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Guard: Difference between revisions

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m (Added "Super Kirby Clash" to the "Sword Hero" section)
m (Moving from the Gigant Sword page. Could be the benchmark that leads to a section detailing attacks that cannot be guarded on a per-game basis, but we'll have to wait and see.)
 
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{{image|more varieties of Guard}}
{{ImCap
{{ImCap
|image=File:Guard KSSU artwork.png
|image=File:Guard KSSU artwork.png
|size=122px
|size=122px
|align=right
|align=right
|caption=Artwork of Kirby in '''Guard''' from ''Kirby Super Star Ultra''
|caption=Artwork of Kirby in '''Guard''' from ''[[Kirby Super Star Ultra]]''.
|captionalign=center
|captionalign=center
}}
}}
'''Guard''' is [[Kirby]]'s primary defensive action in games such as ''[[Kirby Super Star]]'' ([[Kirby Super Star Ultra|''Ultra'']]), ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', [[New Challenge Stages]] (''[[Kirby's Dream Collection]]''), ''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]'', ''[[Kirby Fighters Deluxe]]'', ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'' and ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]''. By holding down the appropriate button, Kirby assumes a defensive posture until the button is released. While guarding, Kirby takes no [[damage]] from weak attacks and minimal damage from most stronger attacks, in addition to retaining his ability and not getting knocked off the ground. Enemies that contact a guarding Kirby also take minimal damage.
{{About|the technique|the enemy from [[Kirby Star Allies]]|[[Guard (enemy)]]}}
{{Quote|To guard...Push L or R. It can reduce the enemy's attack power.|Tutorial from [[Beginner's Room|The Beginner's Show]], in ''Kirby Super Star''}}
'''Guard''' is [[Kirby]]'s primary defensive action that appeared in many games. By holding down the appropriate button, Kirby assumes a defensive posture until the button is released. While guarding, Kirby takes no [[damage]] from weak attacks and minimal damage from most stronger attacks, in addition to retaining his ability and not getting knocked off the ground. Enemies that contact a guarding Kirby also take minimal damage.


Generally, guarding is ineffective against attacks which involve grabbing. Guarding also has no effect on environmental elements such as wind or lava, and will typically not defend against the strongest boss attacks. Kirby can only guard while standing still. However, in ''Triple Deluxe'' and beyond, if Kirby guards in midair or moves to the side while guarding, he will [[Dodge]].
Generally, guarding is ineffective against attacks which involve grabbing. Guarding also has no effect on environmental elements such as wind or lava, and will typically not defend against the strongest boss attacks. Kirby can only guard while standing still. However, in ''Kirby: Triple Deluxe'' and beyond, if Kirby guards in midair or moves to the side while guarding, he will [[Dodge]].


In ''Kirby Super Star (Ultra)'', guard does 1 [[damage]] to enemies including [[boss]]es. From ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', the default guard does 4 damage to enemies excluding bosses.
In ''Kirby Super Star'' and ''Kirby Super Star Ultra'', guard does 1 [[damage]] to enemies including [[boss]]es. Starting with ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'', the default guard does 4 damage to enemies excluding bosses.
 
In ''Kirby and the Forgotten Land'', guarding is merged with [[crouch]]ing, and this is reflected in the Japanese name ('''しゃがみガード''' ''shagami gādo'', "Crouching Guard"). As such, all actions that would normally be taken by crouching (such as [[slide|sliding]] and swallowing) are now taken by guarding.
 
==Appearances==
[[File:KSA Tip Image Guard & Dodge.png|thumb|200px|[[List of Kirby Star Allies loading screen tips|Tip image]] of Kirby guarding against an attack from [[Blade Knight]] in ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]'']]
*''[[Kirby Super Star]]'' / ''[[Kirby Super Star Ultra]]''
*''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'' / ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe]]''
*[[New Challenge Stages]] (''[[Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition]]'')
*''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]''
*''[[Kirby Fighters Deluxe]]''
*''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]''
*''[[Team Kirby Clash Deluxe]]''
*''[[Kirby Star Allies]]''
*''[[Super Kirby Clash]]''
*''[[Kirby Fighters 2]]''
*''[[Kirby and the Forgotten Land]]''
=== Guarding in the ''Kirby Clash'' and ''Kirby Fighters'' games/sub-games ===
The [[Team Kirby Clash (series)|''Team Kirby Clash'']] and [[Kirby Fighters (series)|''Kirby Fighters'' games]] use a special version of Guard which more closely resembles the shield in the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' games]]. In particular, with this guard, the player cannot hold it indefinitely, since a meter will decrease over time. When the meter is empty, the guarding character will be launched up then become dizzy after coming down and getting up, leaving them open to attacks from enemies or opponents for a while.
 
===''Super Smash Bros.'' series===
{{SmashWiki|Shield}}
The shield mechanic in the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]] is heavily based on the guard mechanic from the [[Kirby (series)|''Kirby'' series]], with the energy bubble very reminiscent of the [[Mirror]] ability's Reflect Guard. The primary difference is that shields shrink as they are held or take damage and will eventually break if not deactivated, stunning the user.
 
Eventually, this concept went full circle in ''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]'', when the ability to [[dodge]] after guarding, developed in ''Super Smash Bros.'', made its way into this game.


==Special Guard techniques==
==Special Guard techniques==
===Copy Abilities===
===Copy Abilities===
These [[Copy Abilities]] (and/or their respective [[Helper]]s) have their special version of guard with additional features. As a result of these particular guarding techniques, the user may be unable to [[dodge]] on the ground (or at all) when employing some of them.
[[File:KRtDLD Sand Challenge screenshot 04.png|thumb|250px|[[Sand]] Kirby using "Sand Hide" to solve a puzzle in the [[Sand Challenge]] in ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe]]'']]
*'''[[Bell]]''' - While guarding with Bell, Kirby hides inside of his bell cap, and cannot be harmed. Releasing the Guard or being hit will cause the bell to reverberate, and damage nearby foes.
These [[Copy Ability|Copy Abilities]] (and/or their respective [[Helper]]s) have their special version of guard with additional features. As a result of these particular guarding techniques, the user may be unable to [[dodge]] on the ground (or at all) when employing some of them.
*'''[[ESP]]''' - If an enemy hits Kirby shortly after the guard is activated, Kirby will vanish, then reappear and counter with a shock wave that deals substantial damage (PK Evade). When timed perfectly, the counterattack is even more powerful, and Kirby will shout as he performs it (PK Insight).
*'''[[Bell]]''' - While guarding with Bell, Kirby hides inside of his bell helmet, and cannot be harmed. Releasing the Guard or being hit will cause the bell to reverberate, damaging nearby foes.
*'''[[Ice]]''' - From ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'' onward, guarding with Ice produces a spherical ice formation around Kirby which blocks more damage than a regular guard.
*'''[[ESP]]''' - If a foe hits Kirby shortly after the guard is activated, Kirby will vanish, then reappear and counter with a shock wave that deals substantial damage (PK Evade). When timed perfectly, the counterattack is more powerful, and Kirby will shout as he performs it (PK Insight).
*'''[[Leaf]]''' - While guarding with Leaf, Kirby is intangible instead of invincible; attacks will simply pass through him regardless of their power. This guard also makes Kirby immune to grabs. Releasing the guard causes minor damage to nearby enemies.
*'''[[Gigant Sword]]''' - Kirby holds a spiked shield that fully absorbs damage.  
*'''[[Mirror]]''' - Guarding with Mirror provides a shining bubble of energy around Kirby's body. This bubble negates damage from even strong attacks and can reflect projectiles. In ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'', the shield will eventually vanish if held too long.
*'''[[Ice]]''' - From ''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'' onward, while guarding with Ice, Kirby produces a spherical ice formation around himself which blocks more damage than a regular guard.
*'''[[Ninja]]''' - Starting with ''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]'', guarding with Ninja right before being hit by an attack will cause Kirby to use Clone Technique, which transforms him into a log that damages the attacking enemy. However, it can only be used for a brief moment.
*'''[[Leaf]]''' - While guarding with Leaf, Kirby is intangible instead of invincible; attacks will simply pass through him regardless of their power. This guard also makes Kirby immune to grabs. Releasing the guard causes minor damage to nearby foes.
*'''[[Smash|Smash Bros.]]''' - In ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'', guarding with this ability produces a bubble shield resembling the one from the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]]. ''(See [[Guard#In the Super Smash Bros. series]] section of this article.)''
*'''[[Mecha]]''' - This ability has a unique counterattack, Shock Counter, activated if B is pressed right after Kirby is attacked while guarding.
*'''[[Spider]]''' - Guarding with this ability encases Kirby in a string pod, preventing more damage than a standard guard. The pod also shoots out small spikes when hit, dealing more damage than normal collision.
*'''[[Mirror]]''' - While guarding with Mirror, Kirby forms a shining bubble of energy around him. This bubble negates damage from even strong attacks and can reflect projectiles. In ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'', the shield will eventually vanish if held too long.
*'''[[Staff]]''' - Kirby can perform a counter attack called Staff Counter by using Guard before getting hit.
*'''[[Ninja]]''' - Starting with ''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]'', guarding with Ninja right before being hit by an attack will cause Kirby to use Clone Technique, which transforms him into a log that damages the attacking foe(s). However, it can only be used for a brief moment.
*'''[[Sword Hero]]''' - In ''[[Team Kirby Clash]]'', its expanded spin-off, ''[[Team Kirby Clash Deluxe]]'', and ''[[Super Kirby Clash]]'' guarding in this role will create a large bubble shield which other Kirbys can take cover under to protect them from harm as well.
*'''[[Sand]]''' - While guarding with Sand, Kirby is intangible instead of invincible; attacks will simply pass through him regardless of their power. This guard also makes Kirby immune to grabs. Releasing the guard causes minor damage to nearby foes. He can also press B to use '''Sand Geyser''' while guarding, attacking nearby foes but also losing his guard in the process.
*'''[[Tac]]''' - The [[helper]] of [[Copy]] becomes intangible while guarding.
*'''[[Smash Bros.]]''' - In ''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'', while guarding with Smash Bros., Kirby produces a bubble shield resembling the one from the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]]. ''(See [[Guard#In the Super Smash Bros. series]] section of this article.)'' This shield protects him from more damage than the standard guard, and can't break, unlike the ''Super Smash Bros.'' equivalent.
*'''[[Spider]]''' - While guarding with Spider, Kirby encases himself in a string pod, preventing more damage than a standard guard. The pod also shoots out small spikes when hit, dealing more damage than normal collision.
*'''[[Staff]]''' - If a foe hits Kirby shortly after the guard is activated, Kirby will perform a counterattack simply called Staff Counter.
*'''[[Sword Hero]]''' - In all three [[Team Kirby Clash|Team]] [[Team Kirby Clash Deluxe|Kirby]] [[Super Kirby Clash|Clash]] games, guarding as Sword Hero will create a large bubble shield which other Kirbys can take cover under to protect them from damage as well.
*'''[[Tac]]''' - Tac, as a [[helper]] for [[Copy]], becomes intangible while guarding.
 
There are some Copy Ability actions that provide similar functions, but are not true guards.
*[[Crouch]]ing with [[Archer]] causes Kirby to become intangible as long as he remains still, acting as a pseudo-guard. In this state, he can fire arrows or crawl along the ground, but doing either will make him vulnerable.
*Trying to crouch with [[Parasol]] in ''[[Kirby's Dream Land 3]]'' makes Kirby or [[Gooey]] put their parasols in front of them similar to a guard, which deals damage to enemies and provides cover from any incoming projectile. Their backs aren't covered, however, so any attack coming from behind will hurt them as usual.


===Dream Friends===
===Dream Friends===
Some [[Dream Friend]]s in ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]'' also have their special version of guarding.
Some [[Dream Friend]]s in ''[[Kirby Star Allies]]'' also have their own special version of guarding.
*'''[[Animal Friend|Rick & Kine & Coo]]''' and '''[[Gooey#Kirby Star Allies|Gooey]]''' take cover in a burlap sack called [[Bag|Protective Bag]] when guarding. This is a reference to ''[[Kirby's Dream Land 2]]'', where they are found in bags after defeating a [[Mid-Boss]].
*'''[[Animal Friend|Rick & Kine & Coo]]''' and '''[[Gooey#Kirby Star Allies|Gooey]]''' take cover in a burlap sack called the [[Protective Bag]] when guarding. This is a reference to ''[[Kirby's Dream Land 2]]'', where they are found in bags after defeating a [[Mid-Boss]].
*'''[[Adeleine & Ribbon]]''' hides behind a canvas and becomes invangible like [[TAC]] and the [[Leaf]] ability do.
*'''[[Adeleine#Kirby Star Allies|Adeleine & Ribbon]]''' hide behind a canvas and become intangible like [[Tac]] and the [[Leaf]] ability do. The canvas shows one of Adeleine's illustrations from ''[[Kirby 64: The Crystal Shards]]''. When releasing the guard, paint sprays out, which damages nearby enemies.
*'''[[Dark Meta Knight#Kirby Star Allies|Dark Meta Knight]]''' hides into a mirror when guarding, which functions the same as the [[Mirror]] ability.
*'''[[Dark Meta Knight#Kirby Star Allies|Dark Meta Knight]]''' hides in a mirror when guarding, similarly to his ''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]'' boss fight. It absorbs strong attacks and reflects projectiles, the same as the [[Mirror]] ability.
*'''[[Magolor#Kirby Star Allies|Magolor]]''' uses his 5-piece star-shaped super shield when guarding, which absorbs all damage, but can break. Every time a piece breaks, it does damage to nearby enemies.
*'''[[Magolor#Kirby Star Allies|Magolor]]''' uses his 5-piece star-shaped super shield when guarding, which absorbs all damage, but can break. Every time a piece breaks, it does damage to nearby enemies. In [[Magolor Epilogue: The Interdimensional Traveler]], he starts out with a standard guard, but can upgrade to the special guard as the mode progresses.
*'''[[Taranza#Kirby Star Allies|Taranza]]''' has Magic Guard which absorbs all damage and shoots out spikes like the [[Spider]] ability does.
*'''[[Taranza#Kirby Star Allies|Taranza]]''' has Magic Guard which absorbs all damage and shoots out spikes like the [[Spider]] ability does.


===Special Guard Properties===
===Special Guard Properties===
The following summarizes properties of the abovementioned special guards.
The following summarizes properties of the above-mentioned special guards.
{|class="wikitable sortable" border="1" cellpadding="2"
{|class="wikitable sortable" border="1" cellpadding="2"
|-
|-
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!Counterattack?
!Counterattack?
|-
|-
|'''[[Adeleine & Ribbon]]'''
|'''[[Adeleine#Kirby Star Allies|Adeleine & Ribbon]]'''
|'''Canvas Cover'''
|'''Canvas Cover'''
|Hides behind a canvas and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard causes paint to spray out.
|Hides behind a canvas and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard causes paint to spray out.
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|'''[[Dark Meta Knight]]'''
|'''[[Dark Meta Knight]]'''
|'''Reflector Shield'''
|'''Reflector Shield'''
|Guards with an reflective shield that deflects projectiles.
|Guards with an reflective shield that reflects projectiles.
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
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|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|-
|'''[[Gigant Sword]]'''
|'''Shield'''
|Guards with a riot shield that negates all damage. Kirby can move while the shield is up, but can't dodge.
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|N/A
|align="center"|{{N}}
|-
|-
|'''[[Ice]]'''
|'''[[Ice]]'''
|'''Ice Block'''
|'''Ice Block'''
|Guards with an ice shield. Releasing the guard (known as the move Ice Scatter) scatters the ice shield which deals minor damage and freezes nearby enemies.
|Guards with an ice shield. Releasing the guard (known as the move Ice Scatter) scatters the ice shield which deals minor damage and freezes nearby foes.
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'' onward)
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(''[[Kirby's Return to Dream Land]]'' onward)
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(except in ''[[Kirby and the Forgotten Land]]'')
|align="center"|When released
|align="center"|When released
|-
|-
|'''[[Leaf]]'''
|'''[[Leaf]]'''
|'''Leaf Hide'''
|'''Leaf Hide'''
|Hides into a pile of leaves and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard causes a burst of leaves that deal minor damage to nearby enemies.
|Hides into a pile of leaves and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard causes a burst of leaves that deal minor damage to nearby foes.
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(Also immune to grab attacks)
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(Also immune to grab attacks)
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
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|-
|-
|'''[[Magolor]]'''
|'''[[Magolor]]'''
|'''Star Guard'''
|'''Magic Barrier'''
|Guards with a five-piece star shield, which does damage when a piece breaks.
|Guards with a five-piece star shield, which deals damage when a piece breaks.
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(With durability)
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(With durability)
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|When a piece breaks
|align="center"|When a piece breaks
|-
|'''[[Mecha]]'''
|'''Shock Counter'''
|Performs a special counterattack after getting hit.
|align="center"|Only during Shock Counter
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|-
|-
|'''[[Mirror]]'''
|'''[[Mirror]]'''
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|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
|-
|-
|'''[[Smash|Smash Bros.]]'''
|'''[[Sand]]'''
|'''Sand Hide'''<br>'''Sand Geyser'''
|Hides into a pile of sand and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard or pressing B causes a burst of sand that deals minor damage to nearby foes.
|align="center"|{{Y}}<br>(Also immune to grab attacks)
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|When released/pressing B
|-
|'''[[Smash Bros.]]'''
|'''Shield'''
|'''Shield'''
|Guards with the shield from the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]]. (''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'' only)
|Guards with the shield from the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]]. (''[[Kirby: Planet Robobot]]'' only)
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|'''[[Spider]]'''
|'''[[Spider]]'''
|'''Pod Guard'''
|'''Pod Guard'''
|Hides into a string pod, which can spike out to damage enemies in contact.
|Hides into a string pod, which can spike out to damage foes in contact.
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{Y}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
|align="center"|{{N}}
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|}
|}


==''Super Smash Bros.'' series==
==Trivia==
{{SmashWiki|Shield}}
*In ''Kirby and the Forgotten Land'', guarding does not protect from attacks from [[Gnawcodile]], [[Sssnacker]], poison and lava puddles, getting [[Crusher|crushed]], getting eaten by [[Wild Frosty]], [[Fleurina]]'s Hurricane attack, getting grabbed by [[Gorimondo]], [[Meta Knight]]'s Force Falls and Upper Calibur attacks (the latter only when Sword Kirby isn't facing Meta Knight), getting caged by [[Sillydillo]], getting inhaled by [[Forgo Dedede]], [[Morpho Knight]]'s Infernal Wind attack, [[Leongar#Forgo Leon|Soul Forgo]]'s Soul Crash attack and [[Chaos Elfilis]]' "[[Black Hole|And Here We Are]]" and "[[Deadly Sun|Deadly Sun Grazer]]" attacks.<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tHCr0egcV1A</ref>
The shield mechanic in the [[Super Smash Bros. (series)|''Super Smash Bros.'' series]] is heavily based on the guard mechanic from the [[Kirby (series)|''Kirby'' series]], with the energy bubble very reminiscent of the [[Mirror]] ability's Reflect Guard. The primary difference is that shields shrink as they are held or take damage and will eventually break if not deactivated, stunning the user.
 
==Gallery==
{{ImCap|image=File:KPR Kirby Guard clip.png|size=100px||caption=From ''Kirby: Planet Robobot''}}
{{ImCap|image=File:KPR Shield clip.png|size=100px|caption=[[Smash Bros.]] Kirby uses his shield.}}
{{ImCap|image=File:KPR Ice Block clip.png|size=100px|caption=[[Ice]] Kirby using his Ice Block.}}
{{ImCap|image=File:KPR Clone Technique clip.png|size=100px|caption=[[Ninja]] Kirby using Clone Technique.}}
===Sprites===
<gallery style="image-rendering:pixelated;">
KSS Kirby Guard sprite.png|Sprite from ''[[Kirby Super Star]]''
KSSU Kirby Guard sprite.png|Sprite from ''[[Kirby Super Star Ultra]]''
</gallery>
 
===Screenshots===
<gallery>
KTD Kirby Guard.png|From ''Kirby: Triple Deluxe''
KTD Leaf Hide screenshot.png|"Leaf Hide", [[Leaf]]'s special guard, in ''Kirby: Triple Deluxe''
KSA PK Insight.png|Kirby using PK Insight in ''Kirby Star Allies''
KSA Staff Counter.png|[[Jammerjab]] using Staff Counter against a [[Blado]]
KSA special guard screenshot 1.jpg|Spider, Taranza, Magolor, and Dark Meta Knight
KSA special guard screenshot 2.jpg|Ice, Gooey/Rick & Kine & Coo, and Adeleine & Ribbon
File:KatFL Guard.png|From ''Kirby and the Forgotten Land''
</gallery>


Eventually, this concept went full circle in ''[[Kirby: Triple Deluxe]]'', when the ability to [[dodge]] after guarding, developed in ''Smash Bros.'', made its way into this game.
==Names in other languages==
{{Names
|ja=ガード
|jaR=Gādo
|jaM=Guard
|fr=Se protéger
|frM=Guard
|es=Cubrirse
|esM=Guard
|pt=Defender-se
|ptM=Guard (yourself)
}}


{{ref}}
{{clear}}
{{clear}}
{{Navbox-Moves}}
{{Navbox-Moves}}
[[Category:Moves]]
[[Category:Moves]]

Latest revision as of 17:57, 20 January 2024

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more varieties of Guard
Guard KSSU artwork.png
Artwork of Kirby in Guard from Kirby Super Star Ultra.
This article is about the technique. For the enemy from Kirby Star Allies, see Guard (enemy).
To guard...Push L or R. It can reduce the enemy's attack power.
— Tutorial from The Beginner's Show, in Kirby Super Star

Guard is Kirby's primary defensive action that appeared in many games. By holding down the appropriate button, Kirby assumes a defensive posture until the button is released. While guarding, Kirby takes no damage from weak attacks and minimal damage from most stronger attacks, in addition to retaining his ability and not getting knocked off the ground. Enemies that contact a guarding Kirby also take minimal damage.

Generally, guarding is ineffective against attacks which involve grabbing. Guarding also has no effect on environmental elements such as wind or lava, and will typically not defend against the strongest boss attacks. Kirby can only guard while standing still. However, in Kirby: Triple Deluxe and beyond, if Kirby guards in midair or moves to the side while guarding, he will Dodge.

In Kirby Super Star and Kirby Super Star Ultra, guard does 1 damage to enemies including bosses. Starting with Kirby's Return to Dream Land, the default guard does 4 damage to enemies excluding bosses.

In Kirby and the Forgotten Land, guarding is merged with crouching, and this is reflected in the Japanese name (しゃがみガード shagami gādo, "Crouching Guard"). As such, all actions that would normally be taken by crouching (such as sliding and swallowing) are now taken by guarding.

Appearances[edit]

Tip image of Kirby guarding against an attack from Blade Knight in Kirby Star Allies

Guarding in the Kirby Clash and Kirby Fighters games/sub-games[edit]

The Team Kirby Clash and Kirby Fighters games use a special version of Guard which more closely resembles the shield in the Super Smash Bros. games. In particular, with this guard, the player cannot hold it indefinitely, since a meter will decrease over time. When the meter is empty, the guarding character will be launched up then become dizzy after coming down and getting up, leaving them open to attacks from enemies or opponents for a while.

Super Smash Bros. series[edit]

SmashWiki has more information about this subject here.

The shield mechanic in the Super Smash Bros. series is heavily based on the guard mechanic from the Kirby series, with the energy bubble very reminiscent of the Mirror ability's Reflect Guard. The primary difference is that shields shrink as they are held or take damage and will eventually break if not deactivated, stunning the user.

Eventually, this concept went full circle in Kirby: Triple Deluxe, when the ability to dodge after guarding, developed in Super Smash Bros., made its way into this game.

Special Guard techniques[edit]

Copy Abilities[edit]

Sand Kirby using "Sand Hide" to solve a puzzle in the Sand Challenge in Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe

These Copy Abilities (and/or their respective Helpers) have their special version of guard with additional features. As a result of these particular guarding techniques, the user may be unable to dodge on the ground (or at all) when employing some of them.

  • Bell - While guarding with Bell, Kirby hides inside of his bell helmet, and cannot be harmed. Releasing the Guard or being hit will cause the bell to reverberate, damaging nearby foes.
  • ESP - If a foe hits Kirby shortly after the guard is activated, Kirby will vanish, then reappear and counter with a shock wave that deals substantial damage (PK Evade). When timed perfectly, the counterattack is more powerful, and Kirby will shout as he performs it (PK Insight).
  • Gigant Sword - Kirby holds a spiked shield that fully absorbs damage.
  • Ice - From Kirby's Return to Dream Land onward, while guarding with Ice, Kirby produces a spherical ice formation around himself which blocks more damage than a regular guard.
  • Leaf - While guarding with Leaf, Kirby is intangible instead of invincible; attacks will simply pass through him regardless of their power. This guard also makes Kirby immune to grabs. Releasing the guard causes minor damage to nearby foes.
  • Mecha - This ability has a unique counterattack, Shock Counter, activated if B is pressed right after Kirby is attacked while guarding.
  • Mirror - While guarding with Mirror, Kirby forms a shining bubble of energy around him. This bubble negates damage from even strong attacks and can reflect projectiles. In Kirby: Planet Robobot, the shield will eventually vanish if held too long.
  • Ninja - Starting with Kirby: Triple Deluxe, guarding with Ninja right before being hit by an attack will cause Kirby to use Clone Technique, which transforms him into a log that damages the attacking foe(s). However, it can only be used for a brief moment.
  • Sand - While guarding with Sand, Kirby is intangible instead of invincible; attacks will simply pass through him regardless of their power. This guard also makes Kirby immune to grabs. Releasing the guard causes minor damage to nearby foes. He can also press B to use Sand Geyser while guarding, attacking nearby foes but also losing his guard in the process.
  • Smash Bros. - In Kirby: Planet Robobot, while guarding with Smash Bros., Kirby produces a bubble shield resembling the one from the Super Smash Bros. series. (See Guard#In the Super Smash Bros. series section of this article.) This shield protects him from more damage than the standard guard, and can't break, unlike the Super Smash Bros. equivalent.
  • Spider - While guarding with Spider, Kirby encases himself in a string pod, preventing more damage than a standard guard. The pod also shoots out small spikes when hit, dealing more damage than normal collision.
  • Staff - If a foe hits Kirby shortly after the guard is activated, Kirby will perform a counterattack simply called Staff Counter.
  • Sword Hero - In all three Team Kirby Clash games, guarding as Sword Hero will create a large bubble shield which other Kirbys can take cover under to protect them from damage as well.
  • Tac - Tac, as a helper for Copy, becomes intangible while guarding.

There are some Copy Ability actions that provide similar functions, but are not true guards.

  • Crouching with Archer causes Kirby to become intangible as long as he remains still, acting as a pseudo-guard. In this state, he can fire arrows or crawl along the ground, but doing either will make him vulnerable.
  • Trying to crouch with Parasol in Kirby's Dream Land 3 makes Kirby or Gooey put their parasols in front of them similar to a guard, which deals damage to enemies and provides cover from any incoming projectile. Their backs aren't covered, however, so any attack coming from behind will hurt them as usual.

Dream Friends[edit]

Some Dream Friends in Kirby Star Allies also have their own special version of guarding.

Special Guard Properties[edit]

The following summarizes properties of the above-mentioned special guards.

User Guard Description Immune to damage? Ground dodge? Air dodge? Counterattack?
Adeleine & Ribbon Canvas Cover Hides behind a canvas and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard causes paint to spray out. Yes
(Also immune to grab attacks)
No Yes When released
Bell Bell Block Hides into the bell hat, which can reverberate to damage enemies in contact. Yes No No Contact
(No effect to bosses or mid-bosses)
Dark Meta Knight Reflector Shield Guards with an reflective shield that reflects projectiles. Yes No Yes Reflects projectile
ESP PK Evade
PK Insight
Performs a special counter attack before/when getting hit. Only during PK Evade/Insight Yes Yes Yes
Gigant Sword Shield Guards with a riot shield that negates all damage. Kirby can move while the shield is up, but can't dodge. Yes No N/A No
Ice Ice Block Guards with an ice shield. Releasing the guard (known as the move Ice Scatter) scatters the ice shield which deals minor damage and freezes nearby foes. Yes
(Kirby's Return to Dream Land onward)
No Yes
(except in Kirby and the Forgotten Land)
When released
Leaf Leaf Hide Hides into a pile of leaves and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard causes a burst of leaves that deal minor damage to nearby foes. Yes
(Also immune to grab attacks)
No Yes When released
Magolor Magic Barrier Guards with a five-piece star shield, which deals damage when a piece breaks. Yes
(With durability)
Yes Yes When a piece breaks
Mecha Shock Counter Performs a special counterattack after getting hit. Only during Shock Counter Yes Yes Yes
Mirror Reflect Guard Guards with an reflective shield that deflects projectiles. Yes
(Kirby: Planet Robobot only & with durability)
Yes Yes Reflects projectile
Ninja Clone Technique Performs a special counter attack before getting hit. (Kirby: Triple Deluxe onward) Only during Clone Technique Yes Yes Yes
Rick & Kine & Coo
Gooey
Protective Bag Hides into a bag that resembles the one they are trapped inside from Kirby's Dream Land 2. Yes No Yes No
Sand Sand Hide
Sand Geyser
Hides into a pile of sand and becomes intangible. Releasing the guard or pressing B causes a burst of sand that deals minor damage to nearby foes. Yes
(Also immune to grab attacks)
No Yes When released/pressing B
Smash Bros. Shield Guards with the shield from the Super Smash Bros. series. (Kirby: Planet Robobot only) Yes Yes Yes No
Spider Pod Guard Hides into a string pod, which can spike out to damage foes in contact. Yes No No Contact
(No effect to bosses or mid-bosses)
Staff Staff Counter Performs a special counter attack before getting hit. Only during Staff Counter Yes Yes Yes
Sword Hero Hero Shield Guards with the shield equipment to create a barrier that also protects teammates inside. Its durability decreases in time. Yes
(With durability)
Yes Yes No
Tac Tac Hide Becomes intangible. Yes No No No
Taranza Magic Guard Guards with a magic shield, which can spike out to damage enemies in contact. Yes
(Also immune to grab attacks)
Yes Yes Contact
(No effect to bosses or mid-bosses)

Trivia[edit]

Gallery[edit]

KPR Kirby Guard clip.png
From Kirby: Planet Robobot
KPR Shield clip.png
Smash Bros. Kirby uses his shield.
KPR Ice Block clip.png
Ice Kirby using his Ice Block.
KPR Clone Technique clip.png
Ninja Kirby using Clone Technique.

Sprites[edit]

Screenshots[edit]

Names in other languages[edit]

Language Name Meaning
Japanese ガード
Gādo
Guard
French Se protéger Guard
Portuguese Defender-se Guard (yourself)
Spanish Cubrirse Guard


References