Is Kirby Star Allies Long? A Detailed Look at Gameplay Length
No, Kirby Star Allies is not a particularly long game, especially when compared to some of its contemporaries or other titles in the genre. The general consensus among players and critics is that its main story mode clocks in at around 6-8 hours. However, the true answer to the question of its length depends heavily on how you choose to play. Completing the main story with a focus on objectives can take as little as 6 hours, while a more thorough playthrough, including exploration and experimenting with various copy abilities, can extend that to around 8 hours. This playtime does not account for the post-game content, which, while present, does not drastically increase the total playtime unless you are a completionist aiming to collect every last puzzle piece and unlock all the extras.
Understanding Kirby Star Allies’ Length
Main Story Completion Time
As stated, the core gameplay experience of Kirby Star Allies is quite concise. Focusing on completing the main objectives without extensive exploration will likely see you reach the credits in roughly 6 hours. This makes it a game that can easily be finished in a weekend or a few dedicated gaming sessions. This streamlined approach is typical of many Kirby games, which often prioritize accessibility and a smooth, fun experience over sheer length.
Completionist Approach and Exploration
Those who choose to explore every nook and cranny, try out every copy ability, and complete all extra stages will naturally spend more time with the game. This can push the playtime closer to 8 hours. This approach is more in line with how many players enjoy Kirby games: taking the time to soak in the vibrant worlds and experiment with the diverse movesets the game offers. Even with this more thorough approach, Kirby Star Allies remains on the shorter side when compared to larger platforming games.
Post-Game Content and Replayability
After completing the main story, two new, more difficult game modes are unlocked. These can add some additional hours if you seek a challenge, but the core gameplay remains the same, just harder. Beyond that, the primary reason to revisit the campaign is to collect remaining puzzle pieces for the picture gallery and to unlock the music player. These completionist elements provide a little replayability but do not add significant playtime for the average player.
Comparing to Other Kirby Games
Notably, some previous Kirby titles are even shorter. The fact that some Kirby games can be finished in as little as 4 hours highlights that Kirby Star Allies isn’t drastically short for the series. Still, it’s worth noting that the game only features 4 worlds, compared to the 6 worlds in Kirby: Planet Robobot and Kirby: Triple Deluxe. This contributes to the feeling that Star Allies is a shorter game, at least in terms of content in its main story.
Is Kirby Star Allies Long Enough?
Ultimately, the perceived length of Kirby Star Allies depends on personal preferences. If you are expecting a long and sprawling adventure like some other platformers, you may find it to be short. However, if you enjoy a polished, accessible, and charming experience that you can complete in a reasonable time frame, it could be just right. Its focus on fun and accessibility over grueling length is part of its appeal. The post-game and multiplayer aspects do offer some replayability, but the core game experience remains relatively short.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to beat Kirby Star Allies with all collectibles?
A: Finding all the puzzle pieces and unlocking all the music tracks will extend the playtime a bit, but expect to add only an additional hour or two to the 6-8 hour completion time if you are actively hunting for them alongside your main playthrough.
2. Is Kirby Star Allies difficult?
A: No, Kirby Star Allies is generally considered an easy game, especially with a full team of AI companions. The main mode provides a smooth experience that is not particularly challenging. The Ultimate Choice boss rush mode, unlocked after completing the game, is where the real difficulty lies.
3. Is Kirby Star Allies good for single players?
A: Absolutely, Kirby Star Allies is perfectly enjoyable as a single-player game. The AI companions do a good job of filling out your party, allowing you to experience the game fully even without friends.
4. How many levels are in Kirby Star Allies?
A: There are a total of 40 stages in the Story Mode, plus 5 extended stages in Heroes in Another Dimension mode. The final boss level and the Ability Planet are not included in this count.
5. What is the point of Kirby Star Allies?
A: In Kirby Star Allies, you play as Kirby to stop Hyness from reviving a dark force that would destroy the universe. You progress by completing levels, inhaling enemies, and using various copy abilities.
6. Is Kirby Star Allies kid-friendly?
A: Yes, it is very kid-friendly. There is no violence, sexual content, or offensive language making it suitable for all ages. It is a great choice for family gaming.
7. Can you play Kirby Star Allies with 2 players?
A: Yes, you can play with up to four players locally. Players 2-4 can take on the roles of Kirby’s allies, making it a great co-op experience.
8. What is the cutest Kirby enemy?
A: Waddle Dee is widely considered one of the cutest Kirby enemies. Others often listed include Susie, Gim, UFO, and Chilly.
9. Does Kirby kiss his allies in Star Allies?
A: In Kirby Star Allies, as in previous co-op Kirby games, Kirby can share his healing power with allies via a kiss.
10. What is the strongest copy ability in Kirby Star Allies?
A: The strongest copy abilities are subjective, but Yo-Yo is widely considered one of the best, alongside Archer and Smash Bros.
11. Can you play Kirby Star Allies with 3 players?
A: Yes, you can play with up to 3 players, or have a 4th AI player accompany you. Friends can drop in or out of the game at any time.
12. Is Kirby Star Allies 2D or 3D?
A: Kirby Star Allies is primarily a 2D action platformer, meaning gameplay takes place on a 2D plane.
13. Who is the final boss in Kirby Star Allies?
A: Void Termina is the final boss. He is a being made of pure chaos and is trying to destroy the galaxy.
14. How many worlds are in Kirby Star Allies?
A: There are only 4 main worlds in the game, contributing to the shorter overall length compared to some other Kirby titles.
15. Is there DLC for Kirby Star Allies?
A: Yes, there was DLC released after the game, adding slightly more content, including new Dream Friends. Additionally, Kirby Star Allies 2 was also released later, which expanded upon the first game.