New Kirby Air Riders Amiibo Announced: Kirby & Dragoon, Noir Dedede & Hydra
For collectors of Nintendo’s amiibo figures, two new additions to the Kirby Air Riders line have been announced. Nintendo revealed plans for Sword Kirby &. Dragoon and Noir Dedede & Hydra figures, expanding a series that already includes Meta Knight & Shadow Star. While a firm release date and pricing remain unconfirmed, these new amiibo build on the game’s unique feature of pairing characters with different Air Ride Machines.
The Kirby Air Riders series allows players to scan these figures into the game to unlock special “Figure Players” (FPs) that can be trained and leveled up as players race. This adds a collectible and competitive element to the gameplay, encouraging players to experiment with different Rider & Air Ride Machine combinations. Kirby retains FP levels even when moved between different machines, adding a layer of strategic depth to the system. You can learn more about amiibo functionality at amiibo.com.
How amiibo Enhance Kirby Air Riders Gameplay
amiibo figures, like the new Kirby Air Riders releases, aren’t simply collectibles. They interact directly with the game, offering a way to customize and enhance the player experience. Placing a Kirby amiibo on the Warp Star amiibo creates a specific Rider & Air Ride Machine combo. Tapping the amiibo then allows players to train that combination, increasing FP levels and machine proficiency. This system encourages experimentation and rewards players for investing time in developing their favorite pairings. The ability to transfer FP levels between machines further adds to the strategic possibilities.
Release Timeline and Existing Kirby Air Riders amiibo
The announcement of Sword Kirby & Dragoon and Noir Dedede & Hydra comes alongside confirmation of a July 2, 2026 release date for the King Dedede & Tank Star amiibo. The Meta Knight & Shadow Star figure is already available, and a special in-game event, “Strike Back with Devil Star,” is currently running until March 10, 2026, to coincide with its launch. This staggered release schedule provides a steady stream of new content for collectors and players.
Soundtrack Release and Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility
Beyond the amiibo news, Nintendo has also released the Kirby Air Riders soundtrack on its Nintendo Music mobile application. This provides fans with another way to engage with the game’s world and enjoy its music. An interview with the game’s composers has also been shared, offering insights into the creative process behind the soundtrack. Notably, the amiibo are compatible with both the Nintendo Switch and the recently released Nintendo Switch 2 systems, ensuring continued functionality for players upgrading to the newer console. The Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller Resident Evil Requiem Edition is available for $99.99, and Joy-Con 2 controllers are also available, ranging from $54.99 to $99.99 depending on the color and configuration, as of February 27, 2026.
Pricing Considerations and Collector Appeal
While official pricing hasn’t been announced, previous Kirby Air Riders amiibo have generally been more expensive than standard amiibo figures. Some Japanese retailers have listed the new figures for approximately 8,250¥ each (roughly $53 USD), suggesting a similar price point. This higher cost likely reflects the more complex designs and the pairing of characters with Air Ride Machines. Despite the price, the unique designs and gameplay integration are expected to maintain strong collector appeal. The addition of these two figures brings the total number of Kirby Air Riders amiibo to seven.
What to Expect Next for Kirby Air Riders
Nintendo has not yet provided specific release dates for Sword Kirby & Dragoon and Noir Dedede & Hydra, but they are confirmed to be part of the 2026 amiibo lineup. Fans can anticipate further announcements regarding release dates and potential special editions in the coming months. The continued support for Kirby Air Riders, through both amiibo releases and in-game events, demonstrates Nintendo’s commitment to the game and its community. The ongoing availability of the soundtrack on Nintendo Music and the release of composer interviews further enrich the player experience.