Kirby Tilt ‘n’ Tumble is a “waggle” game. Most gamers are not interested in “waggle” controls. Waggle controls require flinging or flailing around to produce action in a game. This form of gaming control was popularized by the Nintendo Wii and also on platforms such as iOS and Android. Waggle is much older than those platforms though. Nintendo was incorporating it in games for the Game Boy Color way back in 2001. Kirby Tilt ‘n’ Tumble doesn’t use the conventional controls, instead players are tasked with a new control method.

Third person control scheme

Kirby Tilt ‘n’ Tumble is unique in that you are not directly controlling Kirby. Well, at least not with the regular buttons. Using accelerometers that are built into the cartridge, you tilt and flick the Game Boy Color. This “waggling” will produce in game actions such as rolling and jumping. This can take a bit of getting used to but definitely an interesting look back at this technology.

Innovative design restricts access for some

Kirby Tilt ‘n’ Tumble is tied closely to the accelerometers. This makes it impossible for any digital re-release. Also, playing this cartridge on a GameCube via the Game Boy Player is nearly impossible. I guess you could pick up and flick your GameCube around. Controls are backwards on the Game Boy Adavnce SP also due to a lack of calibration of the accelerometers.

Nintendo has quite often been one of those companies that loved innovation. Unfortunately, sometimes that innovation comes at a cost – such as here. While the tilt and such game play is interesting, it is a detriment too. There is no easy way to port such a game to modern platforms and keep the innovation.

If you are interested in purchasing a copy of Kirby Tilt ‘n’ Tumble for Game Boy Color you can check eBay, Amazon, or on Gamestop. Check out our coverage of other Game Boy Color games here.

Carl Williams

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