Nintendo reveals Kirby Air Riders release date for Switch 2

On August 19, 2025, Nintendo hosted a live stream presentation to preview their upcoming game, Kirby Air Riders, which is set to launch on November 20, 2025, for the Switch 2. During the presentation, prominent game director Masahiro Sakurai shared insights into the game along with exclusive gameplay footage. Kirby Air Riders is a sequel to the 2003 title, Kirby Air Ride, offering a fresh racing experience that builds on its predecessor's unique gameplay mechanics, including the introduction of an additional button for controls. The sequel promises to enhance player interaction with the game, featuring a City Trail mode that allows players to explore an expansive open world for power-ups. This mode will also enable competitive play, supporting up to 16 players online and 8 players in local wireless multiplayer. Additionally, Kirby Air Riders expands its character roster, featuring classic characters such as King Dedede, Meta Knight, Chef Kawasaki, and Starman, enriching the gameplay experience with a variety of play styles. The development of Kirby Air Riders aims to modernize and elaborate on the cherished mechanics of the original, integrating more engaging features that appeal to both newcomers and long-time fans of the series. As excitement builds around the release, the community is eager to see how this game will pay homage to its roots while also standing as a title that can mature within the gaming landscape. As Nintendo prepares for the launch, the positives from the direct presentation may set high expectations from fans, indicating a successful transition into the next generation of gameplay. This focus on player engagement through expanded multiplayer options and character diversity may signal a new direction for the franchise, encouraging further development of collaborative multiplayer game experiences in other upcoming titles.