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{{About|the anime|override=For the song, see [[Kirby: Right Back at Ya! (song)]]}}[[File:Anime.jpg|frame|The cast of ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'']]
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{{About|the anime|override=For the song, see [[Kirby: Right Back at Ya! (song)]]}}
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{{Non-Canon}}
 
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[[File:Anime.jpg|frame|The cast of ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'']]
 
{{Quote|This 100-episode animated TV series was first broadcast in the USA in 2002. It's been released in many other countries as well.|Summary|[[Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition]]}}
 
{{Quote|This 100-episode animated TV series was first broadcast in the USA in 2002. It's been released in many other countries as well.|Summary|[[Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition]]}}
 
'''''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!''''', known in Japan as '''''Hoshi no Kābī''''' (星のカービィ, ''Kirby of the Stars'') is an anime series based on the ''[[Kirby (series)|Kirby]]'' franchise. The series was produced by Warpstar Inc., a company formed between a joint investment between [[Nintendo]] and [[HAL Laboratory]], Inc. Some of the episodes were put onto the Wii Channel "Kirby TV", running until 15 December 2011. A second run started again in 2012 with additional material such as game trailers.
 
'''''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!''''', known in Japan as '''''Hoshi no Kābī''''' (星のカービィ, ''Kirby of the Stars'') is an anime series based on the ''[[Kirby (series)|Kirby]]'' franchise. The series was produced by Warpstar Inc., a company formed between a joint investment between [[Nintendo]] and [[HAL Laboratory]], Inc. Some of the episodes were put onto the Wii Channel "Kirby TV", running until 15 December 2011. A second run started again in 2012 with additional material such as game trailers.
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==Story==
 
==Story==
 
[[File:Kirby4 120.jpg|thumb|[[Star Warrior]]s fought against [[monster]]s]]
 
[[File:Kirby4 120.jpg|thumb|[[Star Warrior]]s fought against [[monster]]s]]
Centuries ago, The Evil Demon known as eNeMeE, craving the rule of the universe, made himself known and created a company called Nightmare Enterprises. It was to function as a front, and fund his operations and manufacturing of great armies of monsters, which he used to take over much of the galaxy. His actions devastated countless planets. There were those who stood to combat his evil; The [[Star Warriors]] and the Galaxy Soldier Army. Both sides fought for many thousands of years, but eNeMeE's monsters outnumbered them and only [[Meta Knight]] and a few others survived to see the aftermath.
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Centuries ago, The Evil Demon known as eNeMeE, craving the rule of the universe, made himself known and created a company called Nightmare Enterprises. It was to function as a front and fund his operations and manufacturing of great armies of monsters, which he used to take over much of the galaxy. His actions devastated countless planets. There were those who stood to combat his evil; The [[Star Warriors]] and the Galaxy Soldier Army. Both sides fought for many thousands of years, but eNeMeE's monsters outnumbered them and only [[Meta Knight]] and a few others survived to see the aftermath.
   
 
eNeMeE eventually threatens the peaceful country of Dream Land on Planet Popstar, as it seems likely to be eNeMeE's next target. The inhabitants are told that a legendary hero will come to save them - the Star Warrior, Kirby of the Stars.
 
eNeMeE eventually threatens the peaceful country of Dream Land on Planet Popstar, as it seems likely to be eNeMeE's next target. The inhabitants are told that a legendary hero will come to save them - the Star Warrior, Kirby of the Stars.
 
 
[[File:Kirby Comes to Cappy Town.jpg|thumb|left|[[Tiff]] defends [[Kirby]]]]
 
[[File:Kirby Comes to Cappy Town.jpg|thumb|left|[[Tiff]] defends [[Kirby]]]]
 
Everyone is quite surprised when Kirby's ship crashes close to Cappy Town (Pupu Village in Japan). At first glance, he doesn't look like much, as Kirby is tiny, round, pink, and only a baby! However, he is quick to save anyone who is in danger and soon befriends the siblings [[Tiff]] and [[Tuff]] (Fumu and Bun in Japanese), along with their friends (servants) Fololo and Falala (Lololo and Lalala).
 
Everyone is quite surprised when Kirby's ship crashes close to Cappy Town (Pupu Village in Japan). At first glance, he doesn't look like much, as Kirby is tiny, round, pink, and only a baby! However, he is quick to save anyone who is in danger and soon befriends the siblings [[Tiff]] and [[Tuff]] (Fumu and Bun in Japanese), along with their friends (servants) Fololo and Falala (Lololo and Lalala).
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The mean ruler of Dream Land, King Dedede, is jealous and suspicious of Kirby the moment his starship crashes. He and his sidekick [[Escargoon]] (Escargon) try to get rid of Kirby with monsters and machines provided by eNeMeE. The attempts always fail, however, due to Kirby's natural abilities in one way or another. Just as in the games, Kirby can inhale enemies and gain the use of their powers.
 
The mean ruler of Dream Land, King Dedede, is jealous and suspicious of Kirby the moment his starship crashes. He and his sidekick [[Escargoon]] (Escargon) try to get rid of Kirby with monsters and machines provided by eNeMeE. The attempts always fail, however, due to Kirby's natural abilities in one way or another. Just as in the games, Kirby can inhale enemies and gain the use of their powers.
   
The series deals with Kirby's day-to-day trials, and how he grows and becomes stronger before his final battle against eNeMeE. Story progression is slow paced, and themes are mostly light-hearted with some darker undercurents running throughout. Although the series is episodic and episodes are mostly self-contained, there are a few story-arcs so it is recommended to watch the episodes in order.
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The series deals with Kirby's day-to-day trials, and how he grows and becomes stronger before his final battle against eNeMeE. Story progression is slow paced, and themes are mostly light-hearted with some darker undercurrents running throughout. Although the series is episodic and episodes are mostly self-contained, there are a few story-arcs so it is recommended to watch the episodes in order.
   
 
==Development==
 
==Development==
 
[[File:1 kirby.jpg|thumb|Promotional artwork]]
 
[[File:1 kirby.jpg|thumb|Promotional artwork]]
In an interview, producer Soji Yoshikawa speaks at length about the challenges faced by the creators of the Kirby anime. He expressed worry about potential failure, as past videogame to anime adaptations did not go well, but as time went on, he began to see a character with strength, and felt that it could be successful.
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In an interview, producer Soji Yoshikawa speaks at length about the challenges faced by the creators of the Kirby anime. He expressed worry about potential failure, as past video game to anime adaptations did not go well, but as time went on, he began to see a character with strength and felt that it could be successful.
   
 
Two of the main challenges were set by Kirby's creator Masahiro Sakurai. He said that there were to be no humans, and Kirby must not speak.{{citation needed}} Yoshikawa acknowledges the difficulty of having a main character who does not speak, as well as coming up with entirely unique settings and characters. Without any humans in the cast, he likens it to the Finnish series ''The Moomins'', which was quite popular in Japan.
 
Two of the main challenges were set by Kirby's creator Masahiro Sakurai. He said that there were to be no humans, and Kirby must not speak.{{citation needed}} Yoshikawa acknowledges the difficulty of having a main character who does not speak, as well as coming up with entirely unique settings and characters. Without any humans in the cast, he likens it to the Finnish series ''The Moomins'', which was quite popular in Japan.
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{{Main|List of Kirby: Right Back at Ya! episodes}}
 
{{Main|List of Kirby: Right Back at Ya! episodes}}
   
== Characters ==
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==Characters==
 
===Main characters===
 
===Main characters===
 
[[File:Hnk.jpg|thumb|Japanese DVD cover for episodes 1-3]]
 
[[File:Hnk.jpg|thumb|Japanese DVD cover for episodes 1-3]]
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|Eric Stuart
 
|Eric Stuart
 
|Chiro Kanzaki
 
|Chiro Kanzaki
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|-
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|[[Galaxia]]
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|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
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|<nowiki>-</nowiki>
 
|-
 
|-
 
|[[Waddle Doo]]
 
|[[Waddle Doo]]
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|[[Rick]]
 
|[[Rick]]
 
|Andrew Rannelis
 
|Andrew Rannelis
|Makiko Ohmato
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|Makiko Ohmoto
 
|-
 
|-
 
|[[Kine]]
 
|[[Kine]]
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==English dub release==
 
==English dub release==
Once the Japanese version was released, 4Kids made an English version out of it and some parts were cut out. Parts that are cut include a little violence, profanity, parts that take up time, guns, weapons, alcohol and drug references and toilet humor. All references to the Galaxy Soldier Army are completely removed, and refer to them as Star Warriors. Any references to religious concepts like heaven and hell have been taken out as well. (Examples of this can be found in the episodes [[Fitness Fiend]] and [[Sword and Blade, Loyal and True / Hour of the WolfWrath]]). Furthermore, a significant amount of Japanese text was digitally airbrushed out, and even some English text, such as the "Holy Nightmare" logo on the N.M.E. Sales Guy’s screen.
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Once the Japanese version was released, 4Kids made an English version out of it and some parts were cut out. Parts that are cut include violence, profanity, parts that take up time, guns, weapons, alcohol and drug references, and toilet humor. All references to the Galaxy Soldier Army are completely removed, and refer to them as Star Warriors. Any references to religious concepts like heaven and hell have been taken out as well. (Examples of this can be found in the episodes [[Fitness Fiend]] and [[Hour of the WolfWrath]]). Furthermore, a significant amount of Japanese text was digitally airbrushed out, and even some English text, such as the "Holy Nightmare" logo on the N.M.E. Sales Guy’s screen.
   
 
===Episode order changes===
 
===Episode order changes===
Some episodes aired differently in English-speaking/Western countries than in the original version. The first one of these episodes was [[Escargoon Squad]]; instead of being #12 on the list, it was changed to #13 because of [[Kirby's Pet Peeve]] (it was #12 in the English dub version instead of the original version, where it was #15). [[A Fish Called Kine]] was changed to #15 instead of #16. [[Cappy New Year]] was changed from being #13 to #29 to make it closer to New Year's Day. All episodes after that up until Cappy New Year (which are [[Flower Power]], [[Here Comes the Son]], [[Dedede's Snow Job]], [[A Princess in Dis-Dress]], [[Island of the Lost Warrior]], [[The Empty Nest Mess]], [[Ninja Binge]], [[Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules]], [[Sword and Blade, Loyal and True / Hour of the WolfWrath]], [[The Flower Plot]], [[Labor Daze]], [[The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey]] and [[Hatch Me if You Can]]) moved up 2 episodes. [[Abusement Park]] was changed to #30 instead of #31 and [[Junk Jam]] and [[A Recipe for Disaster]] have switched places. The whole Kirby Derby segment has been changed to #31-#32 instead of #35-#36. [[Watermelon Felon]] moved up 2 episodes and [[A Novel Approach]] was changed from #38 to #44 to air it around one of the ''Harry Potter'' movies (A Novel Approach parodies the ''Harry Potter'' books). All episodes up until [[Pink-Collar Blues]] (which are [[Escar-Gone]], [[Monster Management]], [[Prediction Predicament - Part I]], [[Prediction Predicament - Part II]], [[Sheepwrecked]] and [[War of the Woods]]) moved up 3 episodes. The Scare Tactics and Snack Attack segment switched places and Pink-Collar Blues and [[Tourist Trap]] moved up 5 episodes. [[Cartoon Buffoon]], [[Don't Bank on It]] and [[Kirby Takes the Cake]] all moved up 2 episodes and all the other episodes up until [[Cowardly Creature]] are in the same order as the original. Cowardly Creature and [[Frog Wild]] changed to #96 and #97 instead of #94 and #95 because of the re-airing of [[The Thing About the Ring]] and [[A Dental Dilemma]], which were cut before they aired and the Air-Ride-in-Style segment has been changed from #96 to #97 to #50 and #51 to air along with the ''[[Kirby Air Ride]]'' game for the GameCube.
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Some episodes aired differently in English-speaking/Western countries than in the original version. The first one of these episodes was [[Escargoon Squad]]; instead of being #12 on the list, it was changed to #13 because of [[Kirby's Pet Peeve]] (it was #12 in the English dub version instead of the original version, where it was #15). [[A Fish Called Kine]] was changed to #15 instead of #16. [[Cappy New Year]] was changed from being #13 to #29 to make it closer to New Year's Day. All episodes after that up until Cappy New Year (which are [[Flower Power]], [[Here Comes the Son]], [[Dedede's Snow Job]], [[A Princess in Dis-Dress]], [[Island of the Lost Warrior]], [[The Empty Nest Mess]], [[Ninja Binge]], [[Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules]], [[Hour of the WolfWrath]], [[The Flower Plot]], [[Labor Daze]], [[The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey]] and [[Hatch Me if You Can]]) moved up 2 episodes. [[Abusement Park]] was changed to #30 instead of #31 and [[Junk Jam]] and [[A Recipe for Disaster]] have switched places. The whole Kirby Derby segment has been changed to #31-#32 instead of #35-#36. [[Watermelon Felon]] moved up 2 episodes and [[A Novel Approach]] was changed from #38 to #44 to air it around one of the ''Harry Potter'' movies (A Novel Approach parodies the ''Harry Potter'' books). All episodes up until [[Pink-Collar Blues]] (which are [[Escar-Gone]], [[Monster Management]], [[Prediction Predicament - Part I]], [[Prediction Predicament - Part II]], [[Sheepwrecked]] and [[War of the Woods]]) moved up 3 episodes. The Scare Tactics and Snack Attack segment switched places and Pink-Collar Blues and [[Tourist Trap]] moved up 5 episodes. [[Cartoon Buffoon]], [[Don't Bank on It]] and [[Kirby Takes the Cake]] all moved up 2 episodes and all the other episodes up until [[Cowardly Creature]] are in the same order as the original. Cowardly Creature and [[Frog Wild]] changed to #96 and #97 instead of #94 and #95 because of the re-airing of [[The Thing About the Ring]] and [[A Dental Dilemma]], which were cut before they aired and the Air-Ride-in-Style segment has been changed from #96 to #97 to #50 and #51 to air along with the ''[[Kirby Air Ride]]'' game for the GameCube.
   
 
===Digital Distribution===
 
===Digital Distribution===
 
[[File:HT KirbyTVChannel enGB.jpg|thumb|Kirby Channel (UK)]]
 
[[File:HT KirbyTVChannel enGB.jpg|thumb|Kirby Channel (UK)]]
 
[[File:KirbyTV Channel.png|thumb|Kirby Channel (Europe)]]
 
[[File:KirbyTV Channel.png|thumb|Kirby Channel (Europe)]]
As of April 2012, the original Japanese version of this anime is no longer available on the Wii no Ma, the Wii's video-on-demand service, with each episodes worth 100 Wii Points because Nintendo terminated broadcast of the entire channel. There was an additional video within Kirby's section (also worth 100 Wii points) showcasing all of Kirby's Copy Abilities as seen in the anime. Some of the episodes were later re-released in groups of five.
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As of April 2012, the original Japanese version of this anime is no longer available on the Wii no Ma, the Wii's video-on-demand service, with each episode worth 100 Wii Points because Nintendo terminated broadcast of the entire channel. There was an additional video within Kirby's section (also worth 100 Wii points) showcasing all of Kirby's Copy Abilities as seen in the anime. Some of the episodes were later re-released in groups of five.
   
On June 23, 2011,<ref>[http://www.nintendo.co.uk/NOE/en_GB/news/2011/kirby_tv_channel_press_release_43546.html Nintendo UK]</ref> Nintendo released the English version to Australia / New Zealand and much of Europe through the Wii Channel. Every Monday and Thursday, a new episode is added to the channel, with older ones being relegated to an archive, which were available for intermittent viewing. The planned release schedule did not cover all 100 episodes dubbed by 4Kids, only 51. At two releases per week, the schedule spans 5–6 months. The second run began on April 2, 2012.
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On June 23, 2011,<ref>[http://www.nintendo.co.uk/NOE/en_GB/news/2011/kirby_tv_channel_press_release_43546.html Nintendo UK]</ref> Nintendo released the English version to Australia / New Zealand and much of Europe through the Wii Channel. Every Monday and Thursday, a new episode is added to the channel, with older ones being relegated to an archive, which were available for intermittent viewing. The planned release schedule did not cover all 100 episodes dubbed by 4Kids, only 51 (but skipping 38 due to copyright problems with Harry Potter). At two releases per week, the schedule spans 5–6 months. The second run began on April 2, 2012.
   
The list of European countries it is available in is: the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Greece, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Australia and New Zealand.
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The list of European countries it is available in is the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Greece, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Australia, and New Zealand.
   
It was also confirmed by Nintendo of Europe that ''Kirby: Right Back At Ya!'' series 1 would be released on the Nintendo Anime channel on the Nintendo 3DS family of consoles, with new content being added regularly. It launched on February 13, 2015.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-3DS/Download-Content/Nintendo-Anime-Channel/Nintendo-Anime-Channel-947961.html Nintendo UK]</ref>
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It was also confirmed by Nintendo of Europe that ''Kirby: Right Back At Ya!'' series 1 (Episodes 1-51, with 38 included this time) would be released on the Nintendo Anime channel on the Nintendo 3DS family of consoles, with new content being added regularly. It launched on February 13, 2015.<ref>[https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Nintendo-3DS/Download-Content/Nintendo-Anime-Channel/Nintendo-Anime-Channel-947961.html Nintendo UK]</ref> However, all content was removed on September 30, 2018, and the anime channel itself was removed from the 3DS digital store and shut down a month later on October 31, 2018.
   
 
===Home Video Release===
 
===Home Video Release===
 
[[File:51B8QE9ZVNL. SL500 AA240 .jpg|thumb|The cancelled "Escargoon Squad" DVD]]
 
[[File:51B8QE9ZVNL. SL500 AA240 .jpg|thumb|The cancelled "Escargoon Squad" DVD]]
Funimation Entertainment was the main DVD licenser to the English dub of ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!''. All the DVDs show the edited TV dub version only. Most of these DVDs are still available as new and used copies. Uncut DVDs are not available.
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Funimation Entertainment was the main DVD licenser to the English dub of ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!''. All the DVDs show the edited TV dub version only. Most of these DVDs are still available as new and used copies. Uncut DVDs are not available. Please note that the following episode numbers refer to the Japanese order, and 4Kids used that order on ''Kirby: Cappy New Year and Other Kirby Adventures''. Nintendo also used this order on Kirby TV Channel for Nintendo Wii and Nintendo Anime Channel for Nintendo 3DS.
   
 
''Kirby: Right Back At Ya!'' was released in 3 volumes with 3 episodes in each:
 
''Kirby: Right Back At Ya!'' was released in 3 volumes with 3 episodes in each:
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The Final Five Episodes were released in a movie format:
 
The Final Five Episodes were released in a movie format:
*Kirby: Fright to the Finish - Movie (Episodes 96-100) (Released: 14th Jun 2005)
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*Kirby: Fright to the Finish - Movie (Episodes 96-100 [+26 as a bonus feature]) (Released: 14th Jun 2005)
   
 
Other sets:
 
Other sets:
*Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Cook Kirby (Episodes 11, 27) (Released 15th Nov 2005)
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*Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Cook Kirby (Episodes 11, 29) (Released 15th Nov 2005)
 
*Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Ice Kirby (Episodes 66, 20) (Released 15th Nov 2005)
 
*Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Ice Kirby (Episodes 66, 20) (Released 15th Nov 2005)
 
*Kirby's Adventures in Cappy Town (Episodes 1-7) (Released 19th Feb 2008)
 
*Kirby's Adventures in Cappy Town (Episodes 1-7) (Released 19th Feb 2008)
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While a great many video game to anime adaptations are created for the sole purpose of merchandising, the creators of Kirby had the same goal that they had had when they were creating the games themselves - to make something that could be enjoyed by anyone. The director described his vision for the show as a 'Life Drama.'
 
While a great many video game to anime adaptations are created for the sole purpose of merchandising, the creators of Kirby had the same goal that they had had when they were creating the games themselves - to make something that could be enjoyed by anyone. The director described his vision for the show as a 'Life Drama.'
   
The show is rife with references to popular culture, history, current events and classic literature. Many episodes deal with what was current news and politics in Japan, from issues to North Korea to the very common theme of environmental protection. They even poke fun at US-American president George W. Bush by having the main villain Dedede make comments about 'Axis of Evil' and 'Weapons of Mass "DeDeDestruction"'.
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The show is rife with references to popular culture, history, current events, and classic literature. Many episodes deal with what was current news and politics in Japan, from issues to North Korea to the very common theme of environmental protection. They even poke fun at US-American president George W. Bush by having the main villain Dedede make comments about 'Axis of Evil' and 'Weapons of Mass "DeDeDestruction"'.
   
 
Old American movies are commonly referenced, including [[Goin' Bonkers|''King Kong'']], [[Waddle While You Work|''Gone with the Wind'']], ''Planet of the Apes'', ''Modern Times'', newer classics like [[Fossil Fools - Part II|''Jurassic Park'']], and the works of Alfred Hitchcock such as [[Scare Tactics - Part II|''Psycho'']] and [[Waste Management|''The Birds'']]. Of course, classic Japanese movies such as [[Caterpillar Thriller|''Mothra'']] get their screentime as well, in addition to others that might be more obscure to American audiences.
 
Old American movies are commonly referenced, including [[Goin' Bonkers|''King Kong'']], [[Waddle While You Work|''Gone with the Wind'']], ''Planet of the Apes'', ''Modern Times'', newer classics like [[Fossil Fools - Part II|''Jurassic Park'']], and the works of Alfred Hitchcock such as [[Scare Tactics - Part II|''Psycho'']] and [[Waste Management|''The Birds'']]. Of course, classic Japanese movies such as [[Caterpillar Thriller|''Mothra'']] get their screentime as well, in addition to others that might be more obscure to American audiences.
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For those familiar with the lore in the game series, the anime has some rather different takes to certain characters and events, and this discrepancy has resulted in a varied range of opinions in the Kirby fandom.
 
For those familiar with the lore in the game series, the anime has some rather different takes to certain characters and events, and this discrepancy has resulted in a varied range of opinions in the Kirby fandom.
   
In fact, the anime was closely supervised by the same people who worked on the games, including Kirby's creator, [[Masahiro Sakurai]]. In an interview with Famitsu Magazine he is quoted as saying, "I was considerably involved with the production of the anime. The aim was to create an anime that could be enjoyed by children and parents as much as they enjoyed the games. At first, 'Kirby' began as a game that even a beginner could enjoy. I believe such a spirit was achieved in the anime."
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In fact, the anime was closely supervised by the same people who worked on the games, including Kirby's creator, [[Masahiro Sakurai]]. In an interview with Famitsu Magazine, he is quoted as saying, "I was considerably involved with the production of the anime. The aim was to create an anime that could be enjoyed by children and parents as much as they enjoyed the games. At first, 'Kirby' began as a game that even a beginner could enjoy. I believe such a spirit was achieved in the anime."
   
One of the largest deviations from the games is Kirby's status as a legendary Star Warrior who is to Popstar. In the games, he isn't described as being any kind of special soldier, nor are there any legends associated with him. Star Warriors are a concept unique to the anime.
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One of the largest deviations from the games is Kirby's status as a legendary Star Warrior. In the games, he isn't described as being any kind of special soldier, nor are there any legends associated with him. Star Warriors are a concept unique to the anime.
   
 
Although it has always been hinted that Kirby is young, Kirby's age is lowered even more in the anime, to imply that he is only a baby, which is the explanation for why he doesn't talk as Sakurai mandated. While many characters from the games appear, they are often more or less changed to better fit in.
 
Although it has always been hinted that Kirby is young, Kirby's age is lowered even more in the anime, to imply that he is only a baby, which is the explanation for why he doesn't talk as Sakurai mandated. While many characters from the games appear, they are often more or less changed to better fit in.
   
Dedede and Meta Knight lose certain abilities in the anime. Meta Knight is never shown with wings or flying abilities, while Dedede is unable to float or inhale enemies.
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Dedede and Meta Knight lose certain abilities in the anime. Meta Knight is never shown with wings or flying abilities (even though he had wings in the pilot), while Dedede is unable to float or inhale enemies.
   
In addition, Dedede is portrayed as a much more antagonistic character in the show, with his redeeming moments much fewer and further between, and his looks are slightly changed to reflect that as well. In the games, Dedede is not that villainous, but mostly just tends to be more selfish and egotistical. The basis and means of aggression between Kirby and Dedede in the games is not nearly as severe as in the animated series.
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In addition, Dedede is portrayed as a much more antagonistic character in the show, with his redeeming moments much fewer and further between, and his looks are slightly changed to reflect that as well. In the games, Dedede is not that villainous, but mostly just tends to be more selfish and egotistical. The basis and means of aggression between Kirby and Dedede in the games are not nearly as severe as in the animated series.
   
 
Certain characters in the anime are enemies/bosses in the [[Kirby (series)|games]], but are friendly towards Kirby in the anime. Chef Kawasaki, Meta Knight, Sword Knight, Blade Knight, Knuckle Joe, Bonkers, Whispy Woods, Lololo and Lalala, Phan Phan, and the Cappies are prime examples of this statement.
 
Certain characters in the anime are enemies/bosses in the [[Kirby (series)|games]], but are friendly towards Kirby in the anime. Chef Kawasaki, Meta Knight, Sword Knight, Blade Knight, Knuckle Joe, Bonkers, Whispy Woods, Lololo and Lalala, Phan Phan, and the Cappies are prime examples of this statement.
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**Devil Kirby's theme from [[Frog Wild]] was reused in the [[Kirby Rocket]] stages.
 
**Devil Kirby's theme from [[Frog Wild]] was reused in the [[Kirby Rocket]] stages.
 
*The sword [[Galaxia]] was introduced in the anime and became [[Meta Knight]]'s signature weapon as of ''Kirby Air Ride''.
 
*The sword [[Galaxia]] was introduced in the anime and became [[Meta Knight]]'s signature weapon as of ''Kirby Air Ride''.
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*The [[Needle]] Copy Ability's hat was first seen in the anime.
*[[Spear Waddle Dee|Spear-wielding Waddle Dees]] appear as enemies in ''[[Kirby: Canvas Curse]]'', ''[[Kirby Super Star Ultra]]'', ''[[Kirby's Epic Yarn]]'', and ''[[Kirby's Blowout Blast]]''. [[Bandana Waddle Dee]] also wields one in ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', ''[[Kirby and the Rainbow Curse]]'' and ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]''.
 
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*The series' new bubbly logo originated from the anime. Any game prior to it had a flat text.
*[[Castle Dedede]] appears on the map of [[Prism Plains]] and as the location of where Kirby fights Dedede in ''[[Kirby: Squeak Squad]]''. When fighting Dedede in his throne room, the player can see the NME Teleporter in the background. The [[Halberd]] makes an appearance with its anime design.
 
 
*[[Spear Waddle Dee|Spear-wielding Waddle Dees]] appear as enemies in ''[[Kirby: Canvas Curse]]'', ''[[Kirby Super Star Ultra]]'', ''[[Kirby's Epic Yarn]]'', and ''[[Kirby's Blowout Blast]]''. [[Bandana Waddle Dee]] also wields one in ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', ''[[Kirby and the Rainbow Curse]]'', and ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]''.
 
*[[Castle Dedede]] appears on the map of [[Prism Plains]] and is the location of where Kirby fights Dedede in ''[[Kirby: Squeak Squad]]''. When fighting Dedede in his throne room, the player can see the N.M.E. Teleporter in the background. The [[Halberd]] also makes an appearance with its anime design.
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*''Kirby: Squeak Squad''’s main mechanic may be inspired from the events of [[Beware: Whispy Woods!]] and [[Don't Bank on It]], with Kirby being able to store items, encapsulated in a bubble, inside his stomach, which appears as a sort of starry void.
 
*In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', when the player gets [[Knuckle Joe]] out of his trophy he sometimes says "Vulcan Jab" and other attack names like his character in the anime.
 
*In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', when the player gets [[Knuckle Joe]] out of his trophy he sometimes says "Vulcan Jab" and other attack names like his character in the anime.
*Kirby uses his "poyo language" in ''Kirby's Epic Yarn'' and ''Kirby Mass Attack''. King Dedede's Castle also looks like the one in ''Kirby: Squeak Squad'', which is modeled after the one in the anime. Lastly, Meta Knight's in-game profile calls him a "space guardian," which may be a reference (or potentially a mistranslation) of Star Warrior.
+
*Kirby uses his "poyo language" in ''Kirby's Epic Yarn'' and ''Kirby Mass Attack''. King Dedede's Castle also looks like the one in ''Kirby: Squeak Squad'', which is modeled after the one in the anime. Lastly, Meta Knight's in-game profile calls him a "space guardian", which may be a reference (or potentially a mistranslation) of Star Warrior.
 
*In the [[Meta Knightmare Ultra]] mode of ''Kirby Super Star Ultra'', [[Sword Knight]] and [[Blade Knight]] both appear as [[helper]]s. They also accompany him to battle in the [[Kirby Quest]] of ''Kirby Mass Attack''.
 
*In the [[Meta Knightmare Ultra]] mode of ''Kirby Super Star Ultra'', [[Sword Knight]] and [[Blade Knight]] both appear as [[helper]]s. They also accompany him to battle in the [[Kirby Quest]] of ''Kirby Mass Attack''.
 
*In the [[Kirby Quest]] and [[Strato Patrol EOS]] sub-games in ''Kirby Mass Attack'', many anime-exclusive characters appear. These characters are [[Escargoon]], Chef Shiitake, [[Kabuki|Kabuki Kirby]], [[N.M.E. Sales Guy]], and [[Max Flexer]]. Kirby fights Chef Kawasaki and Chef Shiitake in Kawasaki's restaurant from the anime.
 
*In the [[Kirby Quest]] and [[Strato Patrol EOS]] sub-games in ''Kirby Mass Attack'', many anime-exclusive characters appear. These characters are [[Escargoon]], Chef Shiitake, [[Kabuki|Kabuki Kirby]], [[N.M.E. Sales Guy]], and [[Max Flexer]]. Kirby fights Chef Kawasaki and Chef Shiitake in Kawasaki's restaurant from the anime.
 
**Additionally, in Kirby Quest, Kirby turns red when he eats [[Superspicy Curry]]. Since consuming the curry doesn't affect Kirby's color in any other game, this is a reference to the Toxic Atomic Curry Kawasaki cooks in [[The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey]].
 
**Additionally, in Kirby Quest, Kirby turns red when he eats [[Superspicy Curry]]. Since consuming the curry doesn't affect Kirby's color in any other game, this is a reference to the Toxic Atomic Curry Kawasaki cooks in [[The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey]].
*[[Water|Water Kirby]], first seen in the anime, is featured in ''Kirby's Return to Dream Land'' (albeit redesigned).
+
*[[Water|Water Kirby]], first seen in the anime, is featured in ''Kirby's Return to Dream Land ''and ''Kirby Star Allies'' (albeit redesigned).
 
*The King Dedede Doodle [[sticker]] in ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'' may be inspired by one scene in [[Cartoon Buffoon]].
 
*The King Dedede Doodle [[sticker]] in ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'' may be inspired by one scene in [[Cartoon Buffoon]].
*In ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]'' one of the animations on the mode select screen shows [[Waddle Doo]] commanding [[Parasol Waddle Dee]]s and [[Bandana Waddle Dee]]s, referencing his role in the anime as their leader.
+
*In ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]'', one of the animations on the mode select screen shows [[Waddle Doo]] commanding [[Parasol Waddle Dee]]s and [[Bandana Waddle Dee]]s, referencing his role in the anime as their leader.
  +
*In ''Kirby Star Allies'', King Dedede’s second phase form may have been inspired by his form when he was possessed by the [[Demon Frog]].
*Meta Knight's pose where he wraps his cape around himself had not been seen before his anime appearance, and was frequently used in the show. It has since appeared in ''Kirby Super Star Ultra''’s intro for [[Revenge of Meta Knight]], in intro to ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', and in [[The Cake Royale]] within ''[[Kirby Battle Royale]]''.
 
  +
*In ''Kirby Star Allies'', when playing [[The Ultimate Choice]] and choosing the Soul Melter difficulty, Kirby’s face changes into the face he had when he was possessed by the Demon Frog.
  +
*In ''Kirby Star Allies'', [[Octagon]]’s small form makes an appearance as one of the paintings [[Adeleine]] can create.
 
*Meta Knight's pose where he wraps his cape around himself had not been seen before his anime appearance and was frequently used in the show. It has since appeared in ''Kirby Super Star Ultra''’s intro for [[Revenge of Meta Knight]], in the intro to ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', and in [[The Cake Royale]] within ''[[Kirby Battle Royale]]''.
   
 
==Music==
 
==Music==
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;Japanese version (''Hoshi no Kābī'')
 
;Japanese version (''Hoshi no Kābī'')
 
Openings
 
Openings
* "[[Kirby * March]]" (カービィ★マーチ ''Kābī ★ Māchi'') by Shanchī (シャンチー) (Eps. 1-71)
+
* "[[Kirby March]]" (カービィ★マーチ ''Kābī ★ Māchi'') by Shanchī (シャンチー) (Eps. 1-71)
 
* "[[Kirby! (opening theme)|Kirby!]]" (カービィ! ''Kābī!'') by Hiroko Asakawa (朝川ひろこ) (Eps. 72-100)
 
* "[[Kirby! (opening theme)|Kirby!]]" (カービィ! ''Kābī!'') by Hiroko Asakawa (朝川ひろこ) (Eps. 72-100)
 
Endings
 
Endings
 
* "[[Kihon wa Maru]]" (きほんはまる, ''First draw a circle'') by Shanchī (Eps. 1-71)
 
* "[[Kihon wa Maru]]" (きほんはまる, ''First draw a circle'') by Shanchī (Eps. 1-71)
* "Kirby * Step!" (カービィ☆ステップ! ''Kābī ☆ Suteppu!'') by KONISHIKI (Eps. 72-100)
+
* "[[Kirby Step!]]" (カービィ☆ステップ! ''Kābī ☆ Suteppu!'') by KONISHIKI (Eps. 72-100)
   
 
;U.S./English version (''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'')
 
;U.S./English version (''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'')
Line 351: Line 361:
   
 
Opening/Ending
 
Opening/Ending
*"Kirby" by Cristina D'Avena (Eps. 1-100)
+
*"[https://kirby.fandom.com/it/wiki/Kirby_(sigla) Kirby]" by Cristina D'Avena (Eps. 1-52)
   
 
==Trivia==
 
==Trivia==
 
*The English version of the title (''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'') was likely chosen because its initials (KRBY) is very similar to ''Kirby'', minus the vowel.
 
*The English version of the title (''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'') was likely chosen because its initials (KRBY) is very similar to ''Kirby'', minus the vowel.
  +
*All ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'' VHS tapes and the ''[[Mario Kirby Masterpiece]]'' hold the distinction of being the physical ''Kirby'' media that run on the oldest hardware. The VHS player was introduced to the Japanese market in 1976, 16 years before the series began.
*During the span of time ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'' was available on the 4Kids TV website, three flash games were created for it: [[Kirby Shuffle Puzzle|Kirby Shuffle Puzzle 1]], [[Kirby Shuffle Puzzle|Kirby Shuffle Puzzle 2]], and [[Waddle Doom]]. Two of these games no longer exist, though each has an official description. The Shuffle Puzzle games were standard puzzles that revealed a ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'' image when completed, and Waddle Doom had the player shoot as many Waddle Dees as possible under a one-minute time limit.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20090305202822/http://www.4kids.tv:80/games/play/waddle-doom 4Kids (archived page)]</ref>
+
*During the span of time ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'' was available on the 4Kids TV website, four flash games were created for it: [[Kirby Shuffle Puzzle|Kirby Shuffle Puzzle 1]], [[Kirby Shuffle Puzzle|Kirby Shuffle Puzzle 2]], [[Waddle Doom]], and [[Kirby Star Ride]]. Three of these games no longer exist, though two have an official description. The Shuffle Puzzle games were standard puzzles that revealed a ''Kirby: Right Back at Ya!'' image when completed, and Waddle Doom had the player shoot as many Waddle Dees as possible under a one-minute time limit.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20090305202822/http://www.4kids.tv:80/games/play/waddle-doom 4Kids (archived page)]</ref> It is unknown what Kirby Star Ride was like as it was not preserved in any way.
 
*In ''[[Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition]]'', the box art for the anime in the History section has a dynamic poster.
 
*In ''[[Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition]]'', the box art for the anime in the History section has a dynamic poster.
 
*In Episode 47 of the show (Episode 49 in Japan,) [[Cartoon Buffoon]], there is a King Dedede variation of the intros, with the Japanese (Hoshii no Dedede [Dedede of the Stars]) and English (Dedede: Comin’ at ya!) versions respectively for their regions. However, only a small part of each version is heard.
 
*In Episode 47 of the show (Episode 49 in Japan,) [[Cartoon Buffoon]], there is a King Dedede variation of the intros, with the Japanese (Hoshii no Dedede [Dedede of the Stars]) and English (Dedede: Comin’ at ya!) versions respectively for their regions. However, only a small part of each version is heard.
 
*Although Kirby does not speak any full sentences in the show (except arguably in his "poyo language"), he is sometimes heard to clearly speak intelligible words, so he is still more talkative than in any of the ''Kirby'' games besides ''[[Kirby's Avalanche]]''. The most prominent examples are when he calls out the names of attacks after gaining a Copy Ability.
 
*Although Kirby does not speak any full sentences in the show (except arguably in his "poyo language"), he is sometimes heard to clearly speak intelligible words, so he is still more talkative than in any of the ''Kirby'' games besides ''[[Kirby's Avalanche]]''. The most prominent examples are when he calls out the names of attacks after gaining a Copy Ability.
  +
  +
==Concept Artwork==
  +
<gallery>
  +
Daizen34.JPG|[[Acore]]
  +
Commander Vee Concept.jpg|[[Commander Vee]]
  +
VeeSword.jpg|Concept art of Commander Vee
  +
Commander Vee (Rona) Concept.jpg|Commander Vee
  +
Escargon 1.jpg|[[Escargoon]]
  +
HnK Escargoon 3 PNG.jpg|Escargoon
  +
HnK Escargoon 2 PNG.png|Escargoon
  +
Hnk Escargoon PNG.png|Escargoon
  +
HnK Escargoon 5 PNG.jpg
  +
HnK Escargoon 6 PNG.jpg
  +
Garlude sketch.jpg|[[Garlude]] and [[Meta Knight]]
  +
HnK Dedede and Escargoon.jpg|[[King Dedede]]
  +
KRBaY reference 1.png|[[Kirby]]
  +
KRBaY reference 2.png|Kirby
  +
KRBaY reference 3.png|Kirby
  +
KRBaY reference 4.png|Kirby
  +
KRBaY reference 5.png|Kirby
  +
KRBaY reference 6.png|Kirby
  +
Daizen37.JPG|[[Mosugaba]]
  +
HnK Nago concept art PNG.png|[[Nago]]
  +
Hnk Paint Kirby.jpg|[[Paint]]
  +
Princess Rona Concept.jpg|[[Princess Rona]]
  +
Guard Concept.jpg|Princess Rona
  +
Princess Rona (Vee) No Helm Concept.jpg|Princess Rona
  +
Sirica concept art DAHEdJ6UQAAUimm.jpg|[[Sirica]]
  +
Daizen61.JPG|Sirica's weapon
  +
HnK Sword Kirby 2.jpg|[[Sword]]
  +
HnK Sword Kirby.jpg|Sword
  +
Susshi Concept.jpg|[[Susshi]]
  +
KRBaY reference 7.png|[[Warp Star]]
  +
</gallery>
   
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
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KWallpaper 8.jpg|Wallpaper
 
KWallpaper 8.jpg|Wallpaper
 
KWallpaper 7.jpg|Wallpaper
 
KWallpaper 7.jpg|Wallpaper
  +
Anime3_1024.jpg|Wallpaper
 
HoshinoKabi.png|Japanese logo
 
HoshinoKabi.png|Japanese logo
 
KRBAY logo.png|US logo
 
KRBAY logo.png|US logo
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KRBaY_Site_pic_2.gif|4Kids website ad
 
KRBaY_Site_pic_2.gif|4Kids website ad
 
KRBaY_Site_pic_3.gif|4Kids website ad
 
KRBaY_Site_pic_3.gif|4Kids website ad
  +
HnK Poster.png|''[[Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition]]'' poster (Japan)
  +
KRBaY poster.png|''Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition'' poster (USA)
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
   
Line 433: Line 481:
 
|[[File:wnm ep24.png|112px|Ninja Binge|link=Ninja Binge]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep24.png|112px|Ninja Binge|link=Ninja Binge]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep25.png|112px|Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules|link=Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep25.png|112px|Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules|link=Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules]]
|[[File:wnm ep26.png|112px|Sword and Blade, Loyal and True / Hour of the WolfWrath|link=Sword and Blade, Loyal and True / Hour of the WolfWrath]]
+
|[[File:wnm ep26.png|112px|Hour of the WolfWrath|link=Hour of the WolfWrath]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep27.png|112px|The Flower Plot|link=The Flower Plot]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep27.png|112px|The Flower Plot|link=The Flower Plot]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep28.png|112px|Labor Daze|link=Labor Daze]]
 
|[[File:wnm ep28.png|112px|Labor Daze|link=Labor Daze]]
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| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Ninja Binge]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Ninja Binge]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules]]
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Sword and Blade, Loyal and True / Hour of the WolfWrath]]
+
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Hour of the WolfWrath]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[The Flower Plot]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[The Flower Plot]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Labor Daze]]
 
| style="border-bottom: 1px solid #AAAAFF;" |[[Labor Daze]]

Revision as of 08:07, 15 April 2020

KPR Susie artwork This article is about the anime. For the song, see Kirby: Right Back at Ya! (song)
Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This article contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)
Anime

The cast of Kirby: Right Back at Ya!

This 100-episode animated TV series was first broadcast in the USA in 2002. It's been released in many other countries as well.
— Summary • Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition

Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, known in Japan as Hoshi no Kābī (星のカービィ, Kirby of the Stars) is an anime series based on the Kirby franchise. The series was produced by Warpstar Inc., a company formed between a joint investment between Nintendo and HAL Laboratory, Inc. Some of the episodes were put onto the Wii Channel "Kirby TV", running until 15 December 2011. A second run started again in 2012 with additional material such as game trailers.

Premise

Hoshi no kaabii

Kirby of the Stars

The series is about the adventures of Kirby and his friends after his Starship crash-lands on Planet Popstar, in the country of Dream Land. In this series, Kirby is a legendary Star Warrior destined to save Dream Land from destruction by eNeMeE. King Dedede, the ruler of Dream Land, wants to drive Kirby away, and orders up fearsome monsters from eNeMeE's company, Nightmare Enterprises. The monsters usually end up attacking Kirby and the people of Dream Land, but Kirby and friends always save the day.

Kirby: Right Back at Ya! uses the characters and concepts from the preceding game series as a basis rather than copying the games' events and lore word-for-word. It is best viewed as an alternate universe, having no direct connection to timeline of the events in the games. Being self-contained, it is easier for those unfamiliar with the game series to understand it.

The series is rifled with satire and parody, some of it self-referential in nature. Homages to old movies are common, as are references to modern popular culture, politics and news events.

Story

Kirby4 120

Star Warriors fought against monsters

Centuries ago, The Evil Demon known as eNeMeE, craving the rule of the universe, made himself known and created a company called Nightmare Enterprises. It was to function as a front and fund his operations and manufacturing of great armies of monsters, which he used to take over much of the galaxy. His actions devastated countless planets. There were those who stood to combat his evil; The Star Warriors and the Galaxy Soldier Army. Both sides fought for many thousands of years, but eNeMeE's monsters outnumbered them and only Meta Knight and a few others survived to see the aftermath.

eNeMeE eventually threatens the peaceful country of Dream Land on Planet Popstar, as it seems likely to be eNeMeE's next target. The inhabitants are told that a legendary hero will come to save them - the Star Warrior, Kirby of the Stars.

Kirby Comes to Cappy Town

Tiff defends Kirby

Everyone is quite surprised when Kirby's ship crashes close to Cappy Town (Pupu Village in Japan). At first glance, he doesn't look like much, as Kirby is tiny, round, pink, and only a baby! However, he is quick to save anyone who is in danger and soon befriends the siblings Tiff and Tuff (Fumu and Bun in Japanese), along with their friends (servants) Fololo and Falala (Lololo and Lalala).

The mean ruler of Dream Land, King Dedede, is jealous and suspicious of Kirby the moment his starship crashes. He and his sidekick Escargoon (Escargon) try to get rid of Kirby with monsters and machines provided by eNeMeE. The attempts always fail, however, due to Kirby's natural abilities in one way or another. Just as in the games, Kirby can inhale enemies and gain the use of their powers.

The series deals with Kirby's day-to-day trials, and how he grows and becomes stronger before his final battle against eNeMeE. Story progression is slow paced, and themes are mostly light-hearted with some darker undercurrents running throughout. Although the series is episodic and episodes are mostly self-contained, there are a few story-arcs so it is recommended to watch the episodes in order.

Development

1 kirby

Promotional artwork

In an interview, producer Soji Yoshikawa speaks at length about the challenges faced by the creators of the Kirby anime. He expressed worry about potential failure, as past video game to anime adaptations did not go well, but as time went on, he began to see a character with strength and felt that it could be successful.

Two of the main challenges were set by Kirby's creator Masahiro Sakurai. He said that there were to be no humans, and Kirby must not speak.[citation needed] Yoshikawa acknowledges the difficulty of having a main character who does not speak, as well as coming up with entirely unique settings and characters. Without any humans in the cast, he likens it to the Finnish series The Moomins, which was quite popular in Japan.

The series is animated with combined 3DCG and traditional 2D drawings, and as a result, animators were able to use a much higher framerate than most television anime, anywhere from 1.5-3x more on average.[1] About 10,000 frames are used in each episode, compared to the 4000-5000 used by most TV anime of the same length. CGI is most often used on Kirby, King Dedede, Escargoon, Dyna Blade, and certain Nightmare Enterprises monsters. However, in scenes or shots where CGI would not make sense (such as if a CGI character were to physically touch or grab a hand-drawn character), they are usually instead in the same 2D style as the other characters, though such an occurrence is relatively rare).

The main concern was to have as much movement as possible, as Japanese animation has come to rely on shortcuts to reduce production costs. This issue was directly referenced by the show's characters in the episode Cartoon Buffoon. The success becomes apparent upon watching, as the character animations are fluid and there is a low incidence of stock footage or still frames. Despite being such a long series, there is no degradation of the animation quality towards the end.

Kirby had enjoyed high levels of popularity and financial success in Japan, selling a wide range of merchandise. Unfortunately, Nintendo and 4Kids's efforts in the US appear to have been unsuccessful, judging by comparatively lackluster reviews and TV ratings the animated series received there. The official websites had much information about Kirby toys and other merchandise, but almost nothing was actually released outside of DVDs.

By 2010, nearly all merchandise regarding the Kirby anime ran out of print worldwide, especially in Japan.

Pilot Anime

KPR Maxim Tomato Main article: Kirby of the Stars Pilot

Episodes

KPR Maxim Tomato Main article: List of Kirby: Right Back at Ya! episodes

Characters

Main characters

Hnk

Japanese DVD cover for episodes 1-3

See also:

Voice Actors

 
Character English Voice Actor Japanese Voice Actor
Kirby Makiko Ohmoto (Amy Birnbaum for one scene in Kirby Comes to Cappy Town) Makiko Ohmoto
Tiff Kerry Williams Sayuri Yoshida
Tuff Kayzie Rogers Rika Komatsu
Sir Ebrum David Lapkin Takashi Nagasako
Lady Like Kayzie Rogers Yūko Mizutani
King Dedede Ted Lewis Kenichi Ogata
Escargoon Ted Lewis Naoki Tatsuta
Meta Knight Eric Stuart Atsushi Kisaichi
Sword Knight Eric Stuart Hikaru Tokita
Blade Knight Eric Stuart Chiro Kanzaki
Galaxia - -
Waddle Doo Maddie Blaustein Yūko Mizutani
Honey Kayzie Rogers Madoka Akita
Iro Jim Napolitano Makiko Ohmoto
Spikehead Amy Birnbaum Chiro Kanzaki
Tokkori Kevin Kolack Fujiko Takimoto
Rick Andrew Rannelis Makiko Ohmoto
Kine Darren Dunstan Nobuo Tobita
Coo Eric Stuart Yūko Mizutani
Kabu Jim Napolitano Nobuo Tobita
Whispy Woods Dan Green Osamu Hosoi
Chef Kawasaki Maddie Blaustein, Ted Lewis (Kirby 3D) Nobuo Tobita
Mabel Amy Birnbaum Yūko Mizutani
Samo Mike Pollock Nobuo Tobita
Mayor Len Blustergas Mike Pollock Takashi Nagasako
Chief Bookem Jerry Lobozzo (episodes 1-75), Andrew Rannelis (episodes 76-100) Atsushi Kisaichi
Buttercup Lisa Ortiz Madoka Akita
Doron - Nobuo Tobita
Yabui David Lapkin Sekine Kazunori
Hana Kayzie Rogers Kanzaki Shiro
Professor Curio Maddie Blaustein Takashi Nagasako
Tuggle Maddie Blaustein Mizuki Saitoh
Gengu Maddie Blaustein Mizuki Saitoh
Melman Maddie Blaustein Nobuo Tobita
Biblio Maddie Blaustein Kazunori Sekine
Sirica Veronica Taylor Tomoe Hanba
Knuckle Joe Kevin Kolack Minami Takayama
Chef Nagoya Jimmy Zoppi Norio Tsuboi
Sir Gallant Jimmy Zoppi Bin Shimada
Princess Rona Tara Sands Yuko Sasamato
Nightmare Andrew Rannells, Michael Sinterniklaas (Kirby 3D) Banjo Ginga
N.M.E. Sales Guy Dan Green Banjo Ginga

Releases

Broadcast

In Japan, the series was first aired by Chubu-Nippon Broadcasting Co., Ltd. on October 6, 2001, and finished in 2003 after 100 episodes. The second broadcasting began on June 28, 2007 on the Tokyo Metropolitan Television station and ended after May 21, 2009.

The anime was licensed in North America by 4Kids Entertainment under the title Kirby: Right Back at Ya! and aired on 4Kids TV (formerly known as FoxBox). airing ended in 2006 in the US. The second broadcasting began on June 21, 2008 until December 27, 2008 at 11am on Saturday mornings on 4Kids TV, and for a time, the content was available via the 4Kids Video On Demand Service and at www.4Kids.TV. It also aired temporarily on the CW4Kids from June 6 to July 11, 2009. As of October 9, 2009, 4Kids (now 4Licensing) no longer holds the license for the show.[2]

The series has been released on digital media in other languages, including Chinese, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Serbian, Korean and Hebrew.

English dub release

Once the Japanese version was released, 4Kids made an English version out of it and some parts were cut out. Parts that are cut include violence, profanity, parts that take up time, guns, weapons, alcohol and drug references, and toilet humor. All references to the Galaxy Soldier Army are completely removed, and refer to them as Star Warriors. Any references to religious concepts like heaven and hell have been taken out as well. (Examples of this can be found in the episodes Fitness Fiend and Hour of the WolfWrath). Furthermore, a significant amount of Japanese text was digitally airbrushed out, and even some English text, such as the "Holy Nightmare" logo on the N.M.E. Sales Guy’s screen.

Episode order changes

Some episodes aired differently in English-speaking/Western countries than in the original version. The first one of these episodes was Escargoon Squad; instead of being #12 on the list, it was changed to #13 because of Kirby's Pet Peeve (it was #12 in the English dub version instead of the original version, where it was #15). A Fish Called Kine was changed to #15 instead of #16. Cappy New Year was changed from being #13 to #29 to make it closer to New Year's Day. All episodes after that up until Cappy New Year (which are Flower Power, Here Comes the Son, Dedede's Snow Job, A Princess in Dis-Dress, Island of the Lost Warrior, The Empty Nest Mess, Ninja Binge, Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules, Hour of the WolfWrath, The Flower Plot, Labor Daze, The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey and Hatch Me if You Can) moved up 2 episodes. Abusement Park was changed to #30 instead of #31 and Junk Jam and A Recipe for Disaster have switched places. The whole Kirby Derby segment has been changed to #31-#32 instead of #35-#36. Watermelon Felon moved up 2 episodes and A Novel Approach was changed from #38 to #44 to air it around one of the Harry Potter movies (A Novel Approach parodies the Harry Potter books). All episodes up until Pink-Collar Blues (which are Escar-Gone, Monster Management, Prediction Predicament - Part I, Prediction Predicament - Part II, Sheepwrecked and War of the Woods) moved up 3 episodes. The Scare Tactics and Snack Attack segment switched places and Pink-Collar Blues and Tourist Trap moved up 5 episodes. Cartoon Buffoon, Don't Bank on It and Kirby Takes the Cake all moved up 2 episodes and all the other episodes up until Cowardly Creature are in the same order as the original. Cowardly Creature and Frog Wild changed to #96 and #97 instead of #94 and #95 because of the re-airing of The Thing About the Ring and A Dental Dilemma, which were cut before they aired and the Air-Ride-in-Style segment has been changed from #96 to #97 to #50 and #51 to air along with the Kirby Air Ride game for the GameCube.

Digital Distribution

HT KirbyTVChannel enGB

Kirby Channel (UK)

KirbyTV Channel

Kirby Channel (Europe)

As of April 2012, the original Japanese version of this anime is no longer available on the Wii no Ma, the Wii's video-on-demand service, with each episode worth 100 Wii Points because Nintendo terminated broadcast of the entire channel. There was an additional video within Kirby's section (also worth 100 Wii points) showcasing all of Kirby's Copy Abilities as seen in the anime. Some of the episodes were later re-released in groups of five.

On June 23, 2011,[3] Nintendo released the English version to Australia / New Zealand and much of Europe through the Wii Channel. Every Monday and Thursday, a new episode is added to the channel, with older ones being relegated to an archive, which were available for intermittent viewing. The planned release schedule did not cover all 100 episodes dubbed by 4Kids, only 51 (but skipping 38 due to copyright problems with Harry Potter). At two releases per week, the schedule spans 5–6 months. The second run began on April 2, 2012.

The list of European countries it is available in is the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland, Greece, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Australia, and New Zealand.

It was also confirmed by Nintendo of Europe that Kirby: Right Back At Ya! series 1 (Episodes 1-51, with 38 included this time) would be released on the Nintendo Anime channel on the Nintendo 3DS family of consoles, with new content being added regularly. It launched on February 13, 2015.[4] However, all content was removed on September 30, 2018, and the anime channel itself was removed from the 3DS digital store and shut down a month later on October 31, 2018.

Home Video Release

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The cancelled "Escargoon Squad" DVD

Funimation Entertainment was the main DVD licenser to the English dub of Kirby: Right Back at Ya!. All the DVDs show the edited TV dub version only. Most of these DVDs are still available as new and used copies. Uncut DVDs are not available. Please note that the following episode numbers refer to the Japanese order, and 4Kids used that order on Kirby: Cappy New Year and Other Kirby Adventures. Nintendo also used this order on Kirby TV Channel for Nintendo Wii and Nintendo Anime Channel for Nintendo 3DS.

Kirby: Right Back At Ya! was released in 3 volumes with 3 episodes in each:

  • Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Volume 1: Kirby Comes to Cappy Town (Episodes 1-3) (Released 12th Nov 2002)
  • Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Volume 2: A Dark and Stormy Knight (Episodes 4-6) (Released 7th Jan 2003)
  • Kirby: Right Back At Ya! Volume 3: Kirby's Egg-Cellent Adventure (Episodes 7-9) (Released 4th Nov 2003)

The Final Five Episodes were released in a movie format:

  • Kirby: Fright to the Finish - Movie (Episodes 96-100 [+26 as a bonus feature]) (Released: 14th Jun 2005)

Other sets:

  • Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Cook Kirby (Episodes 11, 29) (Released 15th Nov 2005)
  • Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Ice Kirby (Episodes 66, 20) (Released 15th Nov 2005)
  • Kirby's Adventures in Cappy Town (Episodes 1-7) (Released 19th Feb 2008)
  • Kirby: Cappy New Year & Other Kirby Adventures (Episodes 8-14) (Released 9th Dec 2008)

Funimation was also planning to release "Escargoon Squad" on DVD, but was canceled in 2006.

Avex Trax was the distributor for the DVDs and VHS tapes of the original version of the anime in Japan. The first 36 episodes were released in both DVD and VHS formats, while all the remaining episodes were only available on DVD. Each consisted of up to three episodes. They were released from 2002 to 2004. The "1st series" consisted of episodes 1-21, the "2nd series" consisted of episodes 22-42, and the "3rd series" was the remainder of the entire series. Additionally, there was a standalone release of a "Manmaru Selection" DVD, which contained two specially chosen episodes that had already been released on the sequential DVDs (#J13 and #J49).

All of the Japanese DVDs were coded for Region 2 only. The first two DVDs manufactured in North America were both coded for all regions. Later DVDs were Region 1 encoded.

Satire and Parody

While a great many video game to anime adaptations are created for the sole purpose of merchandising, the creators of Kirby had the same goal that they had had when they were creating the games themselves - to make something that could be enjoyed by anyone. The director described his vision for the show as a 'Life Drama.'

The show is rife with references to popular culture, history, current events, and classic literature. Many episodes deal with what was current news and politics in Japan, from issues to North Korea to the very common theme of environmental protection. They even poke fun at US-American president George W. Bush by having the main villain Dedede make comments about 'Axis of Evil' and 'Weapons of Mass "DeDeDestruction"'.

Old American movies are commonly referenced, including King Kong, Gone with the Wind, Planet of the Apes, Modern Times, newer classics like Jurassic Park, and the works of Alfred Hitchcock such as Psycho and The Birds. Of course, classic Japanese movies such as Mothra get their screentime as well, in addition to others that might be more obscure to American audiences.

Books referenced range from the classic Don Quixote to the current hit Harry Potter novels.

One episode's plot strongly references a period of history known as the Chinese Cultural Revolution, except the ones revolting are the Waddle Dees.

Game Differences

For those familiar with the lore in the game series, the anime has some rather different takes to certain characters and events, and this discrepancy has resulted in a varied range of opinions in the Kirby fandom.

In fact, the anime was closely supervised by the same people who worked on the games, including Kirby's creator, Masahiro Sakurai. In an interview with Famitsu Magazine, he is quoted as saying, "I was considerably involved with the production of the anime. The aim was to create an anime that could be enjoyed by children and parents as much as they enjoyed the games. At first, 'Kirby' began as a game that even a beginner could enjoy. I believe such a spirit was achieved in the anime."

One of the largest deviations from the games is Kirby's status as a legendary Star Warrior. In the games, he isn't described as being any kind of special soldier, nor are there any legends associated with him. Star Warriors are a concept unique to the anime.

Although it has always been hinted that Kirby is young, Kirby's age is lowered even more in the anime, to imply that he is only a baby, which is the explanation for why he doesn't talk as Sakurai mandated. While many characters from the games appear, they are often more or less changed to better fit in.

Dedede and Meta Knight lose certain abilities in the anime. Meta Knight is never shown with wings or flying abilities (even though he had wings in the pilot), while Dedede is unable to float or inhale enemies.

In addition, Dedede is portrayed as a much more antagonistic character in the show, with his redeeming moments much fewer and further between, and his looks are slightly changed to reflect that as well. In the games, Dedede is not that villainous, but mostly just tends to be more selfish and egotistical. The basis and means of aggression between Kirby and Dedede in the games are not nearly as severe as in the animated series.

Certain characters in the anime are enemies/bosses in the games, but are friendly towards Kirby in the anime. Chef Kawasaki, Meta Knight, Sword Knight, Blade Knight, Knuckle Joe, Bonkers, Whispy Woods, Lololo and Lalala, Phan Phan, and the Cappies are prime examples of this statement.

Kirby's inhaling ability is a lot more powerful than what it was in the games.

Influences on the Games

There are a few features from the anime that have made appearances in the games. They are listed below:

Music

KPR Maxim Tomato Main article: Kirby: Right Back at Ya!/Music

Themes

Japanese version (Hoshi no Kābī)

Openings

  • "Kirby ★ March" (カービィ★マーチ Kābī ★ Māchi) by Shanchī (シャンチー) (Eps. 1-71)
  • "Kirby!" (カービィ! Kābī!) by Hiroko Asakawa (朝川ひろこ) (Eps. 72-100)

Endings

  • "Kihon wa Maru" (きほんはまる, First draw a circle) by Shanchī (Eps. 1-71)
  • "Kirby ★ Step!" (カービィ☆ステップ! Kābī ☆ Suteppu!) by KONISHIKI (Eps. 72-100)
U.S./English version (Kirby: Right Back at Ya!)

Opening

Ending

  • "Kirby Theme (Instrumental)" by Ralph Shuckett (Eps. 1-100)

Italian version (Kirby TV)

Opening/Ending

  • "Kirby" by Cristina D'Avena (Eps. 1-52)

Trivia

  • The English version of the title (Kirby: Right Back at Ya!) was likely chosen because its initials (KRBY) is very similar to Kirby, minus the vowel.
  • All Kirby: Right Back at Ya! VHS tapes and the Mario Kirby Masterpiece hold the distinction of being the physical Kirby media that run on the oldest hardware. The VHS player was introduced to the Japanese market in 1976, 16 years before the series began.
  • During the span of time Kirby: Right Back at Ya! was available on the 4Kids TV website, four flash games were created for it: Kirby Shuffle Puzzle 1, Kirby Shuffle Puzzle 2, Waddle Doom, and Kirby Star Ride. Three of these games no longer exist, though two have an official description. The Shuffle Puzzle games were standard puzzles that revealed a Kirby: Right Back at Ya! image when completed, and Waddle Doom had the player shoot as many Waddle Dees as possible under a one-minute time limit.[5] It is unknown what Kirby Star Ride was like as it was not preserved in any way.
  • In Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition, the box art for the anime in the History section has a dynamic poster.
  • In Episode 47 of the show (Episode 49 in Japan,) Cartoon Buffoon, there is a King Dedede variation of the intros, with the Japanese (Hoshii no Dedede [Dedede of the Stars]) and English (Dedede: Comin’ at ya!) versions respectively for their regions. However, only a small part of each version is heard.
  • Although Kirby does not speak any full sentences in the show (except arguably in his "poyo language"), he is sometimes heard to clearly speak intelligible words, so he is still more talkative than in any of the Kirby games besides Kirby's Avalanche. The most prominent examples are when he calls out the names of attacks after gaining a Copy Ability.

Concept Artwork

Gallery

Wii no Ma episode thumbnails

These images are from Nintendo Japan's Wii no Ma section dedicated to Hoshi no Kābī. The two-part episodes are meant to be displayed side by side; they are marked by green lettering and have a background with a multitude of screens behind Kirby. Kirby's image on the front represents the most significant Copy Ability transformation in the episode, with the exception of Air-Ride-in-Style - Part I, where he flies the Formula Star. If Kirby isn't shown having an ability or standing with something associated with one, it means none is featured within that episode.

Click on the little white button at the top right to expand the table.

Kirby Comes to Cappy Town A Blockbuster Battle Kirby's Duel Role Dark and Stormy Knight Beware: Whispy Woods! Un-Reality TV Kirby's Egg-Cellent Adventure Curio's Curious Discovery The Fofa Factor Hail to the Chief
Kirby Comes to Cappy Town A Blockbuster Battle Kirby's Duel Role Dark and Stormy Knight Beware: Whispy Woods! Un-Reality TV Kirby's Egg-Cellent Adventure Curio's Curious Discovery The Fofa Factor Hail to the Chief
The Big Taste Test Escargoon Squad Cappy New Year The Pillow Case Kirby's Pet Peeve A Fish Called Kine The Thing About the Ring Flower Power Here Comes the Son Dedede's Snow Job
The Big Taste Test Escargoon Squad Cappy New Year The Pillow Case Kirby's Pet Peeve A Fish Called Kine The Thing About the Ring Flower Power Here Comes the Son Dedede's Snow Job
A Princess in Dis-Dress Island of the Lost Warrior The Empty Nest Mess Ninja Binge Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules Hour of the WolfWrath The Flower Plot Labor Daze The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey Hatch Me if You Can
A Princess in Dis-Dress Island of the Lost Warrior The Empty Nest Mess Ninja Binge Like Mother, Like Snail / Escargoon Rules Hour of the WolfWrath The Flower Plot Labor Daze The Hot Shot Chef / A Spice Odyssey Hatch Me if You Can
Abusement Park A Dental Dilemma Junk Jam A Recipe for Disaster The Kirby Derby - Part I The Kirby Derby - Part II Watermelon Felon A Novel Approach Escar-Gone Monster Management
Abusement Park A Dental Dilemma Junk Jam A Recipe for Disaster The Kirby Derby - Part I The Kirby Derby - Part II Watermelon Felon A Novel Approach Escar-Gone Monster Management
Prediction Predicament - Part I Prediction Predicament - Part II Sheepwrecked War of the Woods Scare Tactics - Part I Scare Tactics - Part II Pink-Collar Blues Tourist Trap Cartoon Buffoon Don't Bank on It
Prediction Predicament - Part I Prediction Predicament - Part II Sheepwrecked War of the Woods Scare Tactics - Part I Scare Tactics - Part II Pink-Collar Blues Tourist Trap Cartoon Buffoon Don't Bank on It
Kirby Takes the Cake Snack Attack - Part I Snack Attack - Part II One Crazy Knight Sweet & Sour Puss Dedede's Pet Threat A Half-Baked Battle eNeMeE Elementary The Meal Moocher Crusade for the Blade
Kirby Takes the Cake Snack Attack - Part I Snack Attack - Part II One Crazy Knight Sweet & Sour Puss Dedede's Pet Threat A Half-Baked Battle eNeMeE Elementary The Meal Moocher Crusade for the Blade
Fitness Fiend Mabel Turns the Tables Something to Sneeze At The Kirby Quiz Masher 2 The Chill Factor The School Scam Delivery Dilemma Trick or Trek Buccaneer Birdy
Fitness Fiend Mabel Turns the Tables Something to Sneeze At The Kirby Quiz Masher 2.0 The Chill Factor The School Scam Delivery Dilemma Trick or Trek Buccaneer Birdy
A Whale of a Tale Waddle While You Work Dedede's Raw Deal Caterpillar Thriller Fossil Fools - Part I Fossil Fools - Part II Dedede's Monsterpiece Right Hand Robot Goin' Bonkers Power Ploy
A Whale of a Tale Waddle While You Work Dedede's Raw Deal Caterpillar Thriller Fossil Fools - Part I Fossil Fools - Part II Dedede's Monsterpiece Right Hand Robot Goin' Bonkers Power Ploy
A Trashy Tale Cooking Up Trouble Teacher's Threat Mumbies Madness A Sunsational Surprise / A Sunsational Puzzle A Chow Challenge Waste Management Shell-Shocked Tooned Out Born to Be Mild - Part I
A Trashy Tale Cooking Up Trouble Teacher's Threat Mumbies Madness A Sunsational Surprise / A Sunsational Puzzle A Chow Challenge Waste Management Shell-Shocked Tooned Out Born to Be Mild - Part I
Born to Be Mild - Part II Hunger Struck D'Preciation Day Cowardly Creature Frog Wild Air-Ride-in-Style - Part I Air-Ride-in-Style - Part II Cappy Town Down Combat Kirby Fright to the Finish
Born to Be Mild - Part II Hunger Struck D'Preciation Day Cowardly Creature Frog Wild Air-Ride-in-Style - Part I Air-Ride-in-Style - Part II Cappy Town Down Combat Kirby Fright to the Finish

External links

Smallwikipedialogo This page uses content from Wikipedia. The original page was at Kirby: Right Back at Ya!. The list of authors can be seen in the page history. Like Kirby Wiki, the text of Wikipedia uses the CC-BY-SA 3.0 license.



References