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Nintendo hosted a dedicated Kirby Air Riders segment during this morning’s Nintendo Direct. Game director Masahiro Sakurai provided extensive details on the game, covering everything from gameplay strategies to the different courses and modes. At the end of the segment, it was confirmed that Kirby Air Riders will release for Nintendo Switch on November 20, 2025.
The game won’t be another $80 title; its listing on the Nintendo eShop revealed a price tag of $70 with a file size of 25GB. Sakurai delved into each new character and vehicle, explaining that players can choose from various riders such as Kirby, Meta Knight, King Dedede, Bandana Waddle Dee, Cappy, Magolor, Gooey, Waddloe Doo, Knuckle Joe, Susie, Chef Kawasaki, and a brand new character called Starman.
Players can also select from numerous machines like the Warp Star, Winged Star, Wagon Star, Wheelie Bike, Shadow Star, Bulk Star, Swerve Star, Chariot, Tank Star, Turbo Star, Slick Star, Rocket Star, Rex Wheelie, Battle Chariot, and Paper Star. This means there are more than two types of machines to choose from.
Sakurai showcased several courses, including Floria Fields, Cavernous Corners, Cyberion Highway, Mount Amberfalls, and Waveflow Waters. He demonstrated a lap on the Waveflow Waters course to illustrate how to use the various mechanics in the main Air Ride game mode.
In addition to the main races, there are various challenge modes such as Dustup Derby, Kirby Melee, Air Glider, Drag Race, Gourmet Race, and Skydive. Some modes focus on combat, while others are time trials or distance challenges aimed at flying the farthest in one jump.
It’s clear that Kirby Air Riders offers more than just a different take on Mario Kart. To give players an early taste of the game, Nintendo confirmed a playable demo will be available at PAX West from August 29-September 1.
