Kirby Ultimate G: A Review of the New Kirby Game for Nintendo Switch

Kirby Ultimate G: A Review of the New Kirby Game for Nintendo Switch

What is Kirby Ultimate G?

Kirby Ultimate G is a new Nintendo Switch game developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo. It is the first mainline Kirby game for the Switch console. Ultimate G continues the traditional Kirby gameplay of inhaling enemies to copy their abilities while platforming through colorful levels. This new entry aims to be the definitive Kirby experience, building upon previous games with new features and expanded gameplay.

Key Gameplay Features

Some of the key gameplay features of Kirby Ultimate G include:

  • Familiar 2D side-scrolling action platforming gameplay
  • Ability to inhale enemies and copy their powers
  • Expanded movesets for copy abilities with new combos and actions
  • 3D areas add depth and range to stages
  • 4-player local co-op multiplayer
  • New allied characters offer assistance and abilities
  • Mini-games add variety between levels
  • RPG-style upgrade system for copy abilities

New Copy Abilities

Kirby Ultimate G introduces several new copy abilities that Kirby can obtain by inhaling enemies, including:

  • Mech: Pilot a robotic mech suit with missiles, lasers, and stomp attacks
  • Whip: Utilize a whip to strike enemies and swing from hooks
  • Frost: Generate ice spikes, freeze breath, and create icy platforms
  • Quill: Fire spiked quills in multiple directions
  • Zip: Unleash explosive zippers and fly at high speeds

Expanded Classic Abilities

In addition to the new powers, classic copy abilities have been expanded with new moves and greater depth:

  • Sword: Combo attacks, projectile waves, shield counter
  • Fire: Rapid fireburst, aerial flame spin, fire pillars
  • Cutter: Charged razor boomerangs, aerial blades
  • Ice: Freezing blizzard, ice spikes in all directions
  • Spark: Zap dash, thunderfall slam, taser shield

Key Characters

Some of the key characters in Kirby Ultimate G include:

  • Kirby: The main pink hero with a bottomless stomach
  • King Dedede: Kirby’s rival who sometimes helps him
  • Meta Knight: A masked swordsman with unclear motives
  • Bandana Waddle Dee: Kirby’s loyal spear-wielding friend
  • Elfillin: A mysterious new ally that grants Kirby special powers
  • Leongar: The primary antagonist seeking chaos and destruction

Expanded Lore and Story

While mainly focused on fun platforming gameplay, Kirby Ultimate G also expands the game’s story and lore. Kirby must journey across the galaxy to prevent the evil Leongar from obtaining artifacts that will allow him to summon a destructive God of Chaos. The expanded story provides greater context for the colorful planets and civilizations Kirby encounters.

Planet Locations

Kirby Ultimate G takes place across several unique planets that Kirby explores. These include:

  • Pop Star: Kirby’s home, featuring green hill zones and high-tech factories
  • Rimey Reach: Icy mountains and frozen tundra with slippery surfaces
  • Virtuoso Valley: Musical forest with instruments altered by Leongar’s magic
  • Chaos Cavern: Underground tunnels filled with lava and volcanic activity
  • Leongar’s Lair: The antagonist’s base with ominous architecture

Co-op and Competitive Multiplayer

Up to 4 players can team up simultaneously for co-op multiplayer in Kirby Ultimate G. Players can combine abilities for unique co-op actions. There is also competitive multiplayer available in mini-games like racing, last Kirby standing battles, and more.

Key Game Modes

Kirby Ultimate G contains several game modes:

  • Story Mode: Journey across planets pursuing Leongar in the main adventure
  • Guest Star: Play as other characters like Meta Knight in abridged story quests
  • The Ultimate Gauntlet: Special mode with intense boss battles back-to-back
  • Mini-Games: Compete in races, arenas, and other mini-game challenges

How to Upgrade Copy Abilities

As Kirby defeats enemies and clears levels, he’ll obtain ability stars. These stars can be spent in the upgrade shop to upgrade copy abilities with new moves and greater power. Players can choose to focus on upgrading their favorite abilities or take a more balanced approach.

Replay Value

Kirby Ultimate G offers plenty of replay value for completionists and score chasers. Each stage has hidden collectibles to find. Players can search for all treasure chests, music tracks, rare stickers, concept art, and trophies. Completing levels quickly, skillfully, and without taking damage will also award higher scores and rankings on online leaderboards.

Should You Buy Kirby Ultimate G?

Kirby Ultimate G is a must-play for fans of Nintendo and platformer games. It retains the colorful, charming spirit of the franchise while expanding gameplay for a definitive Kirby experience. With tons of copy abilities to master, exciting new worlds to explore, and multiplayer action, Kirby Ultimate G is well worth picking up for your Nintendo Switch.