Kirby: Planet Robobot

I’ve come to the realisation recently that children play more handheld video games than on a home console in their living rooms. I say this because that’s what I see my 2 girls doing most days. I think in today’s world with smartphones and tablets, playing games on the go is more accessible than switching on a home console.

With that in mind, it’s great to see Nintendo releasing so many titles for the 3DS. There’s such a plethora of playable games for the system, it’s hard to keep up with the releases. Recently, out of nowhere, I see that there’s a new Kirby game.

If you don’t already know, Kirby is one of Nintendo’s iconic characters. Nearly 25 years on the gaming scene, and still the public can’t get enough of this cute pink spherical…..thing.

Kirby’s new adventure ‘Planet Robobot’ opens with an intro showing a robotic alien race invading Dream Land.  Players  must navigate worlds and stages, still using the traditional movements of jumping, inhaling enemies and copying their special abilities, of which there are over 25.  With the game’s theme involving robot mechanics, Kirby acquires a special mechanical suit from his invaders, unlocking over 10 new abilities in which you can destroy enemies and navigate levels

In addition to the main campaign, there are 2 other modes offering more value for money. There’s a Co-op mode called Team Kirby Clash.  Here players band together in order to defeat large bosses on screen.  It’s very much a game of maths, as hits to both you and the enemy display minus numbers. Team Kirby Clash can be played with 3 other players online or even in the same room. The game also supports Nintendo’s download play, which allows players who don’t own the cartridge by downloading a small piece of free software from the eShop.

The other mode, 3D Rumble, very much reminds me of Captain Toad’s Treasure Tracker.  Players look down on a small game area and control Kirby by inhaling and shooting at other enemies.  The game is very much like a mobile game divided into stages, with ratings given out if 3 stars. I found this mini game to be quite addictive.

As with most modern Nintendo first party games, amiibo support is featured.   Using a Link amiibo gives Kirby a sword and Mario makes him shoot fireballs.  The game also has it’s own line of figures, such as Kind DeDeDe, Meta Knight and Waddle Dee.

My first play through with Planet Robobot was such a pleasure, mainly because it’s looks so good on the handheld 3DS.  There’s not many games for the system which have visually impressed me so easily.  Taking into consideration that you are getting 3 games for the price of one, I would recommend this game for any 3DS owner and even those who may be interested in buying the system in the near future.

Kirby: Planet Robobot is currently available for purchase from Amazon for £35.99.  For only £7 more, you can purchase the version that comes with the Kirby amiibo, which is the only way to unlock the special UFO ability.