📍 Riyadh – July 28, 2025 | BETH

Manga Productions, a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation “Misk,” has signed a publishing and distribution agreement with Japanese gaming giant SEGA to launch the highly anticipated game “Sonic Racing: Crossworlds” in the Middle East and North Africa. Under this partnership, Manga Productions will manage the game’s release across the MENA region, involving Saudi talent in publishing efforts and leading the marketing strategy.

🎮 A Dynamic Racing Experience with Global Appeal
Sonic Racing: Crossworlds offers thrilling kart racing through ever-changing tracks that transform dynamically each round—making every race unique. Players can fully customize their vehicles in terms of appearance and performance, while leveraging special power-ups that shape gameplay. The game also supports global online multiplayer modes, with competitive rankings and exclusive rewards to ensure an immersive and challenging experience.

💡 Next-Gen Kart Racing from SEGA’s Arcade Team
Developed by SEGA’s arcade division, Crossworlds introduces a groundbreaking race format, where each second lap shifts into an unknown world, amplifying the adrenaline with every round. The game includes a record-breaking roster of 23 characters at launch, with more to be added through regular post-release updates—featuring stars like Hatsune Miku, Joker from Persona 5 Royal, Ichiban Kasuga from Like a Dragon, and iconic figures such as Minecraft and SpongeBob SquarePants.

With over 70 customizable tools and power-ups, players can craft diverse racing strategies. The game also supports cross-platform multiplayer with up to 12 players in various action-packed modes.

🗣️ Statements from Manga Productions and SEGA
Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, commented on the partnership:

“Over the past years, Manga Productions has built strategic alliances that advanced the creative content industry in Saudi Arabia and the region. Today, we continue this success through our partnership with SEGA—one of the world’s most iconic gaming companies—bringing Sonic Racing: Crossworlds to the MENA audience. This collaboration marks a significant milestone and will strongly resonate with gamers in the region. We look forward to future collaborations with leading global developers and reaffirm our commitment to advancing game development that meets Arab audiences’ expectations.”

From SEGA, Chief Operating Officer Mr. Shuji Utsumi stated:

“We are excited to partner with Manga Productions to bring Sonic Racing: Crossworlds to the Middle East and North Africa. This partnership represents a strategic move for SEGA as we aim to expand the global reach of one of the most beloved characters in gaming history, with local cultural relevance and a focus on Arab gamers' aspirations. We are committed to delivering high-quality content to this vibrant and growing market.”

Eng. Abdulaziz Al-Naghmoush, Manga Productions’ Business Development and Content Licensing Manager, added:

“Video games are a core component of Manga Productions’ expansion strategy in digital entertainment. We've successfully launched and distributed several games over the years, and this partnership with SEGA opens new doors to localize Sonic Racing: Crossworlds for the Middle Eastern audience. This is a strategic opportunity for our partners to grow within Arab markets, benefiting both companies and enhancing shared growth potential.”

About Manga Productions

Manga Productions is a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation “Misk,” specializing in the development of creative content through animation, video games, and licensing and distribution of high-quality intellectual properties. The company aims to create original stories and immersive experiences that deliver Saudi narratives to global audiences through world-class production and storytelling.