Kirby and the Forgotten Land

It's hard to believe a franchise where the protagonist is a big pink blob has had such a remarkably successful career. Kirby and the Forgotten Land is the latest installment in a series of games that are seen primarily as critical acclaim. Even more respectable, there have never been any fundamental differences with each release.

So maybe now is the inflection point where our favorite rose ball runs out of steam? After all, the same formula tends to wear out its welcome most of the time. That's especially true in the contemporary gaming world, where nothing seems to be enough in a AAA title. But then again, Kirby and the Forgotten Land will undoubtedly retain the charm that we've all come to know and love. We better play to find out.

Forgetting in 3D

We'll stop short of saying that Kirby and the Forgotten Land is more of the same because straightway, you'll realize it isn't. For the first time in the franchise's history, Kirby is in 3D! That brings a whole new perspective and nearly endless opportunities to present some exciting platforming gameplay. But will we get the same old challenges and obstacles with different visuals?

Well, yes. However, there's an inherent difference to this rinse and repeat style. Playing Kirby and the Forgotten Land makes you feel like this is the classic platforming formula moved in the 21st century. Let's reiterate - that's a good thing. The gameplay seems a massive upgrade that presents all of Kirby's traditional copy and combat abilities with a couple of new drill and ranger skills.

You could argue that Kirby and the Forgotten Land are the series's rebirth most stunningly. The puzzles, encounters, dialogue, and more are as entertaining as the next. It's a fun little ride from start to finish that incorporates all the mechanics and gameplay elements that makes the Kirby platformers so entertaining and engaging, only this time presented in full-3D!

Kirby and the Forgotten Land isn't tough in any sense. Still, players can mutually agree that the game doesn't lose its charm factor throughout the playthrough. You'll complete the game fully satisfied that you got to play a very decent platformer. It's not often big step-ups can be flawless, but Kirby is an institution that needs to be honored.

Suck It Up

It's hard not to love Kirby and the Forgotten Land, even if you're not a platforming nor a franchise fan. The game is comical, lighthearted, entertaining, and challenging enough to enjoy but not get frustrated. It's a near-perfect balance of all the elements that make up a unique platformer, only lacking a distinct replayability factor.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Great assortment of puzzles and combat mechanics
• Charming story and uplifting environment
• The 3D perspective enhances the classic formula

Cons:

• Won't be very challenging for most players