Summary
Gaming giant Nintendo recently filed trademark applications forKirby and the Rainbow Curse, suggesting that the popular Wii UKirbygame may be added to the growing list of older games ported to the Switch. Whether it could be among theretro titles on Nintendo Switch Onlineor fully remastered remains unknown, but the trademark filings may be promising for fans of Kirby and the Wii U.
First released in 2015,Kirby and the Rainbow Cursewas one of the most graphically impressive games Nintendo released for the Wii U and marked another visual transition for theKirbyseries. The title featured a modeled claymation aesthetic with unique platforming mechanics that utilized the Wii U gamepad. With the continued popularity of the little pink hero, Nintendo may be looking to bring back this beloved Kirby game.
Initial documents for the Nintendo trademark ofKirby and the Rainbow Cursewere first filed on March 6, with designated countries for registration noted as Australia, Canada, the European Union, Mexico, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The trademark application is classified under “electronic game programs, downloadable video game programs, and video game cartridges,” suggesting that the title may be up for a port either digitally or physically. In the past, this type of filing was used by Nintendo to bring old games to Nintendo Switch Online, though the application itself does not specify Nintendo’s intent with the trademark. As the document is still pending approval, it is unknown if Nintendo will be adding anotherclassicKirbygame to NSOor if a full remake or remaster may be in the works.
Kirby Remains A Key IP For Nintendo
A number of oldKirbygames have already made their way to Nintendo Switch Online, including classics likeKirby’s Dream LandandKirby’s Dream Course. Newer releases like the 3D platformerKirby and the ForgottenLandand the multiplayer experienceKirby’s Dream Buffethave helped balance Nintendo’s first-party IP offerings while fueling fans' love of Kirby. Nintendo has further showcased their dedication to the franchise withexclusive Kirby merchandise promotionsand continued NSO retro game ports. In spite of the promising trademark filing, it is key to note that companies frequently file trademarks that are never used, so there is no guarantee at this time thatKirby and the Rainbow Cursewill make its way to the Switch. Interested fans will want to stay tuned for any updates to the trademark application and the potential fate ofKirby and the Rainbow Curse.
Kirby remains one of themost iconic Nintendo characters of all time, so it should come as no surprise that the company has continued to utilize the franchise across console generations. While it remains to be seen ifKirby and the Rainbow Cursewill see a port or revival for modern audiences, fans continue to appreciate the diverse lineup of offerings from theKirbyseries.
Kirby
The Kirby game franchise stars the adorable pink blob with a voracious appetite. Kirby games have covered the 2D and 3D platformer genre for decades and are set across multiple consoles, with plenty of spin-offs along the way. Kirby’s unique ability allows him to suck up enemies to gain their powers.
