Masahiro Sakurai Shares Kirby Air Riders Update and Heartfelt Tribute to Satoru Iwata

Masahiro Sakurai, the acclaimed Nintendo developer renowned for shaping iconic franchises such as Super Smash Bros.

and Kirby, has delivered an encouraging progress update on Kirby Air Riders, the highly anticipated racing game set for the next-generation Nintendo Switch 2.

This announcement arrives at a significant moment for the series, as June marks the 22nd anniversary of the original Kirby Air Ride, which debuted on the Nintendo GameCube in 2002. Sakurai took to social media platform X to inform fans that he is fully devoted to ensuring Kirby Air Riders delivers an exceptional experience on the Nintendo Switch 2.

In a heartfelt message, he expressed deep commitment to the project, stating that he is dedicating his full effort and passion to crafting the best possible version of the game.

"I am putting everything I have into making Kirby Air Riders something truly special for fans," Sakurai shared, underscoring his meticulous attention to the legacy of the franchise. In the same message, Sakurai paid tribute to the late Satoru Iwata, the visionary former Nintendo president whose passing from cancer occurred a decade ago in 2015.

Iwata, who played a pivotal role in Nintendo’s creative growth and championed the success of many beloved titles, continues to be remembered fondly across the gaming industry.

Sakurai noted the coincidence of the Kirby Air Ride release anniversary and the anniversary of Iwata’s passing, remarking on their close professional relationship and the personal significance of this milestone. Kirby Air Ride, released on the Nintendo GameCube in June 2002 in Japan and in North America later that year, quickly became a cult classic among fans for its accessible racing mechanics and unique multiplayer modes.

Sales of the original title surpassed one million copies worldwide, reinforcing Kirby’s widespread appeal beyond traditional platforming adventures. Anticipation for Kirby Air Riders on Nintendo Switch 2 is mounting, as fans look forward to seeing how Sakurai and the development team will evolve the gameplay for new hardware.

The Switch 2, currently in development, promises enhanced processing power and new features that could open innovative possibilities for the Kirby racing experience.

While no official release date for Kirby Air Riders has been announced, Sakurai’s ongoing updates provide assurance that the project is progressing with care and dedication. Sakurai’s message resonates deeply with longtime fans and followers of Nintendo’s creative legacy.

As the gaming community reflects on the achievements of both Kirby Air Ride and Satoru Iwata, the upcoming release of Kirby Air Riders stands as a testament to Nintendo’s enduring commitment to innovation and heartfelt game development.

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