Pac-Man Joins the Roster of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, Festival Event Announced

Sega has revealed exciting new content for its popular racing title, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, confirming that the beloved arcade character Pac-Man will soon be joining the game's extensive roster. This highly anticipated addition is part of the new Pac-Man Pack downloadable content, scheduled for release on January 7, 2026. The announcement also detailed a unique in-game event, the 'PAC-MAN Festival,' which will provide all players, regardless of DLC ownership, an opportunity to engage in themed challenges and activities shortly after Pac-Man's debut.

The integration of Pac-Man into Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds signifies the third major character addition within the game's ongoing Season Pass. This strategic expansion aims to keep the racing experience fresh and engaging for its dedicated player base. Following Pac-Man, fans can look forward to further character releases throughout the year, with popular figures such as Mega Man, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and characters from Avatar: The Last Airbender slated to make their appearances on the track. This diverse lineup underscores Sega's commitment to cross-franchise collaborations, offering a blend of nostalgic and contemporary icons to enhance the game's appeal.

To celebrate Pac-Man's arrival, Sega is launching the 'PAC-MAN Festival,' a limited-time event set to run from January 8, 2026, at 4 PM PT / 7 PM ET (January 9, 12 AM GMT) until January 11, 2026, at 3:59 PM PT / 6:59 PM ET (11:59 PM GMT). This festival is designed to be accessible to everyone, meaning players do not need to purchase the Pac-Man Pack to participate in the event's activities. This inclusive approach ensures that the broader community can partake in the festivities and experience the excitement surrounding the new content.

Furthermore, players seeking additional complimentary content can currently access the NiGHTS DLC pack, which is available for download at no cost. For those who acquired Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the Nintendo Switch 2 during the recent holiday season, the developers highlight that this version offers a significantly enhanced portable gaming experience compared to its predecessor on the original Switch console. The improved performance and visuals contribute to a more immersive and enjoyable race for players on the go.

This continuous stream of new characters and events demonstrates Sega's dedication to evolving Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. The game’s expanding universe, featuring beloved characters from various franchises, provides a dynamic and engaging platform for both long-time fans and newcomers to the racing genre. The upcoming additions promise to inject fresh energy into the competition and offer diverse gameplay opportunities, maintaining the title's momentum and appeal.