SEGA says Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds to get full physical cart release on Switch 2 in 2026

SEGA has announced that Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will also receive a full physical cartridge release for the Nintendo Switch 2. This dispels concerns among fans over the increasingly common practice from Nintendo’s end to use the Game-Key Card system that essentially contains only a license to play the title.

Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will enjoy a digital release this Holiday 2025. Unfortunately for users wanting to play it on the Switch 2, the physical release is scheduled for early 2026. SEGA reassured owners that the physical release will feature "the full base game on the cartridge.”

This is a big win for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, in an era where digital keys and Game-Key cards have started becoming the norm, causing frustration among collectors and players who want to own physical copies. The pricing of the physical edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is yet to be announced, but the digital versions have been confirmed.

The Standard Edition of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is priced at $69.99, while the Digital Deluxe Edition comes in at $89.99. For original Nintendo Switch owners, including the Switch OLED and Lite variants, pre-orders are already live starting at $59.99.

In addition, gamers who buy Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the original Switch will be given the option to upgrade to the Switch 2 version for a price. While the Upgrade Pack’s pricing is yet to be confirmed, speculation suggests that it might cost $10. This means that players who purchase a Nintendo Switch 2 down the line can carry over their progression without needing to buy another copy in its entirety.

Physical pre-orders for the original Switch version are already open, while SEGA has yet to open pre-orders for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds for the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a recent release trailer, SEGA showcased how players can mix and match racers, vehicle parts, and gadgets. It seems the developers are pushing customization to the next level in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, with over 40 vehicles, 70 gadgets, and over 100 parts and decals. This will allow players to jerry-rig thousands of unique custom vehicles.