E3 2006: Kirby's Relapsed

Kirby: Canvas Curse is widely considered to be one of the best examples of how to utilize Nintendo's unique DS hardware. Unfortunately, the latest installment of the Kirby series, a new game simply entitled, Kirby, deviates from the familiar touch screen controls that most of us became adapt to during the Kirbster's last DS adventure. Indeed, Kirby's latest small screen foray turns back the clock, playing much more similar to Kirby's previous platforming romps on earlier Nintendo consoles. And while that may come across as disappointing news to some of the new Kirby adapters, longtime fans of the series will tell you that there's nothing wrong with a little old school Kirby action.

Like most side scrolling platform adventures, Kirby can walk, jump, fight, etc. The thing that makes Kirby different is his renowned sucking powers, along with a huge appetite to consume his enemies, and virtually everything else that lands in his path. Once Kirby swallows one of his foes, he can assimilate their abilities, and use their powers to assist him along his journey. During my brief playtime with the title, I witnessed some of the same power-ups featured in previous renditions of the series, along with some added additions that make good use of the touch screen.

Unlike previous titles in the franchise, this time around, Kirby can collect abilities, and mix and match them using the stylus and touch screen. There are numerous abilities to copy, ranging from Ninja, Sword, Ice, and Animal Kirby. Needless to say, there are many opportunities for Kirby to flex his muscles, and the ability to actually mix and match the different skills adds even more depth to an already solid base.

For those of you that have played Kirby's platforming titles prior to Canvas Curse, you more than know what to expect, it's the same old Kirby that we all know and love, no gimmicks. For those of you that are fairly new to the series, it's quite a deviation from Kirby's last adventure, but let us reiterate -- it's all good.