Nintendo and Masahiro Sakurai unveiled extensive details about the upcoming game Kirby Air Riders during a dedicated 45-minute Nintendo Direct presentation on August 19, 2025. The game is a sequel to the 2003 GameCube title Kirby Air Ride and is set to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 20, 2025. Priced at $69.99, Kirby Air Riders is available for preorder on multiple platforms including the US eShop, GameStop, and Best Buy. The game features a 25GB download size and supports up to 16 players in the City Trial mode, allowing for online multiplayer competition. Sakurai described the gameplay as "basically Mario Kart," emphasizing its racing and party game elements. New features include the addition of a second button and the ability for characters such as King Dedede, Meta Knight, and Waddle Dee to use Kirby's copy abilities for the first time. Players compete in Air Ride mode by racing through dynamic circuits, using speed boosts and attacks against rivals. The game also includes an open exploration mode on the floating island of Celesta. Industry commentators have noted the game as Nintendo's marquee holiday release for 2025, highlighting its blend of classic racing mechanics with fresh multiplayer and character features.