The Regal Heart of King Dedede - Designing For Kindness

[@ConnorTheUndying]

One of my favorite details of Dedede's development is that throughout almost _every game,_ Dedede is described as the self-proclaimed King of Dreamland. However, when Star Allies rolls around, the description changes. He's now a self-_made_ king.

[@queenofuganda7718]

THATS MY BOI!!! ;w;

[@susiehaltmann3342]

THE ONE!!!

[@VelitaLechera]

This comment put such a big smile in my face, Dedede's the man i want to be :')

[@NotLegallyAGeologist]

@@VelitaLechera get a big ol hamner

[@cobaltordinaire5219]

I mean, chronologically the last game in the timeline to feature Dedede in a main role was Triple Deluxe. And in that game, he didn't hesitate to helping Kirby when he truly needed it to save the world. So in a way, the self-made thing isn't even just a text-only thing, there's records to back up the claim

[@makoman295]

King Dedede sacrificing himself to save ONE Waddle Dee completely broke me.

[@AkameGaKillfan777]

I knew he'd be fine, those were just a bunch of grunts and even just one hammer he can do a LOT of damage with. I don't blame the Waddle Dees though, because their reunion after he came back to his senses was short-lived.

[@makoman295]

@@AkameGaKillfan777 Oh yeah, DDD would definitely be fine I wasn't worried for him, cause like you said he can handle himself. It's the act of sacrificing himself that is touching. Cause like this video says we basically watch DDD grow to be a respectable ruler as the series goes on.

[@AkameGaKillfan777]

@@makoman295 Yeah, you can even see the Waddle Dees in the Elevator to Lab Discovera are sad about him staying behind. He's also nice enough to give you the Masked Hammer Blueprint, which is one of the strongest weapons in the game.

[@flameblade3]

When I got there, I swear I shouted in my head “NOOOOOO!” And then seeing him ok after the final battle had me so relieved

[@pbscraze]

King Dedede: I know I ain’t gonna make it in time…..(knows what he must do) KIRBEH!!!! (Tosses the waddle Dee right to him at the elevator just before it closes) Get them Waddle Dees to higher ground!!! (Takes out his trusty mallet facing the animals) A king’s job is NEVER DONE…..!!!!!

[@Garrulous64]

I live in constant fear that someone someday will be making a Kirby game and un-do all of Dedede's development from over the years. I really hope wherever they store the Kirby series bible they've got Dedede down as the stubborn yet caring King of Dreamland we all love so there's no question about it.

[@ayo.2022]

I feel this, but honestly Kirby is probably one of the most consistent platformer series out there in regards to characters, development and lore, so I wouldn't worry too much about that. I do just hope that they expand on character roles a bit more later down the line and not forget about them, however; not even just Dedede, but even things such as Meta Knight's role as a mentor rather than just another rival for Kirby.

[@narxmagee727]

@@ayo.2022 Meta Knight did get a small bit of development in Forgotten Land. He made it through his first full possession resist so considering what's happened in the past, that's pretty admirable.

[@ayo.2022]

@@narxmagee727 agreed, that alone boosts my respect for the guy. Let's hope he can keep this up in later games too

[@2Blades564]

i dunno, every time hes a boss these days they go out of their to show hes been 'hijacked by ganon, so to speak.

[@iantaakalla8180]

Maybe after this point King Dedede will also no longer be enslaved by an enemy because “he really need to do a better job protecting the Waddle Dees” or something and that motivation will make him immune to corruption, swaying, manipulation or coercion.

[@EeveeMaster547]

I absolutely adore how _gentle_ Dedede is while saving the Waddle Dee in Forgotten Land. He doesn't pick them up (until after they're okay at least) or yank them up. He puts his hands out and patiently waits while the Beast Pack approaches. He just patiently lets the Waddle Dee pull themselves up using him as a brace.

[@quagsirefan8946]

Yes! I remember it was so touching when I first got to that scene, especially considering how he USED to fling around Kirby like in 64. Admittedly, it wasn't Kirby he helped up but still, it shows how much more caring he has become over the years, really becoming a more gentle soul at heart.

[@DarkAngel-jo8ix]

Then nails Kirby to cushion the waddle dee’s fall

[@acedelta12]

@@DarkAngel-jo8ix That wasn't intended by him.

[@allison6906]

@@acedelta12 He probably wanted Kirby to catch the waddle dee. But even though Kirby is powerful, it seems that he has trouble catching stuff 😅

[@Lumis_The_Lucario]

​@@allison6906power (and possible incarnation) of a god, but still the mind and body of a child

[@narxmagee727]

To me, I feel the Masked Dedede fight is very symbolic. Have you ever thought about why Dedede where's a mask in that fight. It doesn't make much sense, especially when fighting Kirby, who's seen his face on multiple occasions. I feel like even Dedede knows that he's not intimidating enough both in looks and how he conducts himself. Nobody takes him seriously. That's what the mask is for. To make clear to Kirby and himself, that he isn't screwing around anymore. The Dedede with the big goofy expressions and charming buffoonery and the Dedede in the electric cage with a jet hammer are 2 completely different people. This is a grudge match to finally put to bed this animosity the King has toward 'ol pinky and he's gonna make sure both sides don't hold back. Y'know, I'm almost ashamed at how much thought I put into a fat penguin putting on a mask to fight a piece of bubblegum. Almost.

[@pengie-gw2lu]

It's not just that. His first fight with Kirby was in front of a crowd, where his face and personality are plain for all to see. It's a spectacle, and one he expects to win. On the other hand, his final match obscures his face, and the only one in the crowd is his most loyal subject. He's not here to entertain or impress. He's not even showing his face, and his only spectator is the person he told to flee. He forces Kirby to take the best copy ability for bosses in the game, and equips himself with the best weapon he can possibly get his hands on. This is a true battle. (Man, 5am on no sleep makes for a great time for considering a penguin fighting ravenous bubblegum.)

[@iantaakalla8180]

That’s what the point of the mask is

[@Amparito847]

Another point is that maybe he is trying to emulate Meta Knight by wearing a similar mask and giving Kirby a similar weapon (we can be clear that their weapon aren't the same as their base form)

[@EmeraldMan25]

The only problem I have with that is that Revenge of the King seems to have Dedede as still evil. He stole 3 out of 5 Sparkling Stars again, which still screws over his own people. Yes, he's kind to his own henchmen, but he's still not all too kind to most others yet. I think a better example of Dedede giving it one last shot was in Kirby Fighters 2. Dedede, and Meta Knight. They challenged Kirby in order to give it one last chance, and try to prove once and for all that they are the great warriors of Dream Land. After their master plan ends up getting each of them possessed, and their combined power still not being enough to defeat Kirby, they finally accept defeat, acknowledging that they will never beat Kirby, and it's pointless to try and fight against him. Dedede and Meta Knight will never again be the heroes of Dream Land, at least, not alone.

[@narxmagee727]

@@EmeraldMan25 By no means is this the best explanation, but I interpret Dedede stealing some Sparkling Stars as incentive for Kirby to have to come to the castle, with him acting before thinking like he usually does. Fighters 2 is at a much later date so maybe Dedede realised that he could just invite Kirby, no strings attached.

[@FunkyyP]

One of my favorite things about Dedede is how in every game before star allies it calls him the self proclaimed king "described as or proclaimed to be such by oneself, without endorsement by others." But star allies changes it to the self-made king "having become successful or rich by one's own efforts." Showing he's grown so much as a character that he's truly earned the title of King of Dream land.

[@supersmashbro596]

i think revenge of the king (aka the remake of the extra mode of dreamland 1, so like, the end of dreamland 1.) after having his waddle dees support him he was quick to grow up and take the role of a good leader. and in adventure he pretty much proves to have been actually a good king trying to defend his homeland from nightmare, kirby just misread everything. and come forgotten land, he truely shows while yeah, hes a lazy goofball showboat, when he needs to act, he shows why his waddle dees are so loyal to him. he's *always* had their back as much as they had his. why else would they go along with his plan to steal dreamlands food if not out of loyalty.

[@DandyDoondin]

Awwww

[@NormDeMoss]

He wants to be a lazy, showboating jerk who rests on his laurels for the rest of his life, and he doesn't care how many folks he has to care about, help, and risk his own comfort and safety for in order to do it.

[@dieptrieu6564]

@@supersmashbro596 It wasn't kirby misreading him. Dedede's plan was just so stupid and vague in the first place.

[@WingedFish66]

"If saving the life of a loyal subject means my sacrifice, then I choose to die a king."

[@AkameGaKillfan777]

Where is this quote from?

[@Da_ComputerMonster]

_"Your Majesty..."_

[@Deletusyouryeetus]

​@@AkameGaKillfan777 a meme

[@AkameGaKillfan777]

@@Deletusyouryeetus Where is that from?

[@tntvale3763]

Dedede is probably one of the best exemple of character growth I can think off...And he's a wonder in Videogame's ground, don't y'all agree ?

[@corentincursoux5852]

Yes I agree 😑😌

[@abcdefgee]

Yeah, his arc is really well done. And I'm surprised being tossed around from developer to developer, his arc is so consistent (except for squeak squad)

[@somerandom9464]

YES

[@2Blades564]

​@@abcdefgee i mean, hes not really a part of the focusin that game so hes more or less the same overall

[@abcdefgee]

@@2Blades564 did you watch the video

[@AdriftInVR]

When I was younger I used to think the brooch Dedede had on during that subspace scene was always meant for Peach, but accidentally got on him since they seemed to be sticky, but seeing it from the perspective of the brooch being meant for himself and choosing to instead give someone else a chance makes me appreciate his character all the more.

[@mittycommitspizzatime92]

“They fight with each other, and although not always conventionally, they are basically good friends.” - Shinya Kumazaki talking about Kirby and Dedede’s relationship in a RTDLDX interview

[@NineTheLuk]

One think I'd like to add, is that Dedede joined the gang in 64 because he didnt want Kirby and the others to get hurt

[@yeezoyoutube]

His kindness is truly the one _think_ you can never replace

[@Potato_tomato47]

You know I never thought about it I always thought he just wanted to show up Kirby and be the hero but your idea is way nicer to think about

[@erinbrown3744]

My first Kirby game was 64. They didn’t name him in anything but the theater section of that game, so I always called him “my penguin pal.” I loved the sections of the game when he let you ride on his back. Then the anime comes out and blindsides me with their characterization of him. Even in the ONLY non-spinoff game where he was evil (the first one), it felt less like a greedy king letting his citizens starve and more like a bully in kindergarten taking everyone’s snacks because he’s bigger. Then he takes the little quiet kid’s snack cake and he goes postal.

[@PastelHime]

I love every statement made in this comment LMAO

[@carlkoopa7389]

"he's a funny penguin who tries very hard except when he doesn't" is a perfect surface level analysis, and I'm glad this video of the in-depth journey he's gone through Probably one of my favorite characters in videogame history

[@superspider64]

My favorite descriptor for DeDeDe is the grumpy yet caring uncle of the main dreamland group (i.e. DeDeDe, Meta Knight, Kirby and Bandanna Dee)

[@BlakeAtStake]

That's how I would describe meta knight

[@licenciadoencomerasado9364]

I think he's more like a bullying big brother that always takes the opportunity to annoy, but still fondly care about his smaller ones

[@superspider64]

@@BlakeAtStake I feel like Meta Knight's more the methodical, distant yet caring father figure, testing Kirby every so often to make sure he's ready for what lies ahead

[@Cosplaythief]

@@licenciadoencomerasado9364 Bullying big bro indeed feels like 64 Dedede. Like he is nice but can't resist a prank. To be fair, I'd prank 64 Kirby too, he makes funny faces.

[@buttpiratesbuttpirate5913]

@@superspider64 this guy gets it

[@yeggeg]

This is perfect. It shows how King Dedede changes unlike other final bosses of games. After so many years Bowser still just kidnapps the princess for his evil deeds, while King Dedede goes from a Tyrant to a hero who would risk everything for any one of his subjects.

[@maxlimit9129]

part of me has a gut feeling Bowser might be moving forward after the SMO ending at the very least

[@matti.8465]

I wish mainline Mario games did like the RPGs and made Bowser a goofy begrudging ally.

[@iantaakalla8180]

They might after this point if they make it a point to respect Princess Peach’s wishes about not being captured or wooed.

[@malhaomalhoa7486]

Good! Bowser is perfect as he is. No need to change him.

[@Rediscool9]

@@maxlimit9129 No he’s not. Bowser’s a dick and will forever remain a dick.

[@Avathestarwarrior]

Dedede is more that a redeemed villain, but a perfect example of a true rival and a friend. I always get upset when someone says that Dedede is evil. Well I mean sure, he was. But that's over 10 years ago. Dedede would always be considered as a hero and a good rival in our hearts. +Holy shit 142 likes???!!

[@charjabugman]

he hasnt been evil in a lot longer than 10 years lol

[@fishyfishyfishy500akabs8]

@@charjabugman well willingly evil the things his body does can be plenty evil when he's puppeted

[@jaygooese4242]

He more then a good guy then a bad guy

[@jaygooese4242]

He's nice now

[@jaygooese4242]

Sure he was a villain the beginning

[@Big-Chungus21]

I like how dedede’s design in forgotten land is genuinely really cute and friendly looking, looks quite like his crystal shards design as well.

[@mega6662]

Finally someone highlights the true face of the king of dreamland

[@ulti-matezoan6398]

One bit of Dedede lore I would like to bring up that wasn't mentioned is that in the pause screen for the Masked Dedede's Revenge fight in Triple Deluxe, it mentions that "his limiter has been removed" meaning that Dedede post Triple Deluxe has the potential to be limitless in power much like Kirby.

[@iantaakalla8180]

I do enjoy that Meta Knight, Kirby, and King Dedede will eventually become the three most powerful people in the Kirby universe

[@MintyMoron64]

@@iantaakalla8180 Kirby is already limitless, Dedede and MK are just playing catch-up. They're getting awfully close..

[@thebeavpercabethftw9604]

@@MintyMoron64 They're the Vegeta and Piccolo to Kirby's Goku.

[@ActuallyAthena]

Wonder where bandana dee fits in to all of this. Is he too limitless? Or is it only his courage that gives him strength

[@mittycommitspizzatime92]

@@thebeavpercabethftw9604 Bandana Dee is the Krillin of the gang

[@fluffcake]

Dedede is such a cool guy for real. He is not only an amazing leader moving further on, but him slowly caring more about his citizens and servants is so adorable. Basically that Clone Wars scene “Sir, we’re just expendables” “Not to me”

[@TarvouldsQuest]

STOP MAKING ME FEEL THINGS FOR CHARACTERS I NORMALLY DON'T FEEL THINGS FOR! (No please don't, keep going I love this).

[@fallen_entity]

I like how they keep forgetting how big he is so he keeps changing in size

[@Neonclown_7]

Canonically, Kirby can fit in his hand. Dedede is like 2.5 meters tall.

[@poppyfrancis7338]

Dedede is my favorite Kirby character solely for the fact that he started off as your run of the mill mascot antagonist, but grew and learned so much over time that he is at least as strong as Meta Knight, and as caring as Kirby, albeit in his own mildly selfish way. He'll never be able to outgrow his greed, but he's shown time and time again that he's not only able but willing to put it aside to help, even doing so on principle in Return to Dream Land, and having while always viewing Kirby as a rival, no longer doing so in a way to antagonize, but to grow stronger himself. He taught himself how to inhale and FLY like Kirby did between their first encounter.

[@sinflower6210]

Dedede is truly proof people can have flaws with your personality and still be a good person and a caring friend

[@BearofLightness]

So many great moments here. The anime clips interspersed throughout are terrific, and I love the editing on the opening, the Roar of Dedede segment, and the ending. I've always loved Dedede, but I think I really first took notice of him as a "great" character, not just a "fun" one, around Triple Deluxe. The King having the strength of will to surpass the razor-honed discipline of Meta Knight himself, as discussed with the Dimensional Mirror here, floored me. Kirby as a series is great about communicating a lot of complicated ideas like that through simple broad strokes and juxtaposing concepts. And then you have stuff like his and Meta Knight's friendship in Kirby Fighters 2, and everything he does in Forgotten Land, and my heart just melts. You've come a long way, self-proclaimed King of Dream Land.

[@BearofLightness]

P.S. - I appreciate all the love for Bandee here, too!

[@lordspagetti9261]

while id say him beating dark meta was impressive since even meta knight couldnt do it he still doesnt have more willpower than the knight considering he still got brainwashed by forgo while meta knight resisted it

[@BearofLightness]

@@lordspagetti9261 The way I see it, Forgo was specifically targeting animals. Dedede is a penguin, so he was more vulnerable to Forgo's influence than the non-animal Meta.

[@dalehayden3830]

I think the only reason Meta Knight lost is because Dark Meta Knight lacks the same sense of honor. He genuinely didn't think *any* version of himself would employ unsporting tactics, and was caught off guard JUST long enough. Dedede, on the other hand, is a subversive buffoon and therefore ready for anything that comes his way.

[@Captain_Keppy06]

Self MADE king of Dreamland

[@Forgotten_Fog]

Dedede is the representation that change is possible. That no matter who you are as person, you can change. I love how you made this. King triple De will always be one of my favorite characters in gamming. He went from a self made and proclaimed king to a selfless king, willing to do anything for his subjects.

[@grandpoobah6542]

I was today years old when I understood that the swinging scene in Right Back at Ya is a reference to the final scene in the movie "Ikiru" by Akira Kurosawa. Even the song Dedede sings while swinging is a parody from the song sung in the movie.

[@Grace-ir8er]

This video was absolutely incredible - not only did you go into a legitimate deep dive of almost every aspect of the series (as a fan of the Kirby novels I was delighted to see someone actually acknowledge them!), but I think this is the first video I’ve seen that actually _gets_ Dedede as a character. So many people have characterized him as some grand villain or an innocent penguin who can do no wrong, but he’s not either of those, just a king who knows who he used to be and strives every day to get better. Your line about how Dedede’s core never changed but the way he interacted with others did especially struck me, as I’d never thought of it like that before. An all-around incredible video, and one that I hope more people see.

[@castform7]

I also never thought of it that way. I feel like I always failed to recognize the fact that who Dedede is hasn't changed but the way he conducts himself around others has. He's still prideful of himself, lazy, is the textbook definition of goofy and is prone to not thinking of everything but has grown the heart to try to be his best for his friends and subjects. That honestly makes me like Dedede more since it shows he has flaws he overcomes to be a better person (or penguin).

[@Fannintendociccio1]

This is just a nitpick, but according to the guidebook dedede joined in the team in Kirby 64 because he was worried the kiddos were all alone in their adventure and someone needed to take care of them! 🥺🥺 The bit of "only I can be mean to my waddle dees" is actually a mistranslation, which makes a lot of sense. He wouldn't be mean to them at the point of epic yarn's release. And of course, that's for granted even in the video, but the anime isn't canon and stuff About dark d-mind, an interview was released in Japanese about it. That game is basically triple deluxe's sequel, taranza using the dark mirror to bring sectonia back to life, but all he manages to do is bring forth his own mirror clone in sectonia colors. This mirror taranza then summons what he thinks it's the strongest mirror champion, which is mirror dedede from dededetour (in a funny parallel to Taranza thinking dedede was the strongest popstar habitant before). The interview then explained how the concentrated "dark minds" of mirror taranza and mirror dedede caused Dark Mind to spawn inside mirror dedede, which was a weird thing to happen, until in star allies we actually got the explanation that Void spawns when energy gets concentrated, and Dark Mind is just what void looks like in that dimension. That aside, loved the video!!!

[@MintyMoron64]

It isn't so much that he's particularly mean to them, it's like the good old "You can't make jokes at the expense of my sibling, that's my job!"

[@Fannintendociccio1]

@@MintyMoron64 I guess, but in Japanese he literally doesn't say anything about it, and we know plenty how often translations gets messed up for Kirby

[@AsecasJavi]

Source pls I wanna read

[@lpfan4491]

@@Fannintendociccio1 Honestly, I'm surprised to hear that the localization made that up, it always seemed like him being tsundere about it akin to how he vaguely acted in 64. But then again, they also changed the story of Robobot completely(partially intentionally and partially unintentionally), so I should have expected it I guess.

[@Fannintendociccio1]

@@AsecasJavi I would give it but comments with links get deleted

[@Derpinator01]

As for my two cents, the Beast Pack didn't strengthen Dedede, but they brought out the strength he was holding back. In his very first appearance, it would make sense for him to hold back his full might to toy with any challengers, but over the years, as his pride turned into compassion, he didn't want to hurt anyone more than necessary, keeping his simple wooden hammer (with a tweak or two) instead of sticking with his metal mallet. The Beast Pack's brainwashing shows us how strong Dedede got to keep up with Kirby.

[@AkameGaKillfan777]

I think his suction attack is more powerful than Chaos Elfilis on its second phase

[@reformedorthodoxmunmanquara]

Dedede has to be one of my favorite redemptions in media.

[@themaincharacter4985]

👑 Dedede is personally my 2nd favorite character right behind Kirby. He's so prideful and humble at the same time. I love him

[@MrHomelessHobos]

Didn’t know Deedeedees development was that consistent! That’s really impressive, Hal really cares about their kirby

[@MrHomelessHobos]

Video was also really good as well!

[@TheDukeofDorks]

12/10 quality character, so good that one could spend months editing a video about him and still come out the other side loving him to pieces. Can't wait to see what the Kirby series does with him next!

[@skrub_king]

It's true that King Dedede is the best character ever

[@joshbruh6584]

One of my earliest gaming memories is when I first played Super Smash Bros Brawl. When I opened that character select screen, there was a single character that I knew with all my heart I was going to play… It was Yoshi cause he was my Mario Kart main. But a few days of playing later I looked over and saw him, this funny looking penguin who was apparently of royal blood and something about that just clicked for me. I still remember the time I first used his Up-Special and miraculously landed that spike, causing me to laugh so hard that it physically hurt me and I was so confused because nothing like that had really happened to me before. Ever since then, King Dedede has been one of if not my favourite Nintendo character, be it his appearance in Subspace Emissary or when I eventually played the Kirby series. This video understands my feelings on the character perfectly and puts them into words better than I ever could. Long Live the King baby. Honestly I’d take him over my country’s current monarch any day.

[@ellusiv5121]

Damn, that line of Dedede being hated as a king, Kirby following him to cheer him up, and the Waddle Dees following him after he earned their loyalty later-- that right there is great character writing and it wasn't even something spelled out, it felt like a natural progression across the games.

[@Mizu_Melon]

From the words of one of my friends, "The best way to see if a redemption arc is good is by how much they keep the character's personality intact." and like you said at 29:39, while Dedede is one of the good guys now, who he is personality wise hasn't changed. Which is why I personally think Dedede is one of, if not THE best example of a redemption arc done right. Very good video! :]

[@SuperGoomba10]

Magnificent video. Let it never be said that we don't stan the great king of Dreamland in this house.

[@e-mananimates2274]

Hello again! Long time no see! I remember you from Lemmy's Land!

[@paperwatt]

I can't believe that animation in the original game of Kirby checking on dedede existed! That helps tie the whole thing together that Kirby's influence on people effected Dedede all the way back then!

[@sgriosthetubator5564]

Can’t wait for “The Chivalry of Meta Knight: Designing for Honor” Or “The Devotion of Waddle-dee: Designing for Loyalty”

[@gunsandroses896]

Well, you got one of them!

[@do-nothingbear9474]

I don’t cry often, but when I played forgotten land and dedede did the whole “sacrifice myself for my friends” thing, I actually teared up. I in that moment made a realization that was basically everything in this video, that he wasn’t a villain anymore, and going back, he wasn’t even really a villain for that long. It was just a slow and arduous process of accepting who he was and taking responsibility, which after having grown up with Kirby most of my life, was an amazing moment.

[@dextra_24703]

I think most of your kirby videos got me to cry of joy.

[@justsomesimplenuclearbirbs4313]

Triple D's development from cold-hearted villain to a proper kind-hearted king is something you don't see very often in media. Some movies, cartoons, anime and even video games often have royal figures with a malicious heart/soul stay that way while Triple D does the opposite. The King Dedede vs. Bowser fight in Brawl will always be one of my favorite moments next to his reluctant yet willing sacrifice of placing his revival broaches and him tackling and hugging Kirby with the Pink Puffball looking kinda confused. The fact Dedede practically tells Bowser that he fucked up without saying a word shows the difference between the two kings. One would've blamed someone else while the other would've tried their best to help but would eventually get stopped multiple times by someone thinking they were causing problems on purpose.

[@SapphireLibra3]

Kirby really is just the best, isn't he? He even managed to teach kindness to King Dedede.

[@autismandgaming4532]

I say king dedede, needs at least 32 minutes and 45 seconds dedicated to him, but you still went above and beyond

[@Reddotzebra]

"He's a funny penguin that tries real hard except when he doesn't!" And whom among us can help but empathize with that?

[@supersmashbro596]

actually dedede was never truely a tyrant except in dream land 1 and its remakes by his second game he is unambiguously a good guy whose actions were misread by kirby. kirby only saw the shattering of the star rod and dedede taking a bath in the fountain of dreams. like a child, kirby only saw dedede the villain. when in actuality he broke the star rod, yeah, but having no dreams was better than having your dreams invaded by nightmare, the actual villain of adventure. the "bathing in the fountain" bit was probably just him wading through the water trying to reach the star rod after he noticed it was acting funny. the closest dedede gets to a true antagonistic role after dreamland 1/ spring breeze was his role of revenge of the king, and even there despite his showboating, it's just that: a show. he is increcibly respectful to kirby once its just the two of them, even taking a page from meta knight and offering a hammer to fight him with. and as he stumbles into the sunset, who is there to accompany him? why his waddle dees, who aren't mere servents but dededes actual friends who will support him no matter what. his moments in the forgotten land show that hes always willing to protect his waddle dees just as much as they protect him. and it's kinda sweet he does it.

[@lpfan4491]

What is kinda funny is that the closest he ever gets to DL1 is Battle Royale and even then...it's basically a parody game that isn't meant to tie into the grander mythos anyhow. There was no horrible scheme or tyrannical powermove, he simply had a slightly meaner day where he wasn't particularly respectful once.

[@onememeyboi7149]

In my opinion, King Dedede is humanity's greatest achievement And this video expressed my reasons why almost perfectly

[@NerdKirby]

What a wonderful way to showcase the journey of Dedede, made me shed some tears. He's a character dear to me and as the years go by, I love him even more.

[@loldude8783]

27:36 This Roar from Dedede in the masked dedede fight always gives me chills, and its so cool.

[@iced_cassowary8728]

King Dedede has a place in my heart, no fictional character has given me so much happiness in my life as the King himself.

[@Markm8]

King deedeedee is definitely the lest villain of all the villains and I like that hes a cool dude

[@Markm8]

I also dee dee dee is like just a guy but is still more powerful than like 80% of the smash cast in lore

[@DefinitivNichtSascha]

King Dedede is my favourite character in all of video games - likely in all of fiction. Yes, he's not amazingly complex in his motives or has a most epic backstory to him, but he's a right character, that one. Triple D is not just a caricature that boils down to a handful of one-dimensional traits. He's got a bombastic personality and he's got his flaws, but he also has a history, and he tries all that he can. He learns; as the video perfectly shows, there is no game appearance where he doesn't take away at least one thing from his adventures. I just adore this lovable goofy penguin so much. It also warms my heart how much the people at HAL laboratories seem to value this ongoing story they have with the games in this series. Sure, they're not narratively connected in a way that there would be one coherent plotline throughout them, but they could also just make episodic games where these characters are thrown into scenarios without any cohesion. And yet, HAL never forgets the history of their characters, their stories, their games, and I am greatly thankful and respectful of that.

[@Magic_Ice]

1:26 Designing For, Silvery, and PurePari: Dedede went from a power hungry tyrant to now someone who wishes to protect all of Planet Popstar out of Selflessness. Indigo: *So Dedede is a F@cist*

[@KopperNeoman]

Where exactly is the merger of corporate and government power? Or the wokeness? He's just the King. He's a monarchist.

[@Magic_Ice]

@@KopperNeoman watch Indigo’s kirby lore videos, they are great

[@dkpsyhog]

I love the Destined Rivals figure (26:35) so much because, at least to me, it gives the impression that D3 probably tells *everyone he meets* that he's Kirby's rival. Like, he's just so happy to be Kirby's rival that he _has_ to tell everyone all the time. And that's basically the clearest possible summary of Dedede as a character.

[@TheGraveKnight]

Late but "Aw come now lil' ol' me a hero? Surely you jestin'!" No Dedede, we ain't jestin' no more

[@smashers6971]

Dedede basically had the perfect character arc from dream land 1-64 from villain, to attempted hero, to possession victim to a full on hero and a uncle/father figure to the 64 crew, (No seriously the official website comments on him going on the quest to protect those 4 kids, and in interviews in Star Allie’s, they bring up that Dedede has an older brother esque relationship with Adeleine and Ribbon) however since the anime put too much focus on Meta Knight and put Dedede in the sidelines as a villain, Dedede’s development essentially was removed and he was even a minor character in the 2000’s only showing him being “oh hey Dedede is here” but from Super Star Ultra onwards they constantly remind you that this guy has really changed and while he does have a rivalry with Kirby he really cares about the little guy, with the Dedede clones that having a grudge against Kirby are stated that they are incomplete and lack Dedede’s Soul, Dedede essentially proving Taranza right being the hero of the lower world by essentially saving Kirby’s life and allowing him to finishing off Sectonia, and most importantly despite being taken down twice in one round due to being possessed (and being tired from months of isolation in the new world) drops everything to save a waddle dee and buy Kirby time by facing the beast pack all on his on. Dedede’s just awesome and I’m glad the series is starting to course correct itself from the dark age from the 2000’s and I really hope we get more of the King’s development in future games.

[@grayanddevpdx]

The power of a god tier theme is what makes Dedede truly Dedede.

[@DonDunno]

This video actually made me cry. Good job.

[@usuariodoyoutube4718]

Same

[@matthewkuscienko4616]

Same with me, too. I never realized how much Dedede has grown as a character in the series, it's actually amazing how he's gone from being a simple slothful and gluttonous jerk to a genuinely caring and good person who's willing to do the right thing when it matters the most. I'm now convinced that Dedede has some of the best character development of any character in any fictional medium

[@FaelumbreProject]

Don't forget his (non-canon?) bond with Meta Knight, how they're REALLY just the best friends, that challenge Kirby on a 200+ floor tower just to prove they're the best friends nothing more than that... Just best friends doing combined attacks, having matching outfits, and sharing a Maxim Tomato... Just friends yeah....

[@usermcskull4713]

Dedede's relationship with MK is so interesting to me. In Adventure, it's stated he gave one Star Rod piece to his friends which included Meta Knight. Since MK was the last to face Kirby, maybe this implied that Dedede was closer to MK than the other characters? But than Nightmare in Dream Land seemingly retcons this and says he gave the pieces of the Star Rod to his subordinates. At the very least Squeak Squad actually seems to imply something? Like Dedede had the Dark Nebula chest and Meta Knight knew Dark Nebula was in it, considering that they also both use the Mask of Daro Bonds much later in Fighters 2...maybe this implies that they've captuted evil beings together ot something? Idk but yeah I do definitely ship them, just find it interesting that despite them being in so many games together the only time we actually get a feel for their relationship is the really high quality eShop spin off for 15 bucks haha

[@matti.8465]

Just two bros being "sworn partners"

[@katamari_of_luv]

just guys being dudes :)

[@usermcskull4713]

Meta Knight always practices kissing with King Dedede, claiming that he does so "to become the strongest warrior in the galaxy!"

[@katamari_of_luv]

@@usermcskull4713 he says it "strengthens their warrior's bond". we all totally believe him

[@TheDansonT]

I just want to say how much I love you channel. This content is so relaxing to listen and learn from. Stay blessed!

[@massgunner4152]

my favorite part about Dedede's last stand in forgotten land is that only twelve animals reach the throne room in Lab Discovera, the king didn't just survive the battle, he crushed the army and went on to the extract the waddle dees.

[@ivrxr8693]

The phrase, “Even if you push yourself beyond your limits, how can you beat someone who’s very existence is limitless,” gave me PTSD. Apart from that, great vid, 10/10

[@Gerik75]

As the Kirby tv show never released in my contry, I always found the 3D design choice for Kirby so weird, and even for Dedede.

[@sentienttwig7043]

Yeah it was an experiment that likely didn’t work out

[@NovaStar700]

I wasn't expecting to cry in the middle of a video about King DeDeDe

[@trainerlsw]

While Kirby has natural talent, Dedede is one who works hard to match said talent. In the old days, he would do so in order to defeat him. Now, he no longer wishes to one up Kirby, he now wants to fight for his land, for that’s what a king should do. He’s gone from a selfish, greedy tyrant that ruled with an iron fist, to a heartfelt, selfless hero-king who fights for the greater good.

[@jamarcuscoley]

I love King Dedede. His development and selflessness and truly admirable. Kirby made a difference in his life and their friendship is truly golden.

[@Portersona69420]

You actually used footage and audio from Kirby Right Back At Ya! For this?? *SURELY YOU JESTIN'!* That makes me so happy someone acknowledges the Kirby Anime. You just earned a subscriber!

[@JonathanRiverafrickinnice555]

Dark Meta-Knight: Fine, you beat me-hey, hey wait, MY HOUSE!

[@castform7]

A Dedede video? Sign me up. Dedede is probably my favourite character....ever. Him being a massive, expressive goofball penguin in a robe would've been enough for me, but it was seeing his slow gradual growth from a jerk to a person constantly trying to better himself for the sake of his people. Triple D's a certified hero in my book and nothing will change that. He might be prideful, lazy, and not very good at thinking things through, but the point is that he tries and that's an admiral trait for a king if you ask me. (Also, Return to Dreamland obviously has the best Dedede design (at least in 3D. Super Star Ultra is peak 2D Dedede)).

[@cocheeseknox7440]

Absolutely perfect. Thank you for covering my favorite video game character of all time.

[@Skyehoppers]

I honestly had no idea there was so much depth to Dedede! This topic was such a good fit for your channel stylistically. Joy to watch, as always :)

[@kirbyfreakyt4695]

12:07 Gotta mention, I think, since Kirby knows Dedede is prone to pranks, he thinks it's just a prank. I mean, it's a single piece of strawberry shortcake, not an entire planet's food. It's enough to fight him in a match, at worst.

[@dantesdiscoinfernolol]

Welp, I went into this just looking for something Kirby-related to listen to in the background, but now I guess we're Having Emotions™️ about King Dedede this morning- I'm not sure if I can think of a redemption arc that is as subtle but consistent and solid as his. He's a rare duck (er, penguin) who was the proudest, most obnoxious, most powerful person he knew, got knocked down a peg by the protagonist...and then actually got back up, dusted himself off, and set out to become better, instead of going into denial or wallowing in pity. Even when he couldn't surpass Kirby in power, Kirby grew on him anyway. Dedede learned how good it felt to be kind and make friends and care for his subjects, and all those lessons actually stuck with him from game to game! He's the definition of "Rough on the outside, but has a heart of gold." I love how unashamed the Kirby series is of having genuinely kind characters like this. Few series are willing to be this cheesy, or if they are, they can't bare it without at least cracking some jokes about how cheesy it is (which is fun too, don't get me wrong). But Dedede really went from "self-proclaimed" to "self-made" King... There aren't a lot of Kings I respect in fiction, but he's one of em.

[@bryantran3488]

19:25 the fact that he doesnt flinch against someone like bowser is hard as hell

[@BolasMinion]

You actually brought me to tears repeatedly with your narration and music choice in this video. You get a hearty "Well done!" from me!

[@ToxicCandy116]

I’ve watched many video essays over the years, but this has gotta be one of my favorites. Well done

[@EduSolsa]

Every video from Kirby series is a delight to watch

[@meep_171]

*WE STAN DEDEDE IN THIS HOUSEHOLD*

[@drxtale9446]

From a tyrant Monarch of Mt. Dedede. To the Kind King of dreamland, while still the fancy munchy king he was since dreamland. Triple D see’s his loyal subjects important. And see’s Kirby just ether rival or buddy, getting him outta tough trouble. I just love the pompous penguin. And he’ll be my favorite forever.

[@godzillainhellgoji5299]

I have to admit the part of 22:08 is just perfect like King dedede himself

[@AChristianGamer19]

This guy gets it, for once, someone gets how to understand. And without any rambling, no filler jokes, all of his two videos I’ve watched display expert critical thinking skills. It’s rare to find someone with those qualities nowadays, and even more rare to find someone with them that are holding themselves and others to higher degree. I salute you sir.

[@firstwaddledee9182]

King Dedede has grown so much. I’m proud to be a part of his Waddle Dee army.

[@dr.darkcrow6784]

28:31 "We’re just Waddle Dees sir. We’re meant to be expendable." "Not to me."

[@theodoremcdonald9471]

I love that through this epic and surprisingly heartfelt saga he still never misses a chance to be a world class ham. I mean the guy chews the scenery more than his food

[@Tunstaar]

Dude I seriously love your Kirby vids, each one I’ve watched has made me a emotional to the point of shedding a tear, how you present each am every character and how you talk, aaaaa it’s just beautiful :D

[@Wobbmin]

11:17 Just so you know, Squeak Squad had different writers than usual, so take everything in that game with a grain of salt.

[@blueknightskeleton8424]

"Dedede is perfect." - Super Sm4sh Bros.

[@laraprisma6381]

I had a smile the whole video!! all of this is simply adorable!!

[@EstebanThrives]

Only true kings can get kings right. You dropped this 👑

[@amandaletcher1320]

I really like that dedede eventually redeemed himself after dreamland and lets face it excluding the retaleings and spin offs we usually have to fight him because either A he's possessed or brainwashed or B it was a horrible misunderstanding

[@susiehaltmann3342]

0:15 That intro is peak

[@BylethsBoba776]

God tier character study this was fantastic

[@ayo.2022]

Really hope this video blows up, it would be nice for more people to see the King of Dreamland as he really is and accept that he isn't the same greedy tyrant that he was decades ago. (Side note but you'd really think that Dedede being kind towards Kirby and a troll at worst towards the Kongs in Smash would show people his more friendly and playful side, but they probably thought those as one-off situations unfortunately)

[@blessedcanvas5321]

Squeak Squad is like that weird filler arc that had some characters that the fans really liked so they made them canon.

[@kirbyfreakyt4695]

Seriously though, admit it, Dedede has grown more than Vegeta

[@Cookie_Magika]

My headcanon is that spring breeze is a parody play made by both Kirby and 3D. Short, sweet and retells how they met. Something fun to tell everyone after he redeemed himself

[@doritoarts9878]

dedede looks like he gives the BEST hugs.

[@Silent_Mask]

I can listen to someone talk about my favorite character from my favorite series for hours