Nintendo Could be Porting a Popular Wii U Game to Switch

15.04.2024 - 18:17 / gamerant.com / Wii U / Charming Holiday

Gaming giant Nintendo recently filed trademark applications for Kirby and the Rainbow Curse, suggesting that the popular Wii U Kirby game may be added to the growing list of older games ported to the Switch. Whether it could be among the retro titles on Nintendo Switch Online or 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 Curse was one of the most graphically impressive games Nintendo released for the Wii U and marked another visual transition for the Kirby series. 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 of Kirby and the Rainbow Curse were 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 another classic Kirby game to NSO or if a full remake or remaster may be in the works.

A number of old Kirby games have already made their way to Nintendo Switch Online, including classics like Kirby's Dream Land and Kirby's Dream Course. Newer releases like the 3D platformer Kirby and the ForgottenLand and the multiplayer experience Kirby's Dream Buffet have helped balance Nintendo's first-party IP offerings while fueling fans' love of Kirby. Nintendo has further showcased their dedication to the franchise with exclusive Kirby merchandise promotions and 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 that Kirby and the Rainbow Curse will make its way to the Switch. Interested fans will want to stay tuned for any updates to the trademark application and the potential fate of Kirby and the Rainbow Curse.

Kirby remains one of the most 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 if Kirby and