Bayonetta joins Sonic Racing for free, and a new Duel Mode lets two players race head to head
Bayonetta has joined Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds as a free unlock, while the kart racer’s Year Two update gives players a new way to settle rivalries one-on-one. SEGA says the character can be unlocked through Rival Duel matches, part of a mode that shifts the focus from a crowded grid to a single opponent.
SEGA released the Year Two update on November 3, including on PC. It also introduces more gadgets and an extra gadget slot. A separate paid Godzilla pack was released alongside it, with a themed course and three machines.
Existing owners get the one-on-one mode and Bayonetta for free. The Godzilla content belongs to the premium second season of collaborations.
How the new Duel Mode changes racing
Instead of the standard 12-player contest, Duel Mode puts two racers head to head. A Duel Boost gauge fills over time and through frequent item use, giving players a burst of speed to deploy when it counts, SEGA explains.
Players can see their opponent’s items, gadgets and position, making the timing of attacks and defenses more important. Offline Rival Duels pit players against computer-controlled opponents; online options include casual matchmaking, limited-time competitive events and customizable races with friends.
The update also includes the Grand Master Plate, with a seventh Super Slot for a one-slot gadget. Placing a compatible gadget there amplifies its effect. SEGA says the update adds 15 new gadgets, which require the Grand Master Plate or higher.
What is free, and what is in the Godzilla pack?
Bayonetta is the first free Year Two character, with her Butterfly Witch machine also announced by SEGA. The publisher plans a McLaren-inspired machine later in November and Persona’s Aigis in early 2027.
The Godzilla pack is separate premium content. It includes the Godzilla Escape course and vehicles inspired by Godzilla, King Ghidorah and Mothra, along with music and sounds. SEGA’s announcement does not list Godzilla as a playable racer in that pack.
Later paid collaborations on the roadmap include Evangelion, Sanrio, SEGALAND, Final Fantasy VII and Persona. For players interested only in the race changes, the free update is the starting point; the extra packs are optional.
