Kirby is back on the racetrack, and this time it’s bigger than ever. Nintendo has confirmed a dedicated Nintendo Direct for Kirby Air Riders, a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive that marks Masahiro Sakurai’s first time directing a Kirby title since the original GameCube release. With Sakurai once again at the helm, this Direct promises to be packed with details on gameplay, modes, and hopefully that long-awaited release date. If you’re wondering how and when to tune in, here’s everything you need to know.
When Is the Kirby Air Riders Nintendo Direct?
The presentation is scheduled for Tuesday, August 19, 2025. It will run for about 45 minutes, which is unusually long for a single-game Direct, signaling just how much Nintendo has to show.
Here’s the complete list of times across major time zones so you don’t have to do the math:
| Region | Time |
|---|---|
| Pacific Time (PT) – Los Angeles | 6:00 AM |
| Mountain Time (MT) – Denver | 7:00 AM |
| Central Time (CT) – Chicago | 8:00 AM |
| Eastern Time (ET) – New York | 9:00 AM |
| Brasília Time (BRT) – São Paulo | 10:00 AM |
| British Summer Time (BST) – London | 2:00 PM |
| Central European Summer Time (CEST) – Berlin | 3:00 PM |
| India Standard Time (IST) – New Delhi | 6:30 PM |
| China Standard Time (CST) – Beijing | 9:00 PM |
| Japan/Korea Standard Time (JST/KST) – Tokyo/Seoul | 10:00 PM |
| Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST) – Sydney | 11:00 PM |
| New Zealand Standard Time (NZST) – Auckland | 1:00 AM (Aug 20) |
Where to Watch the Kirby Air Riders Direct
Nintendo will stream the event live across its main platforms:
- YouTube – Nintendo’s official channel
- Twitch – Nintendo’s official channel
- Nintendo Today app – for mobile viewers
And if you can’t catch it live, Nintendo always uploads the full presentation afterward, so you can watch or rewatch whenever you like.
What to Expect from the Presentation
With Sakurai leading the show, expect a deep dive into mechanics, modes, and design details. Past Directs he hosted—like those for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate—were known for thorough explanations and hidden surprises, so the 45-minute length makes sense.
Some likely highlights include:
- Gameplay Showcase – New footage showing how Air Riders has evolved for the Nintendo Switch 2.
- Modes and Features – Fans are hoping for the return of City Trial mode from the original, though this has not been confirmed yet.
- Release Date Reveal – A firm launch window for 2025 is expected.
- Sakurai’s Signature Style – Expect plenty of small but meaningful design details, as Sakurai often breaks down mechanics with an unusual level of depth.
What Makes This Kirby Air Riders Direct Special
This isn’t just another Nintendo Direct. It’s the first Kirby racing game in over 20 years, and the first Kirby game directed by Masahiro Sakurai since the GameCube era. With Nintendo using the event to showcase the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2, Kirby Air Riders could become a landmark release alongside the system’s biggest titles.
For longtime fans, it’s a chance to revisit a beloved cult classic. For new players, it’s an opportunity to discover Kirby in a fresh, high-speed format.
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Whether you’re waking up early in Los Angeles or tuning in late at night in Tokyo, the Kirby Air Riders Nintendo Direct is shaping up to be one of Nintendo’s most exciting showcases of 2025. Be sure to set a reminder on YouTube, Twitch, or the Nintendo Today app so you don’t miss out—and remember, the full VOD will be available shortly after if you want to rewatch or break down every detail.
