Is Meta Knight a Borb? Unmasking the Mystery Behind the Nickname
The short answer to the question “Is Meta Knight a Borb?” is yes, but with a significant caveat. Meta Knight isn’t biologically a Borb; rather, “Borb” is a nickname bestowed upon him by the Kirby fanbase, stemming from a particular comic. The term, while endearing, is not an official designation within the game’s lore. To understand why this masked swordsman is affectionately called “Borb,” we need to delve into the origins of the meme and its humorous context.
The Origin of “Borb”: A Hilarious Misinterpretation
The nickname “Borb” originated from a comic created by KC Green, a well-known webcomic artist, and posted on the website US Gamer. This comic depicts King Dedede attempting to teach Kirby curse words. When Meta Knight intervenes to stop this corrupting influence, Dedede, in a fit of frustration, calls Meta Knight a “bad orb”. Kirby, in his innocent and somewhat language-challenged way, misinterprets the phrase and exclaims “Borb!” This simple, hilarious mispronunciation caught on quickly within the community. The comic’s charm, coupled with Meta Knight’s serious demeanor juxtaposed with the silly nickname, made the term incredibly popular. This led to “Borb” becoming an endearing, albeit unofficial, moniker for the character.
The “Borb” comic wasn’t just a passing meme, it quickly became an exploitable template. Fans began creating their own variations of the comic, often substituting different characters and scenarios, all while retaining the core comedic element of Kirby mishearing “bad orb” as “Borb.” This contributed to the longevity and widespread adoption of the nickname. Essentially, Meta Knight’s official name is still Meta Knight, the “Borb” title is a lighthearted, fan-created nickname.
Why the Nickname Sticks: Meta Knight’s Intriguing Character
The appeal of “Borb” extends beyond just the funny comic. Meta Knight is a complex and compelling character within the Kirby universe. He is often portrayed as a serious, even brooding figure, a stark contrast to the cheerful and simplistic Kirby. This makes the nickname all the more amusing, as it takes a character who is often seen as an anti-hero and gives him a silly, almost childish moniker. He is also considered a rival to Kirby and has often been an enemy in multiple Kirby games. He also, however, has been known to aid and assist Kirby when the need arises. This duality, the serious warrior mixed with the hilarious nickname, adds to the charm of “Borb”.
Furthermore, Meta Knight’s mysterious nature also plays a role in the nickname’s popularity. He hides his face behind a mask, which adds to his enigma. He is known for his sword, the Galaxia, and his cape that transforms into bat wings. There are also mysteries surrounding his species and origins, adding to his overall allure. Fans often find it appealing to playfully deconstruct this image of a hardened, masked knight with a simple, nonsensical nickname like “Borb.” The nickname humanizes him in a way and helps fans connect to the character on a humorous level.
The “Borb” Meme and Its Impact
The “Borb” nickname is more than just a funny moniker; it represents a broader phenomenon in internet culture: the power of fan-generated content and its ability to shape perceptions of characters. The “Borb” meme illustrates how a single comic, coupled with community engagement, can transform a character’s identity within the fanbase. It has resulted in an incredible amount of fan art, memes, and even merchandise that showcase Meta Knight as Borb.
The impact of “Borb” on the Kirby community is undeniable. The nickname is not just used as a joke, but as a term of endearment, reflecting the strong connection fans feel with Meta Knight. It has also brought a lighthearted and humorous element to discussions about the character. The “Borb” meme serves as a reminder that even the most serious and stoic characters can be subject to the lighthearted creativity of their fanbase, becoming something new and enduring in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Meta Knight
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Meta Knight, offering a deeper insight into the character and his lore:
What species is Meta Knight?
Meta Knight’s species is officially unknown. He, along with Galacta Knight, are often described as Puffballs due to their resemblance to Kirby. Though not explicitly stated they are related to Kirby in some fashion.
Is Meta Knight a villain or a hero?
Initially an enemy to Kirby, Meta Knight is best described as an anti-hero. He often acts as a rival, but he also aids Kirby when necessary, indicating his intentions are not inherently malevolent.
Is Meta Knight related to Kirby?
It is likely that Meta Knight and Kirby are related, but their exact connection remains unclear. They share a similar physical appearance, which suggests a common origin or species. Some theories even point to them being brothers.
Is Meta Knight weaker than Kirby?
While Meta Knight is a formidable foe, it’s generally accepted that Kirby is one of the strongest video game characters. This doesn’t necessarily make Meta Knight weak, but rather emphasizes Kirby’s extraordinary power.
Is Meta Knight Kirby’s dad?
This is a popular theory, but it is not canon. It is theorized that Galacta Knight is the father of both Meta Knight and Kirby. Meta Knight, as the older sibling, sealed away Galacta Knight until he was strong enough to defeat him.
Is Meta Knight blind?
No, Meta Knight is not blind. His mask has a special visor that allows him to see clearly. Without the visor, his vision is severely impaired, light causes him pain, and objects appear as smudged shapes of light and dark. His vision is better in darkness, but he needs his mask to see clearly.
Why does Meta Knight wear a mask?
While no official reason exists in the Kirby lore, the mask is often theorized to be a means of managing his copy abilities since his species are also Puffballs, and to protect his eyes from bright light. The mask is a signature part of his character design and mystique.
Does Kirby ever talk?
Kirby generally does not speak, uttering only the sound “poyo.” This is a design choice to make Kirby a blank slate for players to project themselves onto. He can speak simple words, such as the names of people and food, in baby talk.
Why was Meta Knight banned in Super Smash Bros.?
Meta Knight was banned in Super Smash Bros. due to being deemed “broken” by many players. His strength was considered overwhelming and unbalanced, leading to the ban. This was later lifted.
Is Meta Knight shy?
While initially portrayed as shy, timid, and nervous, Meta Knight has developed into a serious and stoic character. This transition reflects his character development throughout the series.
Is Meta Knight a puffball?
Yes, for simplicity and their similarity to Kirby, Meta Knight and Galacta Knight are considered Puffballs in the series. While their species is technically unknown, this designation is widely accepted by fans.
Is Meta Knight black or blue?
Meta Knight is generally seen as a blue, roundish creature with a silver mask. He also wears purple sabatons, metal pauldrons, and a purple cape. The coloring is consistent across his appearances.
Who would win in a fight: Kirby or Goku?
From a technical standpoint, Goku could likely defeat Kirby due to his incredible speed and power. However, Kirby’s ability to absorb enemies and his resilience make him a formidable opponent.
Is Kirby asexual?
Yes, Kirby is considered asexual. Kirby reproduces by splitting into three at the end of each level, all performing the Kirby Dance after the split.
Is Meta Knight Hispanic?
There is no official evidence to support Meta Knight being Hispanic. He was voiced by different voice actors over time. This misconception likely stems from the portrayal of certain media.
Conclusion
While Meta Knight’s official designation remains as the masked warrior, “Borb” is a testament to the creativity and humor of the Kirby fanbase. The nickname has become an endearing part of his character and serves to humanize this stoic, mysterious figure. Understanding the origins of “Borb” and the complex character of Meta Knight provides a deeper appreciation for both the character and the fan community that has embraced him. Ultimately, Meta Knight is a testament to the magic that happens when a beloved character meets the imaginative spirit of the internet.