For this episode of Kirby Conversations, we're looking at the influence popular mecha series had on Kirby: Planet Robobot. To start, it's Mecha History 101, as Bridget and Ky teach Sean about the rich history of Japanese mecha films and TV shows like Mobile Suit Gundam, Gurren Lagann, and more. Then we consider how Shinya Kumazaki seems to have drawn on his personal interest in mecha shows when creating the design and gameplay for Kirby's mechs (including one particularly familiar-looking drill). We also share our experiences with Planet Robobot before turning to Act 2, where Ky and Bridget discuss their love of Gundam model kits, and we all reflect on the joys of playing Kirby as adults in or approaching our thirties.

Starting with this episode, we're now also offering extended three-act versions of every show to our Patreon supporters! To get the full, mecha-sized version of this episode later this week, and also receive digital events, prints of Captain Dangerous's photographs, video game download codes, and more, visit our Patreon page at www.patreon.com/KirbyConversations.

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Kirby: Planet Robobot and the History of Japanese Mecha