Kirby Air Riders Sequel Announced for Nintendo Switch: Masahiro Sakurai Returns as Director

Nintendo has officially announced 'Kirby Air Riders,' a highly anticipated sequel to the beloved GameCube racing title 'Kirby Air Ride.' The new entry is scheduled for release in 2025 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch, marking a two-decade gap since the original game's debut.

This sequel brings back gaming icon Masahiro Sakurai, who returns to direct the project, rekindling excitement among longtime Kirby fans and racing game enthusiasts alike. 'Kirby Air Ride' first launched worldwide in 2003 for the Nintendo GameCube and quickly became a cult favorite, celebrated for its accessible mechanics and innovative multiplayer modes.

Since its release, the title has sold over 1.2 million copies, according to Nintendo's official data, and consistently ranked among the most requested remakes or sequels by the fan community.

Despite its enduring popularity, the series remained dormant for 20 years, with the pink puffball starring in a variety of platforming adventures in the interim. The official announcement was made during a recent Nintendo Direct presentation, where Nintendo shared a brief teaser and confirmed Sakurai’s involvement.

In a statement presented by the company, the team expressed excitement about returning to the high-speed action and competitive gameplay that made the original so memorable.

"Bringing back the thrill and community-driven fun of Kirby’s racing adventures has been a long-time goal," the statement explained.

Sakurai, who previously led development on both 'Kirby Air Ride' and the Smash Bros.

series, noted that the new project aims to build on the unique foundation of the original while introducing fresh modes and features optimized for the Nintendo Switch hardware. While a specific launch date has not yet been announced, 'Kirby Air Riders' is slated for release in 2025.

The game will be available on the Nintendo Switch, both as a digital purchase via the eShop and in physical form at retail locations.

Details on new game mechanics, multiplayer capabilities, or potential online play have not yet been disclosed, but additional updates are expected as development progresses. The return of 'Kirby Air Riders' highlights Nintendo’s ongoing commitment to reviving classic franchises on modern platforms and emphasizes the enduring legacy of both the Kirby brand and Masahiro Sakurai's creative leadership.

With more information anticipated in future Nintendo Direct showcases, fans of the Kirby series and racing games should keep an eye on official channels for further announcements.

Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Kirby Air Riders Masahiro Sakurai Kirby Air Ride Switch Sakurai GameCube