Kirby’s only foray onto the Nintendo 64 is an often overlooked classic. The game sold only moderately well, but Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards has a loyal following of fans and for good reason too. The soundtrack is upbeat, the graphics are colorful and varied, and the gameplay set the foundation for modern Kirby titles. Despite being short and easy, the game has surprising depth. Kirby has over 35 copy abilities allowing the levels to be beaten with many different possibilities. As an interesting side not, Masahiro Sakurai, creator and overseer of the Kirby series, had little involvement with development.

Jun Ishikawa and Hirokazu Ando, veteran composers for the Kirby series, don’t disappoint in Kirby 64. They treat us with a cheerful and catchy soundtrack; the standard for Kirby games. There are plenty of original songs, remixes that are appropriate and refreshing, and a surprisingly more serious beat every now and then.