The Days of a Reoccurring Kirby Antagonist Are Likely Over
The Kirby series has kept a consistent position at Nintendo. The series is not nearly as popular as Super Mario, Pokemon, or The Legend of Zelda, which are ubiquitous in pop culture. However, it is in a much stronger position than most Nintendo series. Kirby does not suffer from frequent hiatuses like Metroid, does not rely as heavily on nostalgia as Star Fox, went international without the need of a crossover like Fire Emblem had, and its legion of fans do not beg Nintendo for new games like those who love F-Zero. Kirby has gotten a mostly consistent release schedule and an even more consistent streak of quality.
What makes Kirby games famously consistent is their willingness to experiment with the core aspects of the series’ identity without sacrificing what makes its games so charming. While Kirby started off with a straightforward cast, the series introduced more nuance in the depiction of its characters, which is a surprising feat considering Kirby’s reputation as one of the most simplistic Nintendo series. This is especially the case with how Kirby treats its antagonists.
Kirby Celebrates 30th Anniversary With Huge Plush Toy
Nintendo is home to some of the most famous rivalries in gaming. Mario has Bowser, and Link has Ganon. In a less famous but still iconic context, Samus has Ridley. Similarly, Kirby’s role usually pits him against King Dedede, which is the Kirby series' answer to the likes of these other villains.
King Dedede is decidedly less “evil” than his fellow villains, befitting Kirby’s lighter tone. While Ridley killed Samus’ parents, King Dedede’s most notable crimes are his penchant for stealing food — particularly pastries that Kirby has his eye on — and being in denial about the power he actually holds
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