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KPR Susie artwork This article is about the character. For his army, see Meta-Knights. For other uses, see Meta Knight (disambiguation)

This darkness must meet my sword!
— Meta Knight • Kirby Star Allies

Meta Knight is a major character in the Kirby series, appearing in most of the games, the manga, as well as the anime since his debut in Kirby's Adventure in 1993. The intrigue and popularity surrounding Meta Knight within the Kirby fandom largely lies in his enigmatic and solitary, yet caring nature, and his mysterious, yet striking likeness to Kirby himself.

Meta Knight is also the leader of an army of soldiers known as the Meta-Knights, and captains a large airship called Battleship Halberd, which may accompany him into the heat of battle. Despite making his debut in Kirby's Adventure, his true name was not known in North America until Kirby's Avalanche was released in 1995.

Normally the games he appears in usually feature him as a boss for Kirby to fight, but in Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land and after that game, there have been instances where he is playable in alternate modes, or even teams up with Kirby directly to stop evil from taking over Dream Land. Though most of his actions in the games originate from arguably good intentions, the ways he tries to accomplish his goals are often very extreme and poorly understood by Kirby, which causes them to fight, though they never have any ill-will to one another. He serves as one of the most known characters from the games alongside King Dedede, Whispy Woods, Kracko, and Waddle Dee. Due to Meta Knight's way of doing things and his oft-hidden intentions, the relationship between Kirby and Meta Knight is unpredictable in nature, ranges from anywhere between being bitter rivals to steadfast allies to one another, and can change at a moment's notice.

Physical Appearance[]

Meta knight mask

Meta Knight's mask in Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Meta Knight has some of the various characteristics that Kirby has: a spherical body, feet and stubby arms (albeit longer than Kirby's and with actual digits), tall and thin eyes, and also features blushes. Meta Knight also wears his trademark attire; his silver mask and his blue or dark purple Dimensional Cape with gold trimmings, as well as a pair of patched or metallic shoes. He has retractable bat-like wings and flies with them in the games. The wings' first prominent use is in Kirby Super Star, where Meta Knight chased Kirby near the end of Revenge of Meta Knight. In Kirby Air Ride, he can fly with them whenever he takes part in a race. Meta Knight's weapon of choice is usually Galaxia, a spiked golden sword with an embedded ruby in the hilt.

Unmasked Meta knight

Meta Knight unmasked

One of Meta Knight's most well-known traits is the fact that he is almost never seen with his mask off. In most games, his mask is split into two upon defeat, revealing a face nearly identical to Kirby's with bright yellow eyes (however, in older games, Meta Knight sported white eyes and pink blushes). In the event that should he be ever unmasked, he immediately departs from the field of battle.

Meta Knight's similarities to Kirby have led to speculation that he is a member of Kirby's species or is somehow related to them. Despite this, Meta Knight possesses body parts, such as hands (since Kirby's Avalanche) and wings, that no known Kirbys have. Still, a connection is implied in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, where Kirby is given an alternate palette that makes him look like Meta Knight. Furthermore, at Palutena's Temple, Pit and Viridi can converse about Meta Knight; they discuss his resemblance to Kirby and question if he also can inhale and copy abilities. However, Meta Knight's relation to the Kirby species has never been officially revealed.

KA MetaKnight

Kirby's Adventure artwork

Meta Knight was originally depicted as black, wearing a usually-crimson cape and without any armor besides his mask (with yellow glowing eyes in artwork). In Kirby's Avalanche, he had pauldrons, violet shoes, and a brighter skin tone. His design was revised again in Kirby Super Star. In Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land, he was made bigger than Kirby and given a yellow strap to hold his mask in place. Since Kirby Air Ride, official artwork shows his sword reflecting Galaxia's design in the anime. Since Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Meta Knight was again re-sized to Kirby's height and (with the exception of Kirby Super Star Ultra) the yellow strap was often removed.

HNI 0055

Kirby with his Meta Knight coloration in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS

Meta Knight Unmasked Kirby Star Allies

Meta Knight unmasked in Kirby Star Allies

MKUnmasked KATFL

Meta Knight unmasked in Kirby and the Forgotten Land

000Insignia

Meta Knight's icon

His pauldrons always have a yellow lining and are often gray in color, but are sometimes dark blue. In Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Kirby: Planet Robobot onwards, his left pauldron bears his insignia, which is an "M" in front of an upward-pointing sword. Meta Knight's cape is blue in all instances except Super Smash Bros. Brawl, where it is purple. Also, in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, his cape has a bat insignia on it. The blushes on his face are almost always clearly pink, though they were toned very light in Kirby Super Star.

In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Meta Knight has dark purple feet with violet sabatons over them instead of plain violet feet, giving him a much more complex and well-armored appearance and something that would become part of his design in later Kirby games, starting with Kirby: Planet Robobot.

In Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, he wears silver mitten gauntlets over his gloves, a detail seen in official artwork of Meta Knight from Kirby: Squeak Squad and Kirby Super Star Ultra, and would become a part of his official design in later appearances. His armor also has a number of small but noticeable cuts, nicks and other signs of battle-scars compared to his appearances in the main series.

Meta Knight's mask sometimes gives a yellowish tint to the wearer's eyes. Meta Knight's white eyes turn yellow, and Kirby's blue eyes become green (only seen in Super Smash Bros. Brawl).

Personality[]

Being a knight, Meta Knight respects a code of chivalry, and almost always offers Kirby a sword whenever he fights against him. He is a fierce and skilled swordsman, as well as a solitary and stoic character. He is often seen alone, and it is sometimes unclear as to what he is feeling or what his motives are. Meta Knight is proud of his abilities, but wants to improve more, as shown in Meta Knightmare Ultra and Kirby Battle Royale, where he summons Galactic Nova to challenge the greatest warrior in the galaxy, and enters The Cake Royale along with Axe Knight to increase his strength, respectively. To this end, Meta Knight keeps up a strict training regimen to prepare himself for future battles, be it on the side of Kirby, King Dedede or himself.

In the Revenge of Meta Knight sub-game, he is shown to loathe laziness to the point of trying to take over Dream Land to end its lazy lifestyle. The reason for his abhorrence of laziness can be explained in later games as several times, he is the only one to recognize a threat to Dream Land, even before Kirby, who is purposely shown sleeping at the time these threats occur. With this being part of the beginning of his rivalry with Kirby, the two got off to a rather rocky start.

Despite his solitude, Meta Knight is shown to be very caring about those dear to him. When Kirby is destroying the Halberd in the Revenge of Meta Knight sub-game, Meta Knight orders his crew, the Meta-Knights, to abandon ship in hopes that they will not get hurt. Instead of listening to his orders however, most of the crew decides to stay and fight Kirby, to which he then responds with a "Thank you, guys" in Kirby Super Star, or an "I’m sorry" after saying they’re about to perish and that they can do as they please in Kirby Super Star Ultra, meaning that he feels proud due to his crew being there for him in the former game, or guilt due to his crew's undying loyalty to him in the latter. In Kirby: Planet Robobot, Meta Knight ensures Kirby's safety after the latter destroyed Star Dream. In Kirby Fighters 2, Meta Knight is shown to have a very close bond with King Dedede, due to both having the shared aspect of never being able to win against Kirby. Additionally, his flavor text in Kirby Star Allies states that he would never forget his connection to his friends.

In games following Kirby's Return to Dream Land, Meta Knight seems to be on much friendlier terms with Kirby, now mostly only fighting him when either controlled or possessed, and often helping him. However, he still has his rivalry with Kirby, as seen in Kirby Battle Royale, where he and Axe Knight end up in a match against Kirby and Bandana Waddle Dee in The Cake Royale, and states that they "had better do their best." Also, despite their rivalry having grown friendlier, Meta Knight appears to dislike the fact that he can never win against Kirby, as shown in Kirby Fighters 2, where he teams up with King Dedede in an attempt to win against Kirby for once, and they take desperate measures to do so.

Meta Knight appears to have adapted to Dream Land's peaceful lifestyle since he can occasionally be seen engaging in relaxing activities when not training or if there are no looming threats to Dream Land; he can be seen reading a book in Kirby's Return to Dream Land, resting on a hilltop in Kirby: Planet Robobot, and polishing his sword in Kirby: Star Allies. He appears to lack a sense of humor, or at least that of King Dedede's, as in the title screen of Kirby's Return to Dream Land, when Dedede makes an amusing face, Meta Knight simply shakes his head in disdain. In-universe, Meta Knight is famous among the residents of Dream Land, and has many fans, including Bandana Waddle Dee, as shown in Kirby Battle Royale. According to a Twitter post, there is even a well-known rumor that Meta Knight has a sweet tooth.[1]

Interestingly, he never seems to want his face revealed, immediately retreating via his Dimensional Cape when his mask is broken and falls off. The reason for this is never explained, though it may be because he is self-aware of how cute it makes him and wears a mask as intimidation or because it reveals a possible connection to Kirby himself that he does not want to reveal. Furthermore, it could also be that it makes him more mysterious, as an anonymous fighter often seems more intimidating, as the mask hides his true self.

Get it

Meta Knight often waits on high platforms such as this while waiting for Kirby to grab the sword.

In the anime, his personality is much different than in the games. He is calm, collected, and clearly on Kirby's side here, because they are both Star Warriors, and Meta Knight needs to help him for the greater good. He is shown to passively observe events, and only interfere when needed. However, his training methods are often harsh and dangerous, often putting Kirby's life in danger, but they always manage to make Kirby stronger. Unlike in the games, he does not seem to hold any opinion towards the laziness of others, and is much less mysterious, as his motives in the anime are rarely ever hidden.

In both the games and in Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, he is often seen standing on high areas, platforms, tree branches, and statues. This may either be a strategical move to prevent being attacked before the battle or to get a better view of situations, but the reason is never officially explained.

Weaponry[]

Dimensional Cape[]

Meta Knight's Dimensional Cape (as named in Super Smash Bros. Brawl) allows him to manipulate space, and is a powerful weapon in its own right. His signature cape never received its official name, until relatively recently, much like Galaxia. It is also capable of transforming into bat wings, enabling him to take flight.

Meta Knight most commonly wraps it around himself to teleport away. This tends to happen whenever his mask is destroyed and his face is revealed, or when he knows he has been defeated. The cape allows him to warp and teleport short distances, and it can be used to surprise an opponent, catching them off guard by teleporting and attacking from behind. In more recent games, he is seen turning his back to the screen before using it. Meta Knight usually takes it off when fighting Kirby, most likely to avoid hindering his movement.

In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Meta Knight can also use it to ebb out of reality for a short time. In his Final Smash, the cape is used to petrify his enemies and cover the surrounding area in complete darkness, leaving them open to attacks from his sword.

Super Smash Bros. Brawl and his trophy in Super Smash Bros. Melee suggested that the pair of bat-like wings which grant him flight and gliding capabilities are really an extension of the cape. This is also demonstrated in Kirby's Epic Yarn, where the cape is seen fluidly transforming into the wings in Meta Knight's yarn form. This is not consistently the case, however. In older games and in Kirby's Return to Dream Land, he is seen throwing his cape aside, revealing that his wings are underneath the cape. However, in Kirby Super Star and its remake, Meta Knight throws off his cape, but he uses the cape again after he is defeated. This hints that the Dimensional Cape may be magic in nature, and able to be summoned at any time to escape from tough situations.

Galaxia[]

KPR Maxim Tomato Main article: Galaxia
MetaKnight in kirby anime

Meta Knight wielding his sacred sword Galaxia in Kirby: Right Back at Ya!.

The sword known only as Galaxia is a golden blade with a ruby embedded in its hilt, with anywhere from zero to six spikes protruding from its sharp edges. In earlier games, the spikes were absent from Meta Knight's then-unnamed sword.

In the games, Galaxia is capable of shooting out sword beams and standard sword moves. In Meta Knightmare Ultra, it absorbs the energy of a defeated foe, allowing Meta Knight to use special actions like the Mach Tornado, Meta Quick and Heal. Galaxia is used by Kirby when he uses the Master Copy Ability in Kirby & The Amazing Mirror.

In Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, the sword has sacred origins, having been created by a race of light and a fire god, Photron.

Games[]

Kirby's Adventure and Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land[]

Metaknightnid

Meta Knight in Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land

Meta Knight debuted in Kirby's Adventure as a minor character and a boss. When Nightmare tries to take control of Dream Land by corrupting the Fountain of Dreams, King Dedede entrusts Meta Knight with a piece of the broken Star Rod, knowing the might of him and his followers, the Meta-Knights, would prove to be a valuable asset against Nightmare's forces. He appears again in the game's remake, Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land, with the same role, with his updated design similar to Kirby Super Star.

Throughout the game, Meta Knight sometimes helps Kirby by giving him invincibility candy (only clear in Kirby's Adventure), but also hinders his progress by summoning his foot soldiers against him starting with Ice Cream Island. By the time Kirby reaches Orange Ocean, Meta Knight challenges Kirby personally before he can reach Rainbow Resort and later the Fountain of Dreams. Meta Knight's true intentions can only be speculated, but it appears that he wishes to prepare Kirby for his final confrontation against Nightmare, knowing Kirby's single-minded determination is bound to lead to such.

Whenever he fights Kirby, Meta Knight always gives Kirby a Sword to fight with (which Kirby must collect in order to fight him). Meta Knight attacks Kirby with his sword as well as by brute force via charging into him; Meta Knight can also block attacks which are thrown his way (becoming increasingly frequent as he loses health). He needs eleven hits to defeat. Regarded as one of the most difficult bosses in Kirby's Adventure, the fight against Meta Knight was made significantly easier in the remake. Additionally, his moves are highly telegraphed and thus can be predicted and countered with enough close attention.

During the fight, it is not possible for Kirby to lose the Sword ability, and the ability he had earlier (only if Kirby takes the sword with the ability still in his immediate possession: viable discarded abilities do not count) will be restored after completing the Meta Knight boss fight stage: this is true for both the Main Game and Boss Endurance.

Meta Knightmare[]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)

Completing the Extra Mode in Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land unlocks the Meta Knightmare sub-game. Meta Knightmare is the same as the regular game, but the player controls Meta Knight instead of Kirby, and has three health points instead of six. Meta Knight only plays through the first seven levels (even fighting another Meta Knight at the end of Orange Ocean), meaning he does not fight Nightmare in The Fountain of Dreams, with the defeat of King Dedede ending the mode. Due to the fact that Meta Knightmare is a sub-game, the player is unable to save throughout the adventure and must complete it in one sitting from the beginning to the end.

Techniques[]

Move Controls Description
Meta Chop B Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Lunging Slice Dash + B Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Down Thrust Directional Pad Down + B in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Directional Pad Up + B Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air.
Hover Flap A in midair Meta Knight flaps his wings to fly.
Slide Directional Pad Down + A/B Meta Knight slides on the ground, damaging enemies and destroying objects he slides into.

Move Controls Description
Meta Chop 1 Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Lunging Slice Dash + 1 Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Down Thrust Directional Pad Down + 1 in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Directional Pad Up + 1 Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air.
Hover Flap 2 in midair Meta Knight flaps his wings to fly.
Slide Directional Pad Down + 2/1 Meta Knight slides on the ground, damaging enemies and destroying objects he slides into.

Kirby's Pinball Land[]

Meta Knight appears in Kirby's Pinball Land in the top stage of Kracko Land with a very minor role. He can only be found if the player has beaten King Dedede at least once. When Kirby defeats Mr. Bright, it will turn to night and Mr. Shine will appear with a wall of stars. If Kirby destroys all the stars without defeating Mr. Shine first, the sound of the Mike power-up from Kirby's Dream Land will be heard and Meta Knight will appear in the center of the stage. He does not move and cannot be hit.

Kirby's Avalanche[]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)
KAv Meta Knight Battle

Meta Knight being fought

In Kirby's Avalanche, Meta Knight, who is referred to by name for the first time, acts as the twelfth and penultimate challenger in the main game, after Kracko and before King Dedede. This was the first game to use his modern blue-and-purple appearance, and swings his sword as a taunt towards Kirby. When defeated, he puts the sword away and waves a white flag in surrender. His dialogue with Kirby goes as follows:

Meta Knight: None shall pass! En garde, Kirby!
Kirby: But I have no Sword!?!
Meta Knight: Oh, you're so right... Then Avalanche it is, ha ha ha ha!!

Meta Knight plays extremely aggressively, fast dropping all blobs and aiming to perform as many combos as possible. By this point, the blobs are dropping at their second-fastest rate possible, giving Kirby less time to recover from any mistakes. Meta Knight is also quick to comeback from non-ending combos.

Kirby Super Star and Kirby Super Star Ultra[]

KSS Meta Knight

Meta Knight in Kirby Super Star.

Before the release of Kirby Super Star, Meta Knight was still considered an obscure and underdeveloped character in the series. Although Meta Knight managed to make an appearance in the spin-off Kirby's Avalanche, he missed out on Kirby's Dream Land 2 completely (as Kirby's Dream Land 2 was developed by a completely different staff than Kirby's Adventure or Kirby's Avalanche). Kirby Super Star’s release in 1996 features him as the villain of his own sub-game named Revenge of Meta Knight. This is noticeably his first role as an antagonist in the series. This is also considered to be his most well-known appearance in the series yet due to its representation in the Super Smash Bros. series via music, the Halberd stage, and Meta Knight's personality seeming to be based on his appearance here, attributing to his popularity and reputation as a villain among those unfamiliar with the Kirby series.

Revenge of Meta Knight[]

EE Meta Knight

Meta Knight prepares for battle.

In Revenge of Meta Knight, Meta Knight intends to take over Dream Land to put an end to its lazy lifestyle. With help from the Meta-Knights, Meta Knight's ultimate weapon, the Halberd, spreads its wings and takes to the sky, but Kirby intervenes and attacks the Halberd. Kirby boards the Halberd, which infuriates Meta Knight, so he ends up blasting him down into the ocean below with the Halberd's jets. Kirby gains a Warp Star and attempts to board again, but is shot down by Combo Cannon and lands in the forest. With the help of Dyna Blade, Kirby boards the battleship once more, and destroys it piece by piece. With his crew beaten and his ship losing altitude fast, Meta Knight eventually decides to fight Kirby himself.

Again, he offers Kirby a sword, but this time, the player can refuse it if they want, by not taking it within several seconds. Doing this makes the battle longer, which is potentially dangerous due to the time limit. Meta Knight can parry attacks with his sword during the battle, and summon giant tornadoes to send Kirby up in the air and do damage. Some of his sword slash attacks can be inhaled and spat back at him.

After being defeated, his mask breaks and he quickly departs to recover, giving Kirby time to escape with a dutiful Wheelie that he freed earlier. Before he can do so however, Meta Knight returns, transforms his cape into wings and flies after him, and the three escape right before the Halberd crashes into the sea below, ending the sub-game.

Meta Knightmare Ultra[]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)

Meta Knight appears in Kirby Super Star Ultra, reprising his role from the original game. He is a playable character in the Meta Knightmare Ultra sub-game, which is the equivalent of the Meta Knightmare sub-game from Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land. In the original Meta Knightmare, he goes through the levels of Kirby's Adventure, but in Meta Knightmare Ultra, he goes through each original main game instead (save for The Arena, Gourmet Race and sub-games). Although progress can be saved this time, the player must select "new game" to replay the sub-game after beating it.

By taking out enemies, Meta Knight accumulates Meta Points. He can spend them on four abilities activated on the touch screen.

There are cutscenes at the start and end of each sub-game that he plays through, and a few parts are skipped. Namely, he does not fight himself, unlike in the original Meta Knightmare. The Halberd inexplicably reappears and still ends up being destroyed, however. After completing Milky Way Wishes, he summons Galactic Nova and makes a wish to fight the greatest warrior in the Galaxy. Nova grants the wish by summoning Galacta Knight, an immaculate warrior sealed away long ago, who fights against Meta Knight as the final boss.

Techniques[]

Meta Knight's moves are based off Kirby's Sword ability, with slightly different moves and different names. He flies in a similar manner to Wing Kirby.

Move Controls Description
Meta Chop B Meta Knight slices with his sword. If he does this at full health, a ranged energy blade is fired forward, which is known as the "Knight Beam."
Meta Upper B (after Meta Chop) Meta Knight makes a small uppercut with his sword.
Meta Multithrust B, B, B Meta Knight performs multiple jabs with his sword.
Lunging Slice Dash + B Meta Knight moves forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Lunging Slice is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Lunging Slice.
Meta Chop and Thrust Midair + B Meta Knight slashes forward with his sword.
Knight Spin Dash, Jump, B Meta Knight spins around with his sword. Similar to Sword's Sword Spin move.
Down Thrust Directional Pad Down + B in mid-air Meta Knight falls down, and points his sword down to the ground. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Directional Pad Up + B Meta Knight points his sword into the air. This is a move exclusive to Meta Knight (and Sword Knight), and cannot be used by Sword Kirby at all.
Special moves[]

Meta Knight can accumulate Meta Points (by defeating enemies), and can store a total of 50 points. He can use up his points to use these moves:

Name Icon Cost Description
Meta Quick Knightmareultra1 8 Meta Knight's movement speed temporarily increases.
Knight Call Knightmareultra3 2 Meta Knight summons a Blade Knight or a Sword Knight as a Helper. If Meta Knight is near a Helper, the player can press X to Release them.
Heal Knightmareultra2 10 Meta Knight (and his Helper, if he has one) have all of their health restored.
Mach Tornado Knightmareultra4 30 Meta Knight creates a few tornadoes that spread through the entire screen, thus damaging all foes on-screen. Does 190 damage points. Can damage Reactor directly.

Sub-Games[]

Meta Knight appears in the sub-game Samurai Kirby, where he is the final and most difficult opponent. When he is defeated, Kirby knocks off his mask with a sword, shocking him and causing him to quickly cover his face with his hands.

Meta Knight appears in the sub-game Helper To Hero in Kirby Super Star Ultra, but he does not offer a sword due to the fact that Helpers cannot obtain abilities without Kirby.

Meta Knight appears in the sub-game Kirby on the Draw as one of the targets that Kirby must shoot to gain points. Successfully striking him will earn the player 100 points.

Kirby's Star Stacker (Super Famicom)[]

Meta Knight appears as the sixth opponent Kirby has to battle, succeeding Chef Kawasaki and preceding King Dedede. He challenges Kirby to a duel for a star piece. After losing, he loses his mask again and gives up his Mr. Star piece to Kirby.

His battle is more harder than the previous bosses due to his new pattern of attack. The starting layout of his board is complex, having the non-centermost lanes being covered in Star Blocks and Hard Blocks with the occasional Friend Block in the mix. Meta Knight aims to remove as many blocks as he can from his side over doing combos, allowing him to easily recover from non-fatal combos. Additionally, blocks are still falling at a fast rate, while Meta Knight always fast drop his own blocks.

Kirby Air Ride[]

Meta Knight with wings spread. Fear the sword!
— Meta Knight's Flavor Text • Kirby Air Ride

Meta Knight appears as an unlockable racer in Kirby Air Ride.

General Information[]

Meta Knight handles with a permanent mix of the Sword and Wing abilities. He is unlocked in Air Ride by gliding for 30 minutes total in the air, and in City Trial's Free Run mode by breaking open 1000 boxes. He can also be unlocked in either mode by using a Free Check on the proper Checklist box.

Like the Wagon Star, Meta Knight cannot charge or boost and has a bit of skid. He also has below average HP, weight, and steering, but he makes up for these shortcomings in his gliding ability and sword. His speed is average, and he has the second best acceleration in the game (behind the Swerve Star and tied with the Wheelie Scooter). Unlike when Kirby uses the Wing ability in this game, Meta Knight is capable of activating Boost Pads, and all other types of pads found in the courses.

Meta Knight's blue alternate costume in this game is loosely based on the colors of his sprites in Kirby Super Star and Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land.

Kirby & The Amazing Mirror[]

In Kirby & The Amazing Mirror, Meta Knight senses danger in the Mirror World and rushes off to protect it. After some time, a shadowy figure resembling Meta Knight suddenly drops from the sky and splits Kirby into four separate entities (Kirby can refer to each individual or all of them collectively). Kirby follows him and the adventure begins. Meta Knight isn't seen until Area 8, Radish Ruins, where Kirby fights what appears to be Meta Knight in a duel. Unlike in previous fights where he offers Kirby a sword, this time he doesn't, and the battle begins immediately. He fights similarly to his appearance in Kirby: Nightmare in Dream Land.

DarkMK

Dark Meta Knight, his evil doppelganger.

It turns out that the Meta Knight that Kirby fought in Radish Ruins wasn't the real Meta Knight at all, but a dark copy known as Dark Meta Knight—the real Meta Knight was sealed within the Dimension Mirror. Dark Meta Knight has a grayed-out color scheme, but otherwise has similar, yet different, attire to Meta Knight himself. "? ? ?" is the name that Dark Meta Knight had when he was disguised as Meta Knight.

Dark Meta Knight later makes a reappearance as the penultimate boss. Once the Kirbys enter the Dimension Mirror, Dark Meta Knight engages them in battle once more. Right before the battle begins, the real Meta Knight shows up standing on a large pillar and reveals Dark Meta Knight for the fraud that he is.

After Dark Meta Knight shatters into pieces following his defeat, Kirby gets sucked into a portal that leads to Dark Mind. Meta Knight, who watched the battle the whole time, quickly helps Kirby by throwing his sword into the portal. Kirby takes the sword and gains the Master ability. After Dark Mind is destroyed, Meta Knight decides to drop the sword (referred to as the Master Sword) in the Central Circle, signifying the end of the game. However, since he uses his sword in other games, he might have obtained a new one or retrieved it. Within the game, he appears wielding his sword in cutscenes as well as in one of Magic's roulette options. Kirby can be seen possessing the Master ability in almost all of these situations; this means the Master ability is either Meta Knight's original sword, a previously-unknown duplicate of the original, or his aforementioned "new" sword (a copy).

Kirby: Canvas Curse[]

KCC Round Meta Knight artwork 2

Meta Knight, as he appears in Kirby: Canvas Curse.

Meta Knight never appears story-wise in Kirby: Canvas Curse, but after unlocking King Dedede, the player can buy him as a playable character in Medal Swap for 25 medals. He moves twice as fast as Kirby, floats in water and is very light and bouncy, but has the lowest health, at only three. Meta Knight uses an invisible sword to defeat his enemies; players can hear the sound of him using it when he rolls into an enemy, as well as seeing white "slash lines" around him upon dashing or landing a blow. His mask also appears in Paint Panic.

Kirby: Squeak Squad[]

Meta knight kssq

Meta Knight absconds with the presumed shortcake in Kirby: Squeak Squad

In Kirby: Squeak Squad, Meta Knight once again plays a friendlier role, although he's completely misunderstood at first. Although he doesn't come into play until later in the adventure, Squeak Squad is one of his most heroic roles in the series.

Meta Knight appears at the end of Ice Island. After Kirby defeats Daroach and reclaims the chest presumably holding his precious Strawberry Shortcake, Meta Knight comes out of nowhere and steals it, and travels to a hidden place in or near Orange Ocean called the Secret Sea. The passageway to the Secret Sea is blocked by a door that can only be opened by collecting the five sacred Star Seals. Meta Knight is confronted as the boss of the seventh level, Secret Sea.

Shortly before the boss battle, Meta Knight reactivates the Halberd, which flies him and Kirby up into Gamble Galaxy. The Halberd is where Meta Knight is fought, and is the setting for the last few levels of Secret Sea as well as Gamble Galaxy's first level. Meta Knight himself doesn't offer a sword before the battle, but in the room before him Kirby can access a Bubble with the Sword ability inside it. The stars Meta Knight kicks up during the fight will also grant the Sword ability.

Unlike previous games, he is very offensive, and attacks almost non-stop, making it difficult for Kirby to get hits in. If attacked head-on he will simply strike back instead of blocking. He employs the same attacks used in previous games, but also gains a variety of new elemental moves, such as striking his sword down to create an electrical charge around him and shooting crescents of fire across the screen. His Ground Twister charges up faster, but ends more early. He is also significantly faster in every way, including how fast he turns around, making it harder to attack him from behind. However, he is knocked back more easily, and can be pinned in a corner if he is hit with strong attacks in fast succession.

Near the end of the game, Meta Knight's intentions are revealed. It turns out that the chest didn't contain the shortcake as Kirby thought, but instead the Lord of Darkness, Dark Nebula. Knowing the chest's contents, Meta Knight was trying to stop the release of evil during the game, which is a likely reason for his more aggressive attack style and new attacks as he was actually trying to stop Kirby, rather than prepare or otherwise train him as he has done previously, due to Kirby's unawareness of the chest's actual contents. This also explains why he didn't give him a sword, as Meta Knight was being pragmatic and taking every advantage to win their fight.

Kirby's Epic Yarn and Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn[]

Meta Knight appears in Kirby's Epic Yarn as the boss of Space Land, and he shares his name with the stage he appears in, which follows Stellar Way and precedes Moon Base. After the player defeats King Dedede in Snow Land, the cutscene movie shows Meta Knight noticing strange changes in Dream Land's landscape while aboard the Halberd. Yin-Yarn ambushes him and turns him into yarn, making him the boss guarding the magic yarn of Space Land, the seventh and final area of Patch Land. When the player fights him, he is being controlled by Yin-Yarn (via magical swords) and his eyes flicker rapidly between purple and yellow when he is not attacking, possibly indicating that Meta Knight is trying to resist Yin-Yarn's magic.

Meta Knight does not use Galaxia this time, but has four different swords provided by Yin-Yarn. As he uses up his yarn swords, Meta Knight's attacks grow more and more severe and dangerous, firing multiple sword beams (blue), covering a whole half of the screen with fire (purple), and he can summon tornadoes when he is down to his last one (red). His slashing attacks can only be dodged, but he is vulnerable to attack right after. Upon getting hit, Meta Knight falls backwards, and Kirby can disarm him by using the yarn whip on the button on his sword. After being defeated, Meta Knight is freed from Yin-Yarn's possession and disappears via his cape. He reappears in the next cutscene, apologizing to Kirby for attacking, and explains the situation in Dream Land. Kirby, Prince Fluff, Meta Knight and King Dedede all go to Dream Land to stop Yin-Yarn. Meta Knight does not appear again until Kirby fights Mega Yin-Yarn in the final battle, where Meta Knight flies overhead and drops the Tankbot metamortex for Kirby to even the playing field.

In Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn, Meta Knight stars as a playable character in a brand new sub-game titled Slash & Bead. He is shown to always be flying in the air in an automatic side scroller. He uses his sword as his method of attacking enemies and can even use his Drill Rush attack.

Kirby Mass Attack[]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)

Though Meta Knight is entirely absent from the main storyline, he does appear in two of the sub-games. In Strato Patrol EOS, he is the penultimate boss. He attacks by charging horizontally from one side of the screen to the other, going downward each time until he reaches the bottom. He can also create five illusions of himself that will fire sword beams, though the illusions can be destroyed before they attack. Meta Knight himself can also fire sword beams and perform Mach Tornado to hit the Kirbys.

In Kirby Quest, he appears as the final boss of Chapter 3 and as one of the last opponents in Chapter 4 (if the player didn't unlock the fight with Galaxia). He attacks with a sword slash or a powerful tornado attack. He fights alone in Chapter 3, but is backed up by Sword Knight and Blade Knight in Chapter 4. However, Sword Knight and Blade Knight have over 2,000 less HP than their master.

Kirby's Return to Dream Land and Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe[]

Meta Knight is a playable character in multiplayer mode, as well as in The Arena. He assists Kirby, King Dedede, and Bandana Waddle Dee in reconstructing the Lor Starcutter. Out of the four, Meta Knight is the most serious of the group.

Gameplay-wise, he is able to use most of Sword Kirby's attacks, as well as the Shuttle Loop, Hover Flap, and Dive-Bomb, moves exclusive to Wing, though the former behaving more like it did in Super Smash Bros. Brawl than it does for Wing. True to his vigilant character, he is always the first to notice something unusual in cutscenes. He is the only character in the group not to shake hands with Magolor when they first meet, instead keeping his cape wrapped around himself (much like in the anime). In the final battle, he deflects Magolor's attacks with his sword and, along with Kirby, lasts the longest. He has two moves carried over from Super Smash Bros. Brawl (as well as basic sword attacks). This shows that his Super Smash Bros. stats may have been used as his moveset so he wouldn't be exactly like Sword Kirby.

In the story, Meta Knight is sitting on a hill reading a book, briefly glancing at Kirby being chased by King Dedede and Bandana Waddle Dee, before noticing the Lor Starcutter coming through a portal in the sky and crashing. He meets up with the others and they explore the hull. Alongside the others, Meta Knight volunteers to help Magolor with repairs to the ship. After recovering the five parts, they are taken to Halcandra as a reward, only to be ambushed by the territorial dragon Landia. After defeating the beast, Magolor reveals he exploited the heroes' generosity to get the Master Crown, Landia's power, and begin his plans for universal domination, so Meta Knight and the group band together with Landia to stop him. After thwarting Magolor, he and his friends return to Popstar, where they bid goodbye to Landia.

In Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe, Meta Knight's design was updated to match his appearance from Kirby: Planet Robobot onward. Additionally, Sky Knight Sword from Kirby: Planet Robobot and Galactic Counter from Kirby Star Allies were added to his techniques.

Techniques[]

Move Controls Description
Overhead Slash 1 Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Knight Beam 1 at full health Meta Knight's version of Sword Beam; he fires a blade of energy forwards while performing Overhead Slash, which flies forwards a relatively long distance.
Meta Triple Slash 1 twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press.
Meta Multithrust 1 after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Multisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself.
Decisive Slash 1 after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing.
Piercing Slash Dash + 1 Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Knight Spin Dash + 1 in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword.
Meta Chop 1 in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands.
Down Thrust Directional Pad Down + 1 in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Directional Pad Up + 1 Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight.
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold 1, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range.
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Directional Pad Down + 1 in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact.
Shuttle Loop Directional Pad Down/Directional Pad Up + 1 Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards.
Hover Flap 2 in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches.
Underwater Spin 1 while underwater Meta Knight spins around underwater with his sword, similarly to Knight Spin.

Move Controls Description
Pro Controller Joy-Con
Overhead Slash B Down Button Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Knight Beam B at full health Down Button at full health Meta Knight's version of Sword Beam; he fires a blade of energy forwards while performing Overhead Slash, which flies forwards a relatively long distance.
Meta Triple Slash B twice after Overhead Slash Down Button twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press.
Meta Multithrust B after Meta Triple Slash Down Button after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Multisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself.
Decisive Slash B after Meta Multithrust Down Button after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing.
Piercing Slash Dash + B Dash + Down Button Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Knight Spin Dash + B in midair Dash + Down Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword.
Meta Chop B in midair Down Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands.
Down Thrust Left Stick Down + B in midair Left Stick Down + Down Button in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Left Stick Up + B Left Stick Up + Down Button Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight.
Galactic Counter Left Stick Down + B Left Stick Down + Down Button Meta Knight holds Galaxia in front of him in an identical pose to his guard. If hit by an attack, Meta Knight will reel back to avoid it, then rush forward and slash.
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold B, and then release Press and hold Down Button, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range.
Sky Knight Sword Hold Left Stick Up, and then B Hold Left Stick Up, and then Down Button Meta Knight's version of Sky Energy Sword; he holds his sword upwards, charging it with energy. He then performs a Crescent Slash upon using Overhead Slash or Meta Chop.
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Left Stick Down + B in midair Dash + press Left Stick Down + Down Button in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact.
Shuttle Loop Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + B Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Down Button Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards.
Hover Flap A in midair Right Button in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches.
Underwater Spin B while underwater Down Button while underwater Meta Knight spins around underwater with his sword, similarly to Knight Spin.

Move Controls Description
Pro Controller Joy-Con
Overhead Slash Y Left Button Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Knight Beam Y at full health Left Button at full health Meta Knight's version of Sword Beam; he fires a blade of energy forwards while performing Overhead Slash, which flies forwards a relatively long distance.
Meta Triple Slash Y twice after Overhead Slash Left Button twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press.
Meta Multithrust Y after Meta Triple Slash Left Button after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Multisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself.
Decisive Slash Y after Meta Multithrust Left Button after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing.
Piercing Slash Dash + Y Dash + Left Button Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Knight Spin Dash + Y in midair Dash + Left Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword.
Meta Chop Y in midair Left Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands.
Down Thrust Left Stick Down + Y in midair Left Stick Down + Left Button in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Left Stick Up + Y Left Stick Up + Left Button Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight.
Galactic Counter Left Stick Down + Y Left Stick Down + Left Button Meta Knight holds Galaxia in front of him in an identical pose to his guard. If hit by an attack, Meta Knight will reel back to avoid it, then rush forward and slash.
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold Y, and then release Press and hold Left Button, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range.
Sky Knight Sword Hold Left Stick Up, and then Y Hold Left Stick Up, and then Left Button Meta Knight's version of Sky Energy Sword; he holds his sword upwards, charging it with energy. He then performs a Crescent Slash upon using Overhead Slash or Meta Chop.
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Left Stick Down + Y in midair Dash + press Left Stick Down + Left Button in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact.
Shuttle Loop Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Y Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Left Button Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards.
Hover Flap B in midair Down Button in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches.
Underwater Spin Y while underwater Left Button while underwater Meta Knight spins around underwater with his sword, similarly to Knight Spin.

Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition[]

Meta Knight takes on his classic role in Kirby's Adventure and Kirby Super Star. Aside from the original games, his 8-bit sprite appears as a golden statue in History Hall. He also greets Kirby after the player beats the New Challenge stages, along with other familiar faces like King Dedede and Bandana Waddle Dee and is featured in the Kirby: Right Back at Ya! episodes featured in the game.

Kirby: Triple Deluxe[]

Meta Knight, though not present in the story, appears as one of Stone Kirby's transformations (specifically, in the statue of Bandana Waddle Dee, King Dedede, and Meta Knight). He also appears as balloon art from Circus Kirby, five different collectible Keychains, and in the "Kirby Master!" cutscene in the crowd along with Galacta Knight, Magolor, Marx, Shadow Kirby, and many other characters from the game. Additionally, Kirby can adopt Meta Knight's color scheme as an optional palette swap in the Kirby Fighters sub-game.

Dedede's Drum Dash Deluxe[]

Meta Knight's mask appears in Dedede's Drum Dash Deluxe as an unlockable feature.

Kirby and the Rainbow Curse[]

Meta Knight does not physically appear in this game, instead appearing as a collectable figurine. According to a Play Nintendo comic, his absence is explained: he and King Dedede lose their colors and get them back after Kirby beats Dark Crafter. He also appears on page 18 of Elline's Secret Diary, though she probably has not seen him and he is depicted with various mistakes.

Kirby: Planet Robobot[]

Meta Knight is standing silently on a hilltop one day, and (like in previous appearances) is among the first to notice the mysterious new invaders attacking Dream Land. He attempts to stop them with an assault from his Halberd, but the ship is quickly shot down by the much more advanced weaponry of the Access Ark.

After the Halberd was shot down, Meta Knight fought the Haltmann Works Company alone and managed to destroy quite a bit of their forces, but he was eventually defeated and captured by the invaders and turned into a cyborg warrior known as Mecha Knight. He reappears as the boss of Gigabyte Grounds, and displays many new enhancements, such as jet engines to fly faster, an energy sword that resembles Galaxia which allows him to fire larger and stronger sword beams, the ability to fire a barrage of missiles, a device attached to his mask that can fire lasers, and the ability to surround himself with an electrical field. Despite these new enhancements, Mecha Knight is defeated by Kirby, and collapses into a deep ravine after his loss.

Meta Knight appears once again as the first boss of the Access Ark. Summoned by Susie once again, Mecha Knight, now known as Mecha Knight+, fights Kirby in President Haltmann's office. The warrior has been further upgraded, and sports new attacks such as making his sword much larger and flying into the background to strike at Kirby. Once half of his health has been depleted, Mecha Knight+ will extend a massive mechanical arm from his back. This arm resembles a scorpion's tail, and can be used to grab Kirby or strike at him. This arm can also be used to support Mecha Knight+ in midair while he fires sword beams at Kirby. Once again, however, Kirby emerges victorious and shatters Mecha Knight's mask, breaking the Haltmann Works Company's influence over the masked warrior. The newly freed Meta Knight flies off upon his defeat.

Shortly after Kirby defeats President Haltmann, Star Dream flies into space, and Meta Knight, now back to normal, assists Kirby by supplying him the Halberd. Kirby uses his Robobot Armor to absorb the ship and the two pursue the rogue machine. In the last moments of the battle against Star Dream, the Halberd is damaged by surprise attack from a laser, and Meta Knight ejects Kirby, shooting him straight at Star Dream and allowing him to destroy it for good. After peace is restored to Planet Popstar, Meta Knight's shadow can be briefly seen over a sleeping Kirby, indicating he helped Kirby descend to the ground safely. Meta Knight flies off just before Kirby awakes. He is last seen patrolling the skies aboard the Halberd as Kirby runs down the hills.

In The True Arena, Meta Knight appears to once again free the Robobot Armor from the Halberd during the fight with Star Dream Soul OS; this time, however, the supercomputer inhales Kirby out of the Armor and into its core, continuing the fight.

Meta Knightmare Returns[]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)

Meta Knight is the playable character of the Meta Knightmare Returns sub-game. In a manner similar to previous plots, Meta Knight progresses through the stages Kirby came through, in order to test his skills. At the end of the sub-game, Star Dream tests Meta Knight by summoning multiple sword users for Meta Knight to fight, such as clones of Queen Sectonia and Dark Matter as well as Galacta Knight himself.

Techniques[]
Move Controls Description
Overhead Slash B Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Knight Beam B at full health Meta Knight's version of Sword Beam; he fires a blade of energy forwards while performing Overhead Slash, which flies forwards a relatively long distance.
Meta Triple Slash B twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press.
Meta Multithrust B after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Mutlisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself.
Decisive Slash B after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing.
Piercing Slash Dash + B Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Knight Spin Dash + B in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword.
Meta Chop B in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands.
Down Thrust Directional Pad Down + B in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Directional Pad Up + B Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight.
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold B, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range.
Mach Tornado Press and hold B, and then release + Directional Pad Up Meta Knight's version of Twister Slash; he performs the Meta Spin Slash as usual, but leaps into the air while spinning, also becoming much more controllable in midair.
Sky Knight Sword Hold Directional Pad Up, and then B Meta Knight's version of Sky Energy Sword; he holds his sword upwards, charging it with energy. He then performs a Crescent Slash upon using Overhead Slash or Meta Chop.
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Directional Pad Down + B in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact.
Shuttle Loop Directional Pad Down/Directional Pad Up + B Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards.
Hover Flap A in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches.
Underwater Spin B while underwater Meta Knight spins around underwater with his sword, similarly to Knight Spin.
Special moves[]
Name Cost Description Damage
Meta Quick 8 Meta Knight's movement speed is increased for a short period. N/A
Healing 10 Completely replenishes Meta Knight's health. N/A
Galaxia Darkness 18 Meta Knight flings his cape, turning the stage black for a few seconds before unleashing a full force slash. 144
Meta Knightmares 35 Meta Knight summons the Meta-Knights for a devastating full-screen attack. 336

Kirby Battle Royale[]

Meta Knight is a unlockable playable character in Kirby Battle Royale. He plays like the Sword ability, but has a different B charge-up; instead of performing a standard Spin Slash, he does Dimensional Cape, which ends in a Spin Slash instead of a single sword attack. He can be unlocked either by clearing The Cake Royale, or by having save data from the demo version of Kirby Battle Royale saved to the player's 3DS system.

Moveset[]

Move Controls Description Damage (Robo Bonkers)
Horizontal Slash B Meta Knight slashes his sword in front of him. Similar to Chop/Overhead Slash, but performed horizontally. 45
Meta Multithrust B + B Meta Knight rapidly slashes in front of him following the horizontal slash. 30x4
Decisive Slash B + B + B Meta Knight finishes his rapid slashing with a final slash. 130
Knight Spin B during jump Meta Knight swings his sword in a pitch movement. 50
Dimensional Strike Hold/release B Meta Knight charges up Galaxia with energy, his wings transformed into his cape, and then he disappears before reappearing, performing the Meta Spin Slash. Meta Knight can move while charging. Similar to Dimensional Cape. 400
Piercing Slash Y Meta Knight lunges forward with Galaxia outstretched. Can be used in the air. 65x3

Kirby Star Allies[]

Kirby_Star_Allies_Meta_Knight_Footage

Kirby Star Allies Meta Knight Footage

Meta Knight is the third boss in Kirby Star Allies, and is fought in World of Miracles - Planet Popstar in the stage Sacred Square, with the boss title of The Lone Swordsman. Like other bosses in Kirby Star Allies, he is corrupted by a Jamba Heart shard. Meta Knight is shown dusting his sword when he notices Jamba Heart shards, which were accidentally dispersed by Hyness, rain from the sky, and becomes possessed offscreen while protecting the residents of the Sacred Square from the onslaught of falling shards. The effects of the Jamba Heart can be seen in his eyes being orange instead of their usual yellow and turning purple halfway through the battle.

Before the fight begins, Meta Knight stands on top a high ledge and presents Kirby with a sword that Kirby can obtain in order to fight him, similar to his boss fights in Kirby's Adventure and Kirby Super Star. Alternatively, however, if Kirby jumps onto Meta Knight's platform, the balcony will crumble, annoying Meta Knight and causing him to comically kick away the sword in dismay. The action will also happen if Kirby did not take the sword for more than 20 seconds, during which time Meta Knight can be heard faintly whistling something resembling "My Friend and the Sun", the ending theme of Revenge of Meta Knight. Meta Knight attacks similarly to how he does in other games, with the exception that Kirby can now parry Meta Knight's attacks with his own sword slashes; this briefly stuns Meta Knight. He also has a new attack called Upper Cailbur: He will first begin to charge up, and when fully charged, he will lunge slightly forward and up into the air. If anyone is hit by this attack, they will be flung into the air where Meta Knight begins to repeatedly slash them. At the end, Meta Knight will slice the captured player into the ground, dealing a small amount of damage.

When Meta Knight enters his second phase at half health, his eyes turn purple, and he splits into multiple Meta Knights. The number of Meta Knights corresponds to the number of friends fighting him (including Kirby) with the exception that, when Kirby has no friends, he splits into two Meta Knights. When there are four Meta Knights, Two Meta Knights stay in the air, while the other two stay on the ground. The two on the ground do normal sword attacks, while the two in the air either shoot sword beams at Kirby or perform a shuttle loop in an attempt to ram into Kirby. When there are two, they both stay on the ground, when there are three, one stays in the air and the other two stay on the ground. During the battle, the Meta Knights fly into the background and raise up several rocks. They then throw the rocks into the foreground where they land in stacks of four. The Meta Knights then jump into the air to slice the rocks, and a streak of light indicates where they will land. If they successfully slice the rocks, two boulders will remain on the ground that can harm the player on contact. However, if the player destroys the rocks before the Meta Knights can slice them, the respective Meta Knight will get his sword stuck in the ground for a period of time, leaving him vulnerable to attack. During this section of the battle, Meta Knight will be damaged if the player strikes his duplicates, not just Meta Knight himself.

When the Meta Knights merge again into one, Meta Knight can unleash a dark laser that can capture Kirby and his allies, similar to Taranza's web in Team Kirby Clash Deluxe. If Meta Knight successfully captures anyone, the laser will slowly damage them. After a while, Meta Knight will slam the captured character on the ground, which is a signal that he will soon throw them at the wall in a dark ball that damages anyone on contact. Also, his tornado summon attack is more powerful in second phase, as the number of tornadoes he summons depends on how many friends the player has. Tornadoes go on the background before going to the foreground. When he splits again, the Meta Knights use Shuttle Loop to try to hit Kirby, and the attack is repeated twice before raising the rocks once again.

When Meta Knight is defeated, Kirby can optionally turn him into a friend by throwing a Friend Heart at him. If Kirby does not, Meta Knight's mask will break, and he will retreat via his cape. Defeating him unlocks him as a Dream Friend (alongside Magolor, Taranza, and Susie in the Wave 3 update) at the Dream Palace of each level.

Meta Knight's moveset is identical to that in Kirby: Planet Robobot with the exception that he cannot use Sky Knight Sword due to Friend Ability activation using the same input of holding ↑. In the third update released on November 30, Meta Knight received a new attack; it involves Meta Knight countering to perform it.

Meta Knight appears in the game's boss rush mode, The Ultimate Choice, in all levels of difficulty except Soul Melter EX, where Parallel Meta Knight replaces him. In Soul Melter, his normal battle theme is replaced by "Inner Struggle" from Kirby: Planet Robobot.

Techniques[]

Move Controls Description Damage[2]
Pro Controller Joy-Con
Overhead Slash B Down Button Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword. 24
Knight Beam B at full health Down Button at full health Meta Knight's version of Sword Beam; he fires a blade of energy forwards while performing Overhead Slash, which flies forwards a relatively long distance. 21
Meta Triple Slash B twice after Overhead Slash Down Button twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press. 24 per Slash
Meta Multithrust B after Meta Triple Slash Down Button after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Mutlisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself. 4 per hit
Decisive Slash B after Meta Multithrust Down Button after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing. 32
Piercing Slash Dash + B Dash + Down Button Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab. 15
Knight Spin Dash + B in midair Dash + Down Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword. 28
Meta Chop B in midair Down Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands. 28 (Initial Hit), 21 (Repeated Hits)
Down Thrust Left Stick Down + B in midair Left Stick Down + Down Button in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust. 15 (Sword), 20 (Shock Wave)
Up Thrust Left Stick Up + B Left Stick Up + Down Button Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight. 11 (Early), 36 (Main Hit), 21 (Late)
Galactic Counter Left Stick Down + B Left Stick Down + Down Button Meta Knight holds Galaxia in front of him in an identical pose to his guard. If hit by an attack, Meta Knight will reel back to avoid it, then rush forward and slash. 100
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold B, and then release Press and hold Down Button, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range. 18 (Initial Hits), 36 (Final Hit)
Mach Tornado Press and hold B, and then release + Left Stick Up Press and hold Down Button, and then release + Left Stick Up Meta Knight's version of Twister Slash; he performs the Meta Spin Slash as usual, but leaps into the air while spinning, also becoming much more controllable in midair. 15 (Initial Hits), 25 (Final Hit)
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Left Stick Down + B in midair Dash + press Left Stick Down + Down Button in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact. 30
Shuttle Loop Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + B Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Down Button Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards. 24 (Shuttle Loop), 21 (Glide)
Hover Flap A in midair Right Button in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches. 4
Underwater Spin B while underwater Down Button while underwater Meta Knight spins around underwater with his sword, similarly to Knight Spin. 28

Move Controls Description Damage[3]
Pro Controller Joy-Con
Overhead Slash Y Left Button Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword. 24
Knight Beam Y at full health Left Button at full health Meta Knight's version of Sword Beam; he fires a blade of energy forwards while performing Overhead Slash, which flies forwards a relatively long distance. 21
Meta Triple Slash Y twice after Overhead Slash Left Button twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press. 24 per Slash
Meta Multithrust Y after Meta Triple Slash Left Button after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Mutlisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself. 4 per hit
Decisive Slash Y after Meta Multithrust Left Button after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing. 32
Piercing Slash Dash + Y Dash + Left Button Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab. 15
Knight Spin Dash + Y in midair Dash + Left Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword. 28
Meta Chop Y in midair Left Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands. 28 (Initial Hit), 21 (Repeated Hits)
Down Thrust Left Stick Down + Y in midair Left Stick Down + Left Button in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust. 15 (Sword), 20 (Shock Wave)
Up Thrust Left Stick Up + Y Left Stick Up + Left Button Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight. 11 (Early), 36 (Main Hit), 21 (Late)
Galactic Counter Left Stick Down + Y Left Stick Down + Left Button Meta Knight holds Galaxia in front of him in an identical pose to his guard. If hit by an attack, Meta Knight will reel back to avoid it, then rush forward and slash. 100
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold Y, and then release Press and hold Left Button, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range. 18 (Initial Hits), 36 (Final Hit)
Mach Tornado Press and hold Y, and then release + Left Stick Up Press and hold Left Button, and then release + Left Stick Up Meta Knight's version of Twister Slash; he performs the Meta Spin Slash as usual, but leaps into the air while spinning, also becoming much more controllable in midair. 15 (Initial Hits), 25 (Final Hit)
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Left Stick Down + Y in midair Dash + press Left Stick Down + Left Button in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact. 30
Shuttle Loop Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Y Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Left Button Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards. 24 (Shuttle Loop), 21 (Glide)
Hover Flap B in midair Down Button in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches. 4
Underwater Spin Y while underwater Left Button while underwater Meta Knight spins around underwater with his sword, similarly to Knight Spin. 28

Elemental Attributes[]
Element Blizzard Bluster Sizzle Splash Zap
Piercing Slash Meta Knight leaves a trail of crystalline ice on the ground behind him. Meta Knight dashes forward for a much greater distance. Meta Knight leaves a trail of fire on the ground behind him. Meta Knight looses water droplets that splash on the ground behind him. Meta Knight leaves a trail of sparks on the ground behind him.
Knight Spin N/A Meta Knight floats up a small distance when performing this move. N/A N/A N/A
Meta Chop N/A Meta Knight's falling speed is slowed while he performs this move. N/A N/A N/A
Down Thrust When Meta Knight slams into the ground, he creates four icicles, two to either side of him. When Meta Knight slams into the ground, he raises a small whirlwind around himself. When Meta Knight slams into the ground, he creates a fiery explosion that sets off a blaze on the floor. When Meta Knight slams into the ground, he releases two water droplets that splash to either side of him. When Meta Knight slams into the ground, he summons a bolt of lightning to hit his sword and create a small electrical explosion.
Meta Spin Slash Meta Knight creates four large icicles, two to either side of him. Meta Knight leaps into the air while spinning, creating a small cyclone. Meta Knight creates a fiery cyclone that sets off a blaze on any nearby floor. Meta Knight releases four water droplets that splash onto the ground, two to either side of himself. After charging, Meta Knight raises his sword to absorb a bolt of lightning, then uses it to create a large electrical explosion as he spins.
Mach Tornado N/A Meta Knight leaps high into the air while spinning, creating a large cyclone. N/A Meta Knight releases three water droplets that splash onto the ground, one in front of himself and two behind himself. At the apex of his jump, Meta Knight summons a bolt of lightning onto himself, creating a large electrical explosion.
Condor Dive Meta Knight creates four icicles on impact, two to either side of him. The icicles in front are larger than the ones behind him. Meta Knight flies farther while diving and creates a large whirlwind around himself on impact. Meta Knight creates a small explosion where he began the dive, and sends out three fireballs on impact, two in front of him and one behind. On impact, Meta Knight launches four water droplets that splash onto the ground, two to either side of himself. On impact, Meta Knight summons a diagonal bolt of lightning that strikes his backside, creating a large electrical explosion.
Shuttle Loop Meta Knight leaves a trail of ice crystals on the ground beneath him while gliding, and fires three ice crystal projectiles in a spread from his sword at regular intervals. Meta Knight flies much higher and farther during the loop but cannot glide. Meta Knight creates small explosions when he begins gliding and on impact, leaves a trail of fire on the ground beneath him while gliding, and glides much faster at a constant speed in any direction, ignoring gravity. Meta Knight releases four water droplets when his glide begins, and periodically fires water droplets forwards from his sword while gliding. Meta Knight summons a bolt of lightning onto himself before beginning the loop.

Super Kirby Clash[]

Meta Knight appears as a resident of the Port Village after Pyribbit has been defeated in the Volcano. He can be seen standing on a ledge behind the Quest Board, staring out at the sea, occasionally taking flight. He also appears as four different stickers, in which one costs 30 Gem Apples, while the others cost 20, all of which can be purchased from the Shoppe.

Kirby Fighters 2[]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)
KPR Waddle Dee 2 This section is currently under construction

Meta Knight appears in Kirby Fighters 2 alongside King Dedede as the main antagonist of the Story Mode, The Destined Rivals. He also appears as a playable character, being unlocked after clearing Chapter 4 of the Story Mode, retaining his moveset from Kirby Star Allies. In it, he and King Dedede appear three times as a double boss, gaining new skills every time.

Story[]

After many defeats at the hands of Kirby, Meta Knight partners up with King Dedede to finally win in a battle against him. Meta Knight and King Dedede send a letter to Kirby, challenging him as they await at the Summit of the Buddy Fighters Tower. Kirby accepts the challenge, partners up with a buddy, and enters the Buddy Fighters Tower to battle his greatest rivals.

After defeating Twin Woods on the 5th floor, Kirby and his buddy reach the 10th floor, where they finally encounter Meta Knight and King Dedede, or so they thought. The two teams engage in battle, with Kirby's team emerging victorious. However, it turns out that the Meta Knight and King Dedede they had fought were two Waddle Dees in disguise. The two Waddle Dees flee, dropping a key that unlocks more to the tower. Kirby and his buddy continue climbing the Buddy Fighters Tower to find the real Meta Knight and King Dedede.

Arriving at the 15th floor, Kirby and his buddy at last encounter the real Meta Knight and King Dedede. The two teams duke it out, but despite Meta Knight's and King Dedede's efforts, they are defeated. Refusing to accept defeat, the two retreat and ascend higher into the tower. Kirby and his buddy use the key they had dropped to ascend higher as well.

Finally reaching the Summit of the Buddy Fighters Tower at the 30th floor, Kirby and his buddy find Meta Knight and King Dedede awaiting them. With their bond having grown deeper, they challenge Kirby and his buddy in a final battle. Nonetheless, they are defeated, but refusing to give up, King Dedede pulls out a Maxim Tomato. He takes a bite of half of it and tosses the other half to Meta Knight, who eats it while facing away. With the both of them reenergized, they continue the brawl with Kirby and his buddy. But, yet again, they are bested. Weakly getting up, Meta Knight and King Dedede reach for each other before collapsing.

Afterwards, Meta Knight, dejected by another loss to Kirby, takes an evening flight through Dream Land, with King Dedede walking below him. Still, determined to defeat his rival, Meta Knight carries King Dedede back to the Buddy Fighters Tower. The tower then raises up even higher, to the point of piercing the heavens, with Meta Knight and King Dedede waiting at the Summit. Kirby and his buddy, sensing their presence, enter the tower yet again to finish this once and for all.

Moon Warriors

Waning Crescent Masked Dedede & Waxing Crescent Masked Meta Knight

At the 50th floor, Kirby and his buddy reach the Summit. There, Meta Knight and King Dedede appear. With their deepened bond blazing in their eyes, the two engage with Kirby and his buddy in the true final battle. Kirby and his buddy claim victory, but as Meta Knight struggles to get up, his mask breaks in half. In his own eagerness to win against Kirby for once, King Dedede seizes the opportunity to pull out the Masks of Dark Bonds. He tosses one of the masks to Meta Knight, and puts the other one on himself, becoming Waning Crescent Masked Dedede & Waxing Crescent Masked Meta Knight. The power of the masks causes Meta Knight and King Dedede to lose themselves, and they attack Kirby and his buddy to settle the challenge. In a grueling battle, however, they are conquered. Subsequently afterwards, two Buddy Star Blaster pieces float down from the sky. Using the pieces, Kirby and his buddy assemble the Buddy Star Blaster, and use it to blast Meta Knight and King Dedede with a powerful laser. The laser sends them flying into the distance, releasing them from the Masks of Dark Bonds as well, which lose the dark aura emanating from them.

Devastated by another defeat at the hands of Kirby, Meta Knight takes a nighttime flight through Dream Land, with King Dedede walking below him once more. After a while, King Dedede trips and falls. Meta Knight then flies over to him and offers his hand to help him up, with King Dedede depressingly accepting it.

Techniques[]

Move Controls Description
Overhead Slash Down Button Meta Knight slashes forwards with his sword.
Meta Triple Slash Down Button twice after Overhead Slash Meta Knight's unique follow-up to Overhead Slash; he swings his sword two more times, one for each button press.
Meta Multithrust Down Button after Meta Triple Slash Meta Knight's version of Mutlisword Attack; he performs multiple jabs/slashes with his sword, rapidly hitting foes in front of himself.
Decisive Slash Down Button after Meta Multithrust Meta Knight's version of Cleave; he ends his rapid slashing with one final swing.
Piercing Slash Dash + Down Button Meta Knight's version of Drill Stab; he dashes forward and performs a lunge with his sword. Meta Knight's Piercing Slash is quicker, covers more distance, and is more powerful than Sword Kirby's Drill Stab.
Knight Spin Dash + Down Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Sword Spin; he spins around with his sword.
Meta Chop Down Button in midair Meta Knight's version of Chop & Thrust slashes forward with his sword, holding it diagonally downwards after for as long as the button is held or until he lands.
Down Thrust Left Stick Down + Down Button in midair Meta Knight points his sword to the ground as he plummets downwards. Meta Knight's Down Thrust is stronger and quicker than Sword Kirby's Down Thrust.
Up Thrust Left Stick Up + Down Button Meta Knight thrusts his sword into the air. This move is exclusive to Meta Knight and Sword Knight.
Galactic Counter Left Stick Down + Down Button Meta Knight holds Galaxia in front of him in an identical pose to his guard. If hit by an attack, Meta Knight will reel back to avoid it, then rush forward and slash.
Meta Spin Slash Press and hold Down Button, and then release Meta Knight's version of Spin Slash; he winds back his sword while charging, then twirls rapidly with it outstretched, hitting enemies to both sides in a close range.
Mach Tornado Press and hold Down Button, and then release + Left Stick Up Meta Knight's version of Twister Slash; he performs the Meta Spin Slash as usual, but leaps into the air while spinning, also becoming much more controllable in midair.
Sky Knight Sword Hold Left Stick Up, and then Down Button Meta Knight's version of Sky Energy Sword; he holds his sword upwards, charging it with energy. He then performs a Crescent Slash upon using Overhead Slash or Meta Chop.
Meta Condor Dive Dash + press Left Stick Down + Down Button in midair Meta Knight dives diagonally downwards similarly to Wing's attack of the same name, sending out two shockwave projectiles to either side on impact.
Shuttle Loop Left Stick Down/Left Stick Up + Down Button Meta Knight flies in a loop like Wing's move of the same name, and enters a gliding state afterwards where he can soar forwards with semi-realistic physics, accelerating when he flies downwards and stalling when he flies upwards.
Hover Flap Right Button in midair Meta Knight flies by flapping his wings, damaging any enemies he touches.

Kirby and the Forgotten Land[]

Meta Knight appears in Kirby and the Forgotten Land, having been brought into the mysterious world by the vortexes that opened in the skies of Dream Land along with everyone else. After the Colosseum receives a visual upgrade, he can be seen standing atop the entrance.

It is later revealed that he was pulled in before Kirby and had already explored the entirety of the continent prior to his arrival. Due to the establishment of Waddle Dee Town, Meta Knight returns from Winter Horns and is mentioned to protect the town off-screen from the Beast Pack. It also stated that Fecto Forgo had attempted to possess him like King Dedede, but Meta Knight's willpower proved too much and he was able to escape, though the collision of power would later lead to the creation of Phantom Meta Knight.

Once the Colosseum in Waddle Dee Town has been built, Meta Knight can be fought there as a boss, in all three cups except the Ultimate Cup Z, where he is replaced by Phantom Meta Knight. Meta Knight's introduction cutscene is altered if Kirby uses Sword: the battle will start with Kirby blocking the attack, otherwise he will dodge it. This also allows for a special interaction in the battle if Meta Knight is attacked at the right time while charging for Upper Calibur, which initiates a button mashing sequence. If successful, Meta Knight is disarmed; it is also possible to walk into Galaxia and instantly change into Meta Knight Sword even if the evolved ability has not been obtained. If Galaxia is taken, Meta Knight will return with a normal sword with a yellow hilt, similar to the original sword in his Kirby's Adventure artwork. It should be noted that the new sword has no effect on Meta Knight's damage output, and Meta Knight can still use Upper Calibur.

Kirby's Dream Buffet[]

While Meta Knight himself does not appear, Kirby can take on his likeness using a costume. Additionally, Meta Knight appears on several Character Treats.

In Kirby: Right Back at Ya![]

Cannon DAuJLJbVYAER17h This section contains information that does not coincide with the main series canon. (Similar)

With every battle, Kirby's strength and skills intensify. He truly has the makings of a great Star Warrior.
— Meta Knight • Curio's Curious Discovery
MK Pilot

Meta Knight, as he appears in the Kirby of the Stars Pilot

In the Kirby of the Stars Pilot, the pilot episode of Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Meta Knight appears as one of the enemies that appear out of the plumes of smoke when the sky turns dark. In this appearance, his mask is larger, his shoulder pads are more curled, and his gloves are smaller. Galaxia does not have its prominent points. He is defeated when Kirby spits Captain Stitch at him. This is the only time where Meta Knight is seen flying in the anime.

In Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, Meta Knight was the only known surviving member of the Star Warriors until Island of the Lost Warrior, when Kit Cosmos was discovered. He settled in Dream Land and became King Dedede's servant along with his followers Sword Knight and Blade Knight, thinking that Dedede's penchant for monsters would hopefully bring a young Star Warrior to Dream Land to join forces with him to defeat Nightmare. He secretly constructs the Halberd throughout the years under Castle Dedede, which requires more crew than he currently has allies, to prepare for the eventual confrontation against Nightmare, but this is not revealed until nearing the series' conclusion. He teaches the new Star Warrior, Kirby, to make him strong enough to defeat Nightmare one day. Compared to the games, his intentions are much clearer - he is undoubtedly on Kirby's side, though he doesn't always show it when danger looms, but this is because he wants Kirby to grow stronger and braver. Throughout the episodes, his character is given more depth, in addition to revealing his past. It is in Kirby: Right Back at Ya! where his sword was directly referred to as Galaxia for the first time. In Kirby's Duel Role, he states that he wouldn't help Kirby, yet he almost never fought him since.

His eyes change color according to his mood. When he is proud, his eyes turn light blue, as seen in Here Comes the Son. When Meta Knight's eyes are supposedly closed, his eyes turn dark orange, and when he is angry, his eyes turn red, as seen in the episode Scare Tactics - Part II. His eyes turn a shimmering green when he is suspicious or problem solving, as seen in Escargoon Squad. If he is totally serious about something, his eyes turn grass green, like seen in A Blockbuster Battle. When his eyes are pink, he is amused, shown in Snack Attack - Part I. He is extremely stealthy, observant, and well-informed, since no one ever sees him unless he speaks or shows himself, and he knows the events happening around him well enough. He knows every single one of Kirby's Copy Abilities, though he was a little unsure about Mike, but still guessed correctly, and it took him a while to figure out Throw until Kirby started throwing Whippy, allowing him to easily identify it.

Uncharacteristically, he likes watching Channel DDD, although whether it is because it amuses him somewhat or whether it is to try and catch Dedede's scheming early is unknown. He also may have a sweet tooth, as he has a jar of candy in his bedroom, and seems to like tea as well, as seen in the episode Escar-Gone.

Meta Knight makes an appearance in almost every episode, even when his only role is to pop out of nowhere just to explain Kirby's abilities or for any other reason after Kirby transforms.

Meta Knight speaks with a smattering of random English words in his Japanese. In the dub, Meta Knight speaks with a Spanish accent, possibly as a reference to Antonio Banderas in The Mask of Zorro, or to Inigo Montoya from The Princess Bride, both characters being Spanish-speaking swordsmen.

In the Super Smash Bros. series[]

Alt-metaknight

Meta Knight's palette swaps in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, some of which come from Kirby Air Ride.

Meta Knight Wii U

Meta Knight's palette swaps in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U

Meta Knight Palette (SSBU)

Meta Knight's palette swaps in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Meta Knight is not a playable character in Super Smash Bros. Melee, but he appears as one of the collectible trophies. There are notable mistakes and inconsistencies regarding his description in the game. On his trophy, it states that his first appearance was in Kirby Super Star when it was actually in Kirby's Adventure, and his trophy is labelled as "Meta-Knight" (note the hyphen, which instead usually refers to members of his army). His body is depicted as silver when it is blue in the Kirby series.

Meta Knight is one of the playable fighters in Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. He is fast and light, and can jump up to six times like Kirby and King Dedede can, using his wings. Unlike in his home series, his shoulder pads are black instead of dark blue, and he wears purple metallic shoes. He can glide as well, and fights using Galaxia, which turns bright white when used. Some of his moves are based off that of his previous games, but several of his own moves aren't in Smash, like his Up Thrust, and Meta Multithrust. His flagship, the Halberd, appears as a stage, and plays an important role in the Subspace Emissary, the game's story mode.

Meta Knight became infamous in the Super Smash Bros. community following his debut in Super Smash Bros. Brawl due to his fast, high priority (or more accurately, non-priority) attacks, along with his ability to jump more than twice, his ability to glide and the potential for all his special moves to be used to recover from being knocked off the stage. Meta Knight is widely regarded as the most powerful character in the game due to these characteristics, and has also always been first place on the rapidly changing tier list (also tying into his powerful down smash and glide attack). Because of this, he received some significant nerfs in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. However, he was also given some improvements; overall, he is considered much more balanced than he was in Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

It should also be noted that all of Meta Knight's special moves can be used to recover as aforementioned, all of them put him into a helpless freefall state in midair like with other similar moves, and is the only character who has all his special moves put him in such a state (allowing reckless use of such attacks to leave him open to punishes).

The Japanese version has Atsushi Kisaichi as his voice actor, reprising his role from Kirby: Right Back at Ya!. In the English version, he is voiced by Eric Newsome (who speaks with a slight Spanish accent akin to the anime's English dub). A sticker of him from Kirby: Squeak Squad and Kirby: Canvas Curse appears in Super Smash Bros. Brawl. Both stickers are applicable only by Meta Knight, Kirby, and King Dedede and increases Slash Attack by 32 and Launch Power by 8, respectively.

Moveset[]

Special Moves[]

Special Move Type Special Move Name Description Image
Neutral Mach Tornado Twirl and hit enemies multiple times. Press repeatedly to increase spin. Spi 10 metaknight nt 1
Entangling Tornado Pull enemies in, and then hit them straight up into the air. Spi 10 metaknight nt 2
Dreadful Tornado A more powerful Mach Tornado, but the amount of spins can't be increased. Spi 10 metaknight nt 3
Side Drill Rush Spin into opponents with your sword. You can change the angle a bit. Spi 10 metaknight sd 1
High-Speed Drill Faster than Drill Rush, but the angle can't be changed. Spi 10 metaknight sd 2
Shieldbreaker Drill A Drill Rush designed to break shields. Attack power and distance are reduced. Spi 10 metaknight sd 3
Up Shuttle Loop Fly into the air and strike, and then strike again after looping. Spi 10 metaknight up 1
Blade Coaster Fly forward instead of up. Enemies hit with be launched at a lower angle. Spi 10 metaknight up 2
Lazy Shuttle Loop Do a slow loop, and then strike hard while rising quickly. Spi 10 metaknight up 3
Down Dimensional Cape Vanish, teleport in any direction, and then attack when reappearing. Spi 10 metaknight dw 1
Shield Piercer The attack penetrates shields, but the power and distance are lower. Spi 10 metaknight dw 2
Stealth Smasher Longer travel distance, but you're left vulnerable for longer. Spi 10 metaknight dw 3

Other notes about Special Moves:

  • Mach Tornado can destroy weak projectiles.
  • Prior to Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Mach Tornado was a multi-hit move. It now only hits opponents once.
  • Mach Tornado is based on Meta Knight's Tornado Attack from Kirby Super Star. This move is used by playable Meta Knight as his version of the Twister Slash. He also has a special variant in Meta Knightmare Ultra. Playable Dark Meta Knight can also perform a Mach Tornado when using Dark Calibur while imbued with the Bluster element.
  • Drill Rush will bounce if it makes contact with the ground or any other surface.
  • Drill Rush is based on the Master Copy Ability's dash attack.
  • In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Shuttle Loop performed only one strike before initiating a glide that could be cancelled by stalling or attacking. In all Super Smash Bros. games after Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Meta Knight instead performs a second upward strike instead of gliding.
  • Shuttle Loop debuted in the Super Smash Bros. series, however, it was added in the Kirby series in Meta Knight's playable moveset starting in Kirby's Return to Dream Land. It also replaces the Glide Sword attack used by the various knight bosses.
  • Dimensional Cape will initiate an attack at the end if the player holds the attack button; otherwise, it only serves as a teleport.
  • When moving backward while using Dimension Cape, the attack the player can use at the end will have less attack and launch power.
  • Dimensional Cape is referenced in Kirby Battle Royale as Meta Knight's version of the Spin Slash, Dimensional Strike.
  • After performing a Special Move in the air, Meta Knight will fall in a defenseless state.

Misc. abilities[]

  • Meta Knight can use his wings to perform up to five midair jumps.
  • Flurry Attack (Neutral Attack): Shares similarities with Meta Multithrust. Starting in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, Meta Knight ends this move with an uppercutting back-flip slash, somewhat like Meta Upper (although said move precedes Meta Multithrust in Kirby Super Star Ultra).
  • Side Tilt Attack: This attack appears to be the inspiration for Meta Triple Slash in future Kirby games.
  • Up Tilt Attack: A spiraling variation of Up Thrust.
  • Dash Attack: Resembles the Slide attack.
  • Neutral Air Attack: Effectively the Knight Spin.
  • Forward Air Attack: Somewhat resembles Meta Chop, but with three slashes instead of one. Dark Meta Knight's Dark Crosscut and Triple Cross more greatly resemble this move.
  • Up Throw: Resembles Ninja's Air Drop.
  • Trample (Downward Throw): Similar to Suplex's Fury Stomp.

Final Smash[]

In Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U[]
GalaxiaDarkness

Meta Knight using his Final Smash

His Final Smash is known as Galaxia Darkness. He swirls his cape out in a wide sweep trying to hit his opponent with it. When Meta Knight hits with the cape, the stage turns dark, says "Behold..." or "Know my power..." and then Meta Knight slices strongly through the darkness. Enemies get launched helplessly. This attack affects everyone near Meta Knight (even team members)—not just the fighter who is trapped in his cape. However, the fighter(s) trapped in the cape take the brunt of the blow. The ability will only hit enemies trapped in or nearby the cape. In Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U, the move no longer hits Meta Knight's own teammates if Team Attack is turned off.

In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate[]

In Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, his new Final Smash is Darkness Illusion. He first grows a pair of two more wings and his eyes turn red as he is struck by lightning; any opponents caught is dragged into the air. Meta Knight then rapidly strikes the opponents repeatedly before finishing off with a stronger slash that sends captured opponents to the side.

Victory poses[]

Super Smash Bros. Brawl and Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U[]

  • Flings out his cape and says "You've much yet to learn."
  • Disappears while saying, "Come back when you can put up a fight!"
  • Turns and spins his sword while saying "Victory... is my destiny."

Super Smash Bros. Ultimate[]

  • Turns and spins his sword while saying "Victory... is my destiny."
  • Glides with his wings and lands onto the floor. Then he swings his cape while saying "You've much yet to learn."
  • Slashes his sword while saying "Come back when you can put up a fight!" then disappears.

Role in Adventure Mode: The Subspace Emissary[]

Subspace metaknight

Meta Knight in the "Subspace Emissary" mode

Meta Knight first appears in The Subspace Emissary attacking a lone Marth outside of a large castle. After a brief sword clash, he and Marth quickly realize they aren't enemies as they are both surrounded by Primids. After a successful battle, both warriors chase the Ancient Minister carrying a Subspace bomb. They fail to destroy the bomb, but Ike appears and he uses his Aether technique to catch the Minister off guard and destroy the bomb. With the bomb destroyed, all three head back to the castle to clear out any remaining Primids.

Later, they are all seen traveling the wilds together and battling Galleom. After defeating Galleom, Meta Knight saves Lucas and the Pokémon Trainer from a giant freefall, and much later, begins to ascend a large cliff face, followed by the Ice Climbers (who see his ascent as a racing challenge), in order to reach the Battleship Halberd. At the summit, Lucario challenges Meta Knight to a sparring contest. After the contest, both board the Halberd, which has just shaken off the defeated Great Fox.

The pair run into Solid Snake while on board and join forces with him to take back the Halberd. After rescuing Peach and Zelda, the trio continue on to the control deck. There they discover that the ship is being piloted by a gang of Shadow Bug Mr. Game & Watches who fuse together (after being knocked out of the bridge by Snake) to form a gigantic metallic monster called Duon. Once Duon is defeated, Mr. Game & Watch joins the group, along with Peach, Zelda, Fox, and Falco.

Meta Knight takes back control of the Halberd and reunites with fighters from the other groups. The aircraft of the other heroes are placed inside the Halberd, which heads towards the Subspace Battleship with all of the Super Smash Bros. heroes on board. After using the Subspace Battleship's main cannon to create another Subspace portal, Ganondorf spots the Halberd on the horizon and orders the battleship to open fire. The Halberd is struck down, but the heroes are able to escape on board Samus's Gunship, Captain Falcon's Falcon Flyer, Olimar's Hocotate ship, and Fox and Falco's Arwings. Kirby destroys the Subspace Battleship by ramming through it with the Dragoon, and the heroes enter Subspace to pursue Ganondorf and Bowser.

Meta Knight is turned into a trophy by Tabuu along with the rest of the Super Smash Bros. heroes upon their entrance into Subspace. He is later revived by Kirby and rejoins the others in the fight against Tabuu with the help of Sonic. Meta Knight is seen along with the other thirty-one fighters standing at a cliff, looking at where the Isle of Ancients, which couldn't be restored, once stood.

In production, Meta Knight's backstory revealed that the reason he did not have control of the Halberd was because he was attacked by the Subspace Army. He attempted to hold them back, but this attack coincidentally happened at the same time King Dedede attacked Meta Knight. King Dedede unknowingly made it impossible for Meta Knight to fend off the army, and thus, Meta Knight was defeated and forced to flee, while in the process losing his ship to the Subspace Army. This would have taken place before the events of the adventure mode proper, but the scenes could not be finished for various reasons.

Snake's Codecs[]

In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, if a player plays as Snake in the stage Shadow Moses Island and quickly inputs down taunt (referred to as a Smash Taunt), Snake can enter a conversation, talking about one of the present fighters, with his support team, along with Slippy as a cameo when talking about Falco. Here is the following conversation if Meta Knight is present:

Snake: Mei Ling, there's a mysterious masked man flying around here with a sword...
Mei Ling: That's Meta Knight. He's a knight from Dream Land. They say his sword swings can break the sound barrier. Whatever you do, don't get caught in one of his furious barrage attacks. He also commands the Halberd, a flying battleship.
Snake: Mm, I've seen it. The bow looks like his mask. What kind of weirdo puts his face on the bow of a ship, anyway?
Mei Ling: Umm, maybe he's a little narcissistic. Kind of like someone else I know.
Snake: Really... And who would that be?
Mei Ling: Use your imagination...

Palutena's Guidance[]

In Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, if a player plays as Pit in the stage Palutena's Temple and inputs a Smash Taunt, Pit can enter a conversation, talking about one of the present fighters, with Palutena and Viridi (with Chrom as a cameo when talking about Robin in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, and Alucard when talking about Richter in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate). Here is the following conversation if Meta Knight is present:

Pit: I wonder what Meta Knight looks like under that mask.
Viridi: Apparently quite similar to Kirby.
Pit: If he took off his mask, could he inhale things too?
Viridi: Maybe. And maybe he has Kirby's Copy Ability as well.
Pit: So if a maskless Meta Knight copied a masked Meta Knight...
Viridi: Well, then he'd just be back where he started.
Palutena: Anyway, be careful of his quick blade and his spinning attacks. They don't have a lot of power, so use your shield until you see an opening.

In NES Remix 2[]

One of the game's challenges is to win the Kirby's Adventure Meta Knight battle. Meta Knight inflicts two bars of damage with each sword strike, so Kirby must defeat him without getting hit three times.

Music[]

Db The following section contains transcluded content from the Database. Source: (viewedit • help)
Theme - Meta Knight
Meta Knight RtDDX
Stage of the Partners who Shook the Heavens
Kirby Fighters 2
Music
Although Meta Knight's first appearance was in Kirby's Adventure, his theme had been introduced when Kirby dueled against him in Revenge of Meta Knight of Kirby Super Star. Meta Knight's theme has been remixed a few times.

In Other Languages[]

Names, etymology and in other regions
Language Name Definition, etymology and notes
Japan メタナイト Officially romanized as Meta Knight.
United States of America Meta Knight
People's Republic of China
(Traditional)
魅塔騎士 Translates to Meta Knight.
Republic of Korea 메타 나이트 Translates to Meta Knight.
Russian Federation Мета-рыцарь Translates to Meta Knight.
Federal Republic of Germany Meta-Knight Same as English
Netherlands Meta Knight Same as English
French Republic
(General)
Meta Knight Same as English
Italian Republic Meta Knight Same as English
Kingdom of Spain
(General)
Meta Knight Same as English

Quotes[]

None shall pass! En garde, Kirby! (But I have no sword?!) Oh, you're so right... then Avalanche it is, ha ha ha ha!
— Meta Knight • Kirby's Avalanche
Your spirit is willing, my friend, but your pink flesh is weak.
— Meta Knight • Kirby's Duel Role
Kirby's Starship detected the King's monster, but Kirby was not scheduled to awaken for another 200 years. That is why his ship crash-landed. He is totally untrained. He cannot speak. He can barely think!
— Meta Knight • A Dark and Stormy Knight
Our deeds bind us to fate as surely as the sun sets.
— Meta Knight • Kirby's Egg-Cellent Adventure
With every battle, Kirby's strength and skills intensify. He truly has the makings of a great Star Warrior.
— Meta Knight • Curio's Curious Discovery
With all due respect, I find it hard to believe that you are not involved with these paranormalities.
— Meta Knight • Escargoon Squad
Your father gave that to me. At the end, something stopped him from fully surrendering himself to eNeMeE. It was the love he had for you.
— Meta Knight, to Knuckle Joe about his father's medallion • Here Comes the Son
I will tell you what we must do. We must search for a new warrior. One who will defeat eNeMeE, and bring justice to our galaxy.
— Meta Knight • Hour of the WolfWrath
Sometimes, the best way to learn a lesson... is the hard way.
— Meta Knight • Labor Daze
Sometimes, the pen is mightier than the sword.
— Meta Knight • Watermelon Felon
Hmmm. So you hunted down Masher... with a suit and tie?
— Meta Knight, to Knuckle Joe • Monster Management
Rushing to judgement is... unwise, sire.
— Meta Knight • Pink-Collar Blues
Kirby, you have indeed grown in many ways this year. I cannot wait to see what changes next year brings.
— Meta Knight • Kirby Takes the Cake
In order to mature, Kirby must be pushed to his utmost limits. Only then will he learn to exceed them.
— Meta Knight • Snack Attack - Part II
I feel...dirty. *sigh*
— Meta Knight after getting hit by Belly Buster's pies • A Half-Baked Battle
My sword knows I'm innocent.
— Meta Knight • Crusade for the Blade
It may be a mistake, but it would be a greater mistake... not to try.
— Meta Knight • The School Scam
I should have known. Cappies are peaceful. Fighting is not in their nature.
— Meta Knight • Cappy Town Down
The enemy's weapon... it must be used against him.
— Meta Knight • Kirby 3D
Come back when you can put up a fight.
— Meta Knight • Super Smash Bros. series
Fight me...
— Meta Knight • Super Smash Bros. series
Come.
— Meta Knight • Super Smash Bros. series
Victory... is my destiny.
— Meta Knight • Super Smash Bros. series
You've much yet to learn.
— Meta Knight • Super Smash Bros. series
Now, my power is without rival.
— Meta Knight • Super Smash Bros. Brawl (Unused victory quote)
Kirby! You’ve unlocked a new stage in Slash & Bead.
— Notification • Kirby's Extra Epic Yarn

Related Quotes[]

Chivalrous to the last, Metaknight [sic] is an all but unbeatable Avalanche player.
— The Cast of Characters • Kirby's Avalanche Instruction Booklet
The mysterious head of the Meta-Knights, he wields his sword with dignity. He delivered his sword to Kirby and demanded single combat in a show of knightly honor; his strict adherence to his code of ethics makes him a rarity in Dream Land. Sometimes he throws off his cape in battle. It occasionally transforms into wings.
— Trophy description • Super Smash Bros. Melee
Meta Knight is a mighty spherical swordsman with plenty of armor. His origin and motives are a mystery.
— Kirby: Right Back at Ya! character description • Nintendo Power magazines
Meta Knight is the spherical swordsman who's sheathed in armor and cloaked in mystery. Is he friend or foe? It's hard to say, but Meta Knight knows more than he's saying... and his connection to Kirby holds the key to the riddle of Nightmare Enterprises.
— Character description • Kirby: Right Back at Ya! official English website and Nintendo Power magazines
Dash for a sword attack!
— In-game description • Kirby: Canvas Curse
The head of the Meta-Knights, and something of a rival to Kirby. He's quite an accomplished swordsman. Following his code of knightly ethics, he once delivered his sword to Kirby and demanded single combat. His giant cape transforms into wings, giving him the power of flight. He's shown his face briefly before, but his relationship to Kirby is still a mystery.
— Trophy description • Super Smash Bros. Brawl
It's Meta Knight, whose introduction was delayed for some reason. He's Kirby's...rival? Despite being almost all head, his mask and cape exude coolness. He overwhelms enemies with his mach-speed sword!
— Official Super Smash Bros. Brawl website
Unlimited power in your blade. Command your called knight. Train and journey the cosmos!
— In-game description • Meta Knightmare Ultra in Kirby Super Star Ultra
The masked knight cometh! His intense training allows him to soar through the air, swinging his sword with unrivaled speed!
— In-game description • Kirby's Return to Dream Land
Kirby's mysterious rival, this masked swordsman appears in several Kirby games. His cape transforms into wings to grant him flight. In Smash Bros., his quick sword skills and aerial agility set him apart. He can jump five times in a row, and he has a special move to soar higher.
— Trophy description, American English version • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
A mysterious masked swordsman from the Kirby series. His cape can turn into wings, which gives him the ability to fly. His swift swordplay and ability to stay in the air give him an edge in this game. He can combine five mid-air jumps with a special move to make recovering a cinch. If you use him, try to keep battle airborne.
— Trophy description, British English version • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
Meta Knight's Dimensional Cape lets you teleport, changing where you'll reappear with directional inputs and attacking by holding the button! His Mach Tornado special can draw in and attack multiple opponents. Rise by pressing the button repeatedly, and press left or right to move.
— Trophy description, American English version • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
Meta Knight's Dimensional Cape lets you teleport. After vanishing, you can move to reappear somewhere else. You can also keep holding the button to turn it into an attack! His Mach Tornado special can mix up multiple opponents in the fray. Press the button repeatedly to rise up, and move left and right to create extra havoc.
— Trophy description, British English version • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
Meta Knight wraps himself in his cape and disappears. If you keep holding the button, he'll strike when he's back!
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
While Meta Knight is invisible, he'll move in the direction you input. He won't move if you don't input a direction, which is useful as a feint.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
Your enemy will fly diagonally upward after this, so that's a good time to use a combo. If their damage is low, try a dash attack and then a front air attack.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
If you direct Meta Knight toward the ground, he'll cancel the move and do a little hop. Use that to avoid an enemy who is about to counter you.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
While Meta Knight's rushing through the air like a drill, you can adjust his direction.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
Press the attack button to unleash a flurry of strikes. Meta Knight doesn't do “standard attacks.”
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
The tornado created around Meta Knight can destroy any weak projectiles it hits.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
Meta Knight thrusts his sword upward, loops in midair, and then thrusts upward once more. A swift and powerful attack, useful against falling foes.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
This powerful attack is useful for pursuing enemies directly above you. However, you're vulnerable during the postmove descent.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
You can use the attack slightly more quickly in the air. However, the first strike is more powerful when executed from the ground.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
The third strike of Meta Knight's strong side attack is powerful enough to launch opponents.
— Tips • Super Smash Bros for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U
#1 is a tie between Jigglypuff, Meta Knight, and Kirby, who can all manage six. #4 is King Dedede with five, and Pit and Dark Pit are tied at #5 with four.
— The Jump Masters Tip • Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
Meta Knight debuted in Kirby's Adventure on the NES as a mysterious figure who stood in Kirby's way as a boss but also sometimes helped him.
— Meta Knight's Origins Tip • Super Smash Bros. for Wii U
This mysterious masked swordsman helms the Battleship Halberd. He hasn't always been the most trustworthy ally, but you can count on him when you really need him. He appears in this game as a figurine.
— Figurine Description • Kirby and the Rainbow Curse
The masked knight has returned to fight evil while Kirby takes a much-needed nap. Collect Meta Points, and then touch the lower screen to unleash his special attacks.
— Meta Knight's in-game description • Kirby: Planet Robobot
A masked warrior who tries to take on Haltmann Works Co. by himself. However, he's soon defeated by a mighty enemy...
— Instruction manual • Kirby: Planet Robobot
Meta Knight is now in the Collection Lists! You can use this in Battle Mode and Online Battles after it's unlocked.
— New ability! • Kirby Battle Royale
Is he Kirby's enemy or ally? The masked swordsman is shrouded in mystery.
— Collectible description • Kirby Battle Royale
The knight that dates back to Kirby's Adventure joins the fray! This mysterious figure occasionally shows up in his massive ship to stir things up. Now, into darkness!
— Guest Star description • Kirby Star Allies
Corrupted by the power of a dark heart, Meta Knight’s dedication to the purity of combat has been eclipsed by a secret wild streak that always lurked within him. This once-hidden fury is now unleashed with every stab and thrust of his sword!
— VS Meta Knight • Kirby Star Allies
First introduced way back in Kirby's Adventure, this warrior takes the spirit of chivalry to heart. He has set out on a journey of training, but he would never forget his connection to his friends. May new friend powers awaken and imbue his blade!
— Flavor Text • Kirby Star Allies
The mysterious swordsman is rarely seen without his iconic mask—and when he does lose it in battle, he runs away! He likes to test his sword techniques out on Kirby, but sometimes serves as an ally.
— Official Kirby Website
This fighter not only has tons of quick moves, he can perform a midair jump five times! All his special moves have a recovery aspect, so use them at the right time. His Final Smash is Darkness Illusion, which unleashes a fast series of aerial attacks.
— #27: Meta Knight • Official Super Smash Bros. Ultimate website
King Dedede and Meta Knight's combo attacks are very powerful, but they also leave them wide open for counterattacks!
— Look for Openings • Kirby Fighters 2
Which pair has the stronger bond? The final battle between old rivals begins now!
— The Destined Rivals • Kirby Fighters 2
The king and knight have returned! They are brimming with power this time, but then again, your climb up the tower has changed you too. Whose partnership is stronger? We'll see in this destined battle!
— King Dedede & Meta Knight (Chapter 4) • Kirby Fighters 2
On the Summit of the heaven-piercing tower, bond is tested against bond. The true final battle begins!
— Close to the Heavens • Kirby Fighters 2
It's a clash between bonds in a battlefield among the stars! King Dedede and Meta Knight draw on their memory of past fights to ready themselves for the last battle. Their blazing bond glows in their eyes!
— King Dedede & Meta Knight (Final Chapter) • Kirby Fighters 2
The mysterious vortex brought Meta Knight to the new world too! He quickly tasked himself with finding a way back to Popstar...until the Beast Pack attacked Waddle Dee Town. The besieged settlement needed protecting, and a swordsman never ignores a chance to train!
— Gotcha Capsule • Kirby and the Forgotten Land

Videos[]

Trivia[]

  • Meta Knight's intentions in Kirby's Adventure are unclear. His acts of giving Candy imply he is trying to help Kirby, but his frequent summoning of the Meta-Knights, and being fought as a boss himself, can be seen as contradicting this, actively trying to hinder him instead. However, it could be inferred that Meta Knight is training Kirby for his battle against Nightmare, a theme also present in the Kirby: Right Back at Ya! anime, which has a plot loosely based on Kirby's Adventure. However, in Kirby Super Star, his next main series appearance, he is apparently out for revenge, but it is never clear why. If he was helping Kirby, he probably wouldn't have a reason to enact revenge; if his intentions in Kirby's Adventure were to hinder him just like every other boss, and be loyal to King Dedede, revenge upon losing to Kirby would make sense. However, the plot for Revenge of Meta Knight never actually mentions revenge at all, or Kirby for that matter, only a desire to get rid of Dream Land's lazy lifestyle. Kirby is only involved in the plot by interfering with Meta Knight's plan; once Kirby appears to not be a threat, he is ignored.
  • In Kirby's Avalanche, his AI is copied from the Puyo Puyo character Rulue.
  • In each game Meta Knight fights Kirby, he always offers him a sword, with the only exceptions being in Kirby's Epic Yarn, Kirby: Squeak Squad, and Kirby: Planet Robobot, in which he had his own reasons for doing so; In Kirby's Epic Yarn and Kirby: Planet Robobot, he was being controlled by the game's main antagonist, and in Kirby: Squeak Squad, he was deliberately preventing Dark Nebula's release and thus had to ensure his victory over Kirby (however, a Sword Ability bubble appears in the room before fighting him).
  • While his wings appeared purple in the escape sequence during Revenge of Meta Knight, his wings are dark blue in almost all other appearances.
  • It is unclear whether or not Meta Knight is right-handed or ambidextrous. While he is generally seen wielding Galaxia in his right hand, there are various other official depictions which have him holding it in his left hand (sprite flipping aside).
  • In the English dub of Kirby: Right Back at Ya! he is portrayed with a Spanish accent.
    • This may be a reference to Zorro, a similar masked swordsman.
  • According to Sword Knight and Blade Knight, Meta Knight is apparently not a good cook in the Kirby: Right Back at Ya! episode Cooking Up Trouble.
  • In Kirby: Right Back at Ya! Meta Knight is one of the characters least often animated with CGI, the only instance being in Kirby's Duel Role.
  • In Kirby: Right Back at Ya! when Meta Knight is asleep, his eyes appear dark orange. However, in the games, when Meta Knight blinks or briefly closes his eyes, his visor becomes pitch black. This is true in some episodes in the anime as well.
3DS MAX screenshot

Meta Knight's model viewed in the 3D animation program 3DS Max. Here, the grayish blue in his visor around his eyes can be seen.

  • In the E3 2006 trailer for Super Smash Bros. Brawl, Pit fires at Meta Knight using his bow, causing Meta Knight to enshroud himself in his cape. Doing so gives him minor invisibility and Pit's arrow soars straight through Meta Knight, apparently not affecting him. Meta Knight has never been seen utilizing this ability since then, however, this is likely just a visualization of how his Dimensional Cape works.
  • In Super Smash Bros. Brawl, it can be observed that Meta Knight's visor is not pitch black. When standing in a certain way, it is possible to see blue coloring around his yellow eyes.
  • Meta Knight's battle theme from Kirby Super Star was remixed heavily for the battle against the Sphere Doomers in Kirby's Return to Dream Land.
Tumblr m7xuylJqjO1ra4czto1 500

Kirby's Dream Collection Special Edition booklet (concept art)

  • In a released concept art, an unknown knight was shown. Since this artwork was in Meta Knight’s section, many have presumed it to be an early Meta Knight design. However, in a Nintendo Dream magazine interview with Shinya Kumazaki, he confirmed that the design was originally for an entirely different knight that would have appeared in the cancelled Kirby GCN.[4] This design would later be used for Morpho Knight in Kirby Star Allies, ​​​​except with a different sword.
MetaKnightsMask

The Meta Knight's Mask from StreetPass Mii Plaza.

  • Meta Knight's mask makes a cameo appearance as a purchasable hat in the Nintendo 3DS built-in game StreetPass Mii Plaza. A version of this mask missing Meta Knight's shoulder pauldrons can be worn by Mii Fighters in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U.
  • Two of Meta Knight's palette swaps in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS and Wii U resemble Galacta Knight and Dark Meta Knight.
  • In his amiibo description on the Nintendo website, it is stated that his relation to Kirby is unknown, which implies that there may or may not be one at all.
  • Meta Knight's circumstances in Kirby: Planet Robobot parallel King Dedede's in Kirby Triple Deluxe, as both were kidnapped by the enemy before eventually being controlled to fight Kirby, but are defeated and have their masks shattered. They then assist Kirby to get his Final Weapon to fight the true antagonist, with a little help from a traitor of the antagonist's side.
    • They go on their own adventures, battle with improved bosses, and also fight a knight as the final boss.
    • King Dedede bears no involvement to Kirby: Planet Robobot’s main story, in the same way Meta Knight had no bearing on Kirby: Triple Deluxe’s main story. Instead, doppelgängers of them fill their absence as bosses.
    • Both also make physical appearances in cutscenes, Meta Knight appearing in Kirby: Triple Deluxe’s 100% completion cutscene, and King Dedede in Kirby: Planet Robobot’s opening and ending story cutscenes.
  • As of Kirby: Planet Robobot, Meta Knight's eyes were changed from white to yellow, and his blush was removed entirely.
  • Meta Knight's appearance in the Story Mode for Kirby Battle Royale has him viewing the situation from above at a remote location, with his cape wrapped around him; this role may be a reference to Kirby: Right Back at Ya!, where he generally observes the situation from a remote area while wrapped in his cape.
  • In Kirby Star Allies, if the player chooses to float up onto the ledge that Meta Knight is standing on or attack him with a Copy Ability before the battle begins, he'll jump off the ledge and start the battle himself by kicking away the sword he offered rather than doing his regular pose, seemingly out of frustration.
    • Additionally, should the player decide to just sit there and do nothing, Meta Knight will begin whistling bits of his own battle theme for a while before jumping down to kick the sword away and initiate the fight.
    • This makes him the only boss to have an entirely different splash screen, while others like Void Termina only have the title changed, or has alternative palette while retaining the same pose.
  • In Kirby Star Allies, Meta Knight's mask appears as one of the symbols on Void Termina's body.
  • According to a parfait dessert item on the Kirby Café menu, Meta Knight secretly indulges in a parfait every night. This, however, is not shown in the games.
  • In The Subspace Emissary, not counting Mario and Donkey Kong (who have been both a protagonist and a villain), Meta Knight is the only villain character to not play a villainous role.
  • Stealing Galaxia from Meta Knight during his fight in Kirby and the Forgotten Land will result in him pulling out the sword he wielded in Kirby's Adventure.

Artwork[]

Icons[]

Concept Artwork[]

Gallery[]

Sprites and Models[]

References[]

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