Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World is back, and this time it’s inflating into something much bigger on the Nintendo Switch 2. 
Long praised as one of the Switch’s most overlooked gems, the pink puffball’s 3D adventure has been given new life with a crisp technical overhaul and a full-blown DLC campaign that feels far more ambitious than a simple add-on.
Visually, the update is a showstopper. Running at 1440p and a smooth 60fps, Kirby’s world bursts with color and detail, easily outshining other early Switch 2 upgrades. Where the original already impressed with lush assets and charming animations, the upgraded edition now feels sharper, smoother, and more alive than ever. For longtime fans, it’s the definitive way to experience this adventure.
But the real treat is Star-Crossed World, a mini-campaign unlocked early in the game. A mysterious meteor crash raises a volcanic island and introduces the ominous “Star of Darkness,” setting the stage for Kirby’s latest quest. Instead of saving Waddle Dees, you’ll be rescuing new alien allies called Starries, all while navigating crystalline landscapes that reshape familiar stages in exciting ways. While assets are reused, the level layouts are often completely different, keeping the gameplay fresh and surprising.
From rainbow coral seafloors that open mid-level to remixed challenges with tougher enemies, every stage feels like a bold reinterpretation of what came before. Hidden secrets, new collectible figurines, and a punishing new Colosseum mode add even more incentive to dive deep into the expansion. A handful of new Mouthful Mode transformations, including a springy coil, wall-gear, and even a sled-like sign, expand the playful mechanics that made the base game such a joy.
Not everything is here – there are no new copy abilities or Treasure Road challenges – but the campaign still packs around 4 to 5 hours of content for $20, making it an easy recommendation. For those chasing 100% completion, the replay value is even higher.
Ultimately, Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World is the first Switch 2 upgrade that feels like a true showcase of what Nintendo’s next-gen hardware can do. Between its technical leap and inventive DLC, it cements itself as a must-have for fans. With this and the upcoming Kirby Air Riders, 2025 is shaping up to be a feast for Kirby lovers.
Kirby and the Forgotten Land Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World launches August 28. Owners of the original can upgrade for $20, or new players can grab the full package for $80.