Kirby Air Riders Launches Global Test Ride Demo on Nintendo Switch: Dates, Details, and New Features

Nintendo Expands Kirby's Racing Legacy With Kirby Air Riders Global Test Ride Demo on Nintendo Switch Nintendo has officially announced a limited-time demo for Kirby Air Riders, giving Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) users and trial members the opportunity to experience the highly anticipated sequel before its full release.

Revealed during the latest Kirby Air Riders Direct presentation, the demo—dubbed the Global Test Ride—will be available via the eShop with specific play windows starting November 7th. Kirby Air Riders, developed by HAL Laboratory, builds on the beloved legacy of the original Kirby Air Ride, first released on the Nintendo GameCube in 2003.

The new entry brings a modernized take on the series’ unique racing gameplay, known for its accessible controls and innovative City Trial mode, now updated for the Nintendo Switch hardware and online ecosystem. Global Test Ride Dates and Features The Kirby Air Riders Global Test Ride demo is divided into two waves, allowing players multiple opportunities to participate: Wave 1: - November 8 – 12:00 a.m.

to 6:00 a.m.

PT - November 8 – 4:00 p.m.

to 10:00 p.m.

PT - November 9 – 7:00 a.m.

to 1:00 p.m.

PT Wave 2: - November 15 – 12:00 a.m.

to 6:00 a.m.

PT - November 15 – 4:00 p.m.

to 10:00 p.m.

PT - November 16 – 7:00 a.m.

to 1:00 p.m.

PT During the Global Test Ride, users can try both Air Ride and City Trial modes online.

The Air Ride portion will feature three courses—Floria Fields, Waveflow Waters, and Mount Amberfalls—with each lobby supporting up to 16 players in these demo sessions (the full game will expand this to 32 players per lobby).

While Air Ride races can be joined without a paid subscription, City Trial mode will require an active Nintendo Switch Online membership. City Trial Introduces ‘Skyah’: A New Open-World Arena Kirby Air Riders’ demo introduces 'Skyah', an expansive open-world map set atop a floating island for the City Trial mode, offering more exploration and competitive challenges for both new and returning players.

The City Trial mode, a fan-favorite from earlier games, has been reimagined with modern multiplayer features and new map designs optimized for the Nintendo Switch platform. Early Pre-Order Bonuses and Player Incentives Players who have pre-ordered Kirby Air Riders digitally will receive a unique, in-game hat during the Global Test Ride as a special incentive.

However, this cosmetic item will only be usable during the demo period and will not transfer to the final release version of the game. Commitment to the Series and Upcoming Content Kirby Air Riders’ arrival marks another milestone in Nintendo’s ongoing support for the Kirby franchise.

New amiibo for the game are set to launch in 2026, alongside expanded music offerings for fans.

With the Global Test Ride, HAL Laboratory and Nintendo aim to give fans a first-hand look at the game’s evolving features, ensuring high levels of excitement as launch approaches. Players interested in participating can download the demo from the Nintendo eShop starting November 7th.

For continued updates on Kirby Air Riders, check the official Nintendo and Kirby Air Riders channels.

Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Kirby Air Riders NSO Switch Global Test Ride Switch Online HAL Laboratory esShop Nintendo Direct