All of which is to say, Epic Yarn was definitely an interesting and cute platformer when it launched for the Wii all those years ago. Now, much like Yoshi’s Woolly World did, Epic Yarn is making the jump to Nintendo’s 3DS, as Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn. And it manages to survive the transition reasonably well—arguably far better than Woolly World did, in fact.

A part of that has to do with graphics. See, Epic Yarn on the Wii looked gorgeous, because of the art style—but it was a Wii game, so there were limits to the technical execution of said art. Woolly World had an incredibly strong art style, but it also had some strong technical tricks to make that art style come to life on the Wii U—tricks that were lost when moving the game to the far more comparatively underpowered 3DS, which also made the game look far flatter on the ironically 3D touting 3DS than it had looked on the Wii U.

Given that Kirby’s technical base wasn’t as strong to begin with, it’s done better on that front in the jump to 3DS. The game still looks charming and gorgeous, losing not much of the little technical flairs that made Epic Yarn stand out on the Wii at all—in fact, to my knowledge, there’s nothing perceptible that’s has been lost in the transition at all (I am sure behind the scenes there was reworking involved to shrink the game down to the 3DS). While, as is the wont with so many modern 3DS games, Extra Epic Yarn eschews 3D entirely (which is a shame, I would have loved to see this art style brought to eye popping life with the stereoscopic 3D effect), on the whole, Extra Epic Yarn certainly isn’t any less good looking than its Wii forebear.

Equally, the core game itself has not taken any hit whatsoever with the jump to 3DS. The game still plays like it always did on the Wii —which is to say, a lot like a Yoshi game (which, I assume, was the reason the developers were enlisted to work on that series after this game).

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn plays entirely unlike other games in the series—it’s a more traditional platformer, and abilities you associate with Kirby, such as copying, or his air time, are gone. Instead, you have a traditional style platformer, but one that doesn’t forego the easygoing nature of the series (more on this in a minute). Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn is still a sedate experience, and if you’re just looking to complete the levels, it will neither challenge you much, nor take much time. A lot of the inherent challenge in the levels comes from taking the time to explore them, and trying to collect secrets and power-ups—these are decidedly more taxing than just waltzing your way to the end of a level can be.

"The core of the package is still the same game as we got all those years ago, and you know what? It’s a great core, and a great package."

That said, Extra Epic Yarn actually does add more challenge to the package via the Devillish Mode, which adds a Kirby version of Mr. X to the levels, who is constantly chasing you, and adds a sense of urgency and pace to the proceedings. You also get a lower health pool, while having far harsher checkpointing (you almost always have to restart the level entirely upon dying), which further ups the ante and stakes a bit, reducing the margin of error you otherwise have.

That’s not all the new content the game has with the 3DS version, either—for instance, There are new mini games to engage with, but these are trivial (though, younger kids will probably love these). Additionally, at pre-determined points in levels, you get “ravel abilities”, which add new powers for Kirby to use. While these are cool, and can sometimes veer towards restoring the traditional Kirby style mechanics the game otherwise lacks, on the whole, they do feel tacked on. Younger kids will probably be delighted with their gimmicks, but they don’t actually achieve much with their inclusion at all—a complete antithesis to the Devillish Mode, which actively makes the experience better for anyone who is experienced with the original title (or with, like, games).

The core of the package is still the same game as we got all those years ago, and you know what? It’s a great core, and a great package. Kirby’s Epic Yarn was one of the standout titles in the series, in my opinion, and Extra Epic Yarn elevates it further by adding a harder difficulty, being portable, and losing nothing in the process. Even its additions that don’t land home with me, such as the mini games, or the new abilities, don’t detract from the game, and can be mostly ignored.

"Even its additions that don’t land home with me, such as the mini games, or the new abilities, don’t detract from the game, and can be mostly ignored."

Presuming Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn is meant to be Nintendo’s final release for the 3DS—as of right now, there is no other game for the handheld announced by the Big N—I think it’s a good note to sign off on. For the first time in a while, I feel like I can recommend a Kirby game to just about everyone (even veterans will find something to enjoy with the Devillish Mode), which is fitting, given that Epic Yarn was so great to begin with.

This game was reviewed on the 3DS.

Development

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn, the enhanced port of the 2010 Wii title, was announced by Nintendo for the 3DS in September 2018, where they confirmed that the game would have additional features and content, and that it would be releasing on March 8, 2019.

The original title was developed primarily by Good-Feel, while development was overseen by series custodians HAL Laboratory. In its initial stages, the game had been envision as a separate entity that would revolve around it’s yarn-spun aesthetic and the gameplay features and mechanics that arose out of that aesthetic. A few months into development, Nintendo suggested that the game be reworked to make it a Kirby title, following which Good-Feel’s ideas for the projects were altered to fit in a Kirby game.

Story

Kirby’s Epic Yarn’s story begins as Kirby finds a tomato and decides to eat it, following which he learns that it was actually a Metamoto, and belonged to the evil sorcerer Yin-Yarn. Yin-Yarn banishes Kirby into a different realm called the Patch Land, which is a world that is made completely of fabric. In this world, Kirby’s regular powers are rendered useless, but he finds he has been granted the ability to transform using the Metamota.

Kirby finds and rescues a young boy named Prince Fluff, who informs Kirby that Patch Land used to be tied by magical yarn, but has been ripped into pieces by Yin-Yarn. Kirby and Prince Fluff set out to find all seven pieces of the magic yarn so that they can use them to put Patch Land back together and reverse the damage done by Yin-Yarn. Characters such as King Dedede and Meta Knight also make appearances throughout the game.

Gameplay

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn and the original 2010 release are 2D side scrolling platformers. Unlike most other Kirby titles, in this game Kirby does not have the ability to inhale enemies, and his moveset is instead centred on the yarn aesthetic and his ability to transform. While in the air, Kirby can transform into a parachute to to slow down his fall, while in underwater sections, Kirby transforms into a submarine. In certain levels, Kirby gains special transformations, such as a steam train or a giant tank.

Kirby attacks using a yarn whip, which he uses to turn his enemies into balls of yarn, which he can then throw. His yarn whip can also be used to activate mechanics and pulleys, pull on zips in the backgrounds of stages to reveal secrets and passageways, or swing on buttons. Each level also contains collectible beads, which are often hidden. Depending on how many beads the player has collected, the game rewards one of four medals at the end of each stage.

These beads are also used to purchase furniture items and wallpaper that can be customized and used to decorate Kirby’s Pad. Furniture and music tracks, however, can also be found as hidden collectibles in levels. If the right furniture is placed in Kirby’s apartment, new tenets can move in and unlock additional challenges, such as time trial modes. Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn and the original Wii version are also unique in that Kirby is invincible and cannot die, and has no health and lives. However, upon falling into pits or sustaining damage, Kirby loses some of the beads he has collected. The game also has hidden levels which can be unlocked by beating bosses with gold ranks, which grants the player with hidden patches to unlock secret levels.

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn on the 3DS adds some new features and mechanics that were not present in the game’s original Wii release. In addition to his transformation abilities, Kirby can now also use Ravel abilities, which can allow him to do things such as use a giant yarn ball used to attack enemies, use a wire sword that can slice through anything, use his Nylon ability to be able to jump higher, or drop buttons that function like bombs.

The 3DS version also has a Devilish Mode, which is a mode with higher difficulty and does not have invincibility. The game also has new mini games featuring Meta Knight and King Dedede, while amiibo functionality has also been added. Using compatible Kirby series amiibo figures gives Kirby hats and abilities based on the figure used.

Additionally, the 3DS version includes 259 furniture items that can be used to decorate Kirby’s Pad, as opposed to the 168 furniture items included in the original Wii version. These Pads can also be shared using the 3DS’ Street Pass functionality. However, unlike the Wii release, the 3DS release of Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn does not include two player co-op.

Note: This wiki will be updated once we have more information about the game.

Devil May Cry 5

Ever since Devil Trigger exploded on the scene, we’ve been counting the days until Devil May Cry 5 was in our hands. Picking up after Devil May Cry 4 (and not DmC: Devil May Cry, thank goodness), the sequel sees Red Grave City invaded by a powerful demonic force. It’s up to Nero, Dante and a new playable character V to set things right. Nero has obtained some significant upgrades since the last game with the Devil Breaker, an item capable of unleashing different abilities depending on the equipped prosthetic. Dante can use his motorcycle that transforms into dual buzz-saws as a weapon and V can…summon familiars? That’s the Devil May Cry we know and love – it’s out on March 8^th for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice

It’s not Dark Souls. It’s not Bloodborne. It’s not even Tenchu (FromSoftware clarified that a full stealth playthrough is not possible after all). So what is it? Set in a fantastical 16^th century Sengoku Japan, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice is a combination of fast-paced combat, skillful swordplay and wild cards like an axe and grappling hook hidden in a prosthetic arm. Focusing on an old samurai fighting to rescue his lord, Sekiro takes us on a sprawling journey filled with intrigue and adventure. What horrors await though and how does resurrection really work? We’ll find out on March 22^nd when it releases for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn

A remake of Kirby’s Epic Yarn, which launched for the Wii and pretty much kickstarted the yarn-based graphical style, Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn is coming to the Nintendo 3DS on March 8^th. It will have new modes, new power-ups and even lets you play as Meta Knight and King Dedede in different sub-games. Co-op has been removed having an awesome platformer with a lovable art-style like this on the go works nicely.

Dead or Alive 6

Team Ninja’s Dead or Alive series has been fairly dormant since the design shift in Dead or Alive 5. Dead or Alive 6 continues that trend, offering even more gorgeous environments and sharp characters to go with new mechanics. Simple, devastating combos are possible with the Fatal Rush and new Break Blows can be performed when the gauge is full. With 26 characters, a quest mode, story campaign and the same dynamic gameplay as its predecessor, Dead or Alive 6 is looking to be an intriguing return for an iconic franchise.

Tom Clancy’s The Division 2

So Anthem was kind of “eh” and Destiny 2 is kind of “meh” but hey, at least The Division 2 is almost here. Moving from the snowy reaches of Manhattan to the overgrown and chaotic Washington D.C., The Division 2 still offers some tight cover-based shooting and loot to collect. Along with three Dark Zone districts and new civilian settlements that can be contributed to, there’s also a significant focus on end-game with the Black Tusk faction, Specializations with their own unique abilities and weapons, and Invaded missions that pose tougher challenges. The Division 2 arrives on March 15^th for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.

Yoshi’s Crafted World

Not one but two cutesy platformers in March? We’re fine with that. Yoshi’s Crafted World from Good-Feel is coming to the Nintendo Switch on March 29^th and sees the Yoshis on an adventure to restore the Sundream Stone. Though it’s essentially a 2.5D platformer, the game mixes gameplay up by allowing objects in the background and foreground to be interacted with. The “flip” mechanic has been toned down since its initial reveal and it’s now more of an additional run through a level for collectibles. In its current demo though, Yoshi’s Crafted World is tons of fun and we can’t wait to dig into the final game.

The Sinking City

Known better for its Sherlock Holmes games, Frogwares embarks into the realm of cosmic horror with The Sinking City. Inspired by H.P. Lovecraft’s work, The Sinking City focuses on detective work and investigation – how certain quests are resolved will depend on the number of clues that players can suss out. The story sees private investigator Charles W. Reed looking into the cause of a flood that hits New England, driving everyone mad. Dare we say the one who lays dreaming is responsible? The Sinking City is out on March 21^st for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.

One Piece: World Seeker

Jump Force may have fizzled but One Piece: World Seeker gives us hope. It’s developed by Ganbarion of One Piece: Grand Adventure and Unlimited World RED while the story takes us to Jail Island in the New World. Luffy and crew will fighting in an open world space while characters like Kizaru, Kuma, Smoker and Akainu make appearances. If the bombastic action of the other games was any indication, expect One Piece: World Seeker to be a blast. It arrives on March 15^th for Xbox One, PS4 and PC.

Tropico 6

El Presidente never dies and Tropico 6 may be his biggest caper yet. Spanning four eras like the previous game – Colonial, World Wars, Cold War and Modern – Tropico 6 provides an entire archipelago of islands to manage instead of one island. The adventure also extends beyond the islands as agents can steal various wonders of the world for you. Research has been revamped, citizens are simulated in greater detail and you can even customize the look of your own personal dictator. And can you say election speeches? Tropico 6 arrives on March 29^th for PC.

Left Alive

Square Enix’s Left Alive is one of the stranger releases of next month. It features the talents of Armored Core series director Toshifumi Nabeshima, Metal Gear Solid character designer Yoji Shinkawa and mech designer Takayuki Yanase. The focus is on survival, stealth and third person shooting with three different protagonists to play with. Oh and you can pilot mechs in some places. Despite all of that, Left Alive looks intriguing and could provide some kind of update on the Front Mission universe. It’s out on March 5^th for PS4 and PC.

The Walking Dead: The Final Season – Episode 4 “Take Us Back”

It’s been a turbulent ride for the final season of The Walking Dead. We’re not just talking about the closure of Telltale Games or Skybound Entertainment stepping in to finish the last two episodes. The game itself has seen Clementine and AJ committing atrocities, doing their best to stay sane and survive while protecting their new home. With the fourth episode “Take Us Back” marking the end of Clementine’s journey, will the series drag us back into the emotional pits of despair? Or provide a happy ending after all?

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn is the latest game Nintendo is bringing to the 3DS as part of their somewhat misguided attempt to keep the 3DS alive even as it moves into its ninth year on the market. It’s a port of the Wii game with extra content, and it’s a good chance for many who didn’t get the chance to play the game originally to try it out now.

If you want to see whether or not it’s worth your while to be doing so, however, Nintendo has released a brand new demo for Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn on the Nintendo 3DS eShop that you can download and play now. Given that Kirby’s Epic Yarn played somewhat differently from regular Kirby games, even if you don’t usually like the series, it may be worth your while to look into this.

Nintendo even put out a new trailer for the demo, which you can see for yourself below. Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn launches for the 3DS (and not just New 3DS) on March 8.

As Nintendo announced last year, Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn, the enhanced 3DS port of the Wii exclusive platformer by Good Feel, will be launching  this year. Now we know exactly when it will be launching. Nintendo announced on Twitter that Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn will launch on Nintendo 3DS on March 8.

The original Kirby’s Epic Yarn was a stylish and adorable game, with easy platforming but an unforgettable aesthetic. The developers went on to work on Yoshi’s Wooly World (which also got ported to 3DS) and Yoshi’s Crafted World (which also got its release date announced by Nintendo yesterday).

Given that we are getting all these announcements via random tweets, I have to assume that the traditional Nintendo Direct broadcast in January, which Nintendo usually does, is not going to be a thing this year (since these are the kinds of announcements that are traditionally reserved for a Nintendo Direct). Either that, or Nintendo has announcements so big to make that release dates for previously announced games are small fry in comparison.

Get ready to unravel this epic & upgraded adventure with Kirby very soon! #Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn launches for the Nintendo #3DS on 3/8! pic.twitter.com/5aUyD5sxFQ

— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) January 9, 2019

When Nintendo announced Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn for Nintendo 3DS, a port of the 2010 Wii game, there was some confusion regarding the game’s status— the official Nintendo website listed it as a New Nintendo 3DS exclusive, at which point the project’s whole existence became questionable.

It turns out that the website was wrong in this case, as it seems to have been updated, with the game now being listed a “3DS” game. This means that any and all 3DS family systems — Nintendo 3DS, 3DS XL, 2DS, New 3DS, New 3DS XL, New 2DS XL — should be able to run and play the games just fine. Of course, as is often the case, there may still be New 3DS enhancements for the game. But you won’t be locked out from playing it if you don’t have a New 3DS, which is what matters (and makes the existence of this port more acceptable).

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn launches on 3DS in 2019.

Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn was announced during the last Nintendo Direct as a 3DS port of the original fantastic Wii game. Though the game will lose a bit of its beauty in being shrunk for the lower resolution 3DS screen, it did make sense that Nintendo is doing it anyway- porting older games seems to be an easy way to service the 70+ million 3DS install base, and is something the company has done a fair bit over the last year.

However, the game’s product page on Nintendo’s site has thrown a wrench into this assumption. It specifically refers to the game as a New 3DS exclusive. What this means, then, is that only people who own a New Nintendo 3DS, New Nintendo 3DS XL, or New Nintendo 2DS XL, will be able to play the game. At that point, given that New 3DS forms a far smaller fraction of the larger 3DS install base, you do have to wonder why Nintendo didn’t bother putting the game on Switch as well.

Right now, this is just according to the page listing on Nintendo’s site, and that could be wrong. If there is any official confirmation, we will update you either way. Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn launches in 2019.

The adorable 2010 yarn infused Kirby game for the Wii, Kirby’s Epic Yarn, is making a comeback. Nintendo announced during their Nintendo Direct stream yesterday that Kirby’s Extra Epic Yarn will be launching for the Nintendo 3DS, bringing with it everything that was in the Wii game, as well as some new extras. This makes it the fourth Kirby game on the platform (after Triple Deluxe, Planet Robobot, and Battle Royale).

The new extras will include the ability to craft larger yarn balls, the ability to play as King Dedede and Meta Knight (in their own adorable yarn-ized forms, at that), and for those of you who found the original game too easy – and it was extremely easy, even for a Kirby game – a new Devillish Mode, which adds a brand new enemy for you to try and avoid as you try to make your way through the game’s levels.

A lot of the game’s look is definitely going to be lost on the 3DS compared to the Wii, but I think it will be an interesting addition to the 3DS’s library at any rate. It’s due out next year.