This reminds me a lot of Mario and Luigi Dream Team. The very same things people criticize about the game are the things that make it my personal favorite of the bunch lol.
The only thing I really know about this game is that the Pop Star song is absolutely incredible. Epic Yarn was the only Kirby game I'd beaten for a while, but after playing Forgotten Land and Planet Robobot, I'm really getting into this series. It's great to know that even the so called "mediocre" entries still have plenty of value as long as you're willing to find it. I'll definitely give this game a shot myself in the future, great video!
I was just playing this yesterday. The only thing I don't like is the backtracking with different powerups and slightly clunkier controls i especially love the soundtrack.
This is a game I replay every year, but doing that has made me agree with a lot of the criticism this game gets. Those negative aspects directly impact the replayability. The slow pace makes the game really boring when you've already seen all of it before, the experimentation doesn't matter anymore when you've used all of the different abilities countless times and seen that only like 5 of them are actually good, and the short game length is a problem when Dream Land 3 (the direct predecessor) was longer. Though I don't agree with the criticisms that compare this game to Super Star. That isn't really a fair comparison due to the game being directed by a different person that's made 2 other similar games with a different approach (they focus more on exploration and atmosphere rather than fast-paced gameplay) Overall, it's a fun game for a first playthrough but there isn't really a reason to go back to it once you've seen everything (but the same could also be said for the rest of the Dark Matter trilogy too)
Also, I saw Zero Two when I was 6 years old and I immediately fell in love with him, and am still in love with him to this day! His design is just so awesome. It's a bit creepy, but there's something I just love about it. I guess I'm the only one though.
This is such a great video. For the longest time I've been trying to explain to people whenever they play Kirby 64 to not focus on having the end in mind, like other games in the series, but to take it in, experiment, enjoy, and just have fun! I always remember the best part of this game was seeing what X and Y could do together, and enjoying the simple creativity of it all Kirby 64 is not about the destination, it's about the journey
This and Dream Land 3 are my favorites for all the points you mentioned. In the Kirby fandom, I generally hear the same criticisms of Dream Land 3--that it's too slow, not enough copy abilities (because that game also had a huge number of combinations through the partners), etc. But the amazing atmosphere and fun experimentation more than makes up for it. The combinations open up so many fun options for the gameplay, and 20+ years later, Kirby STILL has not attempted this incredibly fun *full* combo system again. Walking around the worlds, you can feel how much love and attention the director put into each level, treating it as its own unique space rather than reusing assets multiple times in the same world (or even across worlds which some of the more generic Kirby titles do). It truly turns a game into a journey and adventure. I've replayed this game quite a few times with a rule I have to have one base ability (like bomb) at all times but can add anything else onto it (swapping out once I reach another bomb enemy for ex) and it really keeps the game feeling fresh as I play it again and again. It also makes the Miracle Matter boss fight, while long, very interesting and challenging as you're forced to use all the combinations. This is a very long way of saying... I agree! And thanks for shining a well deserved spotlight onto this gem of a game! ^_^
My partial colorblindness (combined with a lack of internet access or guide book during my childhood) made this the hardest Kirby game for me to 100% complete. Because of that, I repeatedly played through levels more times than I have in any other game in the franchise. Still, it was such a memorable experience and I'm glad it took me an embarrassingly long time to finish it. Great review! BTW did you make that boss battle remix at the end? That was awesome!
Kirby 64 is still my favorite after all these years. Forgotten Land gave it a good run for its money, but I'll still prefer combining power-up any day. It's just too fun and I wish they would bring that mechanic back.
This game was my whole childhood. I can completely agree with you on the best music though. I returned to that level sooo much because I knew there were so many different abilities to get there so I could go get the shards I missed. Great video!
One of the things I really appreciate about this game now that maybe I didn't notice as much as a kid is the sense of companionship and friendship that exists among the characters. I love the cutscenes that play in-between each world in the game that show "snapshots" of the time that Kirby, Ribbon, Waddle Dee, Adeleine, and King Dedede spend toegther. It's very charming and adds a sense of... I guess realism in that it's not just you speeding through various unrelated levels in some video game but like there's an actual adventure that the characters are going on. tl;dr it feels like the characters are actually friends, unlike in Star Allies where you force people to be your "friends" just so you can quite literally use them to destroy walls and obstacles... Also multiplayer in this game is a great time and I can play as Adeleine
64 was my first Kirby game, so I probably have a lot of bias towards it, but even after playing a lot of the other Kirby games, I still consider it my personal favorite. With SSU and RtD not too far behind it. Besides the power combinations, music and level design, I've always liked how the story was presented. It's nothing massively deep or complex, but the fact that there's no dialogue and the way the characters just emote to each other and having their actions and movements timed with the music gave the game a very innocent and childlike vibe that I really appreciate. Also love all the scenes with the crew just chilling or reacting to the environment. And there was just something so satisfying with the entire final sequence of the game. Kirby and Ribbon teaming up to take down the big scary final boss as well as the ending itself always hold a special place in my heart. And I never really minded the length of the game. Sometimes less is more and the game was wonderfully paced. And I would argue there is some level of exploration and complexity to the levels as some shards are tucked away in little corners you have to scout out. Not in the same way as say, The Great Cave Offensive, although that is an extreme example of that sort of thing. Overall yeah, I really do think this game is overlooked and a lot of people complain about what the game doesn't have instead of looking at what it does have.
Everyone I knew loved this game growing up, we had a video store with game rentals so a lot of local kids had played similar games BC we had all rented them from the same video store (the only one in our small town), the general consensus was that the ability to mix abilities made the game more fun BC you could mess around and do different starts or mess around with different abilities
Great analysis as usual! I think you nailed why Kirby 64 always felt like an outlier to me as a kid -- the 2.5D perspective, slower pace, and the mix of happy and creepy vibes was off the beaten path compared to Mario and Zelda. Not sure if you're into Paper Mario but I feel like if you ever did a video on the series, it would be absolutely phenomenal. (Also, Milky from Bomberman Hero in the background? Yes! 🤩♥️)
Dreamland 3 is my favorite of the old Kirby games for its length and the Animal Friends providing variety in the gameplay, plus the many varied puzzles. But the slower pace of Kirby 64 lets you take in the ambiance of the levels and experimenting with the combination abilities is always a treat. Plus a fantastic soundtrack (though I think every Kirby game OST has been a banger). Certainly, the middling reviews were a product of the game’s time period and what came before. I think this game should get remade into a fully open world 3D game. For lore and experimentation purposes.
I just finished this game. I love your enthusiasm about it, especially on defending it with reasonable arguments. This said: yea, good memories can really influence a lot. This is why I am very biased towards to titles like Nightmare in Dreamland or Canvas Curse (that most people thought it was great but not as over-appreciated as a, idk, Superstar). I kinda had a hard time and mostly frustration to get all the crystal shards and without guides to rely for getting the real ending. I get the experimentation part and while I agree with some crystal shards felt like that, the backtracking to get the right ability was tedious and, god, some were really cryptic to guess. One thing we can all agree with is how luckluster the multiplayer aspect was. Those 3 minigames were really almost just there...and with friends the fun would end together after maximum 10 minutes of playing 'em. Objectively still: this is a good Kirby game. Much better for me than Mass Attack (the only Kirby game I could dare to say I...hate it, but at the same time disagreeing with myself, reminding of the creativity, some level designs and awesomeness of those sub-games). There's no real bad Kirby game still tbh.
Had to subscribe just from how you present yourself. Love it Edit: completely agree Kirby 64 is amazing it was my first game that had a "bad" ending Left kid me feeling confused and bad, not knowing why things turned out the way they did. Which lead me to me completing the game years later cause I did not know how to break a bone later in the game, and in fact it was that single crystal shard that kept me from getting another ending. Years later when the internet was more of ease of access for everyone I found out how and beat it. LOVE THE SONGS ESPECIALLY QUIET FOREST.
I played Kirby 64 on the Dream Collection CD and I really loved the the slow paced nature. I felt so calm playing the game and the environments and outstanding music sure did help that. I also felt a lot of emotion because of the environment and music. I het to cozy vibes like I do playing the Animal Crossing games! I could go on and on but it’s definitely a great game to play. Definitely a game to play if you’re looking for something more laid back!
I was too young to think to myself "oh, Zelda and mario are 3d so why isn't this". I didn't play this as much as those, but still really enjoyed it. The atmosphere is a huge draw as you pointed out. And that multiplayer game with the falling platforms we played endlessly
Damn do you make videos just for me? I need anime recs because it sure seems we have the exact same tastes. I have so so so many fond memories of play the first 3 levels over and over again at every hotel that had an n64 in the room. Just legendary.
This was my first Kirby. I think that at least the combination of habilities is one of the greatest ideas, and they never get that back. And I don't understand why
Part of the reason he feels like he moves slower is that the camera is further away or has a much wider field-of-view (FOV) than in Super Star. Kirby is drawn at about the same size in Dream Land 3, but the edges of the screen feel much more restrictive than in Crystal Shards.
"Don't play it on Switch unless it's your only option." *_Here I am being glad I have both a laptop with Project64 and an Android phone with an N64 emulator downloaded from Google Play_*
1 thing i shoud say this game is made in N64 and somehow managed to insert itself with that colorful and "Art-y" or artistic Artstyle while all of gaming then were so foccussed to achive such a realism and i should say that this and Zelda:The wind waker can be timeless because they are using that kind of art style
personally i love that kirby 64 is generally pretty easy and short. I recently started it and its my first kirby game. i love the old 3d graphics, the characters, the soundtrack and level designs, etc. I love that its short and easy. Ive always had trouble finishing video games (its been 2 years since i started kingdom hearts 2 and i still havent finished it), so kirby 64 feels perfect for me. I dont need to put hours into a game just to make some progress. Its nice and comforting to play, its not too hard or frustrating. Im a pretty casual gamer so kirby 64 feels perfect for me.
This be my fav kirby game. Like it more than most platformers because the pacing doesn't feel breakneck. Lotsa platforming games wanna be speedy, very few seem to take their time, and goodness the lore from this game alone and it's implications has been cited every time I've seen a kirby lore vid. (not just the obligatory shiver star is earth reference.)
I rented this game back in the day but I don't remember much about it outside of the autumn level/music. It wouldn't be until it was released for the Wii Vc that I actually got to finish it and I have to say I have mixed feelings about this game. A lot of the ability combos,not only good amount of them situational,it also felt as if they were made for laughs rather than being something useful,like the bomb and lightbulb snowman,ice skating,dynamite,shape-shifting rock/cutter ability etc. While I do think this game still looks great,infact I think one of the top 5 best looking n64 games,the graphics and art direction isn't a valid reason to slow down the pace. I don't mind that the game is short,like you I think it works well for the game. The bosses were pretty good,I really enjoyed the final boss,music is great as well. The multiplayer on the other hand,I think they should've done there own thing rather than trying to copy Mario party,not sure what else they could've done but it doesn't really do much for the game. Anyways,this was a nice video.
I loved this game so much on my first (and so far only) playthrough that I went back to get every enemy info card (playing it on switch (my only available option) has permanently made me want to use A as the jump button)
This game was so magical to play through the first time! I love the cutscenes, the music, the power combos and the scenery. I didn’t want it to end so quickly! Playing it again years later, I did find the controls a little clunky, but it doesn’t bother me too much. This game just feels so wholesome and comforting. I haven’t played a lot of Kirby so I can’t fully judge but this is my favorite so far. The backgrounds remind me of dioramas for school projects in the best way. So pretty!
I grew up with Kirby 64 as my first Kirby game, and I thought it was about a 7/10 even as a kid. The atmosphere and music are great, and I like combining copy abilities as a concept, but the way it was executed was a bit bland. It was fun to try all the combinations for the first time, but only a few were that fun or effective, so I totally agree with the criticism of lack of replay value. I didn't even really get into the kirby series until much, much later after picking up the original on Game Boy 20 years later. The hard mode on that game is so fun.
It was the first Kirby game I played beginning to end. I played it on emulator and with some visual bugs, but I loved it anyways, it's still my second favourite Kirby game so far
I didn’t know there was less that stellar opinions on this game. I feel like I’ve only ever heard good things about this game. At least that’s all I can remember.
Agree with you but now I hate that I am suddenly aware that Kirby 64 was not as well liked as I thought it was lol. Its one of those N64 games that will never feel outdated to me.
I started playing this game for the first time about two weeks ago, have yet to finish it, and it seemed like a pretty good game so I had no idea it was considered mediocre. Mind you this is the first time I'm playing a Kirby game despite being aware of the series existence for like two decades, it just never occurred to me to give it a try.
Kirby Wiki admin here. Great video! Kirby 64 was a childhood favorite of mine--the ability mixing and the moving camera made it a real treat growing up. I prefer KDL3 now, but I'll never forget the good memories! You're right, the game is underappreciated in modern times, but you perfectly outlined its strengths. And that Star Allies slam... top-notch! Keep up the excellent content. My only correction is that Kirby 64 wasn't re-rated T on Switch. The Teen rating was given to the NSO N64 service as a whole because of other games on it, like Sin & Punishment and WIN BACK: COVERT OPERATIONS. Kirby 64 was re-rated E10+ when Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition released on Wii in 2012. I suspect the fact that the blood and darker moments were confined to a brief section spared it the T rating.
Ah, Kirby 64 was my first Kirby game too. Though I rented it at Blockbuster rather than buying it (several times in fact). I remember really liking it and I'm also a bit surprised it actually isn't that popular with the fanbase tbh
It's not my favorite in the, but I have very fond memories of Kirby 64. It and DL3 actually have a different director than other early Kirby games, which is a big part of the distinct style they share.
i'm fairly new to back to the kirby fandom, with forgotten lands being the first game in the series i've played since epic yarn back in the day. and something that's just funny to me is that so many people in the fandom, at least in the art section, seem to love adeline and ribbon to this day. just hearing that people love the characters but hate the game is bizarre to me. it's cute, weird, janky, and imprefect. what a cool game
First Kirby game I’ve ever played similarly after seeing him in smash 64 I’m like who the f is this then instantly fell in love with the ability combination mechanic
the experimentation point is definitely interesting, although i do believe they shouldve structured the game in a way that naturally encourages you to do that, instead of just having secrets you couldnt solve the first time through. hard agree on the point about the atmosphere tho, this game absolutely nails that, the soundtrack and the 3d environments really add to that. almost every stage in this game is super memorable and has a super strong atmosphere, whereas in other kirby games thats only the case for a few stand out stages (like sky tower in rtdl for example)
That’s exactly how I felt about Pokémon Moon when I played through the game I thought it was great but people had said it was the beginning of the fall of Pokémon games .
My first exposure to Kirby 64, as well as the original and the rest of the Dark Matter Trilogy was with the 20th anniversary Kirby Dream Collection. I initially got into Kirby with Super Star Ultra on the DS, and I played the hell out of that, but I never seemed to stick with Dream Land 3 or Kirby 64 all the way to completion when I gave them a try. That said, I've always had a soft spot for it, even if I couldn't really focus on it long enough to beat it myself - the music is incredible, and I love the diverse cast. I replayed Dream Land 3 with a friend on NSO a while back, and we didn't quite 100% it but it was a lot more fun that way. I think I'll probably revisit Kirby 64 in a similar manner as well, at some point. Part of me wants to say I feel like the Dark Matter Trilogy in general is overdue for a remake, especially since we haven't had a mainline Kirby remake since Super Star Ultra, but there's definitely still a lot to love about the original, I think, even if gameplay wise it didn't click with me super well initially. Good video! I'm always a fan of people talking about why they love games they love.
"in defense of..." What? The game was amazing. What's there to defend? Even the multiplayer mini games were okay. The soundtrack was phenomenal. As a first 3D Kirby title, the game was a masterpiece
Kirby 64 is by far the best game in that series and is easily one of the best video games ever made. Idk what's wrong with people, lol. It's even helped inspire an entire genre of music (future bass). Also, lmao at Kirby 64 being easy? It's by far the hardest game in the series... And, I'm not gonna lie, I don't even think Dream Land 3 or Superstar are good games. They are the ones I'd call slow and clunky, not the masterpiece that is Kirby 64. Without 64, I'm not even sure I'd care about Kirby at all.
As someone who played and 100% completed this game three times on the Wii U, I absolutely loved 64 for being an amazing experience that still lives on in my memories for being a charming experience first and foremost. Sure, the game may be short and easy, but I didn't mind those aspects as I enjoyed it from start to finish. The gameplay, graphics and music are absolutely amazing and I will proudly stand by my thoughts and even more so to those who were very critical of it. Also, Adeleine, Ribbon and the Fairy Queen are precious girls that need to be protected. XD
Kirby was never supposed to be a flagship Nintendo IP but then Sakurai went and struck gold with Smash Bros. And elevated himself to G status. Kirby would never get cast aside like some other Nintendo ips cuz he was always a star of the handhelds but I think Crystal shards was probably hastily reworked from a snes game
I remember when my sister, on her iPhone, finally managed to install an Android emulator, which meant she could finally install old console emulators. For the N64 emulator, she first tried Kirby 64, and I could tell she was having a lot of fun with it. It was probably her first Kirby game too, actually!
Crystal Shards was actually my second experience with a Kirby game. My first being Super Star Ultra. I have never actually played Crystal Shards though. I just remember it very fondly for its twists and lore. The bad ending and Zero 2 genuinely felt so unique to me at the time. Combining that with the fact that Superstar was the first time experiencing the Meta Knight reveal, Marx, Meta Knightmare ultra and also combining that with the Kirby anime. I feel like I have fallen in love with Kirby for its plot and characters more than anything else. That's right... I said plot not lore. F you. Everything I said up to this point mostly counts towards plot. The word "Lore" is overused. That's all I have to say.
My first kirby game was Super Star and the speed of Crystal Shard never really bother me that much and I liked it because of the abilities mixes and the story, I also agree the athmosphere is one of the best. Tbh I dont really get it, why game always gotta be fast, always a complaint when a game engine is slow. You guys gotta stop having short attention span and enjoy life at his slowest...
I played Kirby 64 countless times before, I played it as a kid as well, but it’s honestly just a fact it’s not as good as the other Kirby games, not even close. You say experimentation is a big part of Kirby 64, and that is true and why I also still love it a lot, but what ruins it is the crystal shards “puzzles”. They don’t encourage you to experiment, they only force you to go back and be stuck with a certain ability for a certain amount of time to get the shard, that’s not experimentation, and it’s what mainly ruins the game for me. I also feel like the level design is very barren and is only saved by the ability mixing and atmosphere. Kirby 64’s ability mixing is cool, but it’s clear they never brought it back because it’s harder to design a tightly made game, like how the other Kirby games do, with something like the mixing, which is fun, but would require more time to create levels that really build upon the mechanics of the mixing.
My biggest gripe was the bosses. They were too easy and not very memorable baring Miracle Matter. Also Dedede was pointless as a playable character because all his signature moves were gone. All he was hammer Kirby with a huge hit box....
![[TH] 2024 PMSL SEA W1D5 | Summer | เก็บคะแนนสู่รอบไฟนอล สัปดาห์แรก](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/jSlV6eB1f9k/mqdefault.jpg)
I actually didn't know that a lot of people thought Kirby 64 was mediocre, I always thought it was the game that everyone loved.
Yeah I always assumed it was a beloved n64 game like the rest of them
It's one of my favorite 64 games!
THE GAME WAS SOOOO FUNNN
This comment haha it’s one of my favorite games of all time.
I wouldn't put it in my top 3 favorites, but it's definitely my top 5
The music in this game is at some shin megami tensei battle theme levels of going hard, no joke.
Most Kirby soundtracks are like that
I loved this game's atmosphere too. Easily the greatest strength it has.
This reminds me a lot of Mario and Luigi Dream Team. The very same things people criticize about the game are the things that make it my personal favorite of the bunch lol.
Sameee
@@iinfactdidnotsignupforthis7544 based
I loved dream team! Was a good game indeed
Do you mean the long tutorials. I can see some people not caring but I do so I like to hear your take on them.
The only thing I really know about this game is that the Pop Star song is absolutely incredible. Epic Yarn was the only Kirby game I'd beaten for a while, but after playing Forgotten Land and Planet Robobot, I'm really getting into this series. It's great to know that even the so called "mediocre" entries still have plenty of value as long as you're willing to find it. I'll definitely give this game a shot myself in the future, great video!
Anyway, someone just remixed the Pop Star music th-cam.com/video/Cg0E7p56Uv0/w-d-xo.html
This game’s whole soundtrack is gold!
I was just playing this yesterday. The only thing I don't like is the backtracking with different powerups and slightly clunkier controls i especially love the soundtrack.
This is a game I replay every year, but doing that has made me agree with a lot of the criticism this game gets. Those negative aspects directly impact the replayability. The slow pace makes the game really boring when you've already seen all of it before, the experimentation doesn't matter anymore when you've used all of the different abilities countless times and seen that only like 5 of them are actually good, and the short game length is a problem when Dream Land 3 (the direct predecessor) was longer. Though I don't agree with the criticisms that compare this game to Super Star. That isn't really a fair comparison due to the game being directed by a different person that's made 2 other similar games with a different approach (they focus more on exploration and atmosphere rather than fast-paced gameplay)
Overall, it's a fun game for a first playthrough but there isn't really a reason to go back to it once you've seen everything (but the same could also be said for the rest of the Dark Matter trilogy too)
omg, your pfp is a Kirby enemy
@@michaeldavis9190 Specifically from Kirby 64, even.
Also, I saw Zero Two when I was 6 years old and I immediately fell in love with him, and am still in love with him to this day! His design is just so awesome. It's a bit creepy, but there's something I just love about it. I guess I'm the only one though.
This is such a great video. For the longest time I've been trying to explain to people whenever they play Kirby 64 to not focus on having the end in mind, like other games in the series, but to take it in, experiment, enjoy, and just have fun! I always remember the best part of this game was seeing what X and Y could do together, and enjoying the simple creativity of it all
Kirby 64 is not about the destination, it's about the journey
I usually dont like easy games but this is still my favorite Kirby game. The atmosphere is incredible. Couldnt agree harder with all your points.
This and Dream Land 3 are my favorites for all the points you mentioned. In the Kirby fandom, I generally hear the same criticisms of Dream Land 3--that it's too slow, not enough copy abilities (because that game also had a huge number of combinations through the partners), etc.
But the amazing atmosphere and fun experimentation more than makes up for it. The combinations open up so many fun options for the gameplay, and 20+ years later, Kirby STILL has not attempted this incredibly fun *full* combo system again. Walking around the worlds, you can feel how much love and attention the director put into each level, treating it as its own unique space rather than reusing assets multiple times in the same world (or even across worlds which some of the more generic Kirby titles do). It truly turns a game into a journey and adventure.
I've replayed this game quite a few times with a rule I have to have one base ability (like bomb) at all times but can add anything else onto it (swapping out once I reach another bomb enemy for ex) and it really keeps the game feeling fresh as I play it again and again. It also makes the Miracle Matter boss fight, while long, very interesting and challenging as you're forced to use all the combinations.
This is a very long way of saying... I agree! And thanks for shining a well deserved spotlight onto this gem of a game! ^_^
i'm so glad i'm not the one absolutely OUTRAGED by the lukewarm feelings the internet seems to have for kirby 64
I love this game and i can see all the influence it has on forgotten land
My partial colorblindness (combined with a lack of internet access or guide book during my childhood) made this the hardest Kirby game for me to 100% complete. Because of that, I repeatedly played through levels more times than I have in any other game in the franchise. Still, it was such a memorable experience and I'm glad it took me an embarrassingly long time to finish it. Great review!
BTW did you make that boss battle remix at the end? That was awesome!
that intro at 0:17 is so perfect, you could honestly make that your intro going forward!
This video rises one of my issues with rating games, judging based on what they don't have rather than what they do have
Kirby 64 is still my favorite after all these years. Forgotten Land gave it a good run for its money, but I'll still prefer combining power-up any day. It's just too fun and I wish they would bring that mechanic back.
Same, since I played this when I was younger I thought the same and then being older now...
This game was my whole childhood. I can completely agree with you on the best music though. I returned to that level sooo much because I knew there were so many different abilities to get there so I could go get the shards I missed. Great video!
One of my GOAT games, the soundtrack alone is reason enough to stan this awesome game.
One of the things I really appreciate about this game now that maybe I didn't notice as much as a kid is the sense of companionship and friendship that exists among the characters.
I love the cutscenes that play in-between each world in the game that show "snapshots" of the time that Kirby, Ribbon, Waddle Dee, Adeleine, and King Dedede spend toegther.
It's very charming and adds a sense of... I guess realism in that it's not just you speeding through various unrelated levels in some video game but like there's an actual adventure that the characters are going on.
tl;dr it feels like the characters are actually friends, unlike in Star Allies where you force people to be your "friends" just so you can quite literally use them to destroy walls and obstacles...
Also multiplayer in this game is a great time and I can play as Adeleine
always thought this was a loved game. this is a top 5 kirby game for me by far. the OST is killer
My biggest love for crystal shards stems from the way kirby's full design changes with abilities rather than just wearing a hat.
64 was my first Kirby game, so I probably have a lot of bias towards it, but even after playing a lot of the other Kirby games, I still consider it my personal favorite. With SSU and RtD not too far behind it.
Besides the power combinations, music and level design, I've always liked how the story was presented. It's nothing massively deep or complex, but the fact that there's no dialogue and the way the characters just emote to each other and having their actions and movements timed with the music gave the game a very innocent and childlike vibe that I really appreciate. Also love all the scenes with the crew just chilling or reacting to the environment.
And there was just something so satisfying with the entire final sequence of the game. Kirby and Ribbon teaming up to take down the big scary final boss as well as the ending itself always hold a special place in my heart.
And I never really minded the length of the game. Sometimes less is more and the game was wonderfully paced. And I would argue there is some level of exploration and complexity to the levels as some shards are tucked away in little corners you have to scout out. Not in the same way as say, The Great Cave Offensive, although that is an extreme example of that sort of thing.
Overall yeah, I really do think this game is overlooked and a lot of people complain about what the game doesn't have instead of looking at what it does have.
Kirby 64 is 100% in my top 5 Kirby games. I never knew that this game was controversial before now.
Everyone I knew loved this game growing up, we had a video store with game rentals so a lot of local kids had played similar games BC we had all rented them from the same video store (the only one in our small town), the general consensus was that the ability to mix abilities made the game more fun BC you could mess around and do different starts or mess around with different abilities
Great analysis as usual! I think you nailed why Kirby 64 always felt like an outlier to me as a kid -- the 2.5D perspective, slower pace, and the mix of happy and creepy vibes was off the beaten path compared to Mario and Zelda. Not sure if you're into Paper Mario but I feel like if you ever did a video on the series, it would be absolutely phenomenal.
(Also, Milky from Bomberman Hero in the background? Yes! 🤩♥️)
Dreamland 3 is my favorite of the old Kirby games for its length and the Animal Friends providing variety in the gameplay, plus the many varied puzzles.
But the slower pace of Kirby 64 lets you take in the ambiance of the levels and experimenting with the combination abilities is always a treat. Plus a fantastic soundtrack (though I think every Kirby game OST has been a banger).
Certainly, the middling reviews were a product of the game’s time period and what came before.
I think this game should get remade into a fully open world 3D game. For lore and experimentation purposes.
I just finished this game. I love your enthusiasm about it, especially on defending it with reasonable arguments.
This said: yea, good memories can really influence a lot. This is why I am very biased towards to titles like Nightmare in Dreamland or Canvas Curse (that most people thought it was great but not as over-appreciated as a, idk, Superstar).
I kinda had a hard time and mostly frustration to get all the crystal shards and without guides to rely for getting the real ending. I get the experimentation part and while I agree with some crystal shards felt like that, the backtracking to get the right ability was tedious and, god, some were really cryptic to guess.
One thing we can all agree with is how luckluster the multiplayer aspect was. Those 3 minigames were really almost just there...and with friends the fun would end together after maximum 10 minutes of playing 'em.
Objectively still: this is a good Kirby game. Much better for me than Mass Attack (the only Kirby game I could dare to say I...hate it, but at the same time disagreeing with myself, reminding of the creativity, some level designs and awesomeness of those sub-games). There's no real bad Kirby game still tbh.
The ability combination mechanic was so cool and I think there is so much potential. I really hope they bring it back one day.
Had to subscribe just from how you present yourself. Love it
Edit: completely agree Kirby 64 is amazing it was my first game that had a "bad" ending
Left kid me feeling confused and bad, not knowing why things turned out the way they did. Which lead me to me completing the game years later cause I did not know how to break a bone later in the game, and in fact it was that single crystal shard that kept me from getting another ending. Years later when the internet was more of ease of access for everyone I found out how and beat it.
LOVE THE SONGS ESPECIALLY QUIET FOREST.
I played Kirby 64 on the Dream Collection CD and I really loved the the slow paced nature. I felt so calm playing the game and the environments and outstanding music sure did help that. I also felt a lot of emotion because of the environment and music. I het to cozy vibes like I do playing the Animal Crossing games! I could go on and on but it’s definitely a great game to play. Definitely a game to play if you’re looking for something more laid back!
I was too young to think to myself "oh, Zelda and mario are 3d so why isn't this". I didn't play this as much as those, but still really enjoyed it. The atmosphere is a huge draw as you pointed out. And that multiplayer game with the falling platforms we played endlessly
easily one of my favourite games. the 'rock star' theme is insane. It's unique for the dual copy ability but i wish they'd reimplement it
Damn do you make videos just for me? I need anime recs because it sure seems we have the exact same tastes. I have so so so many fond memories of play the first 3 levels over and over again at every hotel that had an n64 in the room. Just legendary.
Kirby 64 the cristal shards is a master piece
DAMN that intro was clean! Keep it up I love u bro
This was my first Kirby. I think that at least the combination of habilities is one of the greatest ideas, and they never get that back.
And I don't understand why
"The common consensus is that 'Kirby 64 is just too easy, slow, and short.'"
Have those people literally never played a Kirby game before?
My very first video game I’ve ever played as a toddler!
Part of the reason he feels like he moves slower is that the camera is further away or has a much wider field-of-view (FOV) than in Super Star. Kirby is drawn at about the same size in Dream Land 3, but the edges of the screen feel much more restrictive than in Crystal Shards.
"Don't play it on Switch unless it's your only option."
*_Here I am being glad I have both a laptop with Project64 and an Android phone with an N64 emulator downloaded from Google Play_*
1 thing i shoud say
this game is made in N64 and somehow managed to insert itself with that colorful and "Art-y" or artistic Artstyle while all of gaming then were so foccussed to achive such a realism
and i should say that this and Zelda:The wind waker can be timeless because they are using that kind of art style
personally i love that kirby 64 is generally pretty easy and short. I recently started it and its my first kirby game. i love the old 3d graphics, the characters, the soundtrack and level designs, etc. I love that its short and easy. Ive always had trouble finishing video games (its been 2 years since i started kingdom hearts 2 and i still havent finished it), so kirby 64 feels perfect for me. I dont need to put hours into a game just to make some progress. Its nice and comforting to play, its not too hard or frustrating. Im a pretty casual gamer so kirby 64 feels perfect for me.
This be my fav kirby game. Like it more than most platformers because the pacing doesn't feel breakneck. Lotsa platforming games wanna be speedy, very few seem to take their time, and goodness the lore from this game alone and it's implications has been cited every time I've seen a kirby lore vid. (not just the obligatory shiver star is earth reference.)
I rented this game back in the day but I don't remember much about it outside of the autumn level/music. It wouldn't be until it was released for the Wii Vc that I actually got to finish it and I have to say I have mixed feelings about this game. A lot of the ability combos,not only good amount of them situational,it also felt as if they were made for laughs rather than being something useful,like the bomb and lightbulb snowman,ice skating,dynamite,shape-shifting rock/cutter ability etc. While I do think this game still looks great,infact I think one of the top 5 best looking n64 games,the graphics and art direction isn't a valid reason to slow down the pace. I don't mind that the game is short,like you I think it works well for the game. The bosses were pretty good,I really enjoyed the final boss,music is great as well. The multiplayer on the other hand,I think they should've done there own thing rather than trying to copy Mario party,not sure what else they could've done but it doesn't really do much for the game. Anyways,this was a nice video.
I loved this game so much on my first (and so far only) playthrough that I went back to get every enemy info card (playing it on switch (my only available option) has permanently made me want to use A as the jump button)
This game was so magical to play through the first time! I love the cutscenes, the music, the power combos and the scenery. I didn’t want it to end so quickly! Playing it again years later, I did find the controls a little clunky, but it doesn’t bother me too much. This game just feels so wholesome and comforting. I haven’t played a lot of Kirby so I can’t fully judge but this is my favorite so far. The backgrounds remind me of dioramas for school projects in the best way. So pretty!
I remember first playing this game because it was in the Kirby 25th anniversary Wii game. One of my all time faves. No Kirby game can come close.
man ,i havent played this game since 2002, i was 7. I need to play it again to unlock some good old memories.
I grew up with Kirby 64 as my first Kirby game, and I thought it was about a 7/10 even as a kid. The atmosphere and music are great, and I like combining copy abilities as a concept, but the way it was executed was a bit bland. It was fun to try all the combinations for the first time, but only a few were that fun or effective, so I totally agree with the criticism of lack of replay value.
I didn't even really get into the kirby series until much, much later after picking up the original on Game Boy 20 years later. The hard mode on that game is so fun.
It was the first Kirby game I played beginning to end. I played it on emulator and with some visual bugs, but I loved it anyways, it's still my second favourite Kirby game so far
I used to love playing this every birthday back when hotels had Nintendo 64s and you’d rent games like renting movies.
I played Crystal Shards as a kid, and I loved it. (It's the only Kirby game I've ever played)
I didn’t know there was less that stellar opinions on this game. I feel like I’ve only ever heard good things about this game. At least that’s all I can remember.
Agree with you but now I hate that I am suddenly aware that Kirby 64 was not as well liked as I thought it was lol. Its one of those N64 games that will never feel outdated to me.
I started playing this game for the first time about two weeks ago, have yet to finish it, and it seemed like a pretty good game so I had no idea it was considered mediocre. Mind you this is the first time I'm playing a Kirby game despite being aware of the series existence for like two decades, it just never occurred to me to give it a try.
Kirby Wiki admin here. Great video! Kirby 64 was a childhood favorite of mine--the ability mixing and the moving camera made it a real treat growing up. I prefer KDL3 now, but I'll never forget the good memories! You're right, the game is underappreciated in modern times, but you perfectly outlined its strengths. And that Star Allies slam... top-notch! Keep up the excellent content.
My only correction is that Kirby 64 wasn't re-rated T on Switch. The Teen rating was given to the NSO N64 service as a whole because of other games on it, like Sin & Punishment and WIN BACK: COVERT OPERATIONS. Kirby 64 was re-rated E10+ when Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition released on Wii in 2012. I suspect the fact that the blood and darker moments were confined to a brief section spared it the T rating.
Can we talk about the fact that Adeleine hasn’t appeared even in single Kirby game until Star Allies for 18 years
Ah, Kirby 64 was my first Kirby game too. Though I rented it at Blockbuster rather than buying it (several times in fact). I remember really liking it and I'm also a bit surprised it actually isn't that popular with the fanbase tbh
It's not my favorite in the, but I have very fond memories of Kirby 64.
It and DL3 actually have a different director than other early Kirby games, which is a big part of the distinct style they share.
i'm fairly new to back to the kirby fandom, with forgotten lands being the first game in the series i've played since epic yarn back in the day. and something that's just funny to me is that so many people in the fandom, at least in the art section, seem to love adeline and ribbon to this day. just hearing that people love the characters but hate the game is bizarre to me. it's cute, weird, janky, and imprefect. what a cool game
I'm surprised you knew who Captain Falcon was before Smash Bros.
First Kirby game I’ve ever played similarly after seeing him in smash 64 I’m like who the f is this then instantly fell in love with the ability combination mechanic
Kirby 64 is one of my favorite Kirby games of all time.
the experimentation point is definitely interesting, although i do believe they shouldve structured the game in a way that naturally encourages you to do that, instead of just having secrets you couldnt solve the first time through.
hard agree on the point about the atmosphere tho, this game absolutely nails that, the soundtrack and the 3d environments really add to that. almost every stage in this game is super memorable and has a super strong atmosphere, whereas in other kirby games thats only the case for a few stand out stages (like sky tower in rtdl for example)
That’s exactly how I felt about Pokémon Moon when I played through the game I thought it was great but people had said it was the beginning of the fall of Pokémon games .
I will agree with you insofar that slower, more atmospheric games tend to be overlooked more in the modern gaming climate.
My first exposure to Kirby 64, as well as the original and the rest of the Dark Matter Trilogy was with the 20th anniversary Kirby Dream Collection. I initially got into Kirby with Super Star Ultra on the DS, and I played the hell out of that, but I never seemed to stick with Dream Land 3 or Kirby 64 all the way to completion when I gave them a try. That said, I've always had a soft spot for it, even if I couldn't really focus on it long enough to beat it myself - the music is incredible, and I love the diverse cast. I replayed Dream Land 3 with a friend on NSO a while back, and we didn't quite 100% it but it was a lot more fun that way. I think I'll probably revisit Kirby 64 in a similar manner as well, at some point. Part of me wants to say I feel like the Dark Matter Trilogy in general is overdue for a remake, especially since we haven't had a mainline Kirby remake since Super Star Ultra, but there's definitely still a lot to love about the original, I think, even if gameplay wise it didn't click with me super well initially. Good video! I'm always a fan of people talking about why they love games they love.
This is one of my favorite Kirby games wtf
I love Kirby 64 and I popped off when I saw it was being brought back 😄
Kirby 64 was my introduction to the franchise and set my expectations for the other games.
"in defense of..."
What? The game was amazing. What's there to defend? Even the multiplayer mini games were okay.
The soundtrack was phenomenal.
As a first 3D Kirby title, the game was a masterpiece
I love playing this game on the collection released for kirbys 20th anniversary dream collection on the wii
Kirby 64 was my first Kirby game, I still love it, even if I love the others
Ngl, if a modern rerelease sped up kirby, nothing would be lost because it would end up in widescreen.
This game was my favorite game ever Crystal Shards had me as a kid making drawings like a maniac of Kirby and the shards everywhere in my school books
this is honestly one of my favorite kirby games. the other being super star ultra
I love this game
77 isn’t bad at all, that’s good and solid bro lmao
Kirby 64 is by far the best game in that series and is easily one of the best video games ever made. Idk what's wrong with people, lol. It's even helped inspire an entire genre of music (future bass). Also, lmao at Kirby 64 being easy? It's by far the hardest game in the series...
And, I'm not gonna lie, I don't even think Dream Land 3 or Superstar are good games. They are the ones I'd call slow and clunky, not the masterpiece that is Kirby 64. Without 64, I'm not even sure I'd care about Kirby at all.
As someone who played and 100% completed this game three times on the Wii U, I absolutely loved 64 for being an amazing experience that still lives on in my memories for being a charming experience first and foremost. Sure, the game may be short and easy, but I didn't mind those aspects as I enjoyed it from start to finish. The gameplay, graphics and music are absolutely amazing and I will proudly stand by my thoughts and even more so to those who were very critical of it.
Also, Adeleine, Ribbon and the Fairy Queen are precious girls that need to be protected. XD
Kirby was never supposed to be a flagship Nintendo IP but then Sakurai went and struck gold with Smash Bros. And elevated himself to G status. Kirby would never get cast aside like some other Nintendo ips cuz he was always a star of the handhelds but I think Crystal shards was probably hastily reworked from a snes game
*Rated E10+, Blood and Violence*
*planet Popstar plays*
I remember when my sister, on her iPhone, finally managed to install an Android emulator, which meant she could finally install old console emulators. For the N64 emulator, she first tried Kirby 64, and I could tell she was having a lot of fun with it. It was probably her first Kirby game too, actually!
Crystal Shards was actually my second experience with a Kirby game. My first being Super Star Ultra. I have never actually played Crystal Shards though. I just remember it very fondly for its twists and lore. The bad ending and Zero 2 genuinely felt so unique to me at the time. Combining that with the fact that Superstar was the first time experiencing the Meta Knight reveal, Marx, Meta Knightmare ultra and also combining that with the Kirby anime. I feel like I have fallen in love with Kirby for its plot and characters more than anything else. That's right... I said plot not lore. F you. Everything I said up to this point mostly counts towards plot. The word "Lore" is overused. That's all I have to say.
THANK YOU for defending this game. It has been my childhood favorite and still my favorite even into adulthood. It’s just a great game. ❤
One singular complaint is you using the fandom wiki.
But from what I remember having a good time
man, I gotta go back and finish this game
I literally just finished this game this scared me tf out
My first kirby game was Super Star and the speed of Crystal Shard never really bother me that much and I liked it because of the abilities mixes and the story, I also agree the athmosphere is one of the best. Tbh I dont really get it, why game always gotta be fast, always a complaint when a game engine is slow. You guys gotta stop having short attention span and enjoy life at his slowest...
I played Kirby 64 countless times before, I played it as a kid as well, but it’s honestly just a fact it’s not as good as the other Kirby games, not even close. You say experimentation is a big part of Kirby 64, and that is true and why I also still love it a lot, but what ruins it is the crystal shards “puzzles”. They don’t encourage you to experiment, they only force you to go back and be stuck with a certain ability for a certain amount of time to get the shard, that’s not experimentation, and it’s what mainly ruins the game for me. I also feel like the level design is very barren and is only saved by the ability mixing and atmosphere. Kirby 64’s ability mixing is cool, but it’s clear they never brought it back because it’s harder to design a tightly made game, like how the other Kirby games do, with something like the mixing, which is fun, but would require more time to create levels that really build upon the mechanics of the mixing.
Yeah, the factory level was especially memorable for me. Wow, it's literally over 20 years old...
For what ever reason, the game is ridiculously expensive in Europe. It is such a shame, since i really want a copy of the game
The only thing they should bring back is the limited puffing ability
I love this game love it's great the power mix was great one of the best ones ever
Star Allies is an underrated game, I love star Allies.
The fact that 7.5 is seen as a "bad score" shows how much the school grading system has screwed up our brains.
My biggest gripe was the bosses. They were too easy and not very memorable baring Miracle Matter.
Also Dedede was pointless as a playable character because all his signature moves were gone. All he was hammer Kirby with a huge hit box....
reserving my first comment and am gonna watch this later