Nintendo fans were treated to a star-studded showcase yesterday as Masahiro Sakurai himself took the stage during the Kirby Air Riders Direct to unveil brand-new gameplay details for the upcoming Kirby Air Riders, set to release exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20, 2025.
The presentation gave fans their best look yet at Kirby’s return to high-speed chaos, highlighting new Air Ride machines, returning modes, Special attacks, and a roster of iconic riders. Building on the cult-classic Kirby Air Ride for GameCube, this new entry promises to deliver the ultimate blend of fast, fun, and frenetic action across land, sea, and air.
👉 Watch the full Kirby Air Riders Direct here
A Revved-Up Kirby Experience
At its core, Kirby Air Riders is all about wild vehicular action with a strategic twist. Riders automatically move forward, but smart maneuvering, drifting, and combat will determine who crosses the finish line first.
Key mechanics revealed include:
- Boost Charge & Dash – Brake, drift, and slingshot into high-speed boosts to gain an edge.
- Special Moves – Each rider has unique attacks; Kirby himself boasts four different Specials tied to his color variations.
- Copy Abilities – Just like in the main series, riders can inhale enemies to gain temporary powers, shaking up the race mid-match.
- Machines & Riders – Each combination offers unique stats like weight, durability, and attack potential. Fans can choose from Kirby, Meta Knight, King Dedede, Bandana Waddle Dee, Chef Kawasaki, and more, mixing and matching machines for chaotic variety.
The Return of City Trial – Bigger Than Ever
The spotlight feature is the return of City Trial Mode, now expanded onto a massive floating island called Skyah. Players begin with basic machines and must scour the map for upgrades, battle rivals, and survive random Field Events like Short Races and Dustup Derby. Classic bosses such as Kracko and Dyna Blade also make surprise appearances during events.
After the frantic five-minute scramble, players take their upgraded rides into Stadium challenges, ranging from races to battle showdowns. With local play for up to 8 players and online support for up to 16 riders, City Trial ensures non-stop unpredictability and fun.
More Modes and Music
Beyond City Trial, Sakurai confirmed the return of classic Air Ride Mode, where players battle for speed boosts by landing attacks, and Lessons Mode, perfect for newcomers learning advanced techniques.
Nintendo also revealed a bonus for music fans: seven Kirby Air Riders tracks, including the main theme with English vocals, are being added to the Nintendo Music app starting today for Nintendo Switch Online members.
Hands-On at PAX West 2025
Fans eager to try Kirby’s latest ride won’t have to wait until November. Nintendo will feature Kirby Air Riders playable demos at PAX West 2025 in Seattle from August 29 to September 1 at booth #1923. Players will need a Warp Pipe Pass reservation, with sign-ups beginning August 21 on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ready to Ride
With its expanded mechanics, revamped City Trial, and the charm of Kirby’s colorful cast, Kirby Air Riders is shaping up to be one of Nintendo Switch 2’s most exciting exclusives. Whether you’re here for the chaos, the competition, or the cozy lofi beats of the new soundtrack, Kirby’s next ride promises pure mayhem when it launches on November 20, 2025.
