The global playtest for Kirby Air Riders is now available to download on the Nintendo eShop for Nintendo Switch 2. It runs over two weekends in November 2025 and requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for online play. The full game launches on November 20.
Kirby Air Riders Global Playtest Overview
Kirby Air Riders, a sequel to a racing series dormant for over 20 years, is gearing up for its Nintendo Switch 2 release with a free playtest called Global Test Ride. Announced earlier, the playtest became downloadable on November 7, 2025, allowing players to experience key modes ahead of the launch.
Playtest Details
The playtest features two main modes: Air Ride, described as a "frantic dash against five other Riders" where players attack opponents and collect stars from their wake for speed boosts, and City Trial, a free-for-all battle for up to 16 players online. In City Trial, participants gather power-ups, survive Field Events like falling meteors and boss battles, and compete in Stadium contests. Only a couple of maps are available during the test.
Access requires an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription for online features. Director Masahiro Sakurai, in an August 2025 statement, compared the game to Mario Kart, noting it as a straightforward racing experience. He also confirmed no DLC plans, stating "everything is here."
Schedule
The playtest sessions are scheduled as follows (times in PT/ET):
- November 8: 12-6 AM PT / 3-9 AM ET
- November 8: 4-10 PM PT / 7 PM - 1 AM ET
- November 9: 7 AM - 1 PM PT / 10 AM - 4 PM ET
- November 15: 12-6 AM PT / 3-9 AM ET
- November 15: 4-10 PM PT / 7 PM - 1 AM ET
- November 16: 7 AM - 1 PM PT / 10 AM - 4 PM ET
This playtest offers early insight into the game's faster, deeper, and cleaner mechanics compared to the original.