Nintendo’s approach to “game + add-on” rereleases continues to evolve, creating anticipation and excitement among fans. With Kirby and the Forgotten Land finally receiving its first significant expansion, Star-Crossed World, it’s essential to dissect what this update brings to the table. Below is a thorough review of Star-Crossed World, aiming to be both informative and objective while summarizing the key features of this DLC.
Accessing Star-Crossed World
To explore Star-Crossed World, players have a few options. The most straightforward route is to upgrade from the Switch 1 version to the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition for $20, which also brings performance improvements—albeit minor ones. Alternatively, new players can buy the Switch 2 edition directly for $80 or purchase the Switch 1 version at $60, which excludes the DLC. Ultimately, if you want the enhancements alongside the new levels, the upgraded version is the way to go.
Returning to the Forgotten Land
For those who haven’t experienced Kirby and the Forgotten Land, the core game offers an engaging mix of ability-driven combat, platforming, and exploratory challenges, all set in a colorful post-apocalyptic world. While Star-Crossed World doesn’t fundamentally change this framework, it provides an engaging reason to revisit the beloved mechanics and aesthetics of the original.
New Adventures Await
Star-Crossed World weaves seamlessly into the existing campaign, beginning shortly after the initial world completion. As the story unfolds, Kirby discovers that a meteor has scattered magical "Starries" across the map, prompting players to dive into 12 new “Starry Stages.” These new levels introduce fresh challenges, mechanics, and enemies while borrowing elements from the existing stages, enhancing the nostalgic atmosphere.
Diverse Gameplay Experience
The addition of these Starry Stages is significant. Unlike typical expansions that may feel like mere remixes, these levels feature mainly new designs, creativity, and clever twists on existing gameplay mechanics. Each stage varies in terms of objectives and challenges, ensuring that players stay engaged. Notable innovations include:
New Transformations: Star-Crossed World introduces three new Mouthful Mode transformations. Each presents unique gameplay mechanics that require players to think critically to navigate through levels.
Challenging Yet Accessible: While the new stages provide a fun challenge, they remain forgiving, aligning with Kirby’s signature style. This makes them suitable for veteran players looking for more and newcomers who are still getting acquainted with the game.
- Dynamic Environments: The game excels in level design. Certain levels utilize engaging mechanics like moving platforms or roller coaster tracks, ensuring the gameplay remains dynamic and visually stimulating.
A Few Shortcomings
Despite its charm and creativity, Star-Crossed World isn’t without its limitations:
Limited Scope: The expansion is shorter than many might hope for, with gameplay lasting about three hours. There’s a noticeable absence of boss fights, Treasure Road bonus stages, and new elements in Waddle Dee Village, which may diminish the overall feel of a substantial expansion.
Difficulty Balance: For players returning with a fully upgraded toolkit, many new enemies can feel underwhelming, as their potential isn’t fully leveraged against a powerful Kirby.
- Same-Same Mechanics: While the added transformations are fun, there are no new upgrades or transformations for existing abilities, which could lead to a sense of stagnation for players looking for innovation across the board.
The Visuals and Performance of Switch 2
The Nintendo Switch 2 Edition enhances the visual experience with higher frame rates and improved resolution. However, these upgrades don’t drastically change the original game’s performance, which was already quite solid. The visual improvements might not be groundbreaking, but they do contribute to a more polished experience. Essentially, while players might appreciate the refined aesthetics, they may not find it compelling enough to justify the additional $20.
Conclusion: Worth the Dive?
Star-Crossed World offers an enjoyable, albeit modest, expansion to a beloved title. For fans of Kirby, exploring the new Starry Stages is a delightful return to an environment rich in creativity and nostalgia. The mix of familiar and new mechanics keeps the gameplay fresh, reinforcing the franchise’s strengths in platforming and puzzle-solving. While its short length and lack of major enhancements may disappoint some players, there’s no denying that the levels themselves shine brightly.
In the end, whether you are upgrading from the Switch 1 version or jumping into the Switch 2 edition fresh, Star-Crossed World is an invitation to rediscover the joy of commanding Kirby. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, it’s not about grand adventures but rather the simple pleasure of exploration and fun that makes a game worth enjoying.
As you take off on your warp star again, you will find that Star-Crossed World captures the spirit of Kirby and offers a pocket-sized adventure that, while not without its faults, is undeniably fun.
