While some franchises have a 'one per generation' rule, others seem somewhat more spontaneous - factors such as development progress and sales can be more important to their fate. So when Kirby: Triple Deluxe provided a strong 3DS début as a fairly traditional adventure with the Pink One, HAL Laboratory seemingly just kicked right into developing the next. Kirby: Planet Robobot may use the same graphics engine, but aside from that it shouldn't be mistaken as a lazy by-the-numbers follow-up - it takes the established formula and improves it in various ways.
This entry does introduce a plot and characters that enable the design team to stretch their creative muscles a little. An evil - yet somehow still cute - corporation and its President arrive to mechanise Kirby's planet, in the process turning some inhabitants (including famous former foes) into robotic enemies. The final enemy is entertaining when he comes around, but before then you deal with a range of quirky boss fights and his prim and deadly assistant. The story is typically light fluff, but provides an ideal setting for the mechanised themes and concepts that run throughout the whole game.
In terms of gameplay, those with experience of Triple Deluxe will feel instantly at home - Kirby runs, jumps, floats and sucks in enemies just the same, with the touchscreen offering handy buttons for using a spare health item or dropping a current ability. It feels slick, as expected. The key change this time around is the much-touted ability for Kirby to use mechanised robot suits to stomp around - these work as expected, with the ability to float replaced by a double jump and Kirby now having the ability to bash through scenery and enemies as never before.
To begin with Kirby in his normal form, he wields many of the same abilities as seen in the 3DS predecessor, with some cute additions thrown in. There's excellent variety not just in terms of outfits and attacks, but also in how they switch up gameplay - most players will quickly identify a few key favourites. You can also tap an amiibo button at will to scan a figure and 'inhale' their ability - some are appropriately themed, such as the sword ability for Link, and others feel a little more random. It's a simple but nice idea, however, especially for younger players that need a little extra help.
Picking the right power-up can also be a strategic affair - some are suitable for gung-ho close-quarters attacks and others are all about ranged assaults, either destructive or precise. This has always been a key strength of Kirby platformers, adding a little extra depth to proceedings, and on this occasion these abilities are also used relatively cleverly for solving puzzles or making light work of bosses.
The key transformation, of course, is Kirby stomping around in a mech. As mentioned above this changes the control dynamics, and the points at which you access this vehicle are also controlled - you can't just romp through the whole game as a mechanised Kirby. Unlike the rather limited Hypernova ability of Triple Deluxe, however, you run around as Mech Kirby frequently and for decent chunks of time. Whether switching up your abilities in terms of power - smashing up obstacles and blocks that would previously knock Kirby into the screen - or solving puzzles, this shift in play style is relatively substantial and well thought-out.
Well though-out is an apt phrase for the overall game. Puzzles are a common occurrence for example - they're simple and not exactly brain teasers, but whether running around as Kirby or in a mech there are little head scratchers that are needed to access some collectibles, for example. You may be controlling a small robot in the background, carrying a battery to its source, or perhaps kicking off circuit reactions and moving wires in rapid time. These often just deliver a Code Cube (three of which are in each stage, with a number required for each world's Boss level), but are a satisfying change of pace.
Clever design goes beyond puzzles, too. While in mech form Kirby faces special foes with screws to unwind, for example, and there are enjoyable scripted moments in which you navigate entire levels in unexpected ways, such as in car form; there are even a few flying stages. Boss encounters also deliver a mix of simple head-on fights and slightly more complex, multi-stage affairs. The finale is also worth reaching due to its ridiculous levels of bombast - we won't spoil what happens, but it's an ending that feels like a soft, cuddly, Kirby equivalent to a final showdown designed by PlatinumGames.
Overall the Story Mode, spread across six worlds, is endearing and fun. As is often the case with Kirby the level of challenge is modest, though it ramps up a little towards the end - those that want to have their abilities pushed won't find their fix here. Yet that's not really the point of Kirby games, as they're simply colourful, delightful slices of gaming. We may have no idea what the Game Over screen looks like in the core campaign, but the charming aesthetic, clever moments and unending happiness of the experience kept us enraptured. We'd certainly suggest that it's a step up from the Triple Deluxe, too, with the robotic and mechanised premise helping deliver more varied gameplay and a surprisingly entertaining mini-story. There's greater level variety too, which is best left for you to discover in your own playthrough.
Of course, there's always more. Two extra mini-games are available right off the bat - first up we have Kirby 3D Rumble. This one adopts an isometric viewpoint, with a total of 13 mini stages split into three 'levels'; your goal is to take out the enemies as quickly and efficiently as possible, with combos possible through well placed star shots. Speed and points accumulation lead to a trophy award, too, and it'll likely take most players more than one attempt (on the last stage, at least) to get gold. As an extra it's fun, albeit brief.
Next up is Team Kirby Clash, which features a small number of boss battles; these foes are somewhat amped up and tweaked compared to their Story Mode equivalents. In a team of up to four you go into battle, with each Kirby being a distinct 'class' - one is a healer while the others are different kinds of attackers, and when playing solo the AI does a decent job of taking part. It can be relatively tactical, too, with healing areas, shields and sharing food boosts all part of the equation. Finally there are 'Power Stones' to collect that trigger a huge attack to damage and temporarily disable the boss. Overall this one is easily blasted through in little time, though a final stage will need you to level up before it can be beaten. Local wireless and Download Play are also supported, and this could certainly be a fun way to pass time with friends, even those that don't have the game.
There's more, too, when you clear the Story Mode. The Arena is essentially a boss rush where you have just one life, and with limited energy refills between rounds it can be a tight run to get through. You have the choice - initially - of any power-up, though, and it's an enjoyable way to spend 20 minutes.
The final unlock is terrific, essentially a speedrun mode; Meta Knightmare Returns switches out the playable Dedede of Triple Deluxe for Meta Knight this time around. This is the best extra, in our book, as it cleverly mixes multiple levels from each world into one fast-paced dash, and rather than exploring your focus is simply on getting from A to B as quickly as possible. With four power-ups and a gauge filled by defeating enemies, for the most part, it's a fast-paced take on the Kirby formula that's well worth playing, with checkpoints allowing you to tackle it in short bursts.
Overall, then, Kirby: Planet Robobot has plenty to offer, and it's worth also highlighting that it's another handsome and colourful effort on the 3DS. The visuals are simplistic on a technical level, but the art design is top-notch - the music is typically upbeat, too. We should note, however, that there are occasional framerate dips with 3D enabled - we reviewed this on a New 3DS model. It wasn't often enough to prompt us to turn the effect off, but it's noticeable on some occasions; it runs rather smoothly and still looks pleasing in 2D, though.
Conclusion
Kirby: Planet Robobot takes a lot of the good work of Kirby: Triple Deluxe and adds a mechanised spark to proceedings. The addition of Kirby in a mech is good, silly fun, and there's pleasing variety to stage designs - HAL is on good form here, with puzzles and vehicular sections in particular that enhance the overall experience. The Story Mode itself is excellent, and the extra minigames then give players more to do, not to mention the task of finding and unlocking all of the items (and stickers) in the campaign to get that 100% completion statistic.
There's a lot of Kirby for your money here, and the pink fluffball is at the top of his game.
Comments 82
Great score.
Wow! Sounds like a great entry.
I was going to get it anyway, but a positive review is always nice. I wonder if the soundtrack of this game can match the outstanding one from Triple Deluxe...
Really loved Triple Deluxe so I am so looking forward to this game and its amiibo line.
Nice!
Great! I'm really looking forward to this game
I already preordered this awhile back but I'm happy to hear it turned out to be excellent (like I was expecting)
I'm a little surprised to see the Kirby amiibo from Smash Bros is incompatible with this title (leastways according to Nintendo's official website). All the same, this game looks really interesting.
Oh, baby. I need to get a physical copy of this since that is how I have Triple Deluxe and the inconsistency would drive me nuts, but I'll be doing that as early as possible on the 10th. It's been a while since I knocked off work for a video game release so I might just do that.
I never had any interest in any Kirby game, but when this one was presented in that Nintendo Direct i just fell in love with the game design and colorful characters. Now that i own a 2DS i definitely will buy and play this game. Good review, by the way, it just made me want this game more than before.
Getting this as soon as possible! I'm excited for Meta Knight!
Kinda odd that we get such an early review here.....I mean, the game isn't out until next month for both UK and US.
Will have to pick this up eventually... Still haven't finished Triple Deluxe despite picking it up launch day and really enjoying it.
I guess this game can't be ignored! I'll pick it up down the road for the kids for sure.
This looks pretty cool. Wish it was coming out on the Wii U also, especially with the drought. I'd get that version instead. I'll bet it looks great on the gamepad.
Excellent! I love the Kirby series but I don't buy them all because there's a high chance of repetiton. So I didn't buy Triple Deluxe and i'm really looking forward to Planet Robobot as my first Kirby title on my 3DS.
Day one for sure!
@chiefeagle02
Does it say that? Odd, because every first party character is compatible. The only amiibo which did not scan were third party like Sonic, Megaman, Ryu, Shovel Knight, also Shadow Mewtwo.
They still scan, but the ability received is random.
I've tested it personally, and the Smash Bros Kirby amiibo will get you the rare Smash Bros ability. This ability is very well hidden in each of the six worlds, good luck finding it.
I'M READY TO BE A TUFF PINK PUFF AGAIN😆
HYPED
No really sure about this Kirby Iron Man game...
@chiefeagle02 No, its compatible. It gives you the Smash Bros. copy ability, which is pretty much Kirb's move set from Sm4sh.
This is how you make a new game on a franchise - take everything the fans love about it, and fine-tune / expand it. Looking forward to get this game at one point or another, when my backlog isn't as huge as it currently is.
Super ready, bring it on!
Never considered this game but thanks to the reviews I'm in. Just annoyed the stock has run out on Amazon UK. I'll just have to wait for a restock
@chiefeagle02 Not true. The Smash Kirby Amiibo gives you the smash ability
I cannot wait for this game!! Just pre-ordered yesterday off of amazon with the kirby amiibo. Thomas, quick question, is there any in game way to unlock the UFO ability without the amiibo like the costumes in Super Mario Maker of the Retro Arwing Mode in Star Fox?
I intend to get this, I just don't know when. I've got too many games on my plate at the moment, massive ones in particular (I'm looking at you HWL, MH4U, and BS).
Definitely getting this game. This is the kind of platformer I've been waiting the entire generation for, a game with an interesting twist on the core gameplay. Glad to see it's a good one.
Interesting review. I love Kirby, but Triple Deluxe didn't really do it for me - it felt like a less-than-inspired rehash. I had convinced myself I wouldn't be getting this one, but now I'm not so sure anymore.
I never played a Kirby game before. I may have to try this one.
I won't be able to get on day 1, but I will get this eventually. I really enjoyed Triple Deluxe so I'm sure I'll like this one.
I'm looking forward to this. Will probably download it at launch.
It's £24 on thegamecollection.net right now. I just ordered.
I'm loving these twilight years of the 3ds atm.
Are there collectibles like the Triple Deluxe keychains?
EDIT: The graphics look OUTSTANDING; probably my favorite part about the game!
I'm excited! Triple Deluxe was my first Kirby game and I loved every second of it. Right after Fates, I'm going to play this, it looks too good to miss and the reviews have done nothing but praise it!
@LegendOfPokemon Stickers to decorate the bot you ride in.
@ThomasBW84 I've heard this game actually recognizes the existence of Kirby 64 unlike the previous six entries (in the collectibles and what have you), can you confirm/deny? I'm probably in the minority but that was definitely in my top 3 kirby platformers.
Nice review. If there's more than 1 save slot I might even play it. My poor eyes, headaches will ensue.
And I'm impressed download play is available at all. That's a nice touch.
The only thing I don't like it's that it uses amiibos for transformations. Also, I have read that it's even shorter than Triple Deluxe but this review does not mention its length at all.
Nice! I didn't expect a 9, but PAL loves Kirby. Also not surprised about the Amiibo, I'll use it if the Smash Kirby works with this and I can use the regular 3DS adapter. It does similar things for the WiiU Kirby game.
@CapricornDavid Yes! I love the triple deluxe soundtrack! This track in particular is amazing:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xStEdivU9JE
It's the music to the battle against masked dedede. Seriously, you all need to listen to this
@VanillaLake I've done the review of this game for a Danish site, and I can tell you that I completed the main game with all Code Cubes in less than 10 hours. Collecting all stickers and playing all the extra game modes add to that time though, and getting a 98 % completion (have not finished The True Arena) has taken me a little more than 20 hours..
@KJ85 Okay, it's more or less what can be found here:
http://howlongtobeat.com/game.php?id=35559
Around 8 hours main + extras. Thanks for that.
Wonder if the mini games get their own eshop release in the future, either way will see about getting the game and the amiibo.
Is Jon Wahlgreen still a reviewer on this site? If so why didn't he review this so we have more consistency? He gave Triple Trouble a 7/10 BTW.
@DDStuff Oh yeah, I forgot!
This was a guaranteed buy for me even before the review. Now I am even more stoked for it. I hope this one sells very well. I love Kirby and feel that eh is under-loved in the west.
@brandonbwii You are right. Anyway, most of the reviews of this game are yet to come, I want to read some more to be honest.
@Stu13 Same here. If I get it it'll be the physical release because I don't like inconsistency.
This game just looked great from Day 1 reveal, so it's good to see it should deliver. Can't probably stretch to a Day 1 buy, but it will go on my list.
Hoping Robobot will bring the price down on Triple Deluxe, which has held its price annoyingly high ever since I first got my N3DS.
@ekreig Didn't think Robobot featured at E3 2015. First I remember hearing about Robobot was in the Direct earlier this year. Reveal to release has been pretty short, I think. Happy to be corrected though.
@gcunit Yes, you'd be correct. It was only announced a short while ago, in the Direct, as you stated.
I expected a score of 9, so happy days!
@CapricornDavid I'll leave these here (Meta Nightmare spoilers in titles)
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=B5JiS0l-eUk
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=n4op6S2MHHo
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=PLkASaYjKlk
@BranJ0 Okay I did. That one is good but I don't know if I'd like the rest (or Planet Robobot's) because normally I don't like Kirby's music.
I was thinking about preordering the Limited Edition. After reading the review I know I'm definitely going to do it.
@Tuulenpoika That was after A LOT of experimentation before they got to this point though.
Just pointing out it didn't simply happen overnight. Kirby's definitely had a number of so so games and misses before arriving at this point.
Looks great! But should I play this if I haven't played triple deluxe first? I have always wanted triple deluxe but still never got round to buying it!
@ekreig No problem! I'm just as shocked on the short turnaround for this game...
@Oat @Rams_ @RupeeClock Thank you, all three, for the clarification! I just found it odd that the amiibo chart left out Smash Kirby for a Kirby game (http://www.nintendo.com/amiibo/compatibility cited: 5/25/2016).
@123akis You can play any Kirby game without playing any other, the story is always extremely simple.
Just 16 more days!
Definitely will try this one out, Kirby has managed to stay strong after all these years.
Two weeks and the mechanised puffball will arrive on our shores.
Quick question for @ThomasBW84 or for anyone who played the game: which abilities don't return from Triple Deluxe?
Does this game offer enough challenge to those who've traditionally been put off by the 'light' and 'accessible' nature that many Kirby games have been known for?
Very glad to see the 3DS getting a solid new entry at any rate.
@Maxz Not really, little challenge here according to reviews.
Happy to see this get such a good score. As I expected, the mech sections are better than the hypernova ones; that's Triple Deluxe's one major flaw corrected. All is right with the world.
Come on June 10th!
Awesome. I just might get this sooner than I thought.
And I'm going to play the devil's advocate here... where the heck are the Metacritic citations?!
Has anybody picked up the new Kirby amiibo to play with this game? Is it worth it to pick them up? I will be buying this game for sure as I love Kirby and almost anything on the 3DS.
This game looks really fun!!!
Looks like i'll have to add another game into my "buy after i finish my 3DS backlog" list.
Really enjoyed Triple Delux, although i didn't bother to grind keychains after beating it.
I really hate that this game is getting a mild kicking all over the place for being "formulaic" even though I suspect it has more new content than most CODs
This was a great review that didn't get hung up on it looking like Triple Delux
@rjejr There are 3 save slots, by the way.
@AlexSora89 I'll try and figure that out for you.
Nice review and nice score, as expected! This will be sweet!
I don't know why but I love games with cute robots. I even enjoyed Zip Lash.
@ThomasBW84 Oh thanks, good to hear. We may actually use all 3, on 3 different 3DS. This and MH:S is making me want to buy another one. Will probably wait to hear if the imaginary MH is backwards compatible first though.
@ThomasBW84
Thank you, Thomas-san. [bows]
@Socar It's usually the case. It's kinda like early screenings for upcoming movies, making sure the word that's spread is a good one.
I still haven't even played Triple Deluxe... I need to get through my backlog!
Kirby is still rolling. Another game I have to pick up soon.
Question about the Kirby Amiibo usage in game: I scanned the new Kirby Series Amiibo (where he's riding the star) and I got the UFO. But everybody is saying the old Kirby gives Smash ability. If true, then the new Kirby is different in function in game compared to the old one. I didn't pick up the new Kirby series Dedede and Meta Knight as I already owned the Smash ones. Are these different too? What about Kirby Series exclusive Waddle Dee?
Other games have different functions, for instance pixel Mario or Yarn Yoshi have similar function in Smash as the standard characters, but different if you scan them into say Mario Maker or Yoshi Wholly World.
This game absolutely deserves the high review score. I just finished it today, and it was thoroughly entertaining. And the final boss fight was just sublime and wholly unexpected. I'm used to Kirby games being creative and fun, but HAL really upped their game on this one.
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