Finding the Kirby Air Riders best controls is one of the fastest ways to improve your handling, boost timing, and overall performance in every game mode. Because the game relies on momentum-based steering, glide management, and quick input reactions, choosing the right controller setup can make a noticeable difference in how smoothly you race.
Default Controls for Kirby Air Riders
Each controller type shares the same core actions: braking, inhaling, item use, boost charge, turning, Quick Spin, and glide pitch control.
Pro Controller / Dual Joy-Con Controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| ZL / ZR / X / B / A | Brake, Inhale, Copy, Use Item, Activate Ability, Start Boost Charge, Rapid Descent |
| ZL / ZR / X / B / A + L-Stick Down | Move Backwards |
| L / R / Y | Machine Change, Activate Special, Dismount |
| L-Stick Left/Right | Turn Left or Right |
| L-Stick Left/Right repeatedly | Quick Spin |
| L-Stick Left/Right on Rail | Switch Rails |
| L-Stick Up | Glide Descent |
| L-Stick Down | Glide Ascent |
Left Joy-Con (Horizontal) Controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| SL / SR / ZL / ⯅ / ⯆ / ⯈ | Brake, Inhale, Copy, Use Item, Boost Charge, Rapid Descent |
| (Above Buttons) + L-Stick Down | Move Backwards |
| ⯇ | Machine Change, Activate Special, Dismount |
| L-Stick Left/Right | Turn |
| L-Stick L/R repeatedly | Quick Spin |
| L-Stick L/R on Rail | Switch Rails |
| L-Stick Up | Glide Descent |
| L-Stick Down | Glide Ascent |
Right Joy-Con (Horizontal) Controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| SL / SR / ZR / Y / X / A | Brake, Inhale, Copy, Use Item, Boost Charge, Rapid Descent |
| (Above Buttons) + L-Stick Down | Move Backwards |
| B | Machine Change, Activate Special, Dismount |
| L-Stick Left/Right | Turn |
| Left/Right repeatedly | Quick Spin |
| L-Stick L/R on Rail | Switch Rails |
| L-Stick Up | Glide Descent |
| L-Stick Down | Glide Ascent |
GameCube Controller Controls
| Input | Action |
|---|---|
| L / R / Y / A / X | Brake, Inhale, Copy, Use Item, Boost Charge, Rapid Descent |
| (Above Buttons) + L-Stick Down | Move Backwards |
| B | Machine Change, Activate Special, Dismount |
| L-Stick Left/Right | Turn |
| L-Stick L/R repeatedly | Quick Spin |
| L-Stick L/R on Rail | Switch Rails |
| L-Stick Up | Glide Descent |
| L-Stick Down | Glide Ascent |
Best Controls – Which Setup Should You Use?
Every controller works, but each has strengths depending on how you play.
Meta Quest 3S 128GB | VR Headset
| Controller Type | Strengths | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Pro Controller / Dual Joy-Con | Comfortable triggers, responsive stick, easy button access | Most players, City Trial, long sessions |
| GameCube Controller | Precise stick, large buttons, nostalgic layout | Skilled players, advanced drifting, classic feel |
| Single Joy-Con | Lightweight, simple | Casual play, younger players |
Why Pro Controller is the Best Overall
- Easiest access to boost-charging buttons
- Most responsive for Quick Spins
- Stable grip for long glides and tight turns
(Actions based on the Pro Controller layout)
Why GameCube is Best for Precision
- Stiffer analog stick improves steering control
- Button spacing prevents accidental Special or item use
Top Ride Controls: Free vs. Steer Control
In Top Ride, you can choose between two distinct control styles.
| Control Style | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Free Control | Move in the direction you tilt the stick | Beginners, casual Top Ride |
| Steer Control | Rider rotates left/right instead of free aiming | Advanced players, precise cornering |
Recommendation:
- Use Free Control when learning.
- Switch to Steer Control if you want competitive times.
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The best control setup in Kirby Air Riders depends on how you play, but the Pro Controller layout offers the best combination of comfort, responsiveness, and precision for most players.
If you prefer sharper control and nostalgic feel, the GameCube Controller is unmatched. And for quick casual sessions, a single Joy-Con still gets the job done. Play Now!
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