as much as this game has its flaws, i do really appreciate everything it goes for. i absolutely love the crayon-esque art style and i wish more games would go for that these days. the heart-star mechanic is fun too, putting a little emotional weight into a fairly standard collectible. i like helping little guys!! (and also samus aran. i guess) dark matter and zero are two of my favourite characters in the franchise, and i love the tonal shift that comes with their inclusion (one of the only kirby characters that's allowed to bleed). the animal friends are a lovely addition too, and i had a blast trying out all the different copy abilities with each of them (kine my beloved<3).

on the other hand, some of the level design can get repetitive at times, especially when it comes to the theming. they could have done more to make each feel unique: i remember them more for the sidequests than anything. alas, i didn't come to a kirby game expecting a super deep experience. the last thing i'll say is that the movement can be a little awkward at times. nothing major, but i find it difficult sometimes to drop through platforms and such.

overall though i loved this game from start to finish. such is the beginning of a new kirby hyperfixation (it's over for me).