Sega is bringing a dose of nostalgia to Sonic fans with a new promotion ahead of Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds. The publisher is giving away the iconic Blue Star hoverboard from 2006’s Sonic Riders as a free bonus for players who sign up for a Sega Account and purchase CrossWorlds. This limited-time offer comes just two months before the highly anticipated game’s release on September 25, 2025.
A Throwback to Sonic Riders
First revealed during The Game Awards in December 2024, Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds is positioned as the next major entry in Sega’s racing franchise, following the success of Team Sonic Racing, which sold over 3.5 million copies since its 2019 debut. In a nod to Sonic’s racing heritage, Sega announced that the Blue Star, Sonic’s trademark Extreme Gear hoverboard designed by Tails in Sonic Riders, will be included as a freebie for fans who meet a few requirements.
The promotion is part of Sega’s ongoing strategy to drive adoption of its Sega Account service, which has recently featured similar bonuses in titles like Shinobi: Art of Vengeance and Like a Dragon: Pirate Yakuza in Hawaii.
How to Get the Blue Star in CrossWorlds
To claim the Blue Star in Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, players will need to:
- Sign up for a Sega Account (if they don’t already have one).
- Link at least one gaming platform where they plan to play CrossWorlds to their Sega Account.
- Purchase Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds between its launch on September 25 and October 31.
- Visit the Free Gift Promotion website during that period to claim their promo code, which can then be redeemed on their chosen platform’s storefront.
The Blue Star can only be claimed for one platform per Sega Account, even if the game is purchased on multiple systems. Existing Sega Account holders with a linked platform are already eligible and will automatically qualify to receive the Blue Star when the game launches.
Sega has clarified that the promotion is only available in select regions. While it hasn’t published a full list, reports from fans confirm availability at least in North America and Europe.
The redemption window closes on October 31 at 10:59 AM ET / 4:59 PM CET, so fans who want the Blue Star need to act within that timeframe.
CrossWorlds to Feature More Riders References
The inclusion of the Blue Star is just one example of how Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds will pay homage to Sonic Riders. Recent teasers from Sega suggest the game will include numerous references and mechanics inspired by the beloved hoverboard racer, giving long-time fans something extra to look forward to when the game hits consoles and PC this fall.
