Kirby Air Riders Announced for Nintendo Switch: Masahiro Sakurai, Bandai Namco, and Sora Reunite for New Entry

Kirby Air Riders Announced for Nintendo Switch: Sakurai, Bandai Namco, and Sora Return for a Highly Anticipated Sequel Nintendo has officially unveiled Kirby Air Riders for Nintendo Switch, marking an exciting new chapter for the beloved Kirby series and reuniting a celebrated development team led by director Masahiro Sakurai.

Announced during today's Kirby Air Riders Direct, the new title is set to launch worldwide on November 20, 2025, and promises to further expand the high-speed racing fun that first won fans over on the Nintendo GameCube. A Passion Project for the Kirby Team Kirby Air Riders originated from strong internal enthusiasm at Nintendo and HAL Laboratory.

Shinya Takahashi, Nintendo’s head of software development, and former HAL Laboratory president Satoshi Mitsuhara, were both instrumental in pushing the project forward.

Despite his commitments developing DLC for Super Smash Bros.

Ultimate, Sakurai acted quickly to shape the new game’s vision.

"Even with other major obligations, Sakurai succeeded in drafting the game proposal rapidly, driven by the team's passion and determination," Nintendo summarized during the presentation. Development Powerhouse: Bandai Namco and Sora Ltd. Development duties for Kirby Air Riders are being handled by Bandai Namco in collaboration with Sakurai’s own company, Sora Ltd.

This partnership mirrors the acclaimed collaboration seen in the development of Super Smash Bros.

for Nintendo 3DS, Wii U, and Ultimate.

Drawing on this proven synergy, the new title aims to deliver both high production values and innovative gameplay, continuing the tradition of quality fans have come to expect from the Kirby franchise. Evolution of the Series: A Focus on Choice and Variety Sakurai also addressed the origins of the new game’s title during the Direct.

"Kirby Air Riders" was selected to highlight an expanded focus on multiple characters and customization.

In contrast to the previous GameCube release, Kirby Air Ride, which primarily featured Kirby as the main rider, the upcoming Switch entry allows players to select from a broader roster of characters.

This evolution underscores a commitment to giving players more freedom and replayability. Key Release Details and Platform Availability Kirby Air Riders is scheduled for release exclusively on the Nintendo Switch on November 20, 2025.

The game will be available digitally via the Nintendo eShop as well as through retail distribution, with more details on pre-orders and special editions to follow in the coming months. Conclusion With Masahiro Sakurai at the helm and a powerhouse partnership between Bandai Namco and Sora Ltd., Kirby Air Riders looks poised to recapture the thrill of its predecessor while introducing new features and expanded content.

Fans of the Kirby series and racing games alike can look forward to more details ahead of the game's Nintendo Switch debut.

Stay tuned to official Nintendo Direct updates for the latest information on Kirby Air Riders.

Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Kirby Air Riders Masahiro Sakurai Bandai Namco Switch Namco Ltd Bandai Sora Sakurai Sora Ltd Shinya Takahashi Satoshi Mitsuhara HAL Laboratory Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Super Smash Bros. for Wii U Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS