Kirby makes his debut on the DS and his debut is welcomed. There have been few titles that make good use of the unique features of the system or lack any sort of originality. But our pink friend is something different. He's not about the complex gameplay, flashy moves, or edgy themes. Kirby Canvas Curse concentrates on touch screen gameplay in what is easily one of the best DS games.
Canvas Curse strictly makes use of the touch screen for almost everything, from the menus to the gameplay. I'm sure everyone can figure out how it's used for the menus… but how it's used to play the game is simply brilliant. Kirby basically takes the form of a ball and you must guide him with your magic paintbrush (stylus) through many levels and help him navigate complex areas by drawing lines. Kirby will follow those lines and can even perform special moves with certain line strokes.
There are 8 worlds in total: the first 7 have three levels each and the last world is basically a big boss stage. There are plenty of enemies and obstacles that will get in Kirby's way. These are probably the best designed levels in any Kirby game, which almost always have wonderful level design. The object of completing the game is rather straightforward: finish each world, fight the boss, and move on the next world until you reach the final boss. As easy as it many seem, the game contains more than that.
One would think that a game starring a pink ball would be easy and simple to play. Well, part of that generalization is true, the game is very simple to pick up and play. All you have to do is draw lines. But this game is no walk in the park- completing the game takes a bit of effort though most of the bosses go down without much of an attempt. The fun ends quickly though as most people will complete the game within 5 hours the first time though. And while the length many not be good sign, the game can be replayed different characters, not to mention the two modes to go through the levels.
Even if Canvas Curse might be harder, the game still has that lighthearted Kirby style. The visuals are vivid and full of colors (which works with the 'paint' theme of this game). The game looks absolutely fantastic; the backgrounds are probably the most amazing aspect. Even with numerous enemies on screen the game runs perfectly smooth.
Sound quality is great, every sound effect and tune in the game will come out clean and clear through the speakers or ever headphones. The sound is surprisingly good though the hardware speakers, almost as good as headphones. The music seems well fit for a Kirby game and does a fine job of setting the mood of the levels/situations.
Few games can deliver a fresh form of gameplay and be as fun and enjoyable as Canvas Curse does. The premise is simple to pick up and learn but experience is a little tough but undeniably fun from start to finish. The short length of the game detracts from the overall greatness of the game but the experience stays enjoyable from the first second to the last.
Final words: Kirby Canvas Curse successfully delivers a fun and new platforming adventure. A must have for any DS owner.
Create an Account
Member Login
