Kirby Air Riders Review: A Fresh Take on Nintendo Switch 2 Racing
After over two decades of anticipation, Kirby Air Riders has finally returned, delivering a new chapter in Kirby’s high-speed adventures on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Developed by the renowned HAL Laboratory and unveiled during the April 2025 Nintendo Direct, Kirby Air Riders arrives as a long-desired sequel to the 2003 GameCube classic, Kirby Air Ride.
With a passionate cult following behind the original, this rebirth of Kirby’s racing escapades carried immense expectations—and delivers them with signature style and surprising innovations. In Kirby Air Riders, the beloved pink hero once again brings his signature Copy Abilities into the race.
Players can absorb powers from opponents and the environment alike, transforming into everything from sword-wielding fighters to nimble acrobats, now seamlessly woven into the high-octane world of hoverboard racing.
HAL Laboratory’s commitment to Kirby’s core mechanics offers a rare hybrid of platforming ingenuity within a competitive racing framework—a combination that works brilliantly on Nintendo’s latest hardware. Distinctive Controls and Gameplay One of the most notable distinctions of Kirby Air Riders is its streamlined control scheme.
Unlike conventional racers, acceleration is automatic; players need only press the B button to decelerate.
Holding it charges a meter, and releasing delivers a speed burst and cleverly replicates the sensation of power sliding through corners.
This system, while intuitive for newcomers, poses a challenge for veterans accustomed to more traditional racers like Mario Kart.
As highlighted in hands-on previews at PAX Aus and via the Global Test Ride, the game’s unique approach encourages players to invest time in the comprehensive tutorial before jumping into competitive play. Diverse Modes and Expansive Content Kirby Air Riders offers a robust suite of modes to satisfy a wide range of racing appetites.
The core Air Ride mode pits Kirby and his friends against each other across 18 tracks—nine brand new, nine lovingly remastered from the GameCube original.
Each course bursts with vibrant visuals, made possible by the Switch 2’s upgraded graphics, and features diverse environments from deserts and waterfalls to dazzling cityscapes. The return of City Trial is a standout, presenting a chaotic free-roaming scramble for power-ups over five minutes while dodging attacks from both AI and online opponents.
After this frenetic period, players select one of several minigames—ranging from boss battles to precision challenges—adding a strategic layer to the already frantic action.
Modes like Top Down switch the gameplay perspective for a refreshing take on races, while Road Trip introduces an engaging single-player story mode that leverages the Switch 2’s power, with cinematic cutscenes showcasing character and machine lore. Customization and Replay Value A highlight of Kirby Air Riders is its deep customization system.
Players can earn and unlock characters, machines, tracks, and personal flair—including license badges, stickers, and even a machine creator with a garage feature.
Every mode features collectible puzzles and challenges, encouraging replayability and mastery.
Each vehicle is distinct in capabilities—some offer superior gliding or speed, while others, like the fan-favorite Vampire Star, let you steal opponents’ Copy Abilities mid-race. Developer HAL Laboratory has confirmed no downloadable content is planned, but with the massive amount of unlockables and four major gameplay modes, Kirby Air Riders stands as a content-rich package from launch.
Series director Masahiro Sakurai explained that the team wanted to create a complete experience, offering depth for hardcore players and accessibility for new fans alike. Final Thoughts Kirby Air Riders successfully blends the irresistible charm of its mascot with fresh mechanics and ample content.
Whether racing through dazzling courses, battling in minigames, or customizing your ideal vehicle, the game offers a thrilling ride for both solo and multiplayer enthusiasts.
As a definitive sequel and a fitting send-off for Kirby's racing series on Nintendo Switch 2, Kirby Air Riders is set to delight both longtime fans and newcomers.
Developed by the renowned HAL Laboratory and unveiled during the April 2025 Nintendo Direct, Kirby Air Riders arrives as a long-desired sequel to the 2003 GameCube classic, Kirby Air Ride.
With a passionate cult following behind the original, this rebirth of Kirby’s racing escapades carried immense expectations—and delivers them with signature style and surprising innovations. In Kirby Air Riders, the beloved pink hero once again brings his signature Copy Abilities into the race.
Players can absorb powers from opponents and the environment alike, transforming into everything from sword-wielding fighters to nimble acrobats, now seamlessly woven into the high-octane world of hoverboard racing.
HAL Laboratory’s commitment to Kirby’s core mechanics offers a rare hybrid of platforming ingenuity within a competitive racing framework—a combination that works brilliantly on Nintendo’s latest hardware. Distinctive Controls and Gameplay One of the most notable distinctions of Kirby Air Riders is its streamlined control scheme.
Unlike conventional racers, acceleration is automatic; players need only press the B button to decelerate.
Holding it charges a meter, and releasing delivers a speed burst and cleverly replicates the sensation of power sliding through corners.
This system, while intuitive for newcomers, poses a challenge for veterans accustomed to more traditional racers like Mario Kart.
As highlighted in hands-on previews at PAX Aus and via the Global Test Ride, the game’s unique approach encourages players to invest time in the comprehensive tutorial before jumping into competitive play. Diverse Modes and Expansive Content Kirby Air Riders offers a robust suite of modes to satisfy a wide range of racing appetites.
The core Air Ride mode pits Kirby and his friends against each other across 18 tracks—nine brand new, nine lovingly remastered from the GameCube original.
Each course bursts with vibrant visuals, made possible by the Switch 2’s upgraded graphics, and features diverse environments from deserts and waterfalls to dazzling cityscapes. The return of City Trial is a standout, presenting a chaotic free-roaming scramble for power-ups over five minutes while dodging attacks from both AI and online opponents.
After this frenetic period, players select one of several minigames—ranging from boss battles to precision challenges—adding a strategic layer to the already frantic action.
Modes like Top Down switch the gameplay perspective for a refreshing take on races, while Road Trip introduces an engaging single-player story mode that leverages the Switch 2’s power, with cinematic cutscenes showcasing character and machine lore. Customization and Replay Value A highlight of Kirby Air Riders is its deep customization system.
Players can earn and unlock characters, machines, tracks, and personal flair—including license badges, stickers, and even a machine creator with a garage feature.
Every mode features collectible puzzles and challenges, encouraging replayability and mastery.
Each vehicle is distinct in capabilities—some offer superior gliding or speed, while others, like the fan-favorite Vampire Star, let you steal opponents’ Copy Abilities mid-race. Developer HAL Laboratory has confirmed no downloadable content is planned, but with the massive amount of unlockables and four major gameplay modes, Kirby Air Riders stands as a content-rich package from launch.
Series director Masahiro Sakurai explained that the team wanted to create a complete experience, offering depth for hardcore players and accessibility for new fans alike. Final Thoughts Kirby Air Riders successfully blends the irresistible charm of its mascot with fresh mechanics and ample content.
Whether racing through dazzling courses, battling in minigames, or customizing your ideal vehicle, the game offers a thrilling ride for both solo and multiplayer enthusiasts.
As a definitive sequel and a fitting send-off for Kirby's racing series on Nintendo Switch 2, Kirby Air Riders is set to delight both longtime fans and newcomers.
