Kirby Air Riders will officially return to the gaming scene next month. The upcoming title serves as a sequel to GameCube’s Kirby Air Ride in 2003. Although the original game received mixed reviews, it did build a following. Recently, the new entry was announced and featured in many Nintendo Direct showcases. It is now ready to make a comeback with fresh mechanics, new modes, and more characters. At the same time, Nintendo will host another event to show more details about the title.
Fast-Paced Racing Action
As revealed by publisher Nintendo, Kirby Air Riders is all about speed and competition at its core. In detail, players can choose their rider and machine to participate in land, air, and arena racing battles.
The game also features simple two-button controls. It has a Boost Charge button for braking, drifting, and filling up the gauge. At the same time, wiggling the control stick makes a spin attack to send enemies flying. There is also a Special Gauge that activates a rider’s unique ability once filled. It is best for gaining an advantage over foes. Plus, the game includes a feature called Copy Abilities. These help riders attack or boost speed.
Riders and Machines
According to the official website, the roster will feature many playable characters. The riders are as follows:
- Bandana Waddle Dee – Sturdy Rider
- Cappy – Protective Cushion
- King Dedede – Heavyweight Rider
- Kirby – Light and Floaty Friend
- Knuckle Joe – Fierce Fighter
- Magolor – Sly Spell Caster
- Meta Knight – Shadowy Defender
- Star Man – Airborne Master
- Susie – Smug, Shiny Entrepreneur
Likewise, players can find several machine options to match their chosen rider. In particular, the selection includes the Warp Star, Winged Star, Wheelie Bike, Paper Star, and Tank Star.
City Trial and Air Modes
Nintendo also announced that City Trial is returning. Plus, it can now support up to 16 players online. Similarly, there will be a Stadium event that serves as the final challenge.
In the same way, the classic Air Ride is back to deliver traditional racing. This mode lets six players join and race to the finish line.
Upcoming Nintendo Direct Showcase
As per Game Rant, Masahiro Sakurai will host the upcoming Nintendo Direct on October 23. During the event, players can look forward to additional details about Kirby Air Riders. Some possible reveals include more gameplay footage and characters.
Availability, Pricing, and More
Kirby Air Riders arrives on November 20. It will be available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2. Players can buy the game in two editions: digital and physical. Both versions of the racing title come at $69.99. Also, fans who pre-order will be able to pre-load the game and play right away once it launches.
Meanwhile, Kirby Air Riders is just one of the many upcoming games on the console this year. The rest of 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting experience for its fans.
