Nintendo is bringing back its cult-classic racing spin-off with Kirby Air Riders, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. Nintendo has announced that it will launch on November 20, 2025, and will only be available on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Directed by Masahiro Sakurai, the game updates the 2003 GameCube title Kirby Air Ride with modern graphics, expanded multiplayer, and a larger character roster. Here’s everything you need to know!
Kirby Air Riders Release Date and Platforms
As mentioned above, Kirby Air Riders will launch on November 20, 2025, and will only be available on the Nintendo Switch 2. It is not a cross-generation release, so players will need the new console to play. Pre-orders are live at $69.99 through the Nintendo eShop and Amazon.
Kirby Air Riders Gameplay
The game still features the key elements of the original title: high-speed racing, aerial tactical gameplay, and interactive environments. You can pick a character and machine, each with different stats.
Each race features a Boost Charge button for speed bursts and a Special button to activate machine-swapping character abilities in City Trial mode. Once again, you can glide after hitting a ramp, although this mechanic is minor.
The Air Ride mode allows you to race in single or multi-lap races across various tracks including Floria Fields, Cavernous Corners, Cyberion Highway, and Mount Amberfalls. You can set the race speed to your preferred difficulty.
City Trial mode expansion features a new map, Skyah, a floating island. You can play with up to 16 players online or 8 players locally. All players gather power-ups and swap machines for a final event in the Stadium, which determines the winner.
Kirby Air Riders Character Roster
The game features a larger roster than the original, including:
- Kirby
- Meta Knight
- King Dedede
- Bandana Waddle Dee
- Chef Kawasaki
- Magolor
- Gooey
- Waddle Doo
- Knuckle Joe
- Susie
- Starman
- Cappy
All characters now have access to copy abilities to maintain balanced gameplay.
The reveal trailer shows Kirby chasing a falling star, racing through vibrant, colorful environments. While it didn’t include live gameplay, it demonstrates the game’s fast pace and visual style, suggesting a more dynamic and thrilling experience than the original.
Pre-orders are already live on the Nintendo eShop and Amazon, priced at $69.99, making it slightly cheaper than Mario Kart World.
