Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed Revealed with Screenshots and Competition [Update: Trailer]

Sonic & SEGA All-Star Racing was well received by critics in 2010, proving that a Mario Kart clone can actually be pretty awesome (plus it had enough Dreamcast references to keep my happy for a good few months). The diverse range of characters and colourful environments made it a fun, fast and frantic racer.

SEGA have today announced that the sequel, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed will be arriving for Xbox 360, PS3, PSVita, 3DS and PC later this year.

Not content with using the standard mode of four-wheeled transportation, Sonic and Co. will be now be competing over land, air and water in transforming vehicles to really add to the action. Sonic, DR. Eggman and AiAi return, along with a whole host of new characters including Gilious Thunderhead (Golden Ace) and Vyse (Skies Of Arcadia) to really bolster the roster. There will surely be more surprises down the line, and considering that Ryu made it into the original, I’m sure we’ll see some other rather unique characters and vehicles.

The environments have also stretched further into SEGA’s back catalogue, as not only will Super Monkey Ball be making an appearance, but Panzer Dragoon and Jet Set Radio Future tracks are also on the way.

Given the fantastic feedback we received from critics and consumers alike for the first game, we really wanted to push the boundaries on our follow up game, Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformed” commented David Corless, Global Sonic Brand Director.
“The transforming vehicles allow us to do this – as well as drifting your car around the corners of a track, you get to fly your plane and pilot your boat against others all within one race.  Add to this a grid full of star characters, retro IP, fun, fast race modes and cool tracks and racing fans of all ages are sure to love this one!”

A new weapon system, along with the Grand Prix and Battle Arena modes will add to the fully featured racing title.SEGA have also announced a competititon, allowing artists to get their own artwork in the game. Head on over to the bottom of the Official SEGA Blog postfor more details on how to enter.
Sonic & All-Stars Racing Transformedwill be releasing in late 2012 for Xbox 360, PS3, 3DS, PSVita and PC.