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Fighter

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Fighter
KRtDLD Fighter.png
Artwork of Fighter Kirby from Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe.
Details
First game Kirby Super Star (1996)
Latest game Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe (2023)
Other game(s) Kirby & The Amazing Mirror
Kirby: Squeak Squad
Kirby Super Star Ultra
Kirby's Return to Dream Land
Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition (New Challenge Stages)
Kirby: Triple Deluxe
Kirby Fighters Deluxe
Kirby: Planet Robobot
Kirby Battle Royale
Kirby Star Allies
Kirby Fighters 2
Kirby's Dream Buffet (reference)
Usage type Unlimited use
Obtained from Boxin, Box Boxer, Knuckle Joe, Iron Mam, Gray Golem (if inhaled while attacking), amiibo (Planet Robobot): Lucario, Donkey Kong, Little Mac, Mii Fighters
Power(s) Attacks with martial arts; Giga Force Blast provides Sizzle augment.
Helper Knuckle Joe
Similar to Backdrop (grabs and headband)
Ninja (some moves)
Suplex (throws)
Smash Bros. (various moves)
Throw (throws & headband)
Wrestler (some moves)
 This box: view  talk  edit 

Fighter is a Copy Ability which empowers Kirby to be able to perform a wide array of strong martial arts techniques to defeat his opponents. Among these techniques are famous moves such as Vulcan Jab, Smash Punch, Spin Kick, and Rising Break, all of which can do massive damage up close. In addition, Kirby can also fire energy blasts from his hands, similar to fighters from the Street Fighter series, and grab opponents to toss them away. Kirby typically gains this ability when he swallows Knuckle Joe, and gains an iconic red headband which in more recent games has a star emblazoned on it. Fighter Kirby is well-known for having lots of moves, which can be difficult for new players to reliably pull off.

Fighter first appeared as a Copy Ability in Kirby Super Star, and has since been a mainstay in subsequent games that follow in its legacy. Many of Fighter Kirby's moves would be incorporated into Kirby's moveset in the Super Smash Bros. series, and from there, several would be recycled back into the Kirby series through the Smash Bros. ability.

Characteristics[edit]

Fighter Kirby demonstrating the Rising Break technique in Kirby: Planet Robobot

Among the classic Copy Abilities, Fighter is notorious as having far more distinct moves than most. The ability is based heavily on traditional fighting games, replicating their gameplay with a unique gimmick: it provides Kirby with different moves depending on if the attack button is tapped ("light") or held ("heavy"). As such, it is one of the more difficult Copy Abilities to master. Once these moves are taken to heart, however, Fighter becomes one of the most potent and fluent abilities in Kirby's arsenal.

Among the moveset are famous techniques such as "Vulcan Jab"—a rapid series of punches that can be held indefinitely, "Smash Punch"—a more powerful single punch that creates a shockwave passing through foes, "Leg Sweep"—a sliding kick that knocks enemies away, "Spin Kick"—a series of sweeping kicks that carry Kirby through the air with their momentum, "Force Blast"—a powerful energy blast that can be charged using the hands, and "Rising Break"—a Masher-slaying uppercut that carries Kirby higher than a jump when used. The ability also gives Kirby the ability to grab enemies and toss them away, similar to Suplex, though not quite as central.

Since its introduction in Kirby Super Star, Fighter's main representative enemy/helper has been Knuckle Joe, though a handful of others also provide it when swallowed. Since then, the ability has retained all of its most iconic moves and, starting with Kirby's Return to Dream Land, has only grown more complex over time. In these latter years, Fighter had consistently been the most complex Copy Ability in terms of number of distinct moves until it was usurped by Wrestler in Kirby Fighters 2, which also happens to be a fighting-oriented ability.

Similarities to other abilities[edit]

Fighter has similarities to many other Copy Abilities, whether that be in its appearance, its moveset, or both. The following are abilities that bear some resemblance to Fighter, along with details on what they share in common, listed in chronological order:

  • Backdrop - Backdrop has Kirby grabbing his opponents and slamming them to the ground in various ways, similar to some of Fighter's grab and toss techniques. In Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land in particular, Backdrop Kirby uses the same red headband as Fighter Kirby (which ironically allowed the North American box art for that game to use artwork of Fighter Kirby on the cover).
  • Throw - Throw Kirby can grab his opponents and toss them, similar to Fighter. In Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land and subsequent games, Throw Kirby has a headband just like Fighter, though it is blue instead of red.
  • Ninja - Ninja Kirby has two moves in particular that are close in resemblance to Fighter's moves: "Ninja Kick" has Ninja Kirby doing a diagonal downward kick to hit opponents much like Fighter's Sky Kick, and Air Drop has Kirby grabbing his foe and slamming them to the ground, similar to Fighter's grab techniques.
  • Suplex - Suplex is essentially an upgraded version of Backdrop Kirby, which gives him a few more moves, some of which (Pinpoint Kick in particular) are similar to Fighter Kirby's moves. In Kirby Super Star and Kirby Super Star Ultra, Suplex Kirby has a blue headband like Throw Kirby's, though this was changed to a wrestler's belt in Kirby Star Allies. Suplex and Fighter can also both use Friend Throw in Kirby Star Allies.
  • Smash Bros. - As mentioned above, Smash Bros. Kirby has a few of Fighter Kirby's moves, namely Vulcan Jab and Spin Kick (altered into "Smash Kick").
  • Wrestler - Wrestler Kirby can be seen as being an even more-developed version of Suplex Kirby, with many more moves added on top of the base abilities of grabbing and slamming opponents. Although none of Wrestler Kirby's moves are exact copies of Fighter Kirby's, there are many parallels in the close-range punches and kicks. Their relationship is also highlighted by the fact that one of Fighter Kirby's alternate outfits in Kirby Battle Royale gives him a wrestling mask (though this would precede Wrestler Kirby's actual debut, in Kirby Fighters 2).

Game appearances[edit]

Fighter Kirby's video game appearances  
Game Role Notes
Kirby series
Kirby Super Star Copy Ability Obtainable from Knuckle Joe and Iron Mam.
Can be used to create a Knuckle Joe helper.
Kirby & The Amazing Mirror Copy Ability Obtainable from Gray Golem, Boxin, and Box Boxer.
Kirby: Squeak Squad Copy Ability Obtainable from Boxin and Box Boxer.
Can be upgraded using an Ability Scroll.
Kirby Super Star Ultra Copy Ability Obtainable from Knuckle Joe and Iron Mam.
Can be used to create a Knuckle Joe helper.
Kirby's Return to Dream Land Copy Ability Obtainable from Knuckle Joe.
Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition Playable character Used in the Fighter Combat Chamber and is selectable in Magolor Race 3 and Magolor Race EX in New Challenge Stages.
Kirby: Triple Deluxe Copy Ability Obtainable from Knuckle Joe.
Also available in Kirby Fighters.
Kirby Fighters Deluxe Playable character Selectable in all game modes.
Comes with an unlockable alternate costume.
Kirby: Planet Robobot Copy Ability Obtainable from Knuckle Joe.
Kirby Battle Royale Playable character Selectable in all game modes, though it needs to be unlocked in Dedede's Cake Royale to be used there.
Comes with three unlockable alternate costumes.
Kirby Star Allies Copy Ability Obtainable from Knuckle Joe.
Can be used to make a Knuckle Joe ally.
Can be used for Friend Throw.
Kirby Fighters 2 Playable character Selectable in all game modes after being unlocked at Fighters Rank 16.
Comes with two unlockable alternate costumes.
Kirby's Dream Buffet Reference Fighter Kirby appears on a couple Character Treats.
Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe Copy Ability Has the same features and providers as in the original Kirby's Return to Dream Land.
Super Smash Bros. series
Super Smash Bros. Melee Reference Fighter Kirby appears as a trophy.
Super Smash Bros. Brawl Reference Fighter Kirby appears as a trophy.
Super Smash Bros. for Wii U Reference Fighter Kirby appears as a trophy.

Kirby Super Star / Kirby Super Star Ultra[edit]

Fighter Kirby throwing a Smash Punch at Wham Bam Rock in Kirby Super Star

Fighter debuted in Kirby Super Star and also appears in its remake Kirby Super Star Ultra. In these games, Kirby can obtain this ability by swallowing Knuckle Joe or Iron Mam the Mid-Boss, or by touching Copy Essences or the Copy Essence Deluxe in Planet Floria. With this ability equipped, Kirby can create Knuckle Joe as a helper. Kirby's visual appearance only changes by adding a red headband.

Fighter Kirby also makes an appearance on the poster for The Arena (in Kirby Super Star Ultra, he appears in the cutscene for the game mode instead), and in Megaton Punch.

Fighter moveset in Kirby Super Star and Kirby Super Star Ultra  
Set blow strength by holding B
Skill (Short Charge) Skill (Long Charge) Button execution
Vulcan Jab Smash Punch B
Leg Sweep Spin Kick Dash + B
Down Kick Double Kick B in air
Skill Button execution
Rising Break ↑ + Hold B
Grab Foe ↑, →, or ↓ + B near foe
Arm Throw Grab + B
Judo Throw Grab + ← or ↓ + B

Kirby & The Amazing Mirror[edit]

The pause subscreen for Fighter in Kirby & The Amazing Mirror

Fighter appears in Kirby & The Amazing Mirror, despite having not appeared in the prior title Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land upon which this game's engine was based. As is typical for the ability, it has a large variety of moves, unlike most of the other abilities in the game. The bandana turns gray when the Chalk Spray Paint is equipped and white when the Red Spray Paint is equipped. Fighter is provided by a fair number of enemies in the game, including the following:

Fighter Moveset in Kirby & The Amazing Mirror  
Skill Button Execution Skill Button Execution
Vulcan Jab
Tap B
Rising Kick
Double-tap B
Slam Punch
Triple-tap B
Force Blast
Hold B briefly
Mega Force Blast
Hold B
Giga Force Blast
Hold B with one HP
Triple Spin Kick
B while holding left or right or B in midair
Rising Break
Up + B
Sky Kick
Down + B in midair
Moon Somersault Kick
Dash + B

Kirby: Squeak Squad[edit]

Fighter returns in Kirby: Squeak Squad, bearing largely the same look and feel as it had in Kirby & The Amazing Mirror, though with a few adjustments. Its moveset is the same as it was in its previous appearance, save for one addition: Fighter Kirby can now also perform the Air Drop technique when → + B is used near an enemy (facing right). Fighter is once again provided by Boxin and Box Boxer. Acquiring the Ability Scroll for the Fighter ability allows Kirby to launch an even bigger force blast which can break metal blocks.

Additionally, Kirby gains a unique idle pose when he has this ability. He raises his arms and sways back and forth in a fighting stance, in a similar fashion to that of Ryu from Street Fighter.

Fighter Moveset in Kirby: Squeak Squad  
Attack name Image Input Description Attack name Image Input Description
バルカンジャブ
Vulcan Jab
KSqS Fighter - Attack 1.png
B
Kirby punches many times in front of him. ハイキック
High Kick
KSqS Fighter - Attack 2.png
B after Vulcan Jab
Kirby does a rising kick into the air.
スパイクパンチ
Spike Punch
KSqS Fighter - Attack 3.png
B after High Kick
Kirby slams his fist back into the ground. スピンキック
Spin Kick
KSqS Fighter - Attack 4.png
B in the air
Kirby spins with his foot out several times in the air.
スカイキック
Sky Kick
KSqS Fighter - Attack 5.png
↓ + B in the air
Kirby slams his foot into the ground while traveling diagonally. パワーショット
Power Shot
KSqS Fighter - Attack 6.png
Press & Hold B
Kirby fires a small yet powerful blast of energy. If charged a little, the blast will become bigger and deal more damage.
ジャンプスピンキック
Jump Spin Kick
KSqS Fighter - Attack 7.png
Move + B
Kirby spins around many times and kicks, launching him into the air. This attack cannot be used again until Kirby stops moving or turns around. ムーンサルトキック
Moonsault Kick
Moon Somersault Kick
KSqS Fighter - Attack 8.png
Dash + B
Kirby does a quick rising kick into the air.
ライジンブレイク
Rising Break
KSqS Fighter - Attack 9.png
↑ + B
Kirby does a quick rising punch into the air. いずなおとし
Izuna Drop
Air Drop
KSqS Fighter - Attack 10.png
←→ + B near enemy
Kirby picks up the nearby enemy and jumps high into the air. He then slams them into the ground dealing lots of damage.
メガパワーショット
Mega Power Shot
KSqS Fighter - Attack 11.png
Press & Hold B for longer
Allows Kirby to charge his energy attack an extra level. This does the most damage out of the three charging levels. Only available after collecting Fighter's Ability Scroll. Facing Right. Attack names are taken from the Kirby: Squeak Squad Nintendo Official Guidebook. Applicable equivalent adapted English names from other games are listed in bold.

Kirby's Return to Dream Land / Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe[edit]

Fighter reappears in Kirby's Return to Dream Land and its remake, Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe, obtained by swallowing enemies such as Knuckle Joe or touching Copy Essences. Kirby's Return to Dream Land made Fighter Kirby's moveset similar once more to the one in Kirby Super Star, though adding many new moves. Aesthetically, Kirby gains his signature red headband like in Kirby Super Star, but shorter and with a star in the front of the headband. This headband would carry forward for the remainder of Fighter Kirby's appearances.

Fighter's moveset in Kirby's Return to Dream Land and Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe 
Skill Button Execution (KRtDL) Button Execution (KRtDLD, facing right) Description Skill Button Execution (KRtDL) Button Execution (KRtDLD, facing right) Description
Vulcan Jab
Tap 1
(or press repeatedly)
Tap B/Y
Kirby unleashes a barrage of punches in front of him. Force Blast
↓ + Hold 1
(briefly)
↓ + hold B/Y briefly before releasing
Kirby fires a small yet powerful blast of energy.
Smash Punch
Press 1
Press and hold B/Y
Kirby does a strong punch in front of him. Mega Force Blast
↓ + Hold 1
(a bit longer)
↓ + hold B/Y longer before releasing
Kirby fires a larger more powerful blast of energy.
Leg Sweep
Dash + 1
Dash, then tap B/Y
Kirby slides forward like his base form's slide attack but can hit more enemies. Giga Force Blast
↓ + Hold 1
even longer
↓ + hold B/Y even longer before releasing
Kirby fires a large and powerful fireball in front of him.
Spin Kick
Dash + hold 1
Dash + hold B/Y
Kirby does three powerful kicks in front of him while spinning midair. Instant Mega Force Blast
↓ → + Hold 1
(if facing right)
↓→ + hold B/Y
Kirby fires a instantaneous version of mega force blast.
Down Kick
1 in midair
Tap B/Y in midair
Kirby does a small kick that can be repeated. Moon Somersault Kick
1 in midair next to foe
Release B/Y near an enemy in midair
Kirby does an upwards kick that sends the poor victim in the air.
Double Kick
Hold 1 in midair
Press and hold B/Y in midair
Kirby does a double kick to a similar effect to Smash Punch. Foe Grab
↑ or → next to foe + 1
(if facing right)
Either ↑ or → + B/Y near an enemy
Kirby grabs his opponent.
Rising Break
↑ + Hold 1
↑ and hold B/Y
Kirby does a multi-hit uppercut. Arm Throw
Foe Grab + 1, ↑ or →
(if facing right)
Foe Grab + B/Y or Foe Grab + either ↑ or →
Similar to Throw, Kirby tosses his opponent forward, damaging any enemies they hit.
Sky Kick
↓ + 1 in midair
↓ + B/Y in midair
Similar to Suplex's pinpoint kick, Kirby dives down with his foot extended to hit enemies below. Judo Throw
Foe Grab + ↓ or ←
(if facing right)
Foe Grab + either ← or ↓
Kirby judo throws his opponent behind him.

Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition[edit]

Fighter Kirby pummeling a Shelt in the Fighter Combat Chamber in New Challenge Stages

Fighter is one of the abilities which is featured in New Challenge Stages. Its moveset and look are identical to its appearance in Kirby's Return to Dream Land. It is primarily used in the Fighter Combat Chamber, but can also be used in subsequent Magolor Race stages.

Kirby: Triple Deluxe[edit]

Fighter returns once again in Kirby: Triple Deluxe, being provided by Knuckle Joe, and retaining its moveset from Kirby's Return to Dream Land. It also appears in Kirby Fighters.

Fighter Moveset in Kirby: Triple Deluxe, Kirby Fighters Deluxe, and Kirby: Planet Robobot  
Skill Image Button Execution Description
Vulcan Jab
KPR Vulcan Jab clip.png
Tap B (or press repeatedly)
Kirby unleashes a barrage of punches in front of him.
Smash Punch
KPR Smash Punch clip.png
Press and hold B
Kirby does a strong punch in front of him.
Leg Sweep
KPR Leg Sweep clip.png
Dash + release B
Kirby slides forward like his base form's slide attack but can hit more enemies.
Spin Kick
KPR Spin Kick clip.png
Dash + press and hold B
Kirby does three powerful kicks in front of him while spinning midair.
Down Kick
KPR Down Kick clip.png
Release B in midair
Kirby does a small kick that can be repeated.
Double Kick
KPR Double Kick clip.png
Press and hold B in midair
Kirby does a does a double kick to a similar effect to Smash Punch.
Rising Break
KPR Rising Break clip.png
↑ + press and hold B
Kirby does a multi-hit uppercut.
Sky Kick
KPR Sky Kick clip.png
↓ + B in midair
Similar to Suplex's pinpoint kick, Kirby dives down with his foot extended to hit enemies below.
Force Blast
KPR Force Blast clip.png
↓ + hold B shortly before releasing
Kirby fires a small yet powerful blast of energy.
Mega Force Blast
KPR Mega Force Blast clip.png
↓ + hold B even longer before releasing
Kirby fires a larger more powerful blast of energy.
Giga Force Blast
KPR Giga Force Blast clip.png
↓ + hold B even longer before releasing
Kirby fires a large and powerful fireball in front of him.
Instant Mega Force Blast
KPR Instant Mega Force Blast clip.png
↓ → + press and hold B
Kirby fires a instantaneous version of mega force blast.
Moon Somersault Kick
KPR Moon Somersault Kick clip.png
Release B near an enemy in midair
Kirby does an upwards kick that sends the poor victim in the air.
Foe Grab
KPR Foe Grab clip.png
Either of ↑→ near an enemy
Kirby grabs his opponent.
Arm Throw
KPR Arm Throw clip.png
Foe Grab + B, or Foe Grab + either ↑→
Similar to Throw, Kirby tosses his opponent forward, damaging any enemies they hit.
Judo Throw
KPR Judo Throw clip.png
Foe Grab either of ←↓
Kirby judo throws his opponent behind him.

Kirby Fighters Deluxe[edit]

Fighter is one of the selectable Copy Abilities in Kirby Fighters Deluxe. It is largely the same as it was in Kirby: Triple Deluxe.

Fighter Kirby's Rare Outfit is the headband of Knuckle Joe.

Kirby: Planet Robobot[edit]

Fighter returns in Kirby: Planet Robobot, unchanged from its appearance in Kirby: Triple Deluxe. It is once again provided by Knuckle Joe.

Kirby Battle Royale[edit]

Heya, fighter! Go give 'em a knuckle sandwich for me! When you see an opening, use your Giga Force Blast to knock 'em out!
— Knuckle Joe's comment in Kirby Battle Royale
Artwork of a Fighter Kirby from Battle Royale.

Fighter is one of the abilities on offer in Kirby Battle Royale. It allows Kirby to perform a wide series of lightning-fast punches and kicks and chase his target easily. It also allows Kirby to use a special ranged attack after a brief charge-up.

Fighter has three alternate pieces of Headgear in this game. They are "Knuckle Joe's Hair", the "Wrestling Mask", and the "Goriath Hat". Ironically, the Wrestling Mask makes Kirby look very similar to Wrestler, an ability which did not yet exist when this game was released, but which has many similarities to Fighter.

Fighter Moveset in Kirby Battle Royale  
Skill Button Execution Skill Button Execution
Quick Jab
B
Giga Force Blast
Hold/release B
Vulcan Jab
BB
Kick
Y
Rising Break
BBB
Spin Kick
YY
Sky Kick
B during jump
Final Spin Kick
YYY

Kirby Star Allies[edit]

Fighter Kirby using Friend Throw to toss his Rocky buddy at some Waddle Dees in Kirby Star Allies

Fighter returns in Kirby Star Allies, provided once again by Knuckle Joe. In addition to the large arsenal of moves Kirby obtains from this ability, he can also use Friend Throw by picking up and tossing a recruited Friend. Kirby can also recruit Knuckle Joe as a friend, who then has all of Fighter Kirby's moves.

Fighter's Moveset in Kirby Star Allies  
while facing right
Skill Button Execution Description
Vulcan Jab
Press and release B
Kirby unleashes a barrage of jabs in front of him.
Smash Punch
Press and hold B
Kirby does a strong punch, throwing a blast of energy in front of him.
Leg Sweep
Dash + press and release B
Kirby slides forward like his base form's slide attack but can hit more enemies. Unlike sliding, Kirby goes through enemies while invincible in the process.
Spin Kick
Dash + press and hold B
Kirby does three consecutive spin kicks while jumping forward, invincible in the process.
Down Kick
Press and release B in midair
Kirby does a small kick that can be repeated. Kirby bounces off the enemy slightly after Down Kick.
Double Kick
Press and hold B in midair
Kirby does a double kick, throwing a blast of energy similar to Smash Punch.
Rising Break
↑ and hold B
Kirby does a multi-hit uppercut, invincible in the process.
Sky Kick
↓ + B in midair
Similar to Suplex's Pinpoint Kick, Kirby dives down with his foot extended to hit enemies below. Kirby bounces off the enemy slightly after Sky Kick.
Force Blast
↓ + Hold B briefly before releasing
Kirby fires a small blast of energy from his both hands.
Mega Force Blast
↓ + Hold B even longer before releasing
Kirby fires a large, powerful blast of energy from his both hands.
Giga Force Blast
↓ + Hold B even longer before releasing
Kirby fires a larger and more powerful fireball from his both hands, which gives Sizzle augment.
Instant Mega Force Blast
↓ + → + press and hold B
Kirby fires a instantaneous version of Mega Force Blast. Can be repeated with quick button execution.
Moon Somersault Kick
Press and release B near an enemy in midair
Kirby does a somersault kick that sends the common enemy in the air and can be repeated.
Foe Grab
↑/→ + B near an enemy
Kirby grabs a common enemy or a Dropped Star, invincible in the process.
Arm Throw
Foe Grab + B/↑/→
Similar to Throw ability, Kirby tosses what he has grabbed forward, invincible in the process and damaging any enemies hit by the thrown projectile.
Judo Throw
Foe Grab + either ↓/←
As its name says, Kirby judo throws what he has grabbed behind him, invincible in the process and damaging any enemies hit by the thrown projectile.

Interestingly, although the original names of Fighter's moves in the Japanese version are using the same English words, the Chinese version of Kirby Star Allies has given some stylish names of Fighter's moves, namely:

  • Vulcan Jab - 无影拳 (wú yǐng quán): literally means "Shadowless Punch".
  • Rising Break - 雷神破 (léi shén pò): literally means "Thunder God Break". Possibly a reference to the Japanese pronunciation of Rising which is similar to Raijin, the Japanese god of lightning and thunder.

Kirby Fighters 2[edit]

Fighter returns in Kirby Fighters 2 as a selectable ability for Kirby to use. It is unlocked after attaining a Fighters Rank of 16. Its moveset is the same as it has been in previous titles, though damage values have been adjusted. Fighter has two Rare Hats in this game, one being the Knuckle Joe headband from Kirby Fighters Deluxe, and the other being the Goriath Hat from Kirby Battle Royale.

For more precise competitive-oriented information on the Fighter ability in Kirby Fighters 2, see Mizuumi Wiki's page.

Moveset[edit]

Fighter moveset in Kirby Fighters 2  
Skill Button Execution Description Damage (unmodified)
Vulcan Jab
Press and release B
Kirby throws out a rapid series of punches, and can continue doing so for as long as B is repeatedly pressed. 6 (first hit)
3 (subsequent hits)
Smash Punch
Press and hold B
Kirby throws out a strong single punch that sends a small shockwave ahead of him. 22
Leg Sweep
Dash + press and release B
Kirby throws out his foot and slides forward, dragging foes along with him. 14 (if all hits connect)
Spin Kick
Dash + press and hold B
Kirby propels himself forward and slightly upward with three spinning kicks, carrying foes caught in the motion. 20 (initial hit)
12 (subsequent hits)
44 (if all hits connect)
Down Kick
Press and release B in midair
Kirby throws his foot out as he descends. If he hits an opponent, he will bounce off afterward. 18
Double Kick
Press and hold B in midair
Kirby throws his feet out to the side and releases an energy wave which travels horizontally. 26
Rising Break
↑ and hold B
Kirby performs a jumping uppercut, dragging any foes caught along with him in the motion. 45 (if all hits connect)
Sky Kick
↓ + B in midair
Kirby drops diagonally downward with his foot out at high speed, and bounces off of any foe he hits. 22
Force Blast
↓ + hold B briefly before releasing
Kirby charges up and releases an energy blast which travels quickly across the stage horizontally. 20
14 (early release, no projectile)
Mega Force Blast
↓ + hold B even longer before releasing
Kirby charges up and releases a bigger energy blast which travels quickly across the stage horizontally. 24
Giga Force Blast
↓ + hold B even longer before releasing
Kirby charges up and releases a giant red energy blast which travels quickly across the stage horizontally and passes through foes. 50
Instant Mega Force Blast
↓→ + press and hold B
Kirby lets out a Mega Force Blast without having to charge. 24
Moon Somersault Kick
Press and release B near an enemy in midair
Kirby does an aerial flip kick. 26
Foe Grab
Either ↑/→ + B near an enemy
Kirby grabs his foe. If he does nothing, the foe escapes after 5 seconds or less with no damage. N/A
Arm Throw
Foe Grab + either B/↑/→
Kirby punches his foe and launches them forward. 20
Judo Throw
Foe Grab + either ↓/←
Kirby tosses his foe behind him after a quick punch. 20

Kirby's Dream Buffet[edit]

In Kirby's Dream Buffet, Fighter Kirby is depicted alongside Archer Kirby on the "Archer vs. Fighter" Character Treat, using artwork from Kirby Fighters Deluxe. Another Character Treat depicts Blue Fighter Kirby carrying a stack of apples from Kirby Battle Royale. Fighter does not appear as an ability in Kirby's Dream Buffet itself.

Super Smash Bros. series[edit]

Fighter Kirby does not make a formal appearance in any of the Super Smash Bros. games. However, he does appear as a trophy in Super Smash Bros. Melee, Super Smash Bros. Brawl, and Super Smash Bros. for Wii U.

In Kirby: Right Back at Ya![edit]

Fighter
Anime Fighter Kirby Art.png
Details
First episode Here Comes the Son
Last episode The School Scam
Other episode(s) Monster Management, Snack Attack - Part II, eNeMeE Elementary, Masher 2.0
Obtained from Inhaling Knuckle Joe's attacks, inhaling projectiles from Martial Arts All-Stars, Teacher Creature, and Dirk, Kirk, and Smirk
Power(s) Using various fighting moves
 This box: view  talk  edit 
All right! It's Fighter Kirby!
— Tuff

In the Kirby: Right Back at Ya! anime, Fighter Kirby makes a significant number of appearances, often being provided by Knuckle Joe, whether intentionally or not. When Kirby gains this ability, he dons the signature red headband, and gains increased agility, as well as several flashy energy-based attacks. The most notable of these are Vulcan Jab, Smash Punch, Spin Kick, Overhead Toss, and Rising Break; the last of which is always used as the finishing blow on his opponent. In the Japanese version of the show, Kirby always calls out the names of these attacks when he uses them.

When Kirby gains the Fighter ability, it is often when he is facing some of Night Mare Enterprises' toughest monsters. The most notable of these are Masher and its upgraded form Masher 2.0. Fighter Kirby gains his most prominent appearance, however, in Snack Attack - Part II, where he uses the ability for the majority of the episode's run-time in order to battle the five Martial Arts All-Stars.

Profiles[edit]

Flavor text[edit]

Image Game Flavor text
KSS Box NA.jpg Kirby Super Star Copy the abilities of Fighter and assume the role of a mighty karate expert. Increase your power with practice!
USCover KSqS.jpg Kirby: Squeak Squad Go for it!

CHAMPION

KSS Ultra box art.png Kirby Super Star Ultra Hi-yaa! Hold the B Button longer for a stronger blow! That punch is an instant KO!
KRtDL Boxart L.jpg Kirby's Return to Dream Land I'm a brawling Copy Ability! How long you hold 1 determines how strong or weak my attacks are! And I have a ton of them!
KTD Boxart NA.jpg Kirby: Triple Deluxe The Fighter ability is no joke, with tons of techniques to bring down the biggest baddies! Keep an eye out for opponents to knock out as you fight your way to the top!
KPR Box.png Kirby: Planet Robobot This ability raises your fighting power to the max! The supersonic punches and kicks Kirby unleashes bring about infinite fighting capabilities.
KBR box art.jpg Kirby Battle Royale Hit opponents with a flurry of attacks with this martial-arts ability!
KSA Boxart NA.jpg Kirby Star Allies Oh boy! It's the Fighting Copy Ability, complete with tons of techniques! Grab and throw foes with ease. You can even grab and throw...your friends! Throw them against rocks and other things you want to smash.
KRtDLD Boxart NA.jpg Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe Get ready to brawl! How long you hold the button will change how strong or weak your attacks are. And there are a ton of them!

Super Smash Bros. Melee trophy[edit]

Super Smash Bros. Melee
Name Image Game Description
Fighter Kirby Fighter Kirby Melee Trophy.png SNES Kirby Super Star Kirby dons a warrior's headband and becomes a fierce fighter when he swallows an enemy skilled at physical attacks. Fighter Kirby uses many colorful punching and kicking moves as he overpowers his enemies with his sparring skills. The Vulcan Jab is just one of the many techniques Kirby can use thanks to his copying power.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl trophy[edit]

Super Smash Bros. Brawl
Name Image Game Description
Fighter Kirby Fighter Kirby Brawl Trophy.png SNES Kirby Super Star

GBA Kirby & The Amazing Mirror

Kirby when he is skilled in martial arts, especially close-quarters combat. Inhaling brawny challengers like Knuckle Joe will transform Kirby, allowing him to use a bunch of fight moves like Rising Break, the heroic uppercut. His Mega Power Shot in Kirby & The Amazing Mirror, which used charged energy to take out faraway enemies, is another Fighter Kirby highlight.

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U trophy[edit]

Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
Name Image Appears In Description
Fighter Kirby Fighter Kirby Wii U Trophy.png SNES Kirby Super Star

Wii Kirby's Return to Dream Land

American English: "Show me your moves!" Wait-that's not Kirby's line! Regardless, he's really fired up and ready to become a fighting machine with that red headband. He knows the basics, like kicking and tossing, but he can also muster his fighting spirit to blast distant foes."

British English: "With his red headband and fierce attitude, Fighter Kirby is ready to take on anything. Like a real martial artist, he can kick and throw his foes into submission. And like a...not-so-real martial artist, he can fire his fighting spirit as an energy blast to hit faraway enemies. The only weapon this Kirby needs is his burning heart!"

Kirby Super Star manual[edit]

  • "Kirby knocks out enemies with a severe punch or kick."

Kirby & The Amazing Mirror manual[edit]

  • "Kirby attacks with martial-arts moves! Keep it up for more fast-paced pummeling!"

Kirby Super Star Ultra manual[edit]

  • "Defeat your enemies with flurries of punches and kicks."

Trivia[edit]

  • In the concept art of the Fighter ability for Kirby Super Star, it was originally called Rush, which also allowed Kirby to throw consecutive punches.[1]
  • As mentioned above, Fighter Kirby can be seen as a reference to fighting games, particularly the Street Fighter series. There are two particular aspects of the ability that point to this being the case:
    • The red headband Kirby wears is similar to the one Ryu wears.
    • Two of Fighter's moves (Rising Break and the Force Blast line of attacks) are similar in concept to the Shoryuken and Hadoken respectively. Furthermore, the input for the Instant Mega Force Blast is almost identical to Hadoken's input (down + forward + attack).
  • Fighter's icon from Kirby & The Amazing Mirror may be a reference to his appearance in Megaton Punch or Crackity Hack.
  • In Kirby Battle Royale, Fighter got a new move called Quick Jab, which has the same name and is very similar to a move card from the Japan exclusive card game Kirby no Copy-toru!, which released before Kirby Battle Royale.
  • In a 2010 Twitter post, series creator Masahiro Sakurai named Fighter as one of his favorite copy abilities, alongside Suplex.[2]

Gallery[edit]

Main article: Fighter/gallery

Names in other languages[edit]

Language Name Meaning
Japanese ファイター
Faitā
Fighter
Traditional Chinese 格鬥家
gé dòu jiā
Fighter
Simplified Chinese 格斗家
gé dòu jiā
Dutch Vechter Fighter
French Combat Combat
German Kämpfer Fighter
Italian Lottatore Fighter
Korean 파이터
Paiteo
Fighter
Portuguese Lutador Fighter
Russian Борец
Borets
Fighter
Spanish Luchador Fighter


References

  1. 20th Anniversary Kirby Pupupu Encyclopedia, p. 121
  2. https://twitter.com/Sora_Sakurai/status/20914369156087809