Mascot racing games have always been a fan favourite – fast, competitive, and full of personality. With Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to revisit the best games in the genre and see what’s worth playing today.
While classics like Diddy Kong Racing and Kirby Air Ride will always hold legendary status, this list focuses on modern mascot racing games you can play right now, with a peek at what’s coming next.
Free-to-play | Multiplatform
If you want accessible fun with iconic characters, Disney Speedstorm is a solid pick. Featuring a wide roster of Disney and Pixar mascots, it offers colourful tracks and family-friendly gameplay. While its monetisation system isn’t for everyone, the core racing is smooth, simple, and enjoyable – especially for kids and casual players.
Multiplatform
Still a fan favourite over a decade later, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed is one of the best mascot racers ever made. Its transforming vehicles let you race across land, sea, and sky, keeping the action fresh every lap. If you’re excited for Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, this is the perfect game to warm up with.
Free | PC
Looking for something with a darker edge? Nightmare Kart blends kart racing with gothic horror, drawing heavy inspiration from Bloodborne. Developed by the creator of the Bloodborne PSX demake, this free indie gem offers eerie tracks, haunting characters, and a completely different take on the mascot racing formula.
Multiplatform
A faithful remake of the PlayStation classic, Crash Team Racing: Nitro-Fueled mixes nostalgia with modern polish. Don’t let the cartoon mascots fool you—this game is tough, with precise drifting mechanics and challenging AI. It’s one of the most competitive mascot racers on the market, making it perfect for players who want a real test of skill.
Nintendo Switch 2 Exclusive
The undisputed king of mascot racing, Mario Kart World takes the series to new heights. Alongside the traditional racing cups, it introduces Free Roam mode, letting players explore tracks, discover secrets, and unlock outfits. With robust accessibility options, it’s a perfect choice for families, ensuring everyone can join the fun regardless of skill level.
Multiplatform
The next big entry in the genre is Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. Sega is promising expansive tracks, innovative mechanics, and plenty of high-speed action starring Sonic and friends. While details are still unfolding, it’s shaping up to be a must-play for fans of mascot racing.
If you’re planning to play on PC, you can purchase Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds at Green Man Gaming for a trusted, often discounted option.
Mascot racing games remain some of the most fun and replayable multiplayer experiences around. Whether you want Disney charm, Sonic’s speed, Crash’s challenge, or Mario’s timeless formula, there’s something for everyone.
And with Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds on the way, the future of mascot racing looks brighter than ever – so grab your controller, pick your favourite mascot, and hit the track.