The holiday season often brings a flurry of blockbuster titles, but sometimes the most delightful surprises come from unexpected places. For me, that surprise isKirby Air Riders, a game that’s completely captivated me for the past 50 hours – a stark contrast to the lukewarm reception it received.
DismissingKirby Air Ridersas simply aMario Kartclone feels like a fundamental misunderstanding. It’s akin to labelingSuper Smash Bros.just another fighting game because it features characters who can, well, fight. Both games share a genre foundation, but their souls are distinctly different.
Masahiro Sakurai, the creative force behind both franchises, consistently delivers experiences brimming with joy and playful experimentation. His games aren’t just polished products; they’re celebrations of gaming itself, hiding surprising depth beneath accessible gameplay.Kirby Air Ridersembodies this philosophy perfectly.
Instead of focusing on the competitive tournament structure ofMario Kart,Kirby Air Ridersencourages exploration and discovery. Short, focused races, inventive minigames, and a wealth of unlockables create a constant sense of reward. It’s a game designed to be savored in bite-sized bursts, offering a refreshing alternative to sprawling, open-world racers.
The game cleverly borrows the signature sound effects and flourishes fromSuper Smash Bros., adding a familiar yet unique layer of charm. Four distinct game modes, including a collection of wonderfully quirky minigames reminiscent ofSuper Monkey Ball, ensure there’s always something new to experience.
Imagine ifSmash Kartexisted, populated with characters from across Sakurai’s beloved franchises likeKid IcarusandPokémon. That’s the kind of potentialKirby Air Riderspossesses, a potential that might have been more readily apparent with a different branding approach.
The game feels specifically crafted for the Switch, showcasing the console’s capabilities with smooth performance, fast loading times, and robust online and local co-op support. It’s the ideal game to share with friends and family during the holidays, accessible enough for newcomers yet engaging enough for seasoned gamers.
The HD rumble feature is particularly impressive, adding a tactile dimension to the gameplay. The Joy-Cons and Pro Controller vibrate in sync with the music, creating an immersive and surprisingly satisfying experience. It’s a small detail, but one that speaks volumes about the game’s attention to detail.
Kirby Air Ridersisn’t just about racing; it’s about unlocking a staggering 750 collectibles across its various modes. This isn’t a game that relies on predatory microtransactions; everything is earned through skillful play and dedicated exploration. The initial hours are a thrilling rush of new content, mirroring the addictive unlock system ofSuper Smash Bros.
Even as the unlock rate slows, the game’s hidden depth and mastery potential reveal themselves. Each mode offers unique challenges and rewards, encouraging players to experiment and find their own path to completion. And for those who enjoy creative customization, the game provides ample opportunities to personalize their rides and showcase their designs.
While I found myself losing interest inMario Kartafter just 20 hours, I’m still discovering new things inKirby Air Riders. It’s a joyful, eccentric, and wonderfully weird masterpiece that has earned a permanent place on my Switch.
This is a game made by a passionate gamer, for passionate gamers – especially those who fondly remember the innovative and experimental spirit of the late ‘90s and early 2000s. It’s a refreshing departure from the formulaic, cut-and-paste experiences that dominate the industry.
If you’re looking for something truly different this holiday season, something that will genuinely put a smile on your face, I urge you to giveKirby Air Ridersa chance. You might just be surprised by what you find.
