Introduction
Basic information
Developer Name: HAL Laboratory / Nintendo
Full Name: Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Release Date: March 25, 2022
Released on: Nintendo Switch
Cross Play: No
Initial thoughts
My wife and I hadn’t played a Kirby game in years, but we had fond memories of the classic titles. When we saw Kirby and the Forgotten Land offered full co-op in a fully 3D platforming world, it felt like the perfect chance to jump back in. We were both eager to see how the new mechanics would play out, and excited to share the experience side by side. From the opening beach scene to the later, more mysterious chapters, we found ourselves hooked. It quickly turned into one of those games we couldn’t stop playing after dinner. It was both a nostalgic return and a fresh, vibrant new start.
Story and setting
Plot overview
Kirby is mysteriously transported to a new world, one that blends vibrant nature with the remnants of a lost civilization. Alongside Elfilin, a new companion, Kirby embarks on a journey to rescue Waddle Dees and uncover the truth behind the forgotten world. The story balances whimsy and mystery, ending in a way that is both grand and surprisingly dark for a Kirby title.
World building and immersion
While Kirby remains a silent and universally cheerful hero, Elfilin brings some heart to the story. Over time, the connection between the two characters becomes more meaningful, and the ending gives a strong emotional payoff.
Character development
The game starts lighthearted but gradually adds a mysterious, even eerie tone. As you uncover the secrets behind the world and its true history, a surprising depth emerges, especially in the final chapters.
Emotional impact
The contrast between abandoned malls, overgrown cities, and snowy wastes gives each region a distinct identity. The post-apocalyptic charm is subtle but ever-present, and the environmental storytelling is impressively detailed.
Rating for story and setting
I have visited multiple aspects of the story and after some thought and objective thinking, I rated the story and setting with an 8.5.
Gameplay and mechanics
Core gameplay mechanics
Kirby’s copy abilities are expanded in exciting ways, especially with the introduction of Mouthful Mode. In co-op, one player takes on the role of Bandana Waddle Dee, who brings unique spear combat and support skills. The cooperative dynamic is engaging, even if only Player 1 can use the full range of abilities.
Difficulty and balance
The game is easy to get into but offers a challenge for completionists. Optional treasure roads and secret objectives are cleverly hidden. The bosses, especially in the latter stages, demand timing, movement, and power mastery.
Pacing of the game
Each level feels thoughtfully designed with moments of combat, exploration, and spectacle. Between levels, Waddle Dee Town acts as a relaxing hub where new mini-games and shops are unlocked.
Innovation and uniqueness
Mouthful Mode is absurd in the best way. Whether Kirby is swallowing a vending machine, a car, or a traffic cone, it brings fresh, puzzle-based gameplay. The ability upgrades add another layer of progression.
Controls and user interface
Smooth and intuitive. Camera control is semi-locked but never got in the way. The menus are accessible and easy to navigate, making it easy to switch powers or replay missions.
Microtransactions
None at all. Everything is earned through gameplay. (Not counting the freshly new Nintendo Switch 2 upgrade.)
Rating
After combing through many of the mechanics, the pacing and other factors of this game, I rated the gameplay and mechanics with 8.5.
Graphics and art style
Quality of graphics and art direction
Beautifully animated with a soft, vibrant palette that feels inviting. Kirby games have always had charm, but this one elevates it with detailed environments, expressive animations, and polished effects.
Technical performances
Mostly stable, with the rare framerate dip in dense areas. Everything ran smoothly, and co-op play didn’t create lag or visual clutter.
Environment and design uniqueness
The world feels like a playful spin on forgotten Earth, with rusting theme parks, flooded cities, and icy bridges. Every level has something memorable.
Rating
It took me some time to give the graphics and art style an objective rating. There are many things to consider, but ultimately, I rated this section with a 8.5
Sound and music
Music score and how it contributed to the game
Joyful, catchy, and often layered with surprising emotion. Each world has a signature sound, and the boss themes elevate the tension wonderfully.
Sound effects quality
Every action, from sucking up enemies to rolling around as a giant tire, sounds crisp and satisfying.
Voice Acting
Minimal but effective, mainly used in grunts, chirps, and dramatic boss roars. Nothing is out of place.
Rating
After a lot of consideration, I rated the sound and music section with a 8.5.
Replayability
Game Length and content volume
A single playthrough takes 10–15 hours, but there’s a lot more under the surface. Each level has hidden objectives, secret areas, and treasure challenges.
Extra Content
Post-game content includes a full bonus world with harder levels and extra boss fights. Waddle Dee Town expands into a bustling hub with new mini-games and gear.
Replay value
Extremely high if you’re aiming for 100% completion. Playing in co-op adds a fresh dynamic that’s worth repeating.
Rating
After thoughtful consideration, I decided to rate the replayability and game length of Kirby and the Forgotten Land with an 8.5
Suggestions and comparisons
Suggestions and feedback
It would be great if both players had access to copy abilities. More control over the camera could enhance certain exploration sections. A level editor could extend longevity.
Comparisons
Compared to Kirby Star Allies, Forgotten Land is a leap forward in scope and quality. Compared to other co-op 3D platformers like Super Mario 3D World, it offers more freedom in movement and pacing.
Personal experiences and anecdotes
One of our most unforgettable moments came when we discovered the hammer glitch. On a stage with an icy bridge, we launched ourselves out of bounds and to our surprise, we landed on a hidden alternate platform. It led to a much harder version of the level, filled with tougher enemies and timed jumps. Whether this was intentional or a hidden developer joke, it added to the thrill. Moments like that kept us experimenting, laughing, and bonding over how ridiculously creative the game could be.
Rating
Taking in all the personal experiences with Kirby and the Forgotten Land, I give it a personal rating of 8.7.
Last words
Pros
- Gorgeous visuals
- Fun and responsive controls
- Co-op friendly design
- Hilarious glitches
- Expansive post-game content
- Diverse environments
- Whimsical and memorable bosses
- Upgradable abilities
- Charming world-building
- Catchy and emotional soundtrack
- Waddle Dee Town hub area
- No microtransactions
- Perfect pacing for casual or completionist players
Cons
- Only one player gets copy abilities
- Camera can be restrictive
- Minor framerate dips
- Glitches—fun, but unpolished
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a joyful, charming, and surprisingly emotional platformer that translates Kirby’s magic into a fully 3D world with impressive confidence. As a co-op experience, it shines even brighter. Between the thrilling discoveries, ridiculous glitches, and warm presentation, this game delivers fun in every corner of its forgotten world.
FINALÂ RATING
8.6
Please let me know what you think of Kirby and the Forgotten Land in the comments!
I hope you enjoyed reading this review, I hope to see you in the next review!
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I totally agree, the world seems really fresh and fun
It is indeed fresh and fun!
Can’t say I’ve played a Kirby game before, but this one looks really fun!
Thanks for the review, as always! 😃
I am glad you liked the review; maybe you can try it one day!
Kirby in coop – amazing! Post apocalyptic setting seems new for such a cute game. Sometimes it is a cool feature when both players have different powers but sometimes it feels like you are missing something of the general experience.
Now it was actually useful; both characters have their own skill set.
Even though it’s a recent game, it already feels nostalgic, but I remember it being fun.
Upgrades are nice, but I’d like to see a new release.
Who doesn’t want a new Kirby game?
I’m sure you are like nintendo games.
We both like Nintendo games!
Interesting to see this dark ending
It is indeed dark!
I agree with a review, cute game with a lot of charm.
Lot of charm, still not for kids.
Feels like the kind of game that can make a bad day better without even trying
I remember really loving the announcement trailer 🙂
I feel only one player having the copy abilities in co-op could be due to child-parent play
Indeed, it is a lot of fun!
Haven’t tried any Kirby game, should play this some day
You really should!
It looks like fun, sweet game with interesting world. I’d play it probably if it would be at Steam.
Who knows, one day!
The graphics are adorable and I’m really happy to hear it works amazing in co-op! The worlds, bosses and story all look really fun and varied!
Yeah, I love it being great for co-op too! We need loads of these kind of games. It’s where the fun comes when played in two (or more). You can solo play, but in co-op campaign (yes, campaign part is the important co-op part), you get that fun multiplied. 😀
It is indeed very fun and varied!
The best Kirby game since you can turn into a car. But honestly this is one of the games I would be most excited for if I did get a Switch again and this review bolstered this feelings.
And also into VLC media player!
I like review and this game is masterpiece with mechanics, atmosphere and music.
I am glad you liked the review!
I played one Kirby game once. Was long ago 😀 but I liked the mechanics a lot.
What Kirby game was it?
Kirby looks so incredibly cute <3 Another game series I've never played bc I'm no console kid, but Kirby always interested me most (aside from pokemon). Good to see you had so much fun, especially with them bringing actually new stuff into the game with the new mode.
You really should try it one day!
This game was definitely a happy surprise. Highly recommend if you haven’t played.
A very dark surprise!