Starts off with an admittedly pretty weak and poorly-paced story mode for Kirby standards (I've tried to replay it once or twice and always drop out at the final world), but I think the side content is where the game really shines. Guest Star and Heroes in Another Dimension both improve on the level design where the story mode falters and the extra attention the Dream Friends get in them is a nice touch. Likewise, The Ultimate Choice is a fun take on the traditional boss rush, and the fact that it tracks which abilities you've completed it with means I got a lot of replay value out of it.

Perhaps the most enjoyable thing about the game, though, especially as a big Kirby fan, is the amount of love and fanservice from across the entire series packed into the game. In that sense, I think Star Allies accomplishes its goal of being an anniversary title that celebrates everything that came before it before moving on to new heights. It might not be as beloved as earlier titles nor is it packed with as much original ideas, but it's a fun romp and great love letter to the series nonetheless.