Kirby Air Ride Trial Event Returns This Weekend on Switch 2

Nintendo's bringing back the Kirby Air Ride trial event this weekend, November 15-17, giving Switch 2 owners another shot at the high-speed racing action before launch. The "Otameshiride" trial runs across three specific time windows: Saturday November 15 from 5 PM to 11 PM, Sunday November 16 from 9 AM to 3 PM, and Monday November 17 from midnight to 6 AM. Nintendo's staggering the sessions to accommodate different time zones and player schedules while stress-testing servers ahead of the full release.

This marks the second trial event, and Nintendo's made adjustments based on last week's feedback. Communication play bugs have been fixed, and the available riders and machines differ from the previous session—suggesting Nintendo's rotating content to give trial participants broader exposure to the game's vehicle roster without revealing everything pre-launch.

Trial Modes and Requirements

The trial requires a Switch 2 console and internet connection. Nintendo Switch Online subscription is technically needed, but Driving School and Air Ride modes work offline without it—a smart move letting players learn basics and try the core racing even without paid online access. Driving School teaches controls and mechanics through guided tutorials, while Air Ride offers three courses for offline racing practice.

City Trial, the mode that made the original GameCube version a cult classic, returns with its signature formula: explore an open city, collect power-ups to upgrade your machine, then compete in randomized events. The trial version includes this mode, giving players a taste of the chaotic preparation phase that defines City Trial's appeal.

16-Player Paddock Social Hub

The Paddock serves as Kirby Air Ride's social hub, accommodating up to 16 players simultaneously. This pre-race gathering space lets players show off their machines, customize appearance, and coordinate with friends before jumping into races. The 16-player capacity suggests Nintendo's building community features directly into the game's structure rather than relegating social interaction to external voice chat.

For players who pre-order the full game, Nintendo's distributing an exclusive hat item usable only during trial events. It's a small incentive, but it rewards early commitment while giving trial participants visual distinction in the Paddock.

Weekend Trial Schedule

The three trial windows cover different player availability:

• Saturday, November 15: 5 PM – 11 PM (evening session)
• Sunday, November 16: 9 AM – 3 PM (daytime session)
• Monday, November 17: 12 AM – 6 AM (late night/early morning session)

Nintendo's clearly testing server capacity across peak and off-peak hours while ensuring global players get at least one accessible time slot. The Monday overnight session particularly targets regions where that window falls during reasonable daytime hours.

For the latest trial details, machine roster updates, and full game information, visit the official Kirby Air Ride website.

Game Information