Kirby’s Epic Yarn [Available only on Wii]
ESRB Rating: E
Players: 1-2
Genre: Platformer
Publisher: Nintendo
Developer: Good Feel
Release Date: October 17th, 2010

Parent Talk: This is an ideal kids game.   Not only is it incredibly vibrant and adorable, it plays like a storybook.  Kirby’s Epic Yarn is colorful and cute, while also simple and fun to play.  The co-op option means parents can jump in as well.  Best of all; the adventure is worthwhile for gamers of all ages.

Kirby’s Epic Yarn is bright and colorful (to an almost ridiculous degree) and is arguably one of the most visually creative games for Wii.  Not only is the game visually unique, but it also runs beautifully in motion and even gives some of the games from the HD consoles a run for their money.  Of course, this is Nintendo we’re talking about, so whenever graphics are concerned, there is much more of a focus on color and uniqueness as opposed to hyper-realism.  Even better, Epic Yarn is a solid platformer that is truly fun and offers a great co-operative experience.

The Great:  Awesome [co-op] gameplay.  Kirby’s Epic Yarn prioritizes fun.  While the game is straightforward, and downright easy frankly, it’s always a blast to play as each level pushes you to explore and find all the treasures.  Core fans may complain about the lack of difficulty, but a hard game doesn’t automatically mean a good game.  With single player, it’s great; but with two, it’s even better.  Co-op makes exploring the levels more satisfying and reminds you of Kirby Super Star.  The stage design perfectly complements co-op, and even the vehicle portions are more involved with two players in the mix.  For example, one of the early stages pits players in some kind of hybrid tank, with each controlling certain functions.  Your partner can even be used as an offensive projectile.

The Good:

+ Stunning.  This is one of Wii’s best visually.  Better yet, the style integration affects not only the eye candy, but how levels are actually played.  Kirby can pull zippers to make pieces of the stage fall down, or literally scrunch the “fabric” of a level together by pulling a string.

+ Extras.  Completing every main level and acquiring each items may take most around six or so hours to complete.  But there are additional levels to conquer afterward, like the hide-and-seek, bead-collecting, and carry challenges.  Additional “patches” can be earned by defeating bosses [and gathering enough beads doing so] which unlock additional levels.   Players can also customize their “room” with collected items.  Littered across stages are different pieces of furniture and other items, which can decorate Kirby’s room.  Wallpapers and items can be obtained by playing levels or buying them from the shop.

+ Clever design.  You undoubtedly associate Kirby games with inhaling enemies and borrowing powers—the franchise’s gimmick.  It was a gutsy for Nintendo to drastically change the series’ formula.  The premise is explained well enough and the new ideas are clever enough so the change doesn’t disappoint.  Yes, the “yarn” appeal may be novel, but it works well and is a sign that Nintendo can change the primary hook of a tried-and-true system yet still make it worthwhile.  Some may be alienated by the abrupt new direction, but it deserves a chance.  Kirby and his pal Prince Fluff can also transform into tons of things, like robots, UFOs, dolphins, fire trucks, rocket cars, or trains.

The Bad:

- Short.  Epic Yarn can be finished in six hours.  For a platformer that’s not surprising, but Nintendo could do better.  Super Mario Galaxy and SMG2 both have extraordinary value.  Kirby’s Epic Yarn emphasizes being a simple game that appeals to the casual market as well as the Kirby fan, but it shouldn’t be an excuse to be short.

- Forgettable music.  The soundtrack isn’t as memorable as other games in the series.  It’s cutesy and fitting for the theme, but nothing stands out at all.  The music isn’t bad per se, it’s just disappointing that the tunes aren’t as catchy.

The Lowdown:

Kirby’s Epic Yarn is easy, cutesy, and definitely aimed at a younger crowd—but it can be fun for anyone.  Core gamers may feel ‘too mature’ to enjoy this, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they slipped in for some co-op action.  It’s an addictive and fun co-op platformer that’s a must for Nintendo fans.