Angry Birds — of all things — is officially racing into Sonic Racing CrossWorlds, as SEGA confirms a wave of free crossover updates bringing iconic characters from multiple franchises onto the track.
First announced on on March 17, 2026, these updates will introduce new racers, Machines inspired by their original games, and more content still to be revealed.
Angry Birds’ Red, Majima, and Arle join the race
SEGA has confirmed three crossover racers arriving over the next few months:
- April 2026: Red (Angry Birds) and Goro Majima (Captain Majima)
- May 2026: Arle (Puyo Puyo series)
Each character will come with their own unique Machine, designed to reflect their home franchise. More details about gameplay and abilities are expected soon.
A brand-new trailer has also been released, offering a first look at these crossover racers in action with their custom Machines.
Sonic Racing CrossWorlds will continue to receive additional DLC and updates beyond these crossover racers. While details remain under wraps, more announcements are expected in the near future.
Meet the Sonic Racing CrossWorlds crossover characters
Red (Angry Birds)
Red is the hot-headed leader of the flock from the Angry Birds franchise, originally launched as a mobile game phenomenon by Rovio.
Known for his explosive temper and determination to protect his eggs, Red has become the face of one of the most recognizable casual gaming series worldwide.
Goro Majima (Like a Dragon/Yakuza series)
Goro Majima—often referred to as the “Mad Dog of Shimano”—is a fan-favorite character from SEGA’s Like a Dragon (formerly Yakuza) series.
As Captain Majima, he brings his unpredictable, chaotic energy to the race, reflecting the series’ blend of intense action and eccentric storytelling set in Japan’s underworld.
Arle (Puyo Puyo)
Arle Nadja is the cheerful and powerful protagonist of the Puyo Puyo puzzle series.
Known for her magical abilities and upbeat personality, she represents one of SEGA’s classic franchises, adding a colorful and whimsical contrast to the high-speed racing action.
Free demo update arrives March 19
A new update for the free demo will roll out starting March 19, 2026 introducing Extreme Gear Machines—a feature longtime Sonic fans will recognize.
Originally debuting in Sonic Riders (2006), Extreme Gear are futuristic hoverboards that characters ride instead of traditional vehicles.
Unlike standard karts, these machines float above the ground and emphasize speed, boost management, and trick-based gameplay.
Players build up momentum by performing stunts, taking sharp turns with precision, and managing an air gauge that fuels boosts—adding a more technical, skill-based layer compared to conventional racing mechanics.
The demo is available on PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Steam, and Epic Games Store.
Players can:
- Customize Machines
- Equip different Gadgets
- Race in Grand Prix or Time Trial modes
Save data can also be transferred to the full game upon purchase.
