Yes. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds supports online cross-play between its supported console and PC versions, so friends can race together even when they do not own the game on the same platform. For a private group, use Friend Match; the mode supports lobbies of up to 12 players and custom rules. Nintendo Switch players also need a Nintendo Switch Online membership for online play.
What cross-play means in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds
Cross-play lets players on different supported platforms enter the same online race. A PlayStation player can therefore race with someone on Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or PC, provided both are using supported versions and the game’s current online services allow that particular connection.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
SEGA announced online multiplayer “cross-play” across different supported platforms before release and repeated that cross-play was available at launch. The feature is separate from cross-progression: the official launch information confirms that players can compete together, but it does not say that one purchase, save file, or inventory automatically transfers between platforms.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The safest way to arrange a private session is Friend Match. PlayStation’s product information describes Friend Match as online play in 12-player lobbies with custom rules. That makes it the relevant mode when you want to coordinate a group rather than rely on open matchmaking.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Which platforms support the game?
The supported platform family includes current and previous-generation consoles as well as PC storefronts. The initial console release was dated September 25, 2025. The Steam and Epic Games Store versions launched on September 26, 2025.
| Platform family | Supported versions listed by SEGA | Launch timing | Online-service qualification |
|---|---|---|---|
| PlayStation | PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 | September 25, 2025 | Cross-play is announced, but the reviewed product information does not specify every PlayStation subscription or account condition. |
| Xbox | Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S | September 25, 2025 | Cross-play is announced, but the reviewed product information does not specify every Xbox subscription or account condition. |
| Nintendo | Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 | September 25, 2025 | Nintendo states that a Nintendo Switch Online membership is required for online play. |
| PC | Steam and Epic Games Store | September 26, 2025 | Cross-play is announced; the reviewed materials do not list every launcher, account-linking, or regional condition. |
These are platform families, not a promise that every possible pair or every generation combination has been individually documented. For example, the official announcements do not spell out whether every PlayStation 4/PlayStation 5, Xbox One/Xbox Series X|S, or Switch/Switch 2 pairing behaves identically in every mode. Check the current in-game notices and platform-holder support information if a specific combination matters to your group.
How to play with friends using Friend Match
Choose the private-lobby mode
From the game’s online multiplayer area, select Friend Match rather than treating a public race as a private party. The mode is the one officially described for friend-group play and custom rules, with room for up to 12 players.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Use the current in-game invitation flow
The reviewed official pages confirm the mode and its capacity, but they do not document every button, account-linking step, or platform-specific invitation screen. Open Friend Match and follow the prompts shown by your current version of the game. Depending on the platform pair and system software, the interface may ask you to create a lobby, choose rules, select an invite method, or join through a friend list.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Set rules for the group
Friend Match supports custom rules, so the host can configure the session before the race. The exact rule categories and available combinations can change with updates; use the options displayed in your lobby instead of relying on a third-party guide written for an earlier version.
Invite fewer than or up to 12 players
The documented Friend Match capacity is 12 players. A smaller group can use the same mode, while a full lobby can contain 12 participants. The capacity describes the lobby, not a guarantee that every race format, event, or platform pairing will always fill all 12 places.
What each friend needs before joining
A copy for the platform being used
Cross-play connects separate platform versions; it does not establish a cross-buy entitlement. Each participant should own and install the game on the platform where they intend to play. The available evidence does not say that buying a console edition grants the PC edition, or that buying one platform version unlocks another.
Recommended Free Tools
An online connection and an eligible account
Every participant needs a working internet connection and whatever sign-in or age settings their platform requires for online multiplayer. SEGA’s cross-play announcement establishes the game feature, not the complete account policy for every territory. If a platform asks you to accept online terms, verify an account, or enable communication permissions, complete those requirements before trying to join the lobby.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Nintendo Switch Online for Switch players
Nintendo’s product listing specifically says Nintendo Switch Online is required to play online. That requirement applies to Switch online play; it should not be generalized into an unverified claim about PlayStation, Xbox, or PC. Friends on those platforms should check the current requirements shown by their own platform holder.
Matching game updates
Install the same current game update where possible. A version mismatch can prevent a lobby from appearing or cause a join attempt to fail, even when both platforms are otherwise supported. Restart the game after an update and reopen Friend Match so the session is created under the newest version.
Does cross-play include every mode?
The official material confirms online multiplayer cross-play and identifies Friend Match as a 12-player custom-lobby mode. It does not provide a complete mode-by-mode matrix showing which online events, playlists, or special races are available for every platform pair.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallCrashes, No Sound, or Screen Glitches?
Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteUse Friend Match when the requirement is a controlled session with friends. For any other online mode, read the mode description in the current game client and look for its player and platform indicators. Do not assume that a feature available in a solo or local mode is automatically cross-play enabled.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
What cross-play does not confirm
- Cross-progression: The announcements say players can compete together; they do not confirm shared saves, unlocks, currency, or settings across platforms.
- Cross-buy: There is no stated entitlement that converts one purchase into copies for other platforms.
- Every platform pair: Broad cross-play support does not publish a complete compatibility chart for every console generation, PC launcher, or regional service.
- Account linking: The reviewed pages do not state whether an additional publisher account is required, optional, or used differently by platform.
- Regional behavior: No reviewed announcement establishes that matchmaking, invitations, or services work identically in every country or territory.
- Identical online requirements: Nintendo’s Switch membership notice should not be treated as proof of the subscription rules on other platforms.
A practical setup checklist
- Confirm that every player owns the game on a listed platform: PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X|S, Nintendo Switch/Switch 2, Steam, or Epic Games Store.
- Update the game and the platform software before the host creates a room.
- Confirm internet access and complete any platform sign-in, privacy, communication, or age-verification prompts.
- If anyone is on Nintendo Switch, verify that their Nintendo Switch Online membership is active.
- Open the online multiplayer menu and choose Friend Match.
- Have the host create the lobby, select the desired custom rules, and use the invitation or join prompts shown in that version of the game.
- Keep the group within the documented 12-player Friend Match limit.
- If a friend cannot see or join the room, close and reopen the online menu after checking updates, connectivity, and the platform’s current online-service status.
Troubleshooting a friend who cannot join
The lobby does not appear
First check that both players selected Friend Match rather than different online modes. Then verify that the host has actually created the room and that both copies are updated. A temporary network or service interruption can also hide a room; restarting the game and trying again is a reasonable first check.
An invitation opens but joining fails
Confirm that the recipient owns the game on the platform they are using and has completed that platform’s online-access requirements. On Switch, check the Nintendo Switch Online membership specifically. If the invitation still fails, use the in-game Friend Match list or join prompt instead of assuming that a console-level invitation is sufficient.
One console generation works and another does not
The platform list includes both PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5, and both Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, but the reviewed announcements do not explain every cross-generation case. Record the exact platforms, game versions, and region for both players, then consult the current support information shown by the game or platform holder.
The group exceeds the room limit
Friend Match is documented for up to 12 players. If more people want to play, divide them into separate sessions or rotate players between races; do not expect one Friend Match lobby to accept more than the stated capacity.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
How the September 2025 launch dates affect you
The date difference matters mainly when friends are checking store listings or update availability. Console editions were listed for September 25, 2025, while the Steam and Epic Games Store editions were listed for September 26, 2025. It does not mean that console and PC players use separate multiplayer features: SEGA’s launch announcement explicitly described cross-play across multiple platforms.
Because platform listings and service policies can change after launch, use the current store page and the notices inside the game when checking availability in a particular country. The launch dates are historical release dates, not a guarantee that every edition, service, or promotion remains identical today.
Bottom line for a mixed-platform group
If your friends own Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on supported PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, or PC versions, you can play online together through the game’s cross-play support. Start with Friend Match for a private lobby, configure its custom rules, and keep the room to 12 players. Switch players must have Nintendo Switch Online for online play. For a specific console-generation pair, region, account setup, or invitation problem, rely on the current Friend Match interface and platform support pages because the broad cross-play announcement does not document every edge case.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
