Nearly two decades after Kirby Air Ride zoomed onto the GameCube, Nintendo has finally answered fans’ long-standing wish for a follow-up. Kirby Air Riders is officially set to launch in 2025 as an exclusive title for the Nintendo Switch 2, ushering in a new era of high-speed, pastel-colored chaos. Even more exciting? Masahiro Sakurai—the original game’s creator and the mind behind Super Smash Bros.—is returning to direct the project, in partnership with HAL Laboratory and Sora Ltd.
This isn’t just another kart racer with a cute coat of paint. It’s a revival of one of the most unique and polarizing Nintendo racing titles of the 2000s—now reimagined with modern gameplay systems, new tech, and a Switch 2-powered visual overhaul.
What’s Been Revealed So Far
Kirby Air Riders was unveiled during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation on April 2, 2025. The cinematic teaser didn’t spill all the details, but it gave fans a taste of what’s to come: multiple Kirbys dashing through vibrant landscapes, powering up custom vehicles, and battling it out mid-race using abilities familiar to anyone who’s inhaled an enemy or two.
The original’s trademark simplicity in controls looks to be returning, meaning players of all ages can pick it up and start playing within minutes. However, the skill ceiling appears to have been raised dramatically—boosting the “easy to learn, hard to master” formula that defined the GameCube version.
City Trial Mode Might Be Coming Back
One of the biggest takeaways from the teaser is what seems to be a nod to City Trial, the fan-favorite mode from Kirby Air Ride. For the uninitiated: City Trial was a free-roaming, multiplayer mode where players explored a large map, collected stat-boosting items, and then faced off in a randomly selected mini-game. The mode’s unpredictability and replay value made it a staple in local multiplayer settings—and fans have been clamoring for its return ever since.
While not officially confirmed, several quick cuts in the trailer showed urban exploration scenes that look suspiciously like a revamped City Trial mode. If it’s truly coming back, it could end up being the game’s crown jewel.
Built for the Nintendo Switch 2
The timing of Kirby Air Riders is no coincidence. It’s designed specifically to harness the power of the Nintendo Switch 2, which launches June 5, 2025. Expect improved frame rates, enhanced physics, more dynamic environments, and higher player counts than what the GameCube could ever handle.
The Switch 2 also brings along a new wireless GameCube-style controller, a not-so-subtle wink to fans of the original. And with the recent addition of GameCube games to Nintendo Switch Online, Kirby Air Riders is clearly part of a broader GameCube revival strategy.
What We Know About Vehicles and Gameplay
While full vehicle details remain under wraps, Kirby Air Riders promises new rides with distinct traits—just like the original’s varied Air Ride Machines. From all-around performers to slow tanks with powerful boosts, the gameplay once again appears to encourage experimentation and mastery of each machine’s quirks.
Multiplayer is a major focus, too. The teaser implies both local and online support, likely building on Nintendo’s improved network infrastructure for the Switch 2. Speculation even suggests ranked matchmaking or leaderboards, a feature many fans wanted in the original game.
The Return of Sakurai: Why It Matters
Masahiro Sakurai’s involvement is more than just nostalgia—it’s a signal that this project is getting serious attention. Sakurai is known for meticulous balance and mechanical polish in his games, and his return to the Kirby racing universe brings a level of credibility and expectation few developers can match.
After years of focusing on Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Kirby Air Riders marks a rare chance to see Sakurai work on something outside the fighting genre. In his words, this project aims to “bring back the chaotic fun of the original with modern finesse.”
Kirby Air Riders is set to release exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 in late 2025. With Sakurai at the helm, hints of City Trial returning, and a full-blown GameCube revival underway, this might be the most exciting Kirby spin-off in decades.
Key Takeaways
- Kirby Air Riders is coming in 2025 for Nintendo Switch 2.
- It’s a direct follow-up to the GameCube classic.
- Expect simple controls, new vehicles, and lots of multiplayer action.
Gameplay and Features
Kirby AirRiders is all about that fast, frantic racing and zany battles, wrapped up in that unmistakable Kirby style. You’ll guide Kirby (and friends, of course) across bright, colorful tracks, mixing racing, platforming, and those quirky copy abilities for something that feels fresh—even if you’ve played a dozen Kirby games before—on Nintendo Switch 2.
Racing and Action Mechanics
This one’s a racing-action game through and through, set in wild, imaginative worlds. You’ll steer classic rides like the Warp Star, racing against AI or your friends. The tracks? Loaded with shortcuts, power-ups, and hazards that can flip the race around in a heartbeat.
There’s solo play, but also local and online multiplayer, so whether you want to team up or go head-to-head, you’ve got options. Battle mode lets you smack rivals around with special items, giving the races a bit of that action-game chaos. You’ll need to watch for speed boosts, moving platforms, and all sorts of obstacles—timing and skill are big here.
Vehicles handle differently, too. Some are built for speed on straightaways, others are better at tight turns or tricky sections. You’ll probably want to try a few before you find your favorite ride.
3D Platforming Elements
Don’t expect boring oval tracks. These levels have 3D platforming adventure bits, where you’ll be jumping, gliding, and dodging hazards on the fly. Ramps, floating platforms, moving obstacles—they all show up to keep things interesting.
Kirby’s hover ability? That’s a game-changer. You can float over gaps or take sneaky shortcuts, which isn’t something you see in most racing games. The stages reward players who poke around and find alternate routes, not just those who stick to the main road.
Sometimes the environment will shift mid-race—maybe a bridge collapses or platforms slide around. It keeps you on your toes and makes each race feel a little different. Speed helps, but knowing the track and thinking on your feet is just as important.
New Power-Ups and Abilities
Expect a mix of new and classic copy abilities. Kirby can inhale enemies right on the track and grab powers like fire, ice, or electricity—each one shakes up how you race or battle. Some power-ups are for speed, others give you shields, and a few let you mess with your rivals or clear the path ahead.
There are even new abilities unique to this game, so if you like experimenting, you’ll have plenty to try out. Power-ups are scattered across the map; you can use them right away or save them for just the right moment. The combination of racing and copy abilities means no two races ever feel the same, and you can get creative with how you win. There’s more on features in the official announcement on Digital Trends.
Platforms and Release Information
Kirby AirRiders is being built for Nintendo’s next console, which is (supposedly) launching in 2025. The goal? Rope in longtime Kirby fans and anyone who just wants a fun, wild racing game.
Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility
This game’s exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2—no plans for other consoles, at least as far as anyone knows. That lets the devs really take advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded hardware—better graphics, smoother performance, and hopefully, reliable online play.
Nintendo’s official pages and news sites confirm it’s being built for Switch 2 hardware. No word yet on backward compatibility, so don’t count on playing it on your old Switch.
You’ll need a Switch 2 to play, simple as that. It’ll be up for grabs digitally on the eShop and as a physical release in stores. Still waiting on info about special bundles or limited-edition hardware—nothing official yet.
Official Release Date
Nintendo’s said Kirby AirRiders is coming sometime in 2025, but they’re keeping the exact date under wraps for now. If you’re betting, fall seems likely—Nintendo loves a big fall release for their heavy hitters.
So far, everything’s come through Nintendo Directs and official press releases. All we know for sure is 2025—that’s the window.
Fans are just waiting for the next update. There’s a lot of hype, but until Nintendo gets specific, all we can do is watch the official page and hope for news.
Connection to the Kirby Franchise
Kirby AirRiders is all about celebrating what made earlier Kirby games so great, while mixing in newer mechanics and characters from the most recent titles.
Inspirations from Kirby Air Ride
Kirby AirRiders is basically a love letter to the original Kirby Air Ride on GameCube. The fast-paced racing, the simple controls—they’re all here. Some tracks and vehicles are straight-up tributes to the GameCube classic.
Expect the Warp Star and Dragoon to make a comeback. Sakurai’s back as director, and he’s keeping fan-favorite modes like City Trial and Stadium events. It’s got that “old meets new” vibe—nostalgia for veterans, but still approachable for newbies.
Visually, it’s a big step up. The leap from GameCube to Switch 2 hardware is obvious, but it still feels like Kirby—quick, fun, and super easy to pick up.
References to Kirby and the Forgotten Land
There are more than a few nods to Kirby and the Forgotten Land. Some tracks feature overgrown ruins and urban landscapes, just like in Forgotten Land. You’ll spot enemies like Awoofy and Tropic Woods as obstacles or in the backgrounds.
Collectibles and unlockables take a page from Forgotten Land, too. Certain power-ups and hidden paths feel lifted straight from that game. If you liked poking around for secrets there, you’ll be right at home here.
Even little touches—item boxes, costumes, and music—pull from Forgotten Land, which kind of ties the old and new Kirby generations together.
Returning Characters and Items
All the favorites are back: King Dedede, Meta Knight, Waddle Dee, you name it. Each one brings their own vehicle and special moves, so you can find the character that fits your style.
Here’s a quick table of some returning faces and what they’re bringing:
| Character | Known Vehicle | Special Item |
|---|---|---|
| Kirby | Warp Star | Copy Ability |
| King Dedede | Dedede Bike | Hammer |
| Meta Knight | Winged Star | Sword |
| Waddle Dee | Waddle Mobile | Parasol |
Classic Kirby goodies like Maxim Tomatoes, Invincibility Candy, and Copy Abilities are scattered around the tracks. Not only do they help you out, but they’re a fun shout-out to longtime fans. Seeing all these familiar faces and items really makes the whole thing feel like a big Kirby party.
Multiplayer Modes and Competitive Play
Kirby AirRiders on Switch 2 is leaning hard into fast-paced multiplayer. Both online and local play are front and center, and there’s even crossover stuff with other Nintendo hits.
Online and Local Multiplayer
You can race online or locally—up to eight players on local wireless, which is perfect for parties or just goofing off with friends.
Online, there are ranked races and casual matches. You can jump in with friends, challenge random players, or set up custom rooms. Matchmaking is supposed to be quick, and you can even spectate if you want to watch the chaos.
For the competitive folks, there are leaderboards, skill ratings, and tournaments. Nintendo’s also planning seasonal events that’ll hand out cosmetics and special vehicles.
Split-screen co-op is back, and you can tweak the camera and HUD so everyone can actually see what’s going on. No more fighting over who gets the big screen.
And don’t miss the “Battle Royale” mode from the official trailer—it’s basically last-Kirby-standing, and it’s a wild twist on the usual races.
Crossover Modes and Guest Characters
Kirby AirRiders is pulling in content from Super Smash Bros., Mario Kart World, and more. You’ll race on tracks inspired by Star Fox and Donkey Kong, which is, honestly, pretty awesome.
There are guest characters, too—Donkey Kong, Mario, and even some karts from Donkey Kong Bananza are unlockable. Each one comes with their own stats and abilities.
A special “Star-Crossed World” mode acts as a crossover tournament, where power-ups and hazards come from all over Nintendo’s universe. It keeps things fresh and unpredictable.
Unlocking character skins, music, and themed stages is tied to achievements, daily log-ins, or doing well in events. If you’re a collector, you’ll have plenty to chase.
All this crossover stuff is really for fans who love seeing Nintendo’s worlds collide. For more on guest characters and modes, check out the official Nintendo site.
Frequently Asked Questions
The new Kirby Air Riders is shaping up to be bigger, faster, and packed with more multiplayer options—plus it’s targeting Nintendo’s latest console. Fans are hungry for updates on maps, new modes, and all the platform details.
What new features can players expect in the upcoming release of Kirby Air Ride?
Expect larger maps, more events, and new enemy types. City trial mode is getting some extra competition elements, too. The devs are really trying to keep things fresh, whether you’re a first-timer or a die-hard. There’s more on what players hope to see in this Reddit thread.
Is there an official release date announced for the latest Kirby Air Ride game?
It’s set for 2025, but that’s as specific as it gets right now. No exact date yet. The launch window is next year, according to multiple official sources. More on the 2025 release can be found at WiKirby.
Will there be any exclusive content or collaborations in the new Kirby Air Ride?
So far, nothing’s been announced about exclusive content or big collaborations. No news on unique characters, special items, or crossover events—at least not yet. Maybe we’ll get some surprises closer to launch.
Has the developer confirmed any multiplayer functionalities for Kirby Air Ride?
Yep, multiplayer is coming back. The original was famous for its local play, and early info says both online and local multiplayer will be in. Fans are hoping for bigger lobbies and more co-op options, but specifics are still under wraps.
What platforms will Kirby Air Ride be available on upon its release?
Kirby Air Riders is only coming to Nintendo Switch 2. No word on other platforms or the original Switch. For more, check out this Polygon article.
Are there any plans for post-launch support or downloadable content for Kirby Air Ride?
Nothing official yet about DLC or post-launch updates from Nintendo or the devs. It’s unclear if they’ll add new content after release, so stay tuned as we get closer to launch.
