Kirby Air Riders: Launch Date, Promos, Gameplay Details, and Additional Information
Get ready for an exhilarating ride as Kirby Air Riders, a new racing and vehicular action game featuring the beloved Kirby series characters, is set to launch exclusively on the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20, 2025.
Gameplay and Controls
In Kirby Air Riders, players will take control of unique Air Ride machines, which automatically move forward, allowing you to focus on steering with the left stick. The game introduces a Boost Charge system, activated with the B button. Releasing the B button triggers a Boost Dash, enabling drift maneuvers through corners for a speed advantage. The Y button is used to activate character-specific Special abilities, which can be used once the Special Gauge is filled by attacking rivals and enemies.
Balancing boosting, drifting, special moves, and resource management will be key to success in Kirby Air Riders' races.
Playable Characters and Special Abilities
The roster of playable characters, or Riders, includes at least 12 characters, each with their own unique Special ability. Kirby himself offers four special variations based on the colour selected, showcasing multiple unique Specials. Specials are powerful moves that can significantly influence the race, such as Kirby's screen-filling sword slashes or Bandana Waddle Dee's spear flurry.
Vehicles (Air Ride Machines)
Various types of Air Ride machines with different stats and forms will be available, each offering different riding traits, impacting handling and speed. Players can switch machines during race modes using the Y button.
Game Modes
Kirby Air Riders offers a variety of game modes to keep players engaged.
- Air Ride Mode: This is the main racing mode, featuring up to six players locally or online, with adjustable race speeds.
- Top Ride Mode: A new top-down arcade-style racing mode that adds variety beyond traditional 3D races.
- City Trial Mode: An open-city exploration and battle mode where players gather power-ups and upgrades before engaging in a final random challenge. This mode supports up to 16 players online or locally and includes a cooperative variation where players team up against AI challenges.
Multiplayer Features
Kirby Air Riders supports local multiplayer for up to 4 players on the same console. Online multiplayer expands the player count: Air Ride races support up to 6 players, while City Trial supports up to 16 simultaneously. Online matchmaking includes ranked races and timed events to keep competitions engaging and varied.
Additional Features
A "Lessons" mode will introduce players to basic and advanced gameplay mechanics. Random events and power-ups will appear during races, adding unpredictability to gameplay.
Preorders for Kirby Air Riders are now available through the official Nintendo store, with the game priced at $70 at its November 20 release. Get ready for a high-flying adventure with Kirby Air Riders on Nintendo Switch 2!
