Kirby's Air Riders doesn't share the same likeness with Mario Kart; rather, it emulates the fast-paced combat style of Super Smash Bros.
Kirby Air Riders Set to Launch on Nintendo Switch 2
Nintendo has announced the release of a new game, Kirby Air Riders, on November 20, exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2. This title is a sequel to the game Kirby Air Ride that was originally released on the GameCube.
Gameplay Mechanics
Kirby Air Riders offers a unique blend of fast-paced racing and action-packed gameplay. The control scheme is simplified, with players focusing on steering, boosting, and utilizing Kirby's signature ability to absorb enemies' powers (Copy Abilities).
Players can choose from multiple playable characters, each with unique "Special" abilities; Kirby has four, depending on his color. Players also select from various "Air Ride Machines" with different stats. Vehicles move forward automatically, with players controlling steering, balance, braking, boosting, and drifting.
A "Special Gauge" fills by attacking opponents and enables use of special moves. Modes include updated versions of Air Ride and City Trial, supporting up to 6 players in races and 16 in City Trial, with both online and local multiplayer. Random field events provide power-ups based on performance.
Differences from Mario Kart World
While similar in being a fast-paced kart/racing game on the Nintendo Switch 2 alongside Mario Kart World, Kirby Air Riders has unique mechanics centered on Kirby’s Copy Abilities and automatic forward movement of vehicles, unlike the fully player-controlled karts in Mario Kart.
Kirby Air Riders emphasizes simplified steering and special ability usage tied to character powers and vehicle types, producing a distinct playstyle versus Mario Kart's item-based racing and full control over acceleration and braking.
Notable Features
The "Boost Charge" button in Kirby Air Ride slows down the craft as it is held, allowing for drifting around tight corners, and provides a burst of speed upon release. One machine in Kirby Air Riders cannot Boost Charge, while another continues moving in a straight line when Boost Charging is initiated, but doesn't drift because it has tank treads.
The Waveflow Waters course in Kirby Air Riders starts by driving through a parted sea and dives in and out of whirlpools and massive waves. City Trial in Kirby Air Riders seems perfect for endless, addictive online multiplayer sessions.
Behind the Scenes
The game's director is Masahiro Sakurai, who is known for creating the Super Smash Bros. series and being the father of Kirby. Kirby Air Riders was requested by Nintendo's software development chief.
In summary, Kirby Air Riders releases November 20, 2025, on Switch 2 and features automatic forward movement with a focus on Kirby-themed powers and special moves, distinguishing it from Mario Kart World’s traditional kart racing gameplay. The control scheme may be simple, but plenty can happen on the ground, especially in battle-focused modes. City Trial, in particular, seems ideal for endless, addictive online multiplayer sessions.
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