Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards takes the classic side‐scrolling formula into a fully polygonal world, offering a fresh perspective on Kirby’s trademark platforming. Unlike some contemporaries, the game unfolds along a single, well‐defined path, allowing players to focus on mastering each level without getting lost in branching routes. This design choice keeps the action tight and straightforward, ensuring a steady sense of progression as new mechanics unlock.

At the heart of the gameplay lies Kirby’s Copy Ability system, which returns in full force. Swallowing enemies to absorb their powers is as satisfying as ever, but Kirby 64 raises the bar by introducing dual‐ability combinations. Pairing moves like Fire + Bomb or Ice + Spark transforms Kirby into imaginative states—from a fiery cannon to a fridge spitting out food—each combo delivering unique attacks and movement options. Experimentation is strongly encouraged, as mixing and matching leads to unexpected and delightful results.

Level design complements Kirby’s powers with a clever blend of platforming and puzzle‐solving. Secret areas are tucked behind breakable walls or hidden underwater passages, rewarding players who explore every nook. Collectible crystal shards are scattered throughout each stage, and finding them all is essential to unlocking the true ending. This optional challenge adds considerable replay value, inviting completionists to return and test their mastery of Kirby’s growing arsenal.

Graphics

For a Nintendo 64 title, Kirby 64 strikes a charming balance between simplicity and color. The polygonal models are crisp, with Kirby’s round silhouette and expressive animations standing out against vibrant backdrops. Each world—whether you’re hopping through rock caverns or gliding over water—boasts a distinct palette that complements Kirby’s pastel tones without clashing or muddying the screen.

The environments brim with subtle details: shifting light beams in Ripple Star, shimmering waterfalls in Water Star, and metallic glints in Rock Star. While the N64’s hardware places limits on texture resolution, HAL Laboratory’s art direction more than makes up for it with bold shapes and solid color fields. Frame rate dips are rare, maintaining smooth scrolling and responsive controls even when multiple enemies and effects fill the screen.

Enemy and boss designs draw on Kirby’s whimsical ethos, blending cuteness with just enough menace to feel like real threats. Dark Matter’s minions sport angular edges and darker hues, standing in contrast to the soft, rounded forms of friendly characters. Overall, the graphics hold up remarkably well, offering a timeless visual charm that still appeals decades after release.

Story

Kirby 64 opens with a dramatic invasion: the nefarious Dark Matter attacks Ribbon’s homeland, shattering a powerful crystal into scattered shards. This inciting incident sets a clear and urgent goal—collect all the crystal pieces before Dark Matter regathers them for his own sinister ends. The narrative ticks along briskly, using brief cutscenes to introduce new allies and foes without overstaying its welcome.

Ribbon serves as both guide and companion, adding personality and a sense of companionship to the quest. As Kirby rescues his friends—often turned into adversaries by Dark Matter’s influence—each reunion feels gratifying. These moments heighten the stakes, reminding players that more than just crystals are at risk; the very souls of Kirby’s friends hang in the balance.

While the plot remains simple, it’s infused with Kirby’s trademark whimsy and lighthearted dialogue. The colorful cast, from brash rock creatures to jovial water sprites, lends charm and variety to each stage. The story culminates on Ripple Star, Ribbon’s home planet, where the final confrontation with Dark Matter provides a satisfying payoff complete with memorable boss design and triumphant music.

Overall Experience

Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards delivers a polished, approachable platformer with hidden layers of depth for those willing to explore its every corner. Its blend of straightforward level progression and inventive ability‐combining encourages both casual play and deeper experimentation. Young players will appreciate the clear objectives and forgiving difficulty curve, while veteran gamers can aim for 100% shard collection to unlock the full ending.

The game’s audiovisual presentation and playful tone make it a standout on the N64 library. Though it lacks branching paths, the singular route ensures each sequence feels carefully crafted and tight, eliminating filler real estate. Kirby’s traversal—floating, sliding, and morphing—remains endlessly joyful, a testament to HAL Laboratory’s knack for designing fun, simple mechanics with broad appeal.

In sum, Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards remains a shining example of how to evolve a beloved franchise in new dimensions without losing its essence. Whether you’re revisiting a childhood favorite or discovering it for the first time, this adventure offers a delightful blend of platforming thrills, creative power‐ups, and heartwarming story moments that stand the test of time.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10