On release, the four reviewers of "Electronic Gaming Monthly" applauded "Kirby's Block Ball" for modifying the "Breakout" formula to create a new and enjoyable game. They especially praised the unique power-ups, though Crispin Boyer and Sushi X also felt the game was too short and easy. It was later a runner up for their Hand-Held Game of the Year (behind "Tetris Attack"). "Nintendo Power" said they enjoyed "Block Ball" and its number of stages, but wondered how its eight megabits of memory were being used. The magazine found the parts where Kirby eats the unbreakable blocks to be innovative. All six of the magazine's reviewers recommended the game.