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Surprise! A brand new Nintendo Direct focused on Kirby Air Riders will land tomorrow, Tuesday August 19 at 6am Pacific, 9am Eastern, or 2pm UK time.
Once again, Nintendo revealed the show first via its Nintendo Today smartphone app, and promised the broadcast would feature 45 minutes of information about the upcoming Switch 2 game.
Kirby Air Riders is notable for being the first new project in years from Masahiro Sakurai, the famed director of Nintendo’s smash hit Super Smash Bros. series. Tomorrow’s deep dive look at the game is also intriguingly timed, suggesting it may finally be playable at this week’s Gamescom event in Cologne.
To date, Nintendo has kept details of Kirby Air Riders close to its chest, though has said the pink puffball-staring racer should be expected to launch on Switch 2 later this year. It seems likely tomorrow’s Direct will provide a firmer release window.
Announced earlier this year alongside further details of the Switch 2 itself, Kirby Air Riders will be a sequel to the 2003 cult classic Kirby Air Ride for GameCube. Production on the game began in earnest back in 2023, following the end of Sakurai’s time overseeing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s lengthy schedule of downloadable content.
There’s no suggestion tomorrow’s show will include any other Switch 2 games beyond Kirby Air Riders (sorry, Metroid fans). Still, more information on what’s next from Sakurai and his talented development team should suffice.
Tom Phillips is IGN’s News Editor. You can reach Tom at tom_phillips@ign.com or find him on Bluesky @tomphillipseg.bsky.social
Exciting Nintendo Direct Tomorrow: Spotlight on Kirby Air Riders
Nintendo fans worldwide are buzzing with anticipation as the company prepares for tomorrow’s Nintendo Direct showcase. The presentation, which has become a hallmark of exciting gaming reveals and announcements, is expected to put a special spotlight on a long-awaited title — Kirby Air Riders.
A Classic Returns
First released in 2003 for the Nintendo GameCube, Kirby Air Ride quickly became a cult classic. Known for its fast-paced gameplay, accessible controls, and unique approach to multiplayer racing, the title carved a special place in the hearts of Nintendo fans. For years, players have been hoping to see the pink puffball’s racing adventures return in a modern form. Tomorrow’s Direct could finally make that dream a reality.
What to Expect
Rumors suggest that Kirby Air Riders will not only revive the beloved racing experience but also bring a fresh wave of innovation. Speculation points to enhanced graphics, expanded online multiplayer modes, and possibly even new game mechanics that take advantage of the Nintendo Switch’s capabilities. A remastered soundtrack and additional courses are also among the fan wishlist.
If confirmed, the game could stand alongside Mario Kart as a vibrant and competitive option for racing fans, while still retaining the charm and accessibility that makes Kirby games so universally loved.
A Big Moment for Nintendo
Beyond Kirby Air Riders, tomorrow’s Nintendo Direct is expected to deliver updates on other upcoming titles, surprise reveals, and possibly even news about Nintendo’s future hardware roadmap. However, the spotlight on Kirby’s racing comeback underscores Nintendo’s commitment to both nostalgia and innovation — celebrating beloved classics while reintroducing them to a new generation of players.
The Countdown Begins
With excitement building, fans are already marking their calendars and setting reminders. Whether it’s a full remake, a reimagined sequel, or a faithful remaster, Kirby Air Riders could be one of the biggest announcements of the year for Nintendo enthusiasts.
One thing is certain: tomorrow’s Nintendo Direct is set to be a must-watch event.
Watch this space for additional updates
