

Kirby Conversations | Exploring Kirby, Nintendo, and More
Kirby Conversations
Kirby Conversations is a biweekly podcast on Nintendo's famous video game character Kirby, presented by writer and podcaster Sean Douglass, Kirby collector and artist Bridget, Nintendo Affiliate and photographer Ky "Captain Dangerous" Parker, and WiKirby Editor-in-Chief Gigi. Together they explore more than 30 years of Kirby games, history, and culture, along with adjacent subjects like Super Smash Bros., Kirby's developer HAL Laboratory, and other related Nintendo games.Whether you're a casual Nintendo fan or an avid player of Kirby games, we hope Kirby Conversations can be a fun, funny, and even educational show on the impact this popular Japanese character is having on the video game industry and world at large. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 30, 2024 • 1h 12min
Happy HALoween: The Scariest Moments in Kirby Games
With Halloween approaching for our staff and listeners in the U.S., for this episode we decided to explore our favorite scarier or high-tension moments from Kirby games. From frightening final bosses to surprisingly sophisticated moments that explore themes like death or colonialism, the Kirby series is no stranger to going to some darker places. (Lest this sound like a heavy episode, we have plenty of fun with this topic along the way, and in fact this interplay between Kirby games' lighter and darker sides is something we feel many players enjoy about the series.) And in the last few minutes, we also share some of our picks for favorite games or levels to check out if you're in the mood for something spooky or scary this time of year.Also please note: SPOILERS ABOUND in this episode! Our conversation includes discussion of several games' final bosses or later plot-twists, so please be careful listening to this one if you don't want anything given away that you would prefer to discover for yourself.Want to reach out? You can email us at mail@kirbyconversations.com and we may read your letter on a future episode.Follow us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.social IG: @kirbyconversationsThreads: @kirbyconversationsBridgetThreads: @no1kirbyfanSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd linkOur music is by Megan Kellough (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Liking Kirby Conversations? Then you may also enjoy another retro gaming podcast we recommend, Flashback 64: https://flashback64pod.podbean.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Oct 16, 2024 • 1h 30min
Revisiting the Original Kirby's Return to Dream Land (with Flashback 64)
Dive into a delightful discussion about the original Kirby's Return to Dream Land! The hosts reminisce about its charming art style, unique motion controls, and the beloved character Magalore. They share nostalgic co-op gameplay stories and the humor that makes multiplayer sessions so memorable. Insights into the evolution of Bandana Waddle Dee add depth to the conversation, while reflections on unused ideas from the game intrigue listeners. Join in for a whimsical journey through one of Kirby's standout adventures!

Oct 2, 2024 • 1h 11min
How the Kirby Star Allies DLC Pushed the Switch to Its Limits
Gigi has been translating Japanese developer interviews from the Kirby Star Allies artbook, and with it she's discovered some intriguing new insights about the history of KSA's extensive DLC. So for this episode, we're talking all about KSA's final DLC mode Heroes in Another Dimension and all the character additions the game received throughout 2018. How do we feel about DLC in Kirby games, and how did the developers' plans change (drastically) from what they originally had in mind? And what do we make of the complex, inspired, and sometimes technologically boundary-pushing challenges of Another Dimension? Listen as we set off in search of 120 Friend Hearts and new trivia on this unique celebration of Kirby history. Have a question or comment for the show? Reach out at mail@kirbyconversations.com, and we may read your letter on a future episode.Follow us online:Kirby ConversationsIG: @kirbyconversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialThreads: @kirbyconversationsBridgetThreads: @no1kirbyfanSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd linkOur music is by Megan Kellough (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd be so grateful if you could click the ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in your podcast app.And lastly, we hope you'll check out another gaming podcast we recommend, Flashback 64: https://flashback64pod.podbean.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 18, 2024 • 60min
Non-Kirby Games We Think Kirby Fans Would Love
Gigi joins seasoned hosts Bridget, Ky, and Sean, bringing fresh insights into game recommendations for Kirby fans. They dive into hidden gems that mirror Kirby's charm, sharing nostalgia about classics like Spyro and Klonoa. Explore titles such as 'A Hat in Time' and 'Gimmick!' that captivate with engaging mechanics. The conversation also covers the challenging 'Einhänder,' perfect for those craving a tough transition. Don't miss the adorable indie 'Smushi Come Home,' showcasing whimsical adventures that resonate with fans!

Sep 4, 2024 • 3min
Some Exciting News and Updates from Kirby Conversations
Hi everyone. There's no regular episode this week, but we've got a few updates about the show to share. Most importantly, we are happy to announce that we will now be joined by Gigi, WiKirby Editor-in-Chief and avid translator of non-English Kirby content, as a new official member of the Kirby Conversations team! Welcome Gigi!And among other news, we also have a new giveaway running, where you can win a $50 Nintendo eShop gift card! You can enter at this Gleam giveaway page. We hope everyone who listens to this show can throw their name into the hat, and good luck to everyone that enters.After a short break, we will be back with the next new episode of Kirby Conversations on 9/17. See you again soon!Follow us online:Kirby ConversationsIG: @kirbyconversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialThreads: @kirbyconversationsBridgetThreads: @no1kirbyfanSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigi: Carrd linkOur show art is by DJ (IG: @drawing_lemonz).Liking Kirby Conversations? Then you may also enjoy another retro gaming podcast we recommend, Flashback 64: https://flashback64pod.podbean.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 28, 2024 • 52min
An Interview with Gigi, the Prolific Kirby Translator and Editor-in-Chief of WiKirby
Gigi, a prolific Kirby translator and editor-in-chief of WiKirby, shares her journey from a fan in Brazil to a key figure in the Kirby community. She reveals surprising Kirby facts sourced from Japan-only content and discusses the intricacies of translating game materials, emphasizing cultural nuances. Gigi highlights collaborative efforts in managing WiKirby, citing the importance of teamwork. The conversation also touches on her love for various games like Pokémon and personal gaming recommendations, creating an engaging blend of insights and passion for the franchise.

Aug 20, 2024 • 53min
The Magolor Epilogue is a Playground of Gameplay Possibilities
There are so many ways to approach the Magolor Epilogue in Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe. Along with completing the story, you can earn medals, speedrun it, or even take advantage of its brilliant combo system to go for amazing, triple-digit runs through each level. So for this episode, Sean and Bridget are breaking down all the gameplay possibilities for this ambitious subgame. Sean played through it the traditional way, maxing out Magolor's skills to earn platinum metals, but Bridget has her own "weird" (her words) way of playing through it to bring even more challenge. And of course, they also dig into some history and trivia behind the game, including surprising regional changes across its different translations.Have you played the Magolor Epilogue, and how did you feel about its unique systems and mechanics? Tell us your thoughts at mail@kirbyconversations.com and we may share them on a future episode.Follow us online:Kirby ConversationsIG: @kirbyconversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialThreads: @kirbyconversationsBridgetThreads: @no1kirbyfanSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousOur music is by Megan Kellough (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/). Our show art is by DJ (IG: @drawing_lemonz). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 14, 2024 • 49min
Part Time Lover: How Part Time UFO Gets Mobile Gaming Right
Dive into the delightful world of Part Time UFO, where whimsical physics puzzles meet crane game mechanics. The hosts share their favorite moments from balancing animals to cheering stacked characters. Explore the charm of handheld gaming and discuss how mobile experiences compare to traditional consoles. With insights on multiplayer chaos and the creative character designs, this podcast celebrates the unique appeal of mobile gaming and its delightful sound design. Prepare for nostalgia, laughter, and an appreciation of the quirky universe of mobile titles.

Aug 7, 2024 • 53min
Kirby in Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition and at Evo
Today we're talking about Kirby in esports new and old. In Act 1, Bridget tells us about the Kirby's Adventure speedrunning challenges in Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition. Then for Act 2, Sean is back from Evo, the major Las Vegas fighting game tournament and convention, to talk about the surprising presence of Kirby at an event partially owned by Sony.What are your thoughts on Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition? And are there any games, just in general, that you enjoy speedrunning? Let us know at mail@kirbyconversations.com.If you'd like a monthly bonus episode, along with merchandise and other rewards, we hope you'll check out our Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/KirbyConversations. August's monthly bonus episode is about lesser-known games that we'd recommend to Kirby fans, and you won't want to miss it!Follow us online:Kirby ConversationsIG: @kirbyconversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialThreads: @kirbyconversationsBridgetThreads: @no1kirbyfanSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousOur music is by Megan Kellough (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/). Our show art is by DJ (IG: @drawing_lemonz). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 2, 2024 • 1h 20min
Flashback 64: Mischief Makers (With merritt k)
Joining the conversation is merritt k, a talented writer and gaming enthusiast who brings insights into the cult classic Mischief Makers. They discuss the quirky adventure of robot maid Marina, her unique gameplay mechanics, and the game’s charming humor. There’s a nostalgic dive into gaming memories from the N64 era, alongside reflections on Mischief Makers' innovative blend of 2D and 3D gameplay. The potential for a re-release in the modern gaming landscape, as well as Treasure's legacy, sparks intriguing debate.