Kirby Air Riders Switch 2 Details: Features, City Trial Mode, and PAX West 2025 Demo Announced

Nintendo has officially recapped the latest Kirby Air Riders Direct, delivering a comprehensive look at the upcoming high-speed action game, Kirby Air Riders, set to launch exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20.

Developed in conjunction with Sora Ltd.

and Bandai Namco Studios, Kirby Air Riders serves as an ambitious follow-up to the beloved Kirby Air Ride that debuted on the Nintendo GameCube in 2003, promising a blend of classic modes and innovative new features. Guided by series creator and director Masahiro Sakurai during the 45-minute presentation, viewers received a detailed breakdown of gameplay mechanics, character options, and returning fan-favorite modes.

Sakurai emphasized how each Air Ride machine possesses unique attributes, describing their hover-based movement system, functional controls, and the strategic importance of machine selection.

"Each machine moves forward automatically and is steered with the left stick, allowing players to focus on timing Boost Charges and unleashing Specials for maximum advantage," Sakurai noted in his presentation. Players will choose from an expanded roster of iconic characters—including series staples like Kirby, Meta Knight, King Dedede, and Bandana Waddle Dee—each offering distinct traits impacting gameplay.

Beyond simply racing, Kirby Air Riders introduces deeper strategy through character-specific abilities, including different Special moves and the ability to mix any rider with any machine for a tailored experience. A key highlight is the return and expansion of City Trial mode, now set on an expansive floating island named Skyah.

In this central mode, players freely explore the map, collect upgrades, participate in spontaneous Field Events, and compete against rivals before facing off in a decisive Stadium event.

Challenges such as "Short Race" and "Dustup Derby," as well as boss battles featuring recognizable enemies like Kracko and Dyna Blade, add new layers to city exploration and competition.

The classic Air Ride Mode also returns, supporting up to six local players in vibrant, star-powered races. Supporting modern multiplayer, Kirby Air Riders will offer local wireless play for up to eight players and online functionality expanding the experience to sixteen participants, complete with GameChat support for audio and video communication.

For newcomers and veterans alike, Lessons mode is available, providing guidance on mastering the game’s techniques and mechanics. Nintendo further revealed that a selection of seven tracks from the Kirby Air Riders original soundtrack—including the English-language main theme—will launch on the Nintendo Music app for Nintendo Switch Online members. Additionally, Nintendo announced that Kirby Air Riders will be playable to the public for the first time at PAX West 2025 in Seattle, held from August 29 to September 1.

Access to the demo at Nintendo booth #1923 will require a Warp Pipe Pass, with reservation registration opening on August 21 and available on a first-come, first-served basis. As Kirby Air Riders gears up for its Nintendo Switch 2 debut, fans can look forward to more news and updates in the coming months.

For the latest on Kirby Air Riders, the Nintendo Switch 2, and future Nintendo Direct presentations, stay tuned to official channels and major gaming events.

Nintendo Switch 2 Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Nintendo Direct Kirby Air Riders Switch 2 Switch PAX City Trial PAX West 2025 PAX West Masahiro Sakurai Bandai Namco Studios Sora Ltd Warp Pipe Pass