addition arriving with the Year Two update is "Dual Mode." This mode shifts the focus from arcade-style chaos to a high-stakes 1v1 showdown. Unlike standard races, Dual Mode emphasizes skill, item strategy, and precise timing.

In this mode, two racers compete head-to-head with full visibility of each other's items and distance. A core mechanic introduced here is the "Dual Boost" gauge. This gauge charges during the race, particularly when players deploy items. Crucially, the further behind a racer is, the faster their gauge fills, providing a "catch-up" mechanic that allows for clutch comebacks.

Tip

Use Dual Mode to test your skills in "Rival Duel." This sub-mode allows you to face off against a series of CPU opponents, including DLC characters, to earn rewards and unlock special machines.

New Characters and Machines

The Year Two update expands the roster with several high-profile additions. These characters are not just cosmetic; they come with unique machine types that influence how you handle the tracks.

Bayonetta

The Umbra Witch herself joins the race. She pilots the "Butterfly Witch," a boost-type machine inspired by her infernal demon, Madama Butterfly. You can unlock her by defeating her in the new Rival Duel.

Aigus

A member of the extracurricular execution squad, Aigus pilots the "Palladian Dressy," an acceleration-type machine designed for quick bursts of speed.

McLaren Racing Icons

The iconic papaya and anthracite McLaren racing machine makes its debut. This speed-type car arrives alongside a special Sonic skin outfitted in the 2025 Constructor’s Champions uniform.

Season Pass 2 and Premium DLC Packs

Season Pass 2 introduces six all-new premium DLC packs, expanding the game’s library of courses, characters, and music. According to official announcements, this pass aims to bring "cross-dimensional" content to the forefront.

• Godzilla Pack: Features the Godzilla cruiser (power-type), Mothraf (boost-type), and the King Ghidorah Coupoop (power-type). Includes the "City Escape" stage from Sonic Adventure 2.
• Evangelion Collaboration: Includes units inspired by the Sixth and Eighth Angels, plus machines for Rei Ayanami and Asuka Shikinami Langley.
• Sanrio Pack: A "kawaii" themed pack featuring Hello Kitty (Apple Cart machine) and Kuromi (Charming Cruiser), along with iconic Sanrio friends.
• Sega Land Pack: A nostalgic trip through Sega’s arcade history, featuring machines based on Space Harrier, Choo Choo Rocket, and arcade cabinets like Virtual Fighter, Afterburner, and Outrun.
• Sega Consoles Pack: Includes machines inspired by the Genesis, Sega Saturn, and Dreamcast.

For the most dedicated players, there is a special incentive: those who own both Season Pass 1 and Season Pass 2 will receive Super Shadow and his golden machine, "Super Dark Flare," for free on day one of the Year Two update.

Pricing and Edition Updates

To welcome new players and reward the community, the publishers have implemented permanent price drops for the base game. If you have been waiting to jump into Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, the entry point is now more accessible.

These price changes are effective immediately. Please note that the Season Pass and all collaboration DLC packs are sold separately from the base game editions.

FAQ

Is the content in the demo the same as the full game?

No. The Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds Demo (AppID: 3601140) is separate from the full game (AppID: 2486820). The demo provides a limited selection of content, and progress or features available in the full version—such as the full roster of Year Two characters—may not be accessible in the demo.

When does the Year Two update release?

The official launch for Year Two content is scheduled for November 3, 2026.

How do I get Super Shadow?

Super Shadow and his machine, "Super Dark Flare," are rewarded to players who own both Season Pass 1 and Season Pass 2.

Are the new characters free?

While some characters like Bayonetta are unlocked through gameplay challenges (Rival Duel), much of the expansive content, such as the Godzilla and Sanrio packs, is part of the premium Season Pass 2 DLC. Always check the store page for specific bundle details.

Related reading: Year 2 Roadmap.