Kirby is leveling up in a big way this summer. “Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Star-Crossed World” is officially set to launch August 28, 2025, and it’s more than a visual tune-up—it’s a full reimagining of Kirby’s 2022 hit, enhanced with powerful Switch 2 features and expanded with an ambitious new adventure.
Whether you’re diving back in or picking up Kirby’s 3D platforming for the first time, this edition promises a fresh, next-gen experience.
What’s New in the Switch 2 Edition?
This isn’t a simple remaster. Nintendo has taken full advantage of the Switch 2’s upgraded CPU/GPU combo, offering:
- 4K resolution support (when docked)
- Dynamic lighting and detailed environments
- Silky-smooth 60 FPS performance
- Faster loading times and responsive input thanks to SSD architecture
You’ll notice an immediate improvement in how Forgotten Land’s semi-open levels feel—especially in areas like Wondaria Remains and the post-apocalyptic New World hub. The game looks dramatically better, but the gameplay is where things really evolve.
Introducing Star-Crossed World
Alongside the remastered base game comes the brand-new expansion, Star-Crossed World—a cosmic tale set after a mysterious meteor crashes into Dream Land. This new campaign includes:
- 5 new worlds with all-new environments and enemies
- Expanded Mouthful Modes—yes, Kirby can now absorb entire amusement park rides
- Cosmic Copy Abilities with combo upgrades
- A new antagonist: Nebula Knight, a spacefaring warrior threatening to erase the universe’s memories
This story leans more into the emotional depth fans saw in Kirby and the Forgotten Land’s ending and gives the pink puffball one of his most creative power sets yet.
Star-Crossed World Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Playable Content | 12+ hours of new story and side missions |
| New Abilities | 4 Mouthful Modes, 3 Copy Abilities (like Gravity Bubble) |
| Switch 2 Enhancements | Faster transitions, advanced shaders, HD rumble feedback |
| Bonus Content | Collectible Dream Star Charms and alternate endings |
| Multiplayer Support | 2-player local co-op (Drop-In/Drop-Out) returns |
Pricing and Upgrade Options
Nintendo is offering flexible ways to get in on the action:
- Full Game + Expansion (New Players):
$79.99 – Includes remastered base game and Star-Crossed World - Upgrade Pack (Existing Owners):
$19.99 – Available for anyone who owns Kirby and the Forgotten Land on Switch. It unlocks both the performance enhancements and new story content on the Switch 2.
Digital preorders are open now on the eShop, with physical copies at Best Buy, GameStop, Target, Walmart, and other major retailers.
Nintendo Switch 2 Compatibility
This enhanced version is exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2, launching June 5, 2025. Thanks to its beefed-up specs and SSD-backed storage, players will enjoy seamless level transitions, adaptive haptics, and quick resume functionality, marking a major generational leap from the original Switch.
If you’ve been waiting for a reason to upgrade to the Switch 2—or revisit Kirby’s most ambitious game yet—Kirby and the Forgotten Land + Star-Crossed World is shaping up to be a launch-era standout. And with over 110 total levels, dozens of powers, and brand-new lore, it may just be the deepest Kirby adventure yet.
Key Takeaways
- Switch 2 Edition packs in performance upgrades and a brand-new story mode.
- Kirby’s got new tricks and content in Star-Crossed World.
- Mark your calendars: August 28, 2025.
Overview of Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Star-Crossed World Switch 2 Edition
Kirby and the Forgotten Land is back, but this time as a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition bundled with the new Star-Crossed World expansion. Expect polished visuals, extra moves, and a bunch of improvements that really make use of Nintendo’s next-gen console.
Release Date and Platforms
Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Star-Crossed World Switch 2 Edition drops August 28, 2025. It’s exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, so you won’t find this complete package on the original Switch.
Both the main game and the expansion come together for Switch 2 players. It’s a pretty solid addition to the Switch 2’s growing library.
Nintendo shared the date during a recent Nintendo Direct. So, yes, you can start counting down to late summer 2025.
Key Features and Enhancements
The Switch 2 Edition is more than a facelift. You’re getting smoother graphics, a better frame rate, and just generally tighter visuals thanks to the new hardware. Everything from the backgrounds to the way Kirby moves feels a bit more alive.
The real star here, though, is the new Star-Crossed World expansion. It’s not just some quick DLC—this is a whole new chapter, packed with fresh levels and a proper story.
There’s more, too: new Copy Abilities, expanded Mouthful Mode antics, and controls that just feel better. Load times are way down, which, honestly, is always a win.
Nintendo Direct Highlights
Nintendo gave us a closer look at Kirby’s Switch 2 debut during their latest Direct. They really leaned into what makes this version different.
We got a peek at the Star-Crossed World story, some gorgeous new environments, and a taste of the upgraded graphics. They demoed a few new Copy Abilities and showed off how the Switch 2’s power makes battles and platforming feel smoother.
Fans finally got a solid release date and a sense of how the expansion fits with the rest of the journey. The reveal definitely stirred up a lot of hype for this Switch 2 update.
Enhanced Performance and Graphics on Switch 2
Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Star-Crossed World on Switch 2 isn’t just prettier—it’s faster, sharper, and, well, just more fun to play. The hardware upgrades really do make a difference.
Improved Graphics and Visual Upgrades
The visuals? Way sharper. Textures are crisp, environments pop with detail, and the lighting is actually impressive—shadows and reflections look more natural now.
Characters, especially Kirby and his baddies, have more definition. You’ll spot details you probably missed before. Particle effects during abilities are just more vibrant. Every area, from grassy plains to spooky ruins, stands out a bit more.
If you’re playing on a big TV, the higher resolution makes everything look super lively. Animations are smoother, menus and cutscenes got a polish, and the overall style feels extra fresh.
Performance Boost: 60fps and 4K Resolution
Here’s a big one: the Switch 2 version runs at up to 60fps. That’s double the old frame rate, so everything feels more responsive. Fewer hiccups, less lag, and just smoother action all around.
If you dock your Switch 2, you can even get 4K resolution. It’s a noticeable upgrade, especially when the screen’s packed with action—boss fights, big open levels, the works.
Handheld mode still looks sharp, though obviously scaled down a bit. The smooth frame rate mostly holds steady, so you’re not missing out if you’re on the go.
Hardware Innovations in Switch 2
The game really leans into what the Switch 2 can do. There’s more internal storage, so load times are down and saves are safer. Support for microSD Express cards means even faster load speeds—no more staring at loading screens.
Accessory-wise, Nintendo’s added a bunch: the new Pro Controller, Joy-Con 2 Controllers, and the Joy-Con 2 Charging Grip are all about comfort. The Joy-Con 2 Strap and Wheel make local multiplayer easier, and the new Switch 2 Dock handles 4K and data transfers better.
One of the weirder but cool new features is the USB-C camera—it’s used for some in-game stuff and maybe AR down the line? Plus, the updated carrying case and AC adapter actually make carrying the Switch 2 around less of a pain.
Enhanced Audio and Immersion
Audio upgrades don’t get enough love, but they’re here. The music and sound effects use higher quality samples, so everything sounds cleaner. Ambient sounds—wind, footsteps, you name it—are more detailed, which just pulls you in more.
Surround sound is handled better, so you can actually tell where stuff is happening off-screen. Controller vibrations sync up with the action, so boss fights and big jumps feel more intense.
Plug in a headset or crank up your speakers and you’ll notice it right away. Every star grab, every boss win, just hits a little harder. More info on all this is up on the Nintendo site for Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Switch 2 Edition.
New Content and Gameplay Features
Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Star-Crossed World Switch 2 Edition isn’t just a visual update—it’s loaded with new stuff for both die-hard fans and folks just jumping in. You’re getting better graphics, more places to poke around, extra story, and extra ways to play with a friend.
Expanded Story and Worlds
There’s a whole extra story, Star-Crossed World, where Kirby checks out a mysterious meteor threatening everything. Along the way? New faces, new baddies, and a bunch of fresh challenges.
Levels are bigger, with more secret paths and collectibles tucked away. The Beast Pack is back, and they’re not pulling any punches this time.
Story mode has more ways to interact with Waddle Dees, plus extra cutscenes. There are new missions and boss fights, so it always feels like there’s something to chase after.
Mouthful Modes and 3D Platforming Adventure
Mouthful Mode is still here, but now Kirby can inhale even weirder stuff—like turning into a giant glider or a drill. It’s fun, and it keeps the puzzles and fights feeling fresh.
The Switch 2’s power means controls are tighter and the 3D platforming is just more fun. Levels are packed with interactive bits, hidden spots, and puzzles that make you think a little before you leap.
Expect trickier jumps, more creative camera angles, and just a lot more ways to use Kirby’s toolkit. The new mouthful modes keep you guessing what’s coming next.
Multiplayer and Local Co-Op
Local co-op is beefed up—a second player can jump in as Bandana Waddle Dee, and it’s super easy to team up or drop out. You’ll need to work together to solve some puzzles and take down tougher enemies.
Multiplayer battles and mini-games are more polished, too. Up to two players can play at once, so it’s perfect for solo or family gaming.
You get rewards for working together, like snagging items hidden behind teamwork-only barriers. And with the Switch 2’s better frame rate, co-op play stays smooth even when things get hectic.
Upgrade Packs and Expansion Content
Upgrade packs let you tweak Kirby’s powers, boost health, or unlock new costumes. Some even unlock special mouthful modes just for this edition.
There’s more: bonus levels, time trials, and extra missions with the Beast Pack as bosses. Rescue more Waddle Dees and you’ll open up special hubs and challenge zones.
Here’s a quick look at what’s included:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Ability Upgrades | Better combat and puzzle-solving |
| New Costumes | Fresh looks for Kirby |
| Extra Missions | More replay value and new challenges |
| Bonus Time Trials | Test your speed and reflexes |
| Boss Rush Mode | Take on tougher versions of bosses |
All the upgrade and expansion stuff is baked in, so the Switch 2 Edition feels way more complete than the original. For all the details, check the official Switch 2 Edition feature page.
Integration with Nintendo Services and Future Prospects
Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Star-Crossed World Switch 2 Edition is set up to make the most of Nintendo’s services—better online play, easier digital buying, and new ways to connect with friends are all on the table.
Nintendo Switch Online Features
Full Nintendo Switch Online support means you can team up in co-op, running through levels together over the internet. Online leaderboards let you see how you stack up against friends or the wider crowd.
You’ll need a Nintendo Account for online stuff. Cloud saves back up your progress, so you can pick up on any Switch 2. Joining friends’ games, chatting in lobbies—it’s all a lot easier now. Parental controls are there too, so families can keep things safe.
Nintendo says they’ll keep updating online modes, with special events, new challenges, and rewards popping up over time. So, it’s worth checking back in even after launch.
Digital Version and Nintendo eShop
You can grab the game both digitally and physically. The digital version hits the Nintendo eShop on day one, so you can download and play right away. Pre-orders are open through your Nintendo Account, and sometimes you’ll get digital bonuses or discounts.
Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Digital Version | Physical Edition |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Nintendo eShop | Retail Stores |
| Storage | Switch console/SD | Game Cartridge |
| Preloading | Yes | No |
| Bonus Digital Content | Sometimes included | Rare |
Buying on eShop links the game to your account, so you can re-download it or move it to another console if you want. Updates and patches come in automatically, so you’re always up to date.
Game Sharing and Video Chat Capabilities
Game sharing works for eligible titles across multiple Switch 2 consoles tied to the same Nintendo Account (think primary/secondary consoles). Handy for families or anyone with more than one Switch 2, though you might be limited to one player at a time, depending on the license.
Nintendo’s also adding new ways to communicate. Built-in game chat and even video chat during online co-op are rumored, using the new camera. Imagine actually talking face-to-face with friends while exploring Star-Crossed World—could be a game changer.
Privacy controls let you decide who can join chats or see your online status. Video chat is supposed to roll out gradually as Nintendo updates the Switch 2’s software. For more on what’s coming, check out the Kirby and the Forgotten Land – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition’s Nintendo page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Kirby and the Forgotten Land Switch 2 Edition (with Star-Crossed World) is coming with new features, special editions, and better multiplayer. The Switch 2 version also brings some real technical upgrades and a smoother gameplay experience.
What are the new features in Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Star-Crossed World Switch 2 Edition?
You get the new Star-Crossed World expansion, extra levels, more abilities for Kirby, and new boss battles. Visuals and load times are way better, mostly thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware.
Will there be any special bundles or editions available for purchase at launch?
Yep, both digital and physical editions are coming. Some stores might offer special bundles or editions with bonus content.
Can players who own the original version of Kirby and the Forgotten Land receive an upgrade or discount?
So far, there’s no official upgrade or discount for folks who already own the original. Looks like you’ll have to buy the new edition separately.
What improvements have been made to the multiplayer gameplay in the new edition?
Multiplayer’s getting a tune-up: better connection stability, smoother local co-op, and easier joining options. The new hardware just makes everything run more reliably.
Is there downloadable content (DLC) planned post-release for the game?
Nothing confirmed yet. Nintendo hasn’t said if there’s DLC coming after launch, but they might announce something down the road.
How does the Switch 2 version enhance the overall gameplay experience compared to the original Switch version?
It’s all about the upgrades: sharper graphics, faster loading, better frame rates. The Switch 2 version is built to really show off what the new system can do, and it’s just a smoother, prettier ride overall, according to official listings.
