How To Conquer Kirby Without Guarding: A Comprehensive Guide

Clearing a Kirby game or specific challenge without guarding requires a fundamental shift in gameplay strategy. Instead of relying on the defensive maneuver of pressing L, R, ZL, or ZR to reduce incoming damage, you must prioritize avoidance and aggressive offense. Mastering this technique means focusing on learning enemy attack patterns, utilizing movement skills to dodge, and maximizing your damage output to end battles quickly. This guide will detail how to adopt this playstyle and answer frequently asked questions to help you become a guardless Kirby master.

Understanding the Challenge of “No Guard”

The core principle behind a no-guard run is to completely avoid relying on the block mechanic. This means any instance where you would typically use guard must be replaced with another strategy, be it movement, attack, or other gameplay mechanics. The challenge heightens significantly depending on the specific game, difficulty, and boss encounters. The goal of a “No Guarding” challenge is to enhance your skills at the core mechanics and force a greater focus on precision.

Key Strategies for Guardless Play

• Mastering Movement: Since you can’t block, you need to become adept at using Kirby’s movement options. Dashing, sliding (pressing A), jumping, hovering, and quick directional changes are essential. Practicing your movement will give you the edge needed for a no-guard run.
• Learning Attack Patterns: Each enemy and boss have specific attack patterns. Studying these patterns allows you to anticipate and maneuver out of the way of damage. Recognizing telegraphed attacks is paramount to surviving without guarding.
• Aggressive Offense: A good offense is often the best defense in a no-guard run. Focus on doing as much damage as possible, as quickly as possible. Utilizing the most effective copy abilities and boss-specific exploits can significantly shorten battles.
• Utilizing Copy Abilities: Different copy abilities offer unique movement options and attacks that can help avoid damage. Some offer faster attacks, better range, or more forgiving movement. Experiment to find what works best for you against different enemies and bosses.
• Health Management: Since you can’t rely on blocking, learning when and where to collect health items will be crucial. Prioritize using Maxim Tomatoes and other healing items when they are safe to obtain.
• Patience and Persistence: No-guard runs can be difficult. Expect to fail and learn from your mistakes. Persistence and patience are the most important traits you’ll need to succeed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kirby and “No Guard”

Q1: What are the main differences between a regular playthrough and a no-guard run?

A: In a regular playthrough, you can often rely on guarding to mitigate damage, allowing you to absorb hits while figuring out attack patterns. A no-guard run forces you to avoid all damage, emphasizing movement and offensive techniques. It requires a much more meticulous approach to gameplay.

Q2: Is it possible to complete Kirby and the Forgotten Land without guarding?

A: Yes, it is entirely possible to complete Kirby and the Forgotten Land without guarding. It’s a challenging but rewarding experience that forces you to master the game’s mechanics and become an expert at dodging. There is also a specific mission to defeat King Dedede without guarding.

Q3: What is the hardest part of a no-guard run in a Kirby game?

A: Generally, the hardest part is boss battles, especially the later ones with complex and unpredictable attack patterns. Also areas with multiple projectile enemies can be tough. Learning to effectively navigate these situations while constantly moving and attacking is the greatest challenge.

Q4: How do I swallow King Dedede’s hammer for the mission?

A: To swallow King Dedede’s hammer, you must first reduce his health to a certain point, usually around halfway. He will then fall to the ground, at which time you can inhale his hammer. You might need to discard your current ability first to take on Dedede’s.

Q5: What is the “Clear without guarding, An Unexpected Beast King” mission?

A: This specific mission in Kirby and the Forgotten Land requires you to defeat a version of King Dedede, known as “Forgo Dedede“, without using the guard mechanic (L, R, ZL, or ZR). This requires players to actively dodge all of Forgo Dedede’s attacks.

Q6: What are some good copy abilities for a no-guard run?

A: Several copy abilities excel in no-guard runs due to their offensive capabilities or movement enhancements. Abilities such as Sword (good range and attack power), Ranger (allows for ranged attacks), Drill (evasive maneuvers) and Crash (high damage) can be very useful. Experiment to find your preference.

Q7: Where do I find health-restoring items without blocking?

A: Health items such as Maxim Tomatoes are strategically placed throughout the levels. Keep an eye out for hidden paths and side areas. Pay close attention to your surroundings and prioritize grabbing health when the area is safe.

Q8: Can you beat Meta Knight without guarding?

A: Yes, Meta Knight, like any boss in Kirby games, can be beaten without guarding. It requires careful study of his attacks and quick reflexes. You may need to be especially careful of Meta Knight’s melee attacks and utilize jumping to avoid his sword dashes.

Q9: How does the slide attack in Kirby and the Forgotten Land help with avoiding damage?

A: The slide attack (pressing A) in Kirby and the Forgotten Land is a valuable tool for evasion. It allows Kirby to quickly move out of the way of incoming attacks and is very useful for weaving through tight spaces.

Q10: How do I unlock Trader Waddle Dee?

A: You unlock Trader Waddle Dee by completing the Colosseum’s Ultimate Cup Z. Once done, he will appear near the Gotcha Machines. He trades rare stones for figures you don’t own.

Q11: Why is King Dedede sometimes considered “banned” in Smash Bros?

A: In Super Smash Bros, King Dedede has been associated with some banned strategies due to a short step infinite chain grab. This move gives him a massive grab range, making it a difficult matchup for some players. This tactic is generally not applicable to the normal Kirby games.

Q12: Is King Dedede an antagonist or an antihero in the Kirby series?

A: While King Dedede initially appeared as a villain, he has evolved into more of an antihero character. He has been an ally of Kirby multiple times, often fighting alongside him against greater threats. His motives tend to vary in the series.

Q13: What are some of King Dedede’s weaknesses that I can exploit?

A: In most Kirby games, King Dedede’s main weakness is his slow air speed and large hurtbox. This makes him vulnerable to combos and juggling by the player. Use aerial attacks to your advantage.

Q14: What happened to King Dedede in Kirby and the Forgotten Land?

A: In Kirby and the Forgotten Land, King Dedede is initially seen possessed and wearing a mask, becoming a more erratic and powerful enemy known as Forgo Dedede. He later becomes a friend of Kirby.

Q15: What is the most important mindset to adopt for a no-guard run?

A: The most important mindset is to be patient, persistent, and proactive. Don’t get discouraged by failing and always be ready to learn from each attempt. You must have a keen eye on enemy patterns and be ready to move and attack at the right times.