Nintendo has released a second Kirby Air Riders Direct presentation, offering an in-depth look at new features, returning favorites, and expanded customization options ahead of the game’s November 20 launch on Nintendo Switch 2. Game director Masahiro Sakurai returned to introduce the latest details, describing the project as the most expansive entry yet in the Kirby racing spin-off series, blending nostalgia with significant new content.
One of the key highlights is Road Trip mode, a new story-driven campaign that ties together challenges inspired by Air Ride, City Trial, and Top Ride. Players will take part in races, battles, and field events while collecting machines and upgrades between missions. Sakurai hinted that this journey will explore the motivations of Kirby, King Dedede, Bandana Waddle Dee, and others as they traverse various locations, adding narrative depth to the typically action-focused series.
Another major return is Top Ride, the top-down racing mode from the 2003 Kirby Air Ride for GameCube. The updated version allows players to choose both riders and machines independently, execute Quick Spins, and unleash Copy Abilities such as Flash for electrifying bursts of speed. Top Ride can now be played online with up to eight players or locally with up to three others on a single system.
The presentation also introduced a new lobby system called the Paddock, serving as a hub where players can gather, interact, and launch matches. Multiple races can take place within a single paddock, and players can send emotes, customize poses, and change background music. Sakurai also showcased Swap Relay, a new race format in which players switch machines each lap, adding a strategic layer to competition.
Customization takes a central role in Kirby Air Riders, with nearly every aspect of gameplay offering personalization. Players earn an in-game currency called Miles, which can be used to purchase machines, decals, accessories, music tracks, and headwear. The My Machine system allows users to decorate and modify their vehicles, even listing them in an online marketplace for other players to acquire. The game also introduces Gummies, collectible trophies shaped like machines of defeated rivals, and a My Music feature that lets players select custom soundtracks drawn from across the Kirby franchise.
The return of the Checklist system encourages exploration and replayability by rewarding players with unlockable content for completing challenges across all game modes. Additionally, new difficulty and practice options, including Time Attack and Free Run modes, enable players to refine their skills or explore stages without opponents.
Online play has been significantly expanded, featuring Global Win Power and Class Rankings, which categorize players by skill level using a color-based system. Each multiplayer mode tracks performance separately, while customizable Licenses serve as player profiles with decorative effects and “Street Names.” Large-scale Team Battles will allow up to 16 players to compete simultaneously in divided groups across mirrored arenas.
Sakurai also revealed several new machines, including the Transform Star, which can switch between flight and ground forms mid-race. Returning legendary vehicles Dragoon and Hydra can once again be rebuilt through gameplay. The presentation closed with a tease of Robo Dedede, a transforming boss exclusive to the new installment, and confirmation that all nine Air Ride courses from the original game will return, doubling the total to 18.
In addition, Nintendo unveiled new Kirby Air Riders amiibo, featuring Meta Knight & Shadow Star, King Dedede & Tank Star, and Chef Kawasaki & Hop Star. These larger-than-usual figures feature magnetic connections allowing riders to swap vehicles, with each combination appearing in-game. The first amiibo set launches March 5, 2026.
Players eager to test the game early can participate in the Kirby Air Riders: Global Test Ride, an online demo event running November 8–9 and November 15–16. The demo will allow access to Lessons, Air Ride, and City Trial modes with limited track selections and support for up to 16 players online.
Kirby Air Riders launches globally on November 20 for Nintendo Switch 2, featuring local and online multiplayer, robust customization tools, and a range of new gameplay systems that expand upon Sakurai’s original GameCube vision.
