Nintendo finds itself in a creative pickle as it tries to manage the imaginative endeavors of fans in the newly released Kirby Air Riders. The game, which allows for player-created designs, has given rise to some unexpected fan contributions featuring Chef Kawasaki in a micro bikini, much to Nintendo’s dismay.
Player Creativity in Kirby Air Riders
In Kirby Air Riders, players are encouraged to use basic shapes and stickers to personalize their rides. This has sparked a wave of creativity, with some fans choosing to dress up the beloved Chef Kawasaki in beachwear, including a micro bikini. For years, the Kirby community has humorously speculated about what lies beneath Chef Kawasaki’s apron, leading to an abundance of fan art, albeit not shared here.
エアライダーのオレマシン市場にあるコックカワサキのマイクロビキニ柄、すぐ消されるだろうって皆思ってるからか値上がりも早くておもろい 初日の朝にしては高いだろ pic.twitter.com/DjMbKGcO91
— モリソバ (@Sobatake397) November 19, 2025
Nintendo’s Response to Fan Designs
Nintendo is less than thrilled with these fan creations and has taken action by removing several of the Chef Kawasaki micro bikini designs that were topping the popularity charts within the game. Reports suggest that two popular creations have already been pulled, while a third, featuring a more elaborate bikini and succubus wings, seems to be next in line for scrutiny.
This is not the first instance of Nintendo clamping down on such content. Back in 2022, the company took swift action to cease the spread of a fan-made card game, Chef Kawasaki’s Microbikini Karuta, which showcased provocative artwork and was being sold for profit, a practice Nintendo notably opposes.
Kirby Air Riders: A New Chapter
The latest title from the creator of Super Smash Bros., Masahiro Sakurai, Kirby Air Riders recently made its debut on Switch 2. This racing game, a spin-off from the iconic Kirby series, allows players to navigate circuit tracks using glider-like machines and serves as a much-anticipated sequel to the GameCube’s 2003 Kirby Air Ride. Reviewers have praised the game, noting its unique controls and plethora of content, even though they sometimes find the controls challenging.