Kirby and the Forgotten Land Review: HAL Laboratory Delivers a 3D Platforming Marvel on Nintendo Switch

Kirby and the Forgotten Land Review: HAL Laboratory Delivers a 3D Platforming Marvel on Nintendo Switch Since his introduction in the early 1990s, Kirby has been charming players with vibrant worlds and innovative gameplay.

Developed by HAL Laboratory and published by Nintendo, the franchise is known for its accessible platforming and irresistibly cute characters.

With Kirby and the Forgotten Land, released worldwide on March 25, 2022, the beloved pink puffball took his biggest leap yet—stepping into full 3D gameplay on the Nintendo Switch.

This milestone isn’t just a technical achievement; it’s a testament to HAL Laboratory’s commitment to evolution and quality, firmly securing Kirby’s place on the eShop and in gamers’ hearts. A New Dimension of Charm and Accessibility Kirby and the Forgotten Land immediately stands out for its exuberant personality—and not just in art direction.

Every level, animation, and enemy encounter radiates the franchise’s trademark charm.

HAL Laboratory’s attention to detail ensures Kirby feels remarkably responsive in a 3D environment, a feat emphasized in post-release developer interviews where the team highlighted their extensive focus on perfecting movement controls.

Unlike some 3D platformers plagued by awkward or imprecise movement, controlling Kirby in this title is consistently smooth, giving players confidence and joy as they explore each environment. While the game forays into 3D, its structure is more akin to Super Mario 3D World than the open-ended worlds of Super Mario Odyssey.

Levels are largely self-contained miniature playgrounds, each bursting with unique puzzles, lively enemies, and hidden objectives.

This design, while straightforward, means the action never drags, and players are constantly presented with fresh surprises. Approachable Design, Layered Challenges Much discussion within the gaming community has centered on the game’s difficulty—or lack thereof.

Even in the higher "Wild Mode," Kirby and the Forgotten Land offers a gentle, inviting challenge, rarely posing significant difficulty spikes.

However, this accessibility is one of the game's strengths; as HAL Laboratory’s design philosophy confirms, they wanted to craft an experience enjoyable for players of all ages and skill levels.

The difficulty focus shifts instead to uncovering secrets and completing hidden level-specific challenges—like collecting fruit or defeating enemies under special conditions—providing added depth for completionists without alienating newcomers. Bursting With Whimsy and Playful Humor What truly sets Kirby and the Forgotten Land apart is its willingness to embrace joyful absurdity, all without losing sight of excellent gameplay.

The game’s personality is front and center—highlighted by moments such as the now iconic sequence where Kirby swallows a car, complete with an over-the-top anime-style music interlude.

HAL Laboratory doesn’t shy away from the silliness, instead choosing to celebrate it, much to the delight of fans both young and old. An Understated Co-op Mode One area where the game falls short is its two-player co-op offering.

While players can team up, the second player controls Bandana Waddle Dee, whose abilities remain limited throughout.

The primary focus remains on Kirby, which means the second player is often dragged back to the pink hero’s side and is unable to interact with the environment as freely.

Although this streamlined approach ensures accessibility for younger or less experienced players, it misses an opportunity for more engaged shared play. Must-Play for Nintendo Switch Owners Kirby and the Forgotten Land marks an important evolution for the franchise and a standout release in the Nintendo Switch library.

Its blend of delightful design, approachable gameplay, and layered secrets makes it appealing for all ages and skill levels.

While co-op could have benefited from more depth, its overall charm, creativity, and polish make it an unmissable experience for platforming fans.

Whether you’re new to Kirby or a long-time follower, this Switch exclusive secures HAL Laboratory’s reputation for crafting joyful, innovative adventures.

Kirby Nintendo Switch Nintendo Kirby and the Forgotten Land Switch Marvel HAL Laboratory HAL Super Mario 3D World Bandana Waddle Dee Nintendo eShop