Exciting Developments in Kirby Air Riders
Masahiro Sakurai has announced that the renowned studio Bandai Namco will collaborate on the development of the highly anticipated Kirby Air Riders. This revelation surfaced during Nintendo’s recent Switch 2 Direct presentation, which showcased not only upcoming hardware features but also an impressive array of game titles set to debut on the new console. The event kicked off with the announcement of Mario Kart World, a groundbreaking open-world take on the iconic racing series, and wrapped up with the exhilarating reveal of Donkey Kong Bananza.
The Legacy of Kirby Air Ride
Initially launched on the GameCube in 2003, Kirby Air Ride quickly became a beloved classic, celebrated for its innovative approach to the racing genre. This game offered players a diverse range of gameplay modes, from traditional races to the unique “City Trial”adventure mode, where players could explore and collect power-ups in a vibrant, free-roaming city. The nostalgia surrounding Kirby Air Ride has only intensified with the announcement of its successor for the Switch 2, sparking considerable excitement among fans.
Collaboration with Bandai Namco
According to a report from NintendoLife, Sakurai is partnering with Bandai Namco, alongside Nintendo, HAL Laboratory, and his own Sora studio, to bring this project to life. Sakurai and Bandai Namco have a history of successful collaborations, having worked together on titles like the Super Smash Bros. franchise, where Bandai Namco was pivotal in the development of both Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U as well as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
Just like Super Smash Bros. for Wii U & 3DS and Ultimate, the recently announced “Kirby Air Riders” game is also being developed by Bandai Namco Studios. The full staff is giving their all in developing the game, but it will take some time before we can share more information.… — \u685c\u4e95 \u653f\u535a / Masahiro Sakurai (@Sora_Sakurai) April 3, 2025
Reasons for Enthusiasm
The partnership with Bandai Namco is sure to heighten anticipation for Kirby Air Riders, particularly given the studio’s successful track record. Under Sakurai’s guidance, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate has been praised as one of the best entries in the series and has enjoyed ongoing support post-launch. Sakurai has assured fans that the development team is fully committed to creating a remarkable game.
A Stellar Lineup for the Switch 2
With Kirby Air Riders joining the impressive list of titles set to launch on the Switch 2, excitement is palpable in the gaming community. Other significant titles include Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, also making its debut on the next-gen console, along with high-profile third-party ports such as Elden Ring, Yakuza 0, and Final Fantasy 7 Remake. Nintendo’s recent announcements are designed to present ample reasons for players to upgrade to the Switch 2 when it arrives.