SEGA has confirmed a sequel to its mascot-packed karting title with Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing Transformed, which is scheduled to speed in at the end of the year, bringing back Sonic the Hedgehog in his blue car with a cast of SEGA characters that can now drive absolutely anywhere. Yes, you'll now be able to race across land, water and even take to the air.

Transforming from car to plane and boat, Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing Transformed will feature a variety of unique karts for its cast, which includes the return of characters like AiAi from Super Monkey Ball, Tails, Knuckles, Dr Eggman and others, alongside newcomers like badass dwarf Gilius Thunderhead from Golden Axe and Vyse from Skies of Arcadia.

There'll be new dynamic tracks too, such as the Super Monkey Ball-inspired 'Temple Trouble' circuit and the Panzer Dragoon-inspired 'Dragon Canyon'. In these, you'll be speeding along in a boat and barrel-rolling in a plane respectively. It'll also boast a new gameplay mechanic utilising the All-Stars bar to power up your boost for racing with daring skill and style, as well as a fairer weapons system that incorporates the ability to block or evade attacks using an acquired skill.

Boasting an enhanced online multiplayer mode, as well as Grand Prix mode and competitive Battle Arenas, Sonic & SEGA All-Stars Racing Transformed will be heading to consoles in late 2012. Check out the debut trailer and first screenshots below.