This morning, we had a Nintendo Direct focused on Kirby Air Riders, the upcoming game coming to Nintendo Switch 2. Over nearly 45 minutes, its director, Masahiro Sakurai, spoke in detail about the general aspects of this game developed by Sora and Bandai Namco Studios. Here’s everything you need to know about the game that Sakurai admits is “basically” a Mario Kart, with a different appeal.
A wide range of racers to choose from
Unlike 20 years ago with the original title, we now have the option to choose from more racers, including Kirby, King Deede, Meta Knight, Bandana Waddle Dee, Chef Kawasaki, Magolor, Gooey, Wadldle Doo, Knuckle Joe, Susie, and Cappy. Each one has their own unique stats and abilities.
Gameplay and Vehicles
In the game, we will be able to choose between several Air Ride Machines, each with distinct forms, traits, and shapes.
The gameplay is designed to be simple, with the player using one button for Boost Charge and drifting. There will also be a button to activate the Special Gauge, which will allow our raider to go faster and activate a special power, unique to each character, with Kirby being the only one with 4 special moves.
The game will feature a skill copying system that is not limited to Kirby. All characters will be able to capture enemies on the track to obtain their skills. To activate this skill, you only need to press the Charge button.
Full screen
Game modes
- Air Ride – Typical races with up to 6 riders, in a more balanced number for all riders. From what Sakurai showed, it’s just a lap around the track, and that’s it. The presentation also showed some of the courses, Gloria Fields, Cavernous Corners, Cyberion Highway, and Mount Amberfalls.
- City Trial – Skyah will be the floating island where you can take on the challenges offered by this game. This place features several distinct areas, ranging from the sea to a shopping mall. Here you can race freely, obtaining power-ups for up to 5 minutes. You will then move on to the activities in Stadium. These activities can be played online with up to 16 players, and with up to 8 players in local mode. Stadium will offer activities such as Air Glider, Drag Race, Target Flight, Dustup Derby, among others, selected at random from a choice of 4. City Trial will also feature its own game modes that appear at random, allowing you to obtain more power-ups.
Release date
The broadcast ended with the most important detail. Kirby Air Riders will be coming to Switch on November 20, 2025.
Follow MeriStation USA on X (formerly known as Twitter). Your video game and entertainment website for all the news, updates, and breaking news from the world of video games, movies, series, manga, and anime. Previews, reviews, interviews, trailers, gameplay, podcasts and more! Follow us now!
