Nintendo reveals Kirby Air Riders Direct for Switch 2

Nintendo returns with a 45 minute Direct centered on Kirby Air Riders for Switch 2, featuring a gameplay deep dive led by Masahiro Sakurai.

Nintendo reveals Kirby Air Riders Direct for Switch 2

Nintendo is hosting a Direct focused on Kirby Air Riders for Switch 2. The presentation will run about 45 minutes and include a gameplay deep dive led by director Masahiro Sakurai. Viewers across regions can tune in at listed times: North America 6am PDT, 7am MDT, 8am CDT, 9am EDT; UK and Ireland 2pm BST; Europe 3pm CEST, 4pm EEST; Asia and Oceania 10pm JST, 9pm AWST, 11pm AEST. Live commentary is planned by organizers as the showcase unfolds.

The event signals Nintendo’s intent to center its rollout around a major title and a celebrated creator, linking a return to Kirby with the launch of Switch 2 era content. Fans are invited to watch live and participate in chat discussions as new gameplay details emerge.

The Direct fits a pattern in which Nintendo uses single, high-profile reveals to set the tone for a hardware cycle. Bringing Sakurai to the spotlight implies a high level of confidence in Kirby Air Riders and a push to demonstrate what Switch 2 can do with a familiar mascot. This approach can build strong initial momentum, especially among long-time fans who crave a polished, fun showcase.

At the same time, dedicating nearly half an hour to one title raises questions about the breadth of Nintendo’s post launch slate and how quickly new hardware will prove its value. The format is a bold bet on audience retention and social buzz, not just a standard trailer drop.

Highlights

The Direct will set a tone for how Nintendo balances nostalgia with new hardware ambitions.