Image Credit: Nintendo

On August 19, 2025, Nintendo unveiled a dedicated 45-minute Direct focusing on Kirby Air Riders, a high-speed racing game directed by Masahiro Sakurai, renowned for his work on Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. This announcement marks a significant return to the Kirby franchise for Sakurai, who hasn’t directed a Kirby game since the original Kirby Air Ride in 2003.

Game Overview

Kirby Air Riders is a fast-paced, vehicle-action game where players race through dynamic courses using Kirby and a roster of new and returning characters. The game introduces a second button for gameplay, deviating from the original’s one-button mechanic, and supports up to 8 players locally and 16 players online. Players can customize and enhance their racing machines by collecting power-ups during races.

New Features and Modes

• Expanded Character Roster: In addition to Kirby, players can choose from characters like King Dedede, Meta Knight, and Starman, each with unique copy abilities and special moves.
• City Trial Mode: A revamped version of the classic mode, offering dynamic events before the final stadium race.
• Enhanced Controls: The game introduces a second button for gameplay, allowing for more complex maneuvers and strategies.

Soundtrack and Availability

Ahead of its release, seven tracks from the game’s soundtrack are available via the Nintendo Music app for Switch Online subscribers. This initiative adds value to the subscription service and builds anticipation for the game’s release.

Release Date

Kirby Air Riders is set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20, 2025. A demo will be available at PAX West from August 29 to September 1, 2025, providing fans with an early hands-on experience.

Final Take

With double-button control finesse, a star-studded rider roster, sandbox mayhem, and robust online play, Kirby Air Riders is aiming to reinvent Nintendo racing for 2025. Serving as a live-wire showcase of Kirby potential, Sakurai delivers in classic big-reveal style.

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