Published on: September 23, 2021
In a major announcement during the latest Nintendo Direct, Nintendo and HAL Laboratory officially unveiled "Kirby and the Forgotten Land," marking an exciting new chapter for the iconic pink hero.
This highly anticipated installment, now confirmed for the Nintendo Switch, signals a bold evolution for the beloved Kirby franchise and was accompanied by the release of its debut trailer.
This marks the first time the Kirby series will transition to a fully 3D platforming adventure, expanding Kirby’s world and gameplay mechanics far beyond its traditional side-scrolling roots.
According to available official information, players will guide Kirby through immersive environments inspired by mysterious ruins and deserted remnants of a lost civilization, offering a blend of exploration and classic Kirby action.
Shortly before the Nintendo Direct broadcast, fans caught early hints of the game when "Kirby and the Forgotten Land" briefly appeared on Nintendo’s official website listings.
While this initial appearance provided little more than the game's Japanese title, the subsequent formal reveal brought substantial new details.
Nintendo and HAL Laboratory highlighted that players can expect to use Kirby’s signature copy abilities, enabling him to absorb enemy powers and tackle challenges creatively across expansive, three-dimensional landscapes.
The trailer showcased vibrant visuals and innovative gameplay, demonstrating how the 3D environment allows for new interactions, puzzles, and combat scenarios previously unseen in the series.
Shinya Kumazaki, the game’s director at HAL Laboratory, emphasized the studio’s commitment to honoring Kirby’s legacy while expanding the series’ possibilities.
He remarked (paraphrased for clarity), “We wanted to deliver an experience that feels both fresh and familiar, providing longtime fans and newcomers with an all-new way to enjoy Kirby’s unique abilities in a fully realized 3D world.”
"Kirby and the Forgotten Land" will launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch, further strengthening the platform’s growing library of first-party titles.
The game is poised for a global release in the coming months, with additional details—including a confirmed launch date, pre-order information, and gameplay breakdowns—expected to be shared on the Nintendo eShop and future Nintendo Direct presentations.
With its combination of classic gameplay and ambitious new design, "Kirby and the Forgotten Land" is already generating considerable excitement throughout the industry.
Fans can catch the first official trailer on Nintendo’s YouTube channel and stay tuned for more updates as new information is revealed.
For all the latest on Nintendo Switch releases, Nintendo Direct announcements, and Kirby series updates, keep following our dedicated Nintendo news coverage.
Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Nintendo Direct Kirby and the Forgotten Land Switch HAL Laboratory HAL HALLaboratory