SEGA is kicking off Year Two of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on November 3, 2026, with a major version 2.0.0 update introducing a new one-on-one Duel Mode, 15 additional gadgets, multiplayer improvements and progression changes. The free update arrives alongside the Godzilla DLC pack, which adds a new racing course and three themed vehicles as part of the game’s second year of post-launch content.
SEGA confirmed the changes in its official Year Two showcase and subsequent update preview. The rollout expands competitive and casual multiplayer options while introducing new ways to earn rewards, customize racing setups and compete against computer-controlled opponents.
The biggest addition is Duel Mode, a dedicated 1v1 racing format built around a new Duel Boost mechanic. Players can fill a boost gauge over time and through item usage, then activate it to gain a significant burst of speed. Racers can also see their opponent’s items, equipped gadgets and position, making the timing of offensive and defensive actions important during each race.
Duel Mode supports four different formats. Rival Duel offers offline races against CPU opponents, including free characters and owned DLC racers, with rewards available for defeating rivals. Duel Match Free Match introduces casual online 1v1 matchmaking, while Best-of-10 provides limited-time competitive events featuring Duel Class rankings and medals. Friend Match allows players to race against friends using customizable rules, items and CrossWorlds.
The new mode also provides a way to unlock Bayonetta, who joins the roster as a free Year Two character on November 3. She is obtainable through Rival Duel matches rather than a separate paid DLC purchase.
Version 2.0.0 also expands the game’s gadget customization system through the Grand Master Plate. This new plate introduces a seventh Super Slot designed for single-slot gadgets, amplifying the effect of whichever compatible gadget is equipped. Combined with 15 additional gadgets, the system offers more customization possibilities for different racing strategies.
SEGA is making several balance adjustments affecting existing gadgets, racing statistics, vehicle types and CPU opponents. Rings will also respawn more quickly during online races. Additional gadget plates, bookmarking functionality and improved gadget filters are included to make managing racing setups easier.
World Match is receiving changes intended to separate casual racing from competitive progression. Players can enter Free Match without affecting their ranking, while the existing ranked experience remains available. The updated mode also introduces rivals that reward additional Donpa Tickets when defeated, alongside a redesigned main menu that accommodates the expanded selection of racing modes.
Progression is being expanded through Play Missions, which reward players with tickets and medals for completing objectives. The update also introduces the SEGA Fighting Beats Infinity music album, additional collaboration decals and various bug fixes.
Festival events are changing as well. New Festivals will run for 10 days instead of the previous three-day format, giving players a longer window to participate and earn rewards. The ranking system is being revised around winning streaks, while AI rival teams will become available as opponents. Additional online crown rewards are also planned.
Alongside the free gameplay changes, the Godzilla Pack launches as the first premium expansion in Season Pass Two. It introduces the Godzilla Escape course and three themed racing machines: Godzilla Cruiser, King Ghidorah Coupe and Mothra Surf. The pack also includes additional Jukebox music and sound effects.
The Godzilla content is separate from the free version 2.0.0 update. Players can obtain it through Season Pass Two or purchase the DLC individually. Existing base-game owners do not need to buy the expansion to access Duel Mode, the gadget improvements or the wider multiplayer changes.
The rollout follows the previously announced Avatar Legends crossover, which added Aang, Katara and themed racing content in October. Year Two continues SEGA’s combination of free gameplay updates and optional crossover expansions.
Additional content is scheduled beyond the November launch. A McLaren Racing-themed machine is planned for later in November, while Persona 3’s Aigis is expected to arrive as a free racer in early 2027. The next premium expansion, the Evangelion Pack, is scheduled for January 2027 and will feature the Tokyo-III course, Rei Ayanami, Asuka Shikinami Langley and three EVA-themed machines.
SEGA has also outlined further paid collaborations involving Sanrio, Final Fantasy VII Remake and Persona throughout 2027. For existing Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds players, however, the immediate changes in version 2.0.0 are the expanded racing modes, revised customization systems and additional progression opportunities available without purchasing the new Godzilla expansion.
