Kirby Air Riders Director Masahiro Sakurai Confirms No DLC Plans for Nintendo Switch 2 Launch

Following the highly anticipated second Nintendo Direct showcase for Kirby Air Riders, veteran director Masahiro Sakurai has set clear expectations for fans regarding the game's future.

As Kirby Air Riders prepares for its official launch on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20, 2025, Sakurai addressed speculation about potential downloadable content (DLC) and the prospect of turning the game into a long-running series. Kirby Air Riders, developed in collaboration with HAL Laboratory and Nintendo, marks the revered franchise’s high-speed racing debut on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 platform.

The title has garnered significant attention following its announcement, not only for its dynamic new gameplay but also as Sakurai’s return to the Kirby series after helming past classics like Kirby Super Star and Super Smash Bros. During the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, Sakurai took a moment to deliver a candid message to fans.

He directly confirmed that there are no plans for post-launch DLC for Kirby Air Riders.

Addressing the possibility of future changes, the director clarified that, as of now, players should not expect any downloadable expansions or additional content. Additionally, Sakurai emphasized that he does not intend for Kirby Air Riders to become an ongoing franchise.

He explained that his goal was to deliver a fully realized, standalone racing experience — one that honors the enthusiasm and dedication of Kirby’s passionate fanbase.

"It was truly the passionate support from Kirby fans that helped bring this game into existence.

Developing a game requires both time and resources, and not every wish can be fulfilled.

Thanks to the fans and the contributions of many talented people, we were able to make Kirby Air Riders a reality.

I have invested everything into this project from the very beginning.

I encourage players not to miss their chance to experience it," Sakurai expressed during the broadcast, reflecting gratitude and pride in the team’s achievement. The announcement positions Kirby Air Riders as a major title for the Nintendo Switch 2’s launch window.

Its scheduled release on November 20, 2025, is set to offer players a fresh take on the Kirby universe, blending beloved characters with high-speed racing mechanics unique to the series.

The game will be available both physically and via the Nintendo eShop, promising accessibility to fans worldwide. With Sakurai’s decisive remarks, Kirby Air Riders is poised to deliver a complete and self-contained experience for Nintendo Switch 2 owners, capping years of anticipation with a project shaped by community passion and creative vision.

For those who missed the Direct presentation, highlights and detailed breakdowns are now available via official Nintendo channels.

Nintendo Switch 2 Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Kirby Air Riders Masahiro Sakurai Switch 2 Switch DLC Sakurai Hal Laboratory