I’ve seen a lot of confusion lately about what Kirby Air Ride actually is, so I want to give a clear overview. The game features three modes: Air Ride (think Mario Kart-style racing), Top Ride (an overhead view racing experience), and the popular City Trial mode, which everyone seems to love. City Trial is the main focus here and it consists of two phases.
In the first phase, you have 3-7 minutes inside a bustling open-world city filled with cool interactive features like a monorail and a ferris wheel. Your goal is to find an air ride machine and collect items to upgrade it before the chaos really kicks in. During this phase, random events can pop up, either helping or hindering your progress, as all players fight to secure the best gear.
The second phase is a wild scramble with various competition types like boss battles, races, or combat, lasting anywhere from 30 to 90 seconds. The randomness makes it both exciting and unpredictable, as different machines excel in different challenges. The game is full of chances and variables, which keeps each match fresh and thrilling, making it a chaotic and fun experience unlike any other. If you’re looking for a unique twist on racing games and something reminiscent of Mario Kart, you might find your next favorite in Kirby Air Ride!
11 Answers
Thanks for breaking it down! I was passing on the game, but now I’m interested, especially since the luck element seems to level the playing field. I might give it a shot if they have a free trial.
Did anyone else notice the amazing soundtrack? It ranks right up there, too! Although, I’ll put TTYD and Rayman 3 at the top!
Totally agree! That Thing You Do has a great soundtrack!
This was really informative! You deserve way more upvotes for sharing this!
Thanks! I wanted to address why Nintendo would announce two racing games. Air Ride is way more than just racing!
I think it’s kind of strange they’re releasing two party racing games this year, though.
I think I’m one of the few who actually preferred the standard Air Ride races! It always confused me when my friends switched to City Trial instead, but I can see the appeal now.
Haha, at least you’re not saying Top Ride was your favorite!
You’re not alone; I preferred the racing modes as well!
I always thought Kirby Air Ride was just a regular racer, but your description sold me! I definitely want to check it out now.
City Trial really is a blast! I’ve recently gone back to 100% the first game with the announcement of Air Ride 2. I find myself playing City Trial way more than the other modes since it’s just so much more enjoyable. It has the best replay value too! Each time you play, you end up with different vehicles and items, which keeps it exciting.
Absolutely! The randomness of the vehicle upgrades you get makes each match unique, kind of like Smash Run from Smash Bros. for 3DS. I wish they’d included that in Ultimate!
Just wait until they add a few more cities to explore – that’ll take it to another level!
I’m seriously considering paying full price for Kirby Air Ride 2. It looks worth it!
No need to panic about a high price point! It won’t hit $80 like Mario Kart. It’ll likely be more reasonable, especially since it’s not in the same league.
Sounds like a blend of Smash Run and Mario Kart! I can see why it’s got a loyal fanbase.
It’s crazy how City Trial is like a battle royale! It really is the most entertaining part of the game.
I think they should introduce more legendary machines for variety!
I’ve loved this game since I grew up with it. Can’t believe there’s a sequel coming out! It definitely offers more than just being a Mario Kart clone. Plus, it’s such a fun party game!
For me, it’s:
1. TTYD
2. Super Mario Sunshine
3. Kirby Air Ride!