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Kirby's Return to Dreamland
Wii
A Welcome Return Indeed
4/5 stars
Even though Kirby (and his friends) have been around for quite awhile, I admit I've never taken more than a passing interest in the series: too kiddie (even when I was a kid) and all bright colors and no threat of ever losing. Plus, a super happy pink blob? Really? But even this jaded, FPS-loving "hardcore" gamer can be swayed to the lighter side, and with a good group of friends, the game really comes through and is a worthy title for the Wii.
Presentation: Graphically, I think this is one of the stronger titles I have played on the Wii. Sharp, crisp (and yes, quite cheerful and bright) - both the characters and level designs pop out at you. Whether swimming, flying or simply running for you life away from a wall of darkness, each level comes through. There is plenty of variety in the "weapons" Kirby can employ, and the enemies, both the common and the boss enemies are likewise as varied. The music is likewise cheerful without being overly sweet and the few cut scenes just enhance the overall feel of the game.
Story: Instead of just Kirby vs. King Dedede - you actually get to team up - and, much like Ratchet & Clank: All 4 One, sometimes enemies make the best friends. After a ship crashes on PopStar, Kirby, being the helpful pink blob he (it?) is, lends a hand in helping the poor guy get his ship back together. Thus, he sets out going to the various levels collecting the parts of the ship (and extra gears, if so inclined) so he can get back home - and her promises to take Kirby with him to visit his home world. Sounds straight forward enough, but they throw a nice curve at you to shake things up.
Gameplay: Like the previous Kirby games, the main character can eat various enemies and absorb their power: everything from becoming a Ninja Kirby to a whip-wielding Indiana Kirby. You also have various elements: Fire, Water, Ice, Rock - that help to unlock certain parts of levels (usually by cancelling out the opposite element). This is key if you want to collect all the gears. Of course, while playing alone is good, adding a few friends (or family) is even better. Instead of having to rely on Kirby's powers for everything, have King Dedede's hammer or Meta-Knight's sword makes things a bit easier - especially during boss fights and the auto-scrolling levels. Some might say it makes things too easy - but when you have young kids (or just want to get through the game quicker) this help is greatly appreciated.
Certain enemies bestow super weapons on Kirby. You can transform into a blazing ball of electricity, roll away as a giant snowball or simply wield a huge sword or gout of fire. You only have these powers for a limited time - and you have to get to the end of the level where said power unlocks a hidden area. This isn't a broken aspect to the game, as it is only available in certain levels and only for a short time, but it is one of the most enjoyable aspects of the game.
Aside from the basic story, if you collect gears you unlock challenge levels, mini games and the ability to choose specific powers for Kirby. The mini games are short, but fun. You can wield you Wiimote to throw ninja stars or participate in a classic mech-shooting game - once you complete the game there is an all-out boss blitz you can fight as well. The challenges (of which I only attempted a few) live up the name. You have a specific power and the level requires not only good timing and mastery over that power, but is also timed, so speed is also of the essence. I managed to score a few bronze medals, but that was all. Being able to choose a specific power is good, but I never really took advantage of it. Beating the game also unlocks the "hard" mode - where you have half the life and the enemies get stronger. You know, if you're into that kind of thing.
Overall: This was a good change of pace from shooting or stabbing people. It was fun, just the right amount of content, and, though it might have been a bit easy, also didn't want me to make me chuck my controller though the TV (unlike Rayman's auto-scrolling hell levels). If you want to sit back and relax - and have a game the entire family can enjoy - this is an excellent choice.
Presentation: 4/5
Story: 4/5
Gameplay: 5/5
Overall (not an average): 4/5
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