Is it fair to call Kirby’s Return to Dreamland a classic already? I mean, it’s almost 10 years old as it was first released way back in 2011. Still, it’s fair if some of you believe that this length of time is not long enough to establish something as a classic. But, in my mind it definitely is.
Not only that, but it often gets overshadowed by Kirby’s Epic Yarn. For the record, both these games were released for the Wii. I personally don’t understand why this entry gets so much praise as I thought it was good, but nothing great. Meanwhile, Return to Dreamland is arguably my favorite game from the storied franchise (though other entries are close).
It truly feels like a return to Dreamland and lives up to its moniker quite well. Yet, what makes the game so great? I will attempt to sum it up in just a few paragraphs so you can get back to more important matters.
Classic Gameplay
I will be the first to admit that the Kirby series needs a change. However, at the time of this game’s release, it had been a minute since the world enjoyed the classic gameplay provided by the pink furball. This entry feels like a celebration of what made the original classics so compelling. You just run from side-to-side as Kirby with amazing copy abilities destroying everything in your path.
But, in this entry, neat secrets were added and some epic boss fights were added (just take a look at the true final boss). Side mini-games (the series has been known for this) were also included to mix things up from the main story mode.
The Soundtrack
If there’s something that most Kirby fans can agree on, it’s that the soundtracks are always amazing. In Return to Dreamland though, the score was as good as it ever gets in gaming. Indeed, it’s that darn good. From the catchy opening to the ominous caves to the utterly breathtaking final boss music, it doesn’t get much better than this (unless your name is David Wise).
Somewhat Difficult in Parts
No, this game is not that difficult. However, for a series that often gets maligned for being way too easy, this entry is at least somewhat hard in certain spots. Full completion of the game, for instance, can be a little tricky. True Arena is also ridiculous (granted you don’t use Tornado), but that isn’t part of the main story mode.
Actually Good Co-Op
So many games don’t do co-op gameplay well. For those who have tried, that is not the case with this game. Up to four players can play at any given time and while the game gets easier this way, it does provide all-out fun for all involved. Kirby has become the master of this over the years, but this may be the most refined.
I am convinced now, this game is a classic. It’s one of the better games on the Wii platform, so pick it up if you haven’t yet. If you can find someone else to play with you, it will be even better.