Sega does what Nintendon't may ring a bell for nostalgic gamers remembering the fierce rivalry of the 1990s. With the launch of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, Sega seems to be rekindling some of that competitive spirit, with advertisements echoing the past. However, Sonic Team head Takashi Iizuka emphasizes a broader perspective during an interview with BBC Newsbeat.
The new racing game provides players with an experience that many hope will stand in contention against fan-favorites like Mario Kart. The playful jab at Nintendo is more about light-hearted rivalry than an outright callout, with Iizuka stating, I didn’t call out any specific title.
Experts, like Chris Dring, editor-in-chief of The Games Business, suggest Sega is merely enjoying the competitive banter, recognizing that the new title is available across multiple platforms, including Nintendo's Switch, likely to be the bestseller. He adds, leveraging the popularity of Mario Kart might benefit Sonic's visibility in the crowded gaming market.
With evolving gaming habits, Sega aims to attract new players through constant updates and the introduction of seasonal content, emphasizing increased engagement. Iizuka expresses a commitment to refreshing the game monthly to enhance user experience.
Unlike the traditional model of annual releases, the modern gaming landscape sees significant development time. Remakes and remasters have become popular, but Iizuka indicates a preference for creating new games instead of reviving older titles. He cites advancements in technology that allow for richer worlds, moving forward rather than dwelling on the past.
Overall, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is not just another chapter in Sonic's long history; it is a strategic effort to carve out a place in the current gaming era while appealing to both loyal fans and potential new players.
