TL;DR
Kirby returns in *Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World*, a souped-up version for the Nintendo Switch 2! This isn't just a fresh coat of paint; expect stunning 4K at a buttery-smooth 60 FPS, brand-new abilities, and smarter enemies. Explore a charming post-apocalyptic world, rescue Waddle Dees, and dive into the Star-Crossed World DLC. With enhanced upgrades and even more inventive Mouthful Mode fun, it's a delightful adventure for all ages. Discover all the exciting improvements and why this expanded Kirby experience is a must-play! Read on for the full review.
In Kirby and the Forgotten Land, players are reintroduced to the iconic pink protagonist, Kirby, who awakens in a mysterious, post-apocalyptic world filled with the remnants of a lost civilization. Kirby’s primary mission is to rescue the kidnapped Waddle Dees while simultaneously uncovering the truth behind the world’s desolate state. As his signature abilities are put to the test, Kirby’s classic charm and the game’s inherent playfulness deliver an engaging experience suitable for players of all ages.
My Early Gaming Memories
While my parents opted not to purchase a Nintendo for me and my brother, favoring an Atari ST computer for its broader utility beyond gaming, I later recognized the extensive library of engaging titles exclusive to Nintendo that I had missed. Consequently, my first exposure to the original 1992 game was on the Nintendo Switch, where I particularly appreciated the core mechanic of acquiring enemy abilities.
The Update for Switch 2
Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World is an enhanced version of the game, originally launched for the first Nintendo Switch in March 2022. This iteration is specifically optimized for Nintendo Switch 2 and integrates the Star-Crossed World DLC.
Key enhancements, beyond the expanded content, include support for 4K resolution and a consistent 60 FPS frame rate in docked mode. Additional new features encompass an expanded upgrade system, the introduction of star-based fast travel between worlds, and novel abilities for Kirby. Furthermore, the enemy AI has been refined, resulting in more agile and strategically challenging adversaries.
In handheld mode, the experience remains fluid and clear, ensuring optimal readability and navigation. The resolution now achieves a crisp 1080p with a locked 60 FPS, representing a substantial upgrade from the original Switch version, which operated at 720p and 30 FPS (with performance occasionally dipping to 15 FPS in graphically intensive areas).
Refined Gameplay and Key Innovations
Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World delivers a truly enjoyable gameplay experience. Its expanded scope and enhanced performance on the Switch 2 further elevate the experience. The overall design is meticulously crafted, and I particularly commend the innovative Mouthful Mode, which allows Kirby to inhale larger objects—such as vehicles, structural elements, and road cones—to traverse environments or engage formidable adversaries.
In conclusion, Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World stands out as a highly recommended title. Its broad appeal to players of all ages makes it an excellent choice for family co-op, supporting up to two concurrent players. Existing owners of the original game can continue playing on the Nintendo Switch; however, accessing the new content and graphical enhancements requires a modest upgrade fee.
Nintendo provided a review code for the purpose of this review. The provider of the material has no editorial influence on our reviews.
