What parents need to know
NOTE: This is not a review of the base game, but of the Star Crossed World DLC and the Switch 2 update. To read our review of the original game, click here.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is back with a new updated version for the Switch 2, promising improved graphics, an increased frame rate and most importantly, a new additional chapter including new levels and additional transformations for the pink ball.
The story of this additional content goes like this: as Kirby flies over the ocean on a star, he sees a meteorite crash into it. The crystal covering it shatters into pieces, revealing an evil heart. Kirby must then gather the astral rays that have escaped from the meteorite, in order to seal it and above all, seal the malevolent force it contains…
The new levels of this DLC are not really new levels; rather, they are remixed versions of already existing levels. New mechanics have been added, such as crystalline flowers that change the level (e.g. spawning new platforms) when broken. That being said, most of these levels feature new unexplored areas, so it still feels like you’re facing brand new levels.
As Kirby explores these twelve new levels, he also discovers three new transformations (or transmorphations if we use the game’s vocabulary): the pink ball can swallow a spring that allows him to jump very high, a cog that allows him to grip walls, as well as a billboard that transforms our protagonist into a kind of snowboard.
Finally, in addition to a new boss, the game also features new collectible figures as well as an ultimate challenge in the Colosseum in Waddle Dee Village.
Details
Level of experience required
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Evaluation
Kirby fights against his enemies, but the violence is cartoonish and presented with humor. Kirby’s world is very colorful and cute.
Nothing on that side.
There is very little text to read, it is optional, and important information is often presented visually with animations or illustrations.
Kirby is a hero who protects the planet and his friends, and always gives the bad guys a chance.
The additional content is a little more difficult than the main adventure, but it’s still a game from Kirby, a series known for being accessible. Players of all skill levels will achieve their goals with a little practice.
As we said, the asking price for this title seems very high to us, and that’s a shame, because that’s really the only downside for this otherwise spectacular title.
Local game modes
You can play Kirby’s adventure, alone or with a friend.
Online Game Modes
None.
Expansions/Add-ons (DLC)
This version of Kirby and the Forgotten Land already includes the expansion, Star Crossed World.
Our opinion
Before starting this review, the author of these lines wants to make one thing clear: in my opinion, Kirby and the Forgotten Land is one of the best games on the Switch 1, if not THE best.
My expectations were therefore high for this Switch 2 version, and especially for this long-awaited additional content.
First, let’s talk about graphics updates. Kirby and the Forgotten Land was already a very nice game in its original version, and the Switch 2 version improves it considerably. The textures have been reworked, the resolution increased, and the whole thing gives us a much clearer image.
Above all, the frame refresh rate goes up to a solid 60 frames seconds, making the action much smoother. In the original game, you would sometimes see elements in the distance moving in a jerky way. This is no longer the case here.
In short, from a technical point of view, Kirby’s Switch 2 update is a success.
But is the new content worth the cost? More or less.
It’s not a question of quality. The new levels offer interesting mechanics, Kirby’s new powers are funny and the game is still fun.
But the content is very thin. Let’s say it takes you 2 to 3 tries to gather all the astraleas in a level. If each attempt takes you 5 to 10 minutes, 3 to 6 hours could be enough to complete all the new levels of this DLC. Let’s add an hour or two to gather the missing miniatures and beat the coliseum… The fact remains that the adventure is short-lived.
It’s a shame, because this new version of Kirby and the Forgotten Land is expensive. The game retails for $115 plus taxes. We remember that not so long ago, you could buy a 2DS and a game for less than that. If you already own the Switch 1 version, the upgrade is $30, which still seems a bit expensive for a graphics update and a few more hours of gameplay.
In the end, our recommendation depends on your portfolio. If you’ve already completed this Kirby adventure, or if your budget is more modest, maybe it’s better to wait for a rare balance from Nintendo, because the bill is steep.
But if you can afford it, Kirby and the Forgotten Land remains an unforgettable adventure, even 3 years after its release. And the Switch 2 version is undoubtedly the best way to experience this adventure. If you missed this gem on Switch 1, jump at the chance.
Note: a code has been given to us by the publisher for criticism purposes. This does not influence our evaluation.
