10 Hidden Meanings Behind Iconic Video Game Characters
1. Kirby's Design Was A Placeholder
There are plenty of simple character designs that became iconic in the gaming industry - with the aforementioned Pac-Man being a great example - but one of the most charming was Kirby. This pink bubble of fun had his hand in many singular and crossover titles, including over twenty mainline games and even his own anime.
Therefore, it comes as a surprise to know that this little guy was originally supposed to be temporary.
During the early creation of the title, it was decided that a placeholder character should be used so that the developers could focus on the main game, instead of the main figure. The lead designer - Masahiro Sakurai - created the then-unnamed Kirby to be an easy to draw blob that could act as a figure in the world until the final stages when he would be swapped out with the real lead.
However, while making the game, Sakurai grew incredibly fond of the basic design and decided to run with it.
Of course, Kirby would go on to be iconic, and his easy to draw nature meant that fans everywhere could create their own versions of him without a struggle.
Not too shabby for a basic template.