Hear me out: Kirby Air Riders isn’t a racing game, it’s an art tool with a racing game tacked on.
The game, out now for the Nintendo Switch 2, is the follow-up to the quirky Kirby-flavored kart racer released in 2003 on the GameCube. It features Smash Bros. creator Masahiro Sakurai’s round, pink, utterly charming child participating in short races where the main feature isn’t so much about how fast you go, but how well you can manage the winding courses while fighting the cutest rogues’ gallery ever committed to polygons.
Unlike in other kart racers, Air Riders has no acceleration button. Instead, players are automatically propelled forward, requiring a different kind of skill to navigate the tracks.
Key Takeaways
- Kirby Air Riders on Switch 2 redefines the racing genre by focusing on course management over speed.
- The game eschews traditional acceleration mechanics for automatic forward momentum.
- Its core appeal lies in creative expression and mastering intricate track designs rather than pure competition.
- This approach positions it as a unique “art tool” within the racing genre.
A New Take on Kirby’s Adventures
The original Kirby Air Ride, released on the GameCube in 2003, was already a departure from typical kart racers. This new iteration on the Nintendo Switch 2 seems to lean even further into its unique identity. Masahiro Sakurai, the visionary behind the Super Smash Bros. series, has once again infused a Kirby title with his signature charm and innovative design philosophy.
Gameplay Mechanics: Beyond the Finish Line
The most striking departure from traditional racing games is the absence of an acceleration button. Players are automatically propelled forward, shifting the focus from raw speed to skillful maneuvering. This encourages players to master the winding courses and engage with the game’s charming cast of characters, rather than simply mashing a button to go faster.
Editor’s Take: Why This Matters
This unconventional approach to a racing game is precisely what makes Kirby Air Riders exciting. In a market saturated with formulaic racers, this title offers a refreshing experience that prioritizes creativity and unique gameplay mechanics. It suggests a willingness from Nintendo and Sakurai to experiment, proving that even established genres can be reinvented. For players seeking a different kind of challenge, one that blends artistic expression with competitive elements, this game could be a hidden gem.
This article was based on reporting from The Verge. A huge shoutout to their team for the original coverage.
