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The 25 best Kirby video games
Nintendo

The 25 best Kirby video games

Kirby, the lovable pink puffball, has been a fan favorite since his debut on the Game Boy in 1992. With his insatiable appetite and ability to copy enemies' abilities, this little hero has managed to save Dream Land repeatedly. Over the years, there have been many unforgettable Kirby games that have delighted fans of all ages. So, without further ado, let's hop on our Warp Stars and dive into the 20 best Kirby games of all time!

 
1 of 20

'Kirby Super Star'

'Kirby Super Star'
Nintendo

This SNES classic is a fan favorite, offering a collection of eight smaller games with varying gameplay styles. Not only does it feature cooperative play, but it also introduces a range of copy abilities that have become series staples. The diverse gameplay, charming visuals, and fantastic soundtrack make this title a must-play. With so much content packed into one game, it's no wonder Kirby Super Star tops our list. Its unique structure offers hours of fun for both casual and dedicated fans.

 
2 of 20

'Kirby's Adventure'

'Kirby's Adventure'
Nintendo

As Kirby's first outing on the NES, this game introduced his iconic copy ability. The platformer is full of colorful levels, memorable music, and innovative gameplay mechanics that have stood the test of time. Later remade as Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land for the Game Boy Advance, Kirby's Adventure remains a classic example of what makes the series so special. Its charm, tight controls, and accessibility make it an essential experience for any Kirby fan.

 
3 of 20

'Kirby's Return to Dream Land'

'Kirby's Return to Dream Land'
Nintendo

After a long wait, Kirby returned to his classic 2D platforming roots on the Wii. This title reintroduces cooperative play for up to four players, making it a blast to enjoy with friends. It also features a wide range of new copy abilities, ensuring that the gameplay feels fresh and engaging. The vibrant visuals and catchy tunes make this title an unforgettable experience. Kirby's Return to Dream Land is a fantastic modern entry that honors the series' history while pushing it forward.

 
4 of 20

'Kirby: Planet Robobot'

'Kirby: Planet Robobot'
Nintendo

This 3DS title puts Kirby in a mech suit, adding a fun twist to the classic formula. The new Robobot Armor allows players to punch through obstacles and copy enemy abilities, creating interesting new gameplay possibilities. The game features inventive level design, tight controls, and a captivating story that unfolds through stunning visuals. The unique blend of familiar mechanics and new elements makes Planet Robobot a standout entry in the series. It's a must-play for fans of Kirby and anyone looking for a creative platformer on the 3DS.

 
5 of 20

'Kirby's Epic Yarn'

'Kirby's Epic Yarn'
Nintendo

This innovative title swaps Kirby's traditional copy abilities for a charming yarn-based aesthetic. Players can manipulate the environment by pulling on strings, unzipping zippers, and more. The game's unique visual style and creative gameplay mechanics create a fresh and unforgettable experience. Although it's a departure from the traditional formula, Kirby's Epic Yarn still maintains the charm and appeal that fans have come to love. Its heartwarming atmosphere and accessible gameplay make it a great choice for gamers of all ages.

 
6 of 20

'Kirby: Triple Deluxe'

'Kirby: Triple Deluxe'
Nintendo

Released for the 3DS, Triple Deluxe takes full advantage of the system's 3D capabilities with layered levels and clever platforming challenges. The game introduces the powerful Hypernova ability, allowing Kirby to inhale massive objects and change the environment. With a variety of fun mini-games and collectibles to find, there's plenty to keep players engaged. The game's vibrant visuals, tight controls, and exciting boss battles make it a fantastic addition to the series. Kirby: Triple Deluxe is a must-play for fans seeking a well-rounded experience.

 
7 of 20

'Kirby and the Amazing Mirror'

'Kirby and the Amazing Mirror'
Nintendo

This unique entry in the series offers a Metroidvania-style experience on the Game Boy Advance. Players explore a vast interconnected world filled with secrets, hidden paths, and powerful bosses. The game introduces a cell phone mechanic, allowing players to call in three AI-controlled Kirbys for assistance. Amazing Mirror is a standout title with its non-linear gameplay, engaging world design, and memorable soundtrack. This creative departure from the traditional formula is well worth exploring for fans of both Kirby and Metroidvania games.

 
8 of 20

'Kirby's Dream Land'

'Kirby's Dream Land'
Nintendo

The game that started it all, Kirby's Dream Land on the Game Boy remains a classic. While Kirby doesn't have his copy ability yet, the game still showcases his trademark inhale-and-exhale mechanic. Its charming black-and-white visuals, simple controls, and catchy music make it a nostalgic treasure. Although relatively short, the game laid the foundation for the entire series. Kirby's Dream Land is a delightful reminder of the humble beginnings of our favorite pink puffball.

 
9 of 20

'Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards'

'Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards'
Nintendo

As Kirby's first and only appearance on the Nintendo 64, this title combines 2.5D platforming with unique power-combining mechanics. Players can mix two abilities together, creating a wide range of exciting and powerful combinations. The game's colorful graphics and engaging levels create an enjoyable experience for new and returning fans. With various collectibles to find and a memorable soundtrack, Kirby 64 stands out as a charming entry in the series. The creative power-mixing system makes it a must-play for Kirby enthusiasts.

 
10 of 20

'Kirby and the Rainbow Curse'

'Kirby and the Rainbow Curse'
Nintendo

Exclusively on the Wii U, this game utilizes the GamePad's touch screen for an innovative claymation-style experience. Players draw rainbow ropes to guide Kirby, who has been transformed into a rolling ball, through colorful and challenging levels. The game features unique visuals, clever level design, and a heartwarming story. While it departs from traditional Kirby gameplay, Rainbow Curse's innovative mechanics make it a delightful adventure. This title is a testament to the series' ability to evolve while maintaining its charm.

 
11 of 20

'Kirby's Dream Land 2'

'Kirby's Dream Land 2'
Nintendo

Building on the success of the original, this Game Boy sequel introduces animal friends that Kirby can ride and combine powers with. The game features a variety of worlds to explore, each with its unique challenges and bosses. Its charming visuals, catchy music, and engaging gameplay make it a worthy successor to the original. With its expanded mechanics and increased difficulty, Kirby's Dream Land 2 offers a satisfying and enjoyable experience for fans of the series.

 
12 of 20

'Kirby: Canvas Curse'

'Kirby: Canvas Curse'
Nintendo

This innovative DS title uses the touch screen to draw paths for a ball-shaped Kirby. Players control Kirby indirectly, guiding him through levels filled with obstacles and enemies. The game's unique control scheme, colorful graphics, and addictive gameplay make it a standout entry in the series. Canvas Curse is a prime example of the franchise's ability to adapt to new hardware and offers fresh experiences.

 
13 of 20

'Kirby's Dream Land 3'

'Kirby's Dream Land 3'
Nintendo

This charming SNES entry expands on the animal friend mechanic introduced in Dream Land 2. Players can team up with six different animal buddies, each with unique abilities, to help Kirby on his adventure. The game features beautiful hand-drawn visuals and a memorable soundtrack that perfectly complements its whimsical atmosphere. With various collectibles to find and secrets to uncover, Kirby's Dream Land 3 offers a satisfying and engaging experience. The game's nostalgic charm and creative mechanics make it a must-play for fans of the series.

 
14 of 20

'Kirby: Squeak Squad'

'Kirby: Squeak Squad'
Nintendo

This Nintendo DS title sees Kirby on a quest to recover his stolen shortcake, battling the thieving Squeak Squad along the way. The game introduces a unique inventory system, allowing players to mix and match abilities by dragging them on the touch screen. With new copy abilities, fun mini-games, and challenging boss battles, Squeak Squad offers hours of enjoyment. Its colorful visuals, tight controls, and satisfying gameplay make it a solid entry in the series. Kirby: Squeak Squad is a delightful adventure that showcases the pink puffball's determination and charm.

 
15 of 20

'Kirby's Star Allies'

'Kirby's Star Allies'
Nintendo

This Nintendo Switch title brings back cooperative multiplayer, allowing up to four players to team up and tackle levels together. With new copy abilities and the ability to combine powers, Star Allies offers a fresh twist on classic Kirby gameplay. The game features vibrant HD visuals, memorable music, and exciting boss battles. Although it's considered more accessible and less challenging than other entries, Kirby's Star Allies still delivers a fun and enjoyable experience. It's a great option for fans looking to share their love for Kirby with friends and family.

 
16 of 20

'Kirby's Pinball Land'

'Kirby's Pinball Land'
Nintendo

This Game Boy spin-off takes Kirby into the world of pinball, offering three distinct tables filled with enemies, obstacles, and boss battles. The game combines classic pinball mechanics with Kirby's signature charm, resulting in an addictive and enjoyable experience. Its simple controls, catchy tunes, and charming visuals make Kirby's Pinball Land a standout entry in the series spin-offs. For fans of both Kirby and pinball, this title is a must-play that showcases the versatility of our favorite pink puffball.

 
17 of 20

'Kirby Air Ride'

'Kirby Air Ride'
Nintendo

This GameCube spin-off puts Kirby in the driver's seat for some high-speed racing action. The game features simple controls, various vehicles, and multiple game modes, including the fan-favorite City Trial mode. With its colorful visuals, addictive gameplay, and engaging multiplayer options, Kirby Air Ride is a unique and enjoyable entry in the series. While it's a departure from the traditional platforming gameplay, this title proves that Kirby can excel in any genre. Give it a try if you want a fun and accessible racing experience.

 
18 of 20

'Kirby's Avalanche'

'Kirby's Avalanche'
Nintendo

This SNES puzzle game combines the charm of the Kirby series with addictive, fast-paced gameplay. As a reskin of the classic puzzle game Puyo Puyo, Kirby's Avalanche challenges players to match colored blobs and create chain reactions to defeat opponents. With its simple controls, competitive multiplayer, and cute visuals, this title offers a fun and engaging experience. Puzzle game fans and Kirby enthusiasts alike will find plenty to enjoy in this charming spin-off.

 
19 of 20

'Kirby: Mass Attack'

'Kirby: Mass Attack'
Nintendo

This innovative DS title sees players controlling up to ten Kirbys simultaneously using the touch screen. With its unique gameplay mechanics, challenging puzzles, and engaging levels, Mass Attack offers a fresh take on the series. The game features vibrant visuals, catchy music, and a variety of mini-games to keep players entertained.

 
20 of 20

'Kirby Fighters 2'

'Kirby Fighters 2'
Nintendo

Exclusive to the Nintendo Switch, this fighting game spin-off pits Kirby against familiar foes and friends in intense, fast-paced battles. Players can choose from various iconic copy abilities and characters, each with unique moves and playstyles. The game features a single-player story mode, local and online multiplayer, and a variety of stages inspired by classic Kirby titles. With its accessible controls, charming visuals, and addictive gameplay, Kirby Fighters 2 offers a fun and competitive experience for fans of the series. Whether you're a casual player or a seasoned fighter, this title is a fantastic addition to any Kirby fan's collection.

Brittany Vincent

Brittany Vincent is an accomplished video game, tech, and entertainment writer whose work has been featured in various online and print publications. She's been writing professionally for 15 years and has been published at Newsweek, Netflix's TUDUM blog, MTV News, Playboy, Maxim, CNN, NBC, NPR, and dozens of other outlets. When she isn't writing, she's gaming, watching anime, or listening to the same album for the hundredth time

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MLB

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MLB

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