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We're in 2025, and the advertising strategy for Sega's CrossWorlds Racer seem determined to evoke the classic 90s-era competition spirit. The latest commercial for the Sega's racing game seemingly features pixelated footage of Nintendo's open-world racer, employing it to claim that the rival title underuses its free-roaming structure.

Critiquing the Competition

"We all know that kart racing game, it's enjoyable, there's no need to feature it," the promo starts. "Imagine if you could speed past and compete on a higher tier?" The spot then proceeds to showcase key of Sonic Racing's defining elements, such as full kart modification and multi-system play.

"Or maybe you want to roam freely on the open road?" the narrator asks, filled with doubt.

Previous Events of Callouts

While this is not the opening salvo that the developers behind the Sonic racing game have referenced Mario Kart World, it is certainly the most direct they have acted regarding the head-to-head battle. The commercial also recreates a throwback promo for the 16-bit system that informed viewers about the system's "advanced processing" technology. Back then, Sega highlighted its hardware advantage by depicting a formula car dominating a course. Toward the end, it contrasted the Super Nintendo to an outdated motorhome that had Nintendo's classic playing on a CRT television fastened to the end of the car hastily attached.

Launch Information

CrossWorlds is set to release next week on the 25th of September for Nintendo's hybrid console, Sony's previous-gen system, PS5, computer, Microsoft's last-gen console, and Microsoft's newest system. But, fans securing copies ahead of time can access it sooner... but not if they're on Nintendo Switch. Oh well.