A very artistically talented Pokemon fan is getting noticed online for their impressive drawing which reimagines Kirby as a variety of different Pokemon. While Kirby may not have ever appeared as a character in any Pokemon video games, the artist's work may just get fans to want to change that.
The Nintendo fan-favorite, known for his adorable pink puffball appearance, is equally remembered for his signature Copy Ability. While most fans have likely seen at least a few different Kirby-Pokemon hybrids, via the Super Smash Bros. series, the art piece takes the fusion of the two franchises to the next level.
The impressive and intricate Kirby x Pokemon art comes from a user called u/__missmarvel_, who has posted their drawing to a Pokemon subreddit. The artwork, which appears to be drawn on a single regular piece of paper, features dozens and dozens of Kirby variants, all drawn with characteristics of various Pokemon. The work is an adorable collage focusing on exclusively first-generation Pokemon, showcasing the character in a rainbow of colors. Some highlights include Meowth Kirby, riding in a Team Rocket balloon, Golbat Kirby, fittingly featuring the flying Pokemon's massive mouth, and Charizard Kirby.
The Kirby and Pokemon crossover art is certainly impressive in and of itself, but becomes all the more admirable upon the realization that it was a speed drawing. In the comments of the posts is a link to the artist's YouTube channel, called EloDraws, where fans can see the drawing come to life before their eyes. The Kirby and Pokemon fan first draws one of the many Kirbys in pencil, before going back over with an artist's pen. Once all the final lines have been drawn, markers come next, coloring the image to its beautifully finished result.
Despite the Kirby and Pokemon franchises both being Nintendo exclusives, the two franchises haven't crossed paths much before, with two major exceptions. The first, of course, is the previously mentioned Super Smash Bros. series, and the other is the weird tribute art from Pokemon Sword and Shield's Art Director. James Turner is known to create his own unique renditions of popular characters, with his version of Kirby sporting some massively buff arms. Although not nearly as intricate as the artwork above, both instances are sure to bring a smile to either fandom's faces.
Both Kirby and Pokemon franchises have been extremely active as of late. In addition to the ever-popular Pokemon GO going strong, Pokemon Legends: Arceus was released at the beginning of the year, with the highly anticipated mainline entry Pokemon Scarlet and Violet set to arrive on November 18. The Kirby franchise launched Kirby and the Forgotten Land and Kirby's Dream Buffet in 2022, with Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe just announced at a Nintendo Direct. It's certainly a great time to be a Kirby or Pokemon fan, or in the artist's case, both.