Kirby Conversations | Exploring Kirby, Nintendo, and More

On a recent episode of Darren Hupke's podcast Pixels and Polygons (linked here), friend of the show Nic McConnell shared a "hot take" about video game patches. We'll let Nic share the nuances of his take in the show itself, but he was essentially expressing that he thought video games should not be patched as often as they are. We thought this was an intriguing idea worth unpacking even further—and one that was perhaps not quite as controversial as it was initially presented. What is gained and lost when players can no longer access the original version of a game? Do we miss the jank found in many retro games, that today can get ironed out as soon as its discovered? And what does this all mean for Kirby? Join us for a patch-perfect episode of Kirby Conversations all about patches, updates, and version histories.Questions or comments about the show? Feel free to reach out to us at mail@kirbyconversations.com.Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside above mentioned Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!Our guest Nic McConnell, when he isn't navigating the world of age ratings management at Riot Games, can be found streaming about video game manuals with his show Instruction Derby. Find it at https://www.twitch.tv/nicmcconnell or https://www.youtube.com/@NicolasMcConnell. Or find him on Bluesky at @mcconnell.bsky.social.Our opening music is by Megan Kelz and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound Stone NetworkBluesky: @soundstone.networkYoutube: www.youtube.com/@SoundStone-NetworkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialGigiCarrd linkKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerous

2014's Kirby: Triple Deluxe marked Kirby's debut on the 3DS. Combining Kirby's familiar 2D platforming with 3D effects, motion controls, and other functionalities of the 3DS, it's a true product of the quirky, experimental energy of early 2010's Nintendo. Gigi is our host today, and with Sean and Bridget, we're looking back at what made Triple Deluxe special. We explore its history, share trivia, and remember its particular connections with MiiVerse and StreetPass. And, of course, we also speculate on whether Taranza would join Air Riders–which we now know is a resounding yes!Questions or comments about the show? Feel free to reach out to us at mail@kirbyconversations.com.Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!You can also find select episodes for this podcast and others from our network on our new YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@SoundStone-Network. (This is still a new endeavor, and we'll be adding more video versions of our shows in time.)Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialGigiCarrd linkKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerous

With innovative controls, a unique claymation aesthetic, an outstanding soundtrack, and a surprising mix of charm and challenge, 2015's Kirby and the Rainbow Curse still offers so much to enjoy ten years later. So why is it one of Kirby's most polarizing games? Canvas Curse fan Nic McConnell returns to Kirby Conversations to discuss the game, which he and Sean have been playing for the first time. And Gigi, already familiar with the game, is here to offer her takes as well. They also reflect on the general experience of playing the Wii U again in 2025, look up director Kazushige Masuda on Facebook, and consider the game's unusual connections with...Donkey Kong Bananza? Questions or comments about the show? Feel free to reach out to us at mail@kirbyconversations.com.Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!You can also find select episodes for this podcast and others from our network on our new YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@SoundStone-Network. (This is still a new endeavor, and we'll be adding more video versions of our shows in time.)Our guest Nic McConnell, when he isn't navigating the world of age ratings management at Riot Games, can be found streaming about video game manuals with his show Instruction Derby. Find it at https://www.twitch.tv/nicmcconnell or https://www.youtube.com/@NicolasMcConnell. Or find him on Bluesky at @mcconnell.bsky.social.Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link

In this episode, Sean and Gigi are unpacking the brand new Star-Crossed World content from the Nintendo Switch 2 edition of Kirby and the Forgotten Land. They discuss the many things that stood out to them, like the graphics, complex levels, and amazing new soundtrack, while also considering how nice (and surprising) it is to return to Forgotten Land three years later. At the same time, both have some ideas for how the structure and level design of Forgotten Land could be adjusted for future 3D Kirby outings. This episode is mostly spoiler free, but at 1:05:52 they do shift to discussing spoilers. This shift is stated in the episode, but if you want to avoid any discussion of secrets or later game events, just be advised that the spoiler wall comes about an hour in.Questions or comments about the show? Feel free to reach out to us at mail@kirbyconversations.com, and we may share your letter on the show.Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!You can also find select episodes for this podcast and others from our network on our new YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@SoundStone-Network. (This is brand new, and we'll be adding more video versions of our shows in time.)Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link

This is just a short episode to catch you up on our new schedule and a new show coming to the Sound Stone Network. And, of course, we had to include some reflections on all the reveals today from the Kirby Air Riders Nintendo Direct! Sean is here to share some brief updates and Air Riders takes, and we'll be back again at the start of September (if not before then) with a long look into Star-Crossed World.Questions or comments about the show? Please reach out to us at mail@kirbyconversations.com. For this episode, we're curious about your reactions to the Kirby Air Riders Direct. What are your thoughts on what has been shown so far, and do you have any predictions of your own about the game?Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!You can also find select episodes for this podcast and others from our network on our new YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@SoundStone-Network. (This is brand new, and we'll be adding more video versions of our shows in time.)Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link

In this episode we're off to the races, revisiting the Gourmet Race from Kirby Super Star. This short subgame gave us our first taste of Kirby racing back in 1996, and while it may just take a few minutes to reach the end and beat King Dedede, the game packs a surprising amount of depth for those looking to maximize their best times. Bridget has a few tips to share for anyone trying to shave a few seconds off their runs, and we also take a look back at the history of the game, wild Japanese speedrunning tech, and Jun Ishikawa's reflections on how he wrote the game's famous theme. Questions or comments about the show? Please reach out to us at mail@kirbyconversations.com. For this episode we're curious what tips you have for Gourmet Race and what your memories are from this classic subgame.Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well! You can also find select episodes for this podcast and others from our network on our new YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@SoundStone-Network. (This is brand new, and we'll be adding more video versions of our shows in time.)Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/).Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link

While Kirby games are known for their accessibility, they also have a reputation among some for being on the easy side. But even if a particular game isn't hard enough for you, there are always ways you can add your own twists or gameplay ideas to turn up the challenge. So for this episode, Bridget, Sean, and Gigi are sharing their ideas for how you can make Kirby games harder—through timed challenges with your friends, playing with limitations on what powers you can use, and more. And the main event for this episode: taking on Extra Mode in the original Kirby's Dream Land with just one hit and one life. How well can they survive what is almost a Kirby roguelike? And how well could you? Feel free to play along with us as we explore how to take Kirby difficulty to the next level. Do you have your own creative ways that you play Kirby games? Do you have unique challenges you set for yourself, or are there specific ways you play together with friends? We want to hear your ideas at mail@kirbyconversations.com. We'd like to do a future episode on our listeners' submissions (and perhaps try them ourselves), so please do reach out if you have any thoughts to share. Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/). Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link

In this episode we're looking back at the history of Flagship—a unique studio founded by Final Fight/Street Fighter II creator Yoshiki Okamoto. Flagship received startup funding from Nintendo, Sega, and Capcom, and its game credits include everything from the Resident Evil series to Zelda and Kirby titles. We're also very intrigued by Okamoto's YouTube channel, but translating that will have to wait for another day...Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!Questions or comments about the show? Let us know at mail@kirbyconversations.com, and we may read your letter on a future episode of the show. Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/). And thank you to Gooey Fame for being the main editor on this episode.Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link

The summer is upon us (at least in the U.S.), and with it comes a bevy of new game announcements from events like Summer Game Fest and the Steam Next Fest. And in the spirit of summer game festivals, we're also looking back at the late, great E3. For this episode, Ky "Captain Dangerous" Parker is sharing more of her favorite memories from E3's she's attended in the past—the exhibits she saw, the people she met, and what it was like to be there for some of Nintendo's biggest reveals of the Switch era. And speaking of summer games, we're also suggesting some upcoming indie titles we think Kirby fans will want to keep an eye on, as well as discussing what we'll be playing this summer.Oh, and Gigi also shares the unique cross-continental way she's getting a Switch 2, which might be one of the best console acquisition stories we've ever heard. What are you playing this summer? Let us know at mail@kirbyconversations.com, and we may read your letter on a future episode of the show.Kirby Conversations is part of the Sound Stone Podcast Network, a collective of independent podcasters covering video game history. We are a founding show alongside Pixels and Polygons and Flashback 64, and we encourage you to check out those shows as well!Our opening music is by Megan Kelz (https://diamondthorns.bandcamp.com) and arranged by Duncan "PixelTea" Smith (https://duncansmith.carrd.co/). And thank you to Gooey Fame for being the main editor on this episode.Join us online:Kirby ConversationsBluesky: @kirbyconversations.bsky.socialIG: @kirbyconversationsSound StoneBluesky: @soundstone.networkBridgetBluesky: @kabulaqueen.bsky.socialSean DouglassBluesky: @seandouglass.bsky.socialKy "Captain Dangerous" ParkerIG: @captaindangerousGigiCarrd link