Kirby Superstars Ultra Review

Platform: Nintendo DS
ERSB: E
Genre: Action
Number of Players: 1-4
Developer: Nintendo
Release Date: September 22, 2008

Go Pink or go Home: Kirby Superstar’s Ultra

Rent

I have a soft spot for that loveable pink puff. I always have since I played Kirby’s Dreamland for my very first gaming system, the Gameboy. (Though I did not know he was pink) As time progressed, as so did my Nintendo systems, I always got excited to pick up the new Kirby game. Now, after playing a number of Kirby games for the NDS, I am excited to see the remake of the SNES game, Kirby Superstars Ultra come to the smaller screen. Shall I be impressed or will I find that maybe some Kirby games are best left in the past?

Graphics:
What always gets me with Kirby games is the simplicity of it all. The game stays true to it roots with classic 2D style of gameplay and levels. Even the world maps and menu screen are 2D. What is different is the color spectrum has increased and has become vivid with its change of system.
Yet change is good. In order to upgrade a classic, they have included 3D cut scenes during the introduction, and conclusion of each mini level of the game. These cut scene bring the stories of each adventure to life before the eyes of the player. These cut scene really add to the game. It give the player the feeling that this is not just a “port” of a good game. It truly endorse the cute world that is the Kirby universe.

Sound:
The music is classic Kirby. It is upbeat, and creates a mood fitting for each level. The music is the same music that is found in many of the other Kirby games created to date. This statement is also applicable for the sound effects of the game as well. You are not really missing anything in the transfer over from the SNES to the NDS

Controls:
Kirby games have the same controls; D-pad for moving in your four cardinal directions, A for jump, and B for inhaling items and enemies. Which is simple and to the point. Of course by fooling around with the controls in the first few second of the game, you have acquired all the knowledge needed to finish the game.
As most games that are introduced on the NDS, there is a use for the stylist. In terms of Ultra, the stylist is used for mini-games for single and multiplayer enjoyment. The stylist has not be integrated within the single-player story modes.

Gameplay:
In terms of Gameplay, Kirby is a fluid game. There is no waiting for loading, or downtime between stages that have become the norm of games of this generation. Also with the simple controls as stated above, a play and get right into the adventure without having to learn new combos, or go through a lengthily tutorial.
The design of Ultra’s levels are instead of having one long adventure, spanning the entire game, there are mini story which takes no longer then 2 hours to finish each. After you have finished playing one of the short stories, you are able to unlock other stories within the game, until you have unlocked and completed all the mini stories of the game.

In terms of game play it very straight forward, finish the level, and beat the boss; which the difficulty level on these bosses have not changed in the last few years. For an experienced Kirby player, the boss can come off as monotonous. What really draw and keeps older player is the level designs.
What is interesting about this game is you are able to explore the Kirby universe with a second player. Of course you need a friend, a second console, and a second game. You and your friend can play through the levels together, and enjoy the co-op experience. Even if you don’t have a friend, you are still able to gain the enemy as friend option. By pressing A after you have swallowed an enemies and gained their power, you are able to expel the enemy, to have him as your partner in crime. What’s great, is you can have him do most of the work for you.

What I love about some NDS games is the fact they are so easy to pick up and put down. Kirby Superstar’s Ultra is no exception to the DS rule. With the ability to save your progress throughout the levels, it creates the no stress feeling the many DS games strive for.

Replay Value:
In terms of replay value, your not looking at a whole lot. There is the option to replay the game with another player using the Wi-fi capabilities of the NDS, and there is the inclusion of mini games within Ultra as well. There are secrets within the some levels but they are few and far between, unlike Squeak Squad. Also, if you haven’t unlocked a story line, then you are drive to unlock it before completing the game. At the same time, that is the charm of most Action based games. You can play them again and again for the sure enjoyment of going through the level.

If you looking for a easy to pick up and put down game, or you wish to take a trip down memory lane, then you’ll love Kirby Superstars Ultra. I would recommend this as a renter, due to the lasting appeal and replay may not be there for players, unless you enjoy playing the same levels over, or introducing the game to friends.