Kirby Air Riders Review: Is the Pink Hero’s Switch 2 Comeback Worth the Wait?

Kirby Air Riders brings the beloved pink puffball back into the driver’s seat for a new generation. Launching on November 20, 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2, this title marks the long-awaited return of Masahiro Sakurai’s iconic racing spin-off, inspired by the 2003 GameCube classic, Kirby Air Ride. Fans have been eager to see whether the series’ chaotic, lighthearted racing formula can thrive on Nintendo’s next-generation console.

The revival, announced during the Nintendo Direct Switch 2 showcase, instantly became one of the event’s biggest surprises. With Sakurai back at the helm, expectations soared for a modern, vibrant reimagining that would blend nostalgia with the technical capabilities of the new hardware. We tested the game during Paris Games Week 2025—and here’s what we found.

Gameplay and Mechanics in Kirby Air Riders

Kirby Air Riders stands out from traditional racing games. Unlike Mario Kart or F-Zero, vehicles in this title move automatically. The player’s focus is on steering, drifting, hovering, and attacking rivals. This control style gives the game a rhythmic, almost hypnotic pace that can feel both liberating and disorienting for first-time players.

The game offers two main modes: Classic Race and City Trial. Classic Race is familiar territory—a colorful competition across imaginative interstellar tracks filled with power-ups and environmental hazards. City Trial, on the other hand, is a free-form battle mode where players gather items and power-ups before facing off in a chaotic final showdown. While this mode brings back fond memories for longtime fans, newcomers might find its structure confusing at first.

Each Kirby can pilot different “Air Machines,” each with unique handling, acceleration, and attack stats. The physics are smooth, with tight drift mechanics and a satisfying learning curve. The graphics shine on Switch 2, with dynamic lighting and vivid colors that make every race feel like a living painting. Nintendo’s playful design philosophy is present in every detail, from sound effects to particle trails.

Performance, Visuals, and Nostalgia

On the Nintendo Switch 2, Kirby Air Riders benefits from significantly improved frame rates and resolution compared to past Kirby spin-offs. The aesthetic remains true to its roots—bright, whimsical, and slightly chaotic. The soundtrack, composed by long-time Kirby collaborators, reinforces the nostalgic yet modern vibe. Each circuit bursts with life, from floating space stations to candy-colored asteroid belts.

That said, the game’s sheer speed and sensitivity can overwhelm casual players. Some may find themselves losing control mid-race, while others will relish the frantic unpredictability. It’s a design choice that perfectly captures the “joyful chaos” fans remember from the GameCube era. Kirby Air Riders doesn’t reinvent racing—it redefines fun through simplicity and flair.

Our Verdict on Kirby Air Riders

Kirby Air Riders is both a love letter to old-school Nintendo fans and a bold experiment for a new generation. Its auto-acceleration system, zany City Trial mode, and visually dazzling tracks make it one of the most unique racing titles in years. While not as polished or structured as Mario Kart 9, it thrives on personality, nostalgia, and energy.

Final verdict: Kirby Air Riders is chaotic, colorful, and irresistibly charming—a perfect party racer that captures the magic of the pink hero’s world in full speed.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will Kirby Air Riders release on Nintendo Switch 2?

Kirby Air Riders is set to launch on November 20, 2025, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2.

Q2: Who directed Kirby Air Riders?

Masahiro Sakurai, the original creator of Kirby and Super Smash Bros., directed this new entry in the racing series.

Q3: What makes Kirby Air Riders different from Mario Kart?

Unlike Mario Kart, vehicles in Kirby Air Riders move automatically. Players focus on steering, drifting, and attacking opponents instead of accelerating.

Q4: Is Kirby Air Riders beginner-friendly?

Yes, but it requires some adaptation. The controls are easy to learn, though the City Trial mode may confuse first-timers.

Q5: Is Kirby Air Riders worth buying for Switch 2 owners?

If you enjoy fast-paced, colorful party games with nostalgic charm, Kirby Air Riders is an excellent addition to your collection.