Kirby Air Riders Announced for Nintendo Switch 2: Masahiro Sakurai Returns with Highly-Anticipated Sequel

Nintendo made waves at the latest Nintendo Direct with the announcement of Kirby Air Riders, a brand-new racing title starring the beloved pink hero, Kirby.

Developed for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, this release marks the long-awaited return of the series first introduced with Kirby Air Ride on the Nintendo GameCube in 2003.

The return is made even more significant by the involvement of legendary game designer Masahiro Sakurai, whose creative legacy is closely tied to the Kirby franchise and the original Air Ride installment. The reveal trailer for Kirby Air Riders, though brief, showcased Kirby dashing across vibrant racetracks accompanied by a cast of familiar spherical companions.

The announcement quickly ignited excitement among fans, as Sakurai’s direct involvement promises a return to the gameplay elements and creativity that made Kirby Air Ride a cult classic in Nintendo's library.

While Nintendo has not specified an exact release date, the title is slated to launch in 2025, exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2. Masahiro Sakurai, best known as the creator of both Kirby and Super Smash Bros., had recently hinted at working on a new project in his final YouTube video published in late 2024.

In an official statement during the Nintendo Direct, Sakurai emphasized his enthusiasm for revisiting Kirby’s unique brand of accessible racing action, noting that the sequel is designed both for veterans and a new generation of players. "I'm thrilled to bring the spirit of Kirby Air Ride back for today's audience," Sakurai shared, highlighting the series’ legacy and the opportunities offered by new Nintendo hardware.

"With the power of Nintendo Switch 2, we can deliver creative gameplay and social experiences that fans have been asking for." Kirby Air Ride remains a celebrated entry in Nintendo’s catalog, renowned for its approachable mechanics, multiplayer chaos, and streamlined controls.

Its return in the form of Kirby Air Riders comes after years of fan requests and sustained popularity through replays on the Nintendo eShop and retrospectives across gaming media.

Given Sakurai’s storied history and the Switch 2's enhanced capabilities, industry watchers and longtime Nintendo enthusiasts are eager to see how the new title will expand upon its predecessor’s legacy. As anticipation builds for Kirby Air Riders’ launch on Nintendo Switch 2 in 2025, fans can look forward to more information in upcoming Nintendo Direct presentations and official updates from Nintendo.

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