We have translated the third and final part of Famitsu's exclusive interview with Kingdom Hearts III director Tetsuya Nomura!
In the previous parts, which you can read here and here, he talked about many interesting aspects of the game, including the requirements for unlocking the secret movie, the power of awakening, how he wrote the scenario (including dialogue) of the game himself, and the new Instagram-like social media present in-game that Sora and Riku can post on with their Gummiphones.
In this part of the interview, Nomura talks about how he would rather publish a free DLC with extra content all at once rather than in an episodic, divided style, and how he'd like to give priority to the next title rather than DLC. He also commented on the game's leak earlier in December, shedding some light on the number of copies of the game actually leaked and how this unfortunate event has led him to reconsider simultaneous/near-simultaneous worldwide releases for his next title.
You can read the translations below, thanks to KH13 Staff @Mio-chan and Solis!
See all the pictures published with this interview in the gallery below!
Follow our master coverage of Kingdom Hearts III here and on social media!
Recent articles:
- Kingdom Hearts III releases in Japan
- Worldwide reviews for Kingdom Hearts III published - Tetsuya Nomura discusses the power of awakening, Roxas, and secret ending requirements in Kingdom Hearts III - Tetsuya Nomura discusses writing the scenario (including dialogue) for Kingdom Hearts III and the game's own Instagram-like social network
Famitsu published an exclusive interview with Kingdom Hearts III director Tetsuya Nomura just hours before the game's release in Japan. In the first part of the interview (you can read the translations here), Nomura talkes about the power of awakening, why Sora is tryign to resurrect Roxas, and that the epilogue and secret movie in Kingdom Hearts III will give hints towards the series' future. He also talked about the requirements for unlocking the secret movie in Kingdom Hearts III for various difficulty levels.
We now have translations to the second part of the interview. Here, Nomura talked about changing specific game settings to adjust to the level of challenge, and revealed that he has written the scenario (including dialogue) in Kingdom Hearts III, and that he has been doing so since Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days!
Kingdom Hearts III also seems to have its own in-game social network, resembling Instagram, with its own design, patters, and hashtag symbol. Both Sora and Riku can uses this social network to upload photos taken with their Gummiphones and make updates throughout their journey.
You can read this part of the interview below, thanks to proofreading by KH13 translators Mio-chan and Solis! The rest of the interview will be published very soon.
UPDATE [Jan 25, 2019]: We have published our final part of the interview! Read it here.
Follow our master coverage of Kingdom Hearts III here and on social media!
Recent articles:
- Kingdom Hearts III releases in Japan
- Worldwide reviews for Kingdom Hearts III published - Tetsuya Nomura discusses the power of awakening, Roxas, and secret ending requirements in Kingdom Hearts III - Tetsuya Nomura discusses writing the scenario (including dialogue) for Kingdom Hearts III and the game's own Instagram-like social network
GoodSmile has revealed an upcoming Kingdom Hearts nendoroid, Kingdom Hearts II King Mickey! Nendoroid King Mickey is set to release in August 2019 for 4,630 yen ($42.12 USD)! The figure is approximately 100mm in height. King Mickey is available for preorder at the GoodSmile Online Shop. Preorders will be open from January 25th, 2019 (Friday) from 12:00JST until February 21st, 2019 (Thursday) at 12:00JST. See the figure in the gallery below!
Kingdom Hearts III has officially released in Japan! First reviews for the most anticipated Kingdom Hearts III have been published worldwide following the release!
Check out the list below to see different opinions and thoughts on the masterpiece. We will keep this list updated. KH13.com will also be posting our own review of Kingdom Hearts III, along with a video review coming very soon!
Critic
Excerpt
Score
Gamereactor
"Simply put, Kingdom Hearts III is a masterpiece."
100
PlayStation LifeStyle
(Editor's Choice) "I never once thought there was a way Square Enix could live up to the hype the company has built up for this game. But bravo, it has done it and then some."
100
Impulsegamer
"It’s a great use of the Disney characters and imagining of the locations that should entertain young and old… it does in our house."
98
XGN
"Magical from start to finish."
98
Famitsu
-
97.5 (39/40)
Hobby Consolas
"Its greatest achievement is that, despite the passage of time, it is still an experience that can only be described with one word: magic."
95
The Games Machine
"Kingdom Hearts 3 succeeds in the difficult task of being up to expectations, not distorting anything but raising to the nth degree the strengths of the previous chapters."
95
Game Informer
(Game of the Month) "A main attraction worth waiting for."
95
Easy Allies
"It may have a been a long time coming, but Kingdom Hearts III delivers on its promises, and it’s easily the best game in the series. "
95
Meristation
"An outstanding adventure that has come to remind us why Sora, Riku and Kairi ... and Donald, Goofy and Mickey Mouse, of course, are living videogame history."
91
3DJuegos
"Its extraordinary fusion of creative worlds reaches a new peak in the history of the franchise, giving rise to playable concepts that surprise from start to finish in a durable video game loaded with content."
90
US Gamer
"Kingdom Hearts 3 ushers a beloved series into a new generation, while wholeheartedly embracing its roots."
90
Atomix
"The wait for KH3 was very long, but believe me when I tell you that it was really worth it."
90
GamesBeat
"Excessive, yet satisfying."
90
IGN Italia
"A game that focuses on spectacularity, coming out head-on. Kingdom Hearts III is the worthy conclusion of a journey begun seventeen years ago."
90
IGN Germany
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is by far the best Disney game, a fun action RPG and the successful completion of the Xehanort saga. Those interested in just one of these three aspects will have fun with the third part of the crossover series."
90
IGN Spain
"It's magic."
90
Multiplayer.it
"It would have been absurd to drastically change a structure that, for better or for worse, has become iconic. So Tetsuya Nomura did not do it."
90
Press Start Australia
"With exhilarating combat, fantastic Disney worlds and a smart approach to an unavoidably convoluted story, it does everything it needs to not only please hardcore fans but anyone up for a solid action JRPG. Against all odds, this might be the perfect Kingdom Hearts game."
90
Vandal
"Kingdom Hearts ends an era with a fantastic game, spectacular, varied and, above all, very fun."
90
GamePro Germany
"A colorful firework of childhood memories, motivating role-playing mechanics, and spectacular boss fights."
90
Gameblog.fr
"A true homage to the fans of the saga, to whom it addresses itself above all, Kingdoms Hearts III retraces the end of Sora's journey through the exploration of new worlds, more beautiful and vast than in the past, with a strong respect for the Disney worlds from which it is inspired. "
90
Trusted Reviews
"Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a hesitant newcomer, there is an undeniable charm to Kingdom Hearts 3 that’s easy to fall in love with."
90
PushSquare
"The fact that Kingdom Hearts III even managed to release could be considered a miracle in of itself, but what’s perhaps even more surprising is that the finished product defies all expectations."
90
Twinfinite
"It’s an unerring tribute to everything Disney and what the Kingdom Hearts series has become, and despite its few flaws creates an interesting blueprint for where the series could go next with gameplay and story."
90
Shacknews
"Kingdom Hearts III is an absolute triumph, conquering the darkness that plagued the series' past and standing firmly in the light."
90
Worth Playing
"Kingdom Hearts III is exactly the sequel it should be."
90
Hardcore Gamer
"From combat to story to graphics, Kingdom Hearts III delivers the magic, gut-punches and grandeur the series is known for."
90
Game Revolution
"When the credits finish rolling, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that you’ve played a game like no other."
90
Digital Trends
"Kingdom Hearts III plays similarly to its PS2 predecessors while bringing new elements to the gameplay that make it feel incredibly modern."
90
Power Unlimited
"If you have warm feelings for Disney characters and worlds, this is perhaps the best game ever, but even if you do not feel anything for Disney, it is actually mandatory."
90
LevelUp
"Undoubtedly, Kingdom Hearts III is a satisfying chapter in one of the most beloved sagas by fans of the action JRPGs."
88
4Players.de
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is more than the sum of its items, more than a franchise mix of Disney and Square characters. Despite small weaknesses, it is an experience that leads me through a wide range of emotions and will establish itself as one of the most outstanding action-adventure of the year."
88
IGN
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is a fulfilling evolution and resolution of the franchise that shows it’s still full of heart."
87
App Trigger
"Though the plot is a little too reliant on side entries and remembering almost everything in the series, Kingdom Hearts III is a welcome return of the Disney action-RPG epic and the best game in the series to date, making you really want to see the next chapter in the series as soon as possible."
85
Gamer.ni
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is far from perfect, but it is everything the fans hoped for."
85
GameCrate
"Kingdom Hearts III is too much game for its own good."
85
SpazioGames
"Kingdom Hearts III is technically excellent, aesthetically bewitching and in some moments manages to shine and sweep away any limitations it might have."
80
GamesRadar+
"I'm not sure how I lived without its Mickey Mouse shaped madness in my life."
80
GameSpot
"In 2002, as Sora, I left Destiny Islands to travel across the universe and make new friends. In 2019 I brought old ones home, and I had so much fun doing it."
80
Eurogamer Italy
"Congestions aside, the combat system is one of the best in the saga for variety and dynamics, and there is no shortage of battles that will challenge the most experienced players."
80
FANDOM
"This magical finale overcomes its storytelling flaws."
80
Game Rant
"You may find yourself googling character names and plot details from 15 years ago, but all of that confusion fades away when you get lost in the moment summoning tea cups or a giant rollercoaster to help attack a big boss with your best friends."
80
ScreenRant
"A sprawling, varied game that is all the better for its wild, confusing moments."
80
Destructoid
"Despite all of the absurd twists and turns, the character missteps and the complete lack of some series-defining cast members, there are very few creations out there that make me smile this often."
80
PlayStation Universe
"Kingdom Hearts 3 has everything a title could want: iconic characters, enthralling and accessible gameplay, and a story that just won’t quit."
80
CGMagazine
"Kingdom Hearts III is the biggest, boldest, flashiest entry in the saga—one that builds upon the gameplay systems of its forebears in a kaleidoscopic carnival of action RPG jubilance."
80
JeuxActu
"Backed up by a enjoyable battle system and a genuine love for the animation films it has adapted, Tetsuya Nomura’s work takes on the big boys and we cannot not suggest it to you."
80
GameSpace
"If you embrace that it’s all nonsense to serve you up a delightful nostalgic romp through some of the greatest and most beloved family films, you’re not going to be disappointed."
80
The Digital Fix
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is a great game that parades itself around in a plethora of showy and colourful clothing and just asks you to watch."
80
Cultured Vultures
"While the game does come with some problems with its plot and big empty worlds, I wouldn’t call them deal breakers, as whatever they lacked for they made up for with energy and, no pun intended, heart."
80
Jeuxvideos.com
"Despite its shortcomings, Kingdom Hearts III remains a very good experience which distils its world brilliantly."
80
Gamers Heroes
"Newcomers to the series will be baffled by the complexity and bizarre nature of Kingdom Hearts III’s story. Despite this, if you like good combat and want to visit Disney World, you can do far worse than this title."
80
EGM
"Is it a game that lives up to a decade of hype, though? Perhaps not. But maybe no game could."
75
God is a Geek
"It may have been challenging at times, and the final flourish of boss fights nearly killed me, but I did enjoy playing the concluding game in Sora’s journey to vanquish evil once and for all."
75
The Guardian
"Kingdom Hearts III plays it extremely safe, ultimately banking on nostalgia and delivering more of the same. Its charm is only skin-deep."
60
VideoGamer
"Kingdom Hearts III is a beautiful hunk of sugary writing, convoluted plotting, and repetitive combat with a reliance on beloved IP that exposes its shallow core."
40
Game Watch
-
N/A
Eurogamer
"A grand finale that's both torturous and sublime."
N/A
Kotaku
"Wow, they filled this game with stuff."
N/A
The Verge
"Maybe this is actually the ideal way to play: you’re going to be confused no matter what, so you might as well embrace it."
N/A
Mashable
"I love the idea of this game being able to float me back into a time where I could cheer for Mickey Mouse without feeling silly and cry because Naminé was lonely. That feeling alone is worth the box price on Kingdom Hearts III."
N/A
Waypoint
"Kingdom Hearts III is an absolute disaster. I loved every minute of it."
N/A
The A.V. Club
"Kingdom Hearts III is a cheerful celebration of Disney’s inescapable cultural monopoly."
N/A
Jimquisition
"Yes, it’s more total nonsense from a story perspective. As a game? Well, it’s a ton of bloody fun, because it’s a very good game!"
N/A
Polygon
"After years of buildup, the story’s conclusion fails to do it justice."
N/A
You can also keep updated on the latest review on Metacritic by clicking here. Currently, the aggregated critic score on Metacritic is 85/100.
UPDATE [Jan 25, 2019]: The Japanese publications Famitsu and Game Watch have been added to the table with their reviews of the game. The official Kingdom Hearts Facebook page has also posted an image showing the top 5 reviews for the game, you can view the image below!
Kingdom Hearts III will be available on January 29 worldwide. Be sure to follow our coverage of the release of Kingdom Hearts III!
UPDATE [Jan 31, 2019]: Even more reviews for Kingdom Hearts III have been released! We have updated the list in the table above, as well as updated Metacritic's aggregated score for the game.
UPDATE [February 7, 2019]: Famitsu have published their review of Kingdom Hearts III, giving it a score of 39/40!
Recent articles: - Kingdom Hearts III has released in Japan - Kingdom Hearts III Gameplay Overview video has been uploaded - Famitsu interviews Tetsuya Nomura before Kingdom Hearts III's release, discussing the game's story and secret ending requirements
A new Kingdom Hearts III video has been uploaded to the official Kingdom Hearts Youtube channel detailing the gameplay of the game from Keyblades to Gummi ships. You can watch the video below.
A synopsis has also been posted on the press site. You can read it below.
Kingdom Hearts III is available now in Japan and will be available January 29th worldwide.
Will you be ready for what lies ahead? Let us know in the comments and be sure to follow our coverage of the release of Kingdom Hearts III!
Recent articles:
- Kingdom Hearts III has released in Japan
- Worldwide reviews of Kingdom Hearts III are being published - Nomura discusses conditions to unlock Kingdom Hearts III's Epilogue and Secret Movie
Kingdom Hearts III is now officially available in Japan!
Director Tetsuya Nomura has tweeted a message in regards to the release, thanking fans for following the countdown and wishing they enjoy the new adventure with Sora. With this, he also stated that a new video edit of all the pervious countdown videos is now available. You can read a translation of his message below.
Here is the video:
For those purchasing the digital version, remember to install the patches for Update 1.01 and the Memory Archive today, as well as claim any DLC Keyblades you're owed! From January 26 at midnight JST, provided you have completed the game, you can also download and view the Epilogue video. From January 31 at 7:00 PM JST, you can start to unlock the Secret Ending.
The wait for Kingdom Hearts III's global release on January 29 is merely a few days starting now. Will you be acquiring the Japanese version of the game now or are you waiting it out?
Stay tuned for more info and the international release! Follow our coverage of Kingdom Hearts III here and on social media!
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KH13.com's spoiler policy on Kingdom Hearts III will be in effect from now until March 31, 2019.
Our news coverage will include reports on officially released information (press releases, interviews, etc.); after Kingdom Hearts III's global release, we will report on basic game content such as the opening cinematics, artbook, trophy list, etc. while being mindful of spoilers on our website (via spoiler boxes/warnings) and on social media.
As a member of the KH13.com forums, your avatars, cover photos, statuses, and thread titles must not contain spoilers. You are allowed to discuss spoilers freely in the KH3 Spoilers subforum. For more guidelines, including a guide to using spoiler tags, read our spoiler policy here.
KH13.com’s Discord has its own rules and appropriate channels to avoid/discuss spoilers. Read the rules on the #announcements channel for more information!
We would lastly like to say to fans avoiding spoilers to be extra careful on social media, especially comment sections. Thumbnails, titles, autoplay, recommended videos, and comments on Youtube can be especially dangerous and full of spoilers.
Kingdom Hearts III director Tetsuya Nomura took part in an exclusive interview with Famitsu, just before the release of the game! This interview is quite lengthy, so we're separating it into multiple articles to make it easier to digest.
In the first segment, the game's story was discussed, as well as the game's secret ending requirements, which we've separated into a spoiler tag. Some new screenshots also accompanied this publication. You can read a translation of the interview below.
Translations are courtesy of KH13 staff member Mio-chan! As stated above, we will continue to publish more of this lengthy interview as soon as we can!
Kingdom Hearts III will release in Japan in less than an hour, on January 25. The game will release worldwide next Tuesday, on January 29! Stay tuned for more info and the international release!
Follow our coverage of Kingdom Hearts III here and on social media!
Recent articles: - Kingdom Hearts III releases in Japan
- Worldwide reviews for Kingdom Hearts III published - Tetsuya Nomura discusses the power of awakening, Roxas, and secret ending requirements in Kingdom Hearts III - Tetsuya Nomura discusses writing the scenario (including dialogue) for Kingdom Hearts III and the game's own Instagram-like social network
Welcome to KH13’s coverage for Kingdom Hearts III! This will be the home and central hub to locate many resources leading up to and beyond the release of the game, as well as an area to view other exciting content like guides and reviews. Whether you're an old fan of the series or just have recently gained an interest in it, we've got you covered!
Follow our social media coverage on Twitter, Facebook, and Tumblr, and join our Discord to discuss the latest news!
Here’s how you can participate in our community upon Kingdom Hearts III’s release!
Kingdom Hearts III will release on January 25 in Japan and January 29 to the rest of the world.
Spoiler Policy
After the release of Kingdom Hearts III worldwide, we will continue to report on officially released information (press releases, interviews, etc.) and content such as the opening themes, cinematics, artbook, trophy list, etc. while being mindful of spoilers on our website (via spoiler boxes/warnings) and social media. We won't openly discuss spoilers until March 31, 2019.
For our spoiler policy regarding forum and website guidelines, click here.
Kingdom Hearts III Final Battle Trailer
Kingdom Hearts III Launch Commercial
Click here for more Kingdom Hearts III trailers!
Post-Launch News Updates
- Kingdom Hearts III has officially released in Japan
- Kingdom Hearts III voted 2018 Most Anticipated Game by PlayStation Blog
- Kingdom Hearts III Update 1.01 now available to download on PlayStation 4
- Kingdom Hearts III is trending on Twitter and Twitch
- Kingdom Hearts III releases worldwide along with Update 1.02; Launch Day! and Launch Commercial videos released
- Kingdom Hearts Snapchat crown filter available for limited time - KH13.com's Raxaimus unboxes the new Kingdom Hearts III Deluxe Edition + Bring Arts figures, as well as the limited edition Kingdom Hearts III PlayStation 4 Pro
- Tetsuya Nomura has left a message for fans in the Kingdom Hearts III artbook
- Kingdom Hearts III sold over 600,000 physical copies in the first three days in Japan
- Kingdom Hearts III Update 1.03 comprising Secret Movie is now available for download
- Kingdom Hearts III ships 5 million copies worldwide
- Kingdom Hearts III tops Japan's video game sales ranking for the second consecutive week with more than 700,000 copies sold; tops worldwide charts as well
- "A Look at Kingdom Hearts III As Told by Emoji video" has been uploaded by Disney
- Kingdom Hearts III’s development team has shared what it was like working with Disney and Pixar
- A watermark from a Maya rendering engine has been accidentally left in one frame of a cutscene in Kingdom Hearts III
Pre-Launch Kingdom Hearts III News Highlights
- Development of Kingdom Hearts III has concluded
- KH3 Launch Party by Game Realms in Burbank, CA on February 2nd, 2019
- Kingdom Hearts III Ultimania releasing on February 28, 2019
- Kingdom Hearts III Vol. 1 Re:Start novel to release March 28, 2019 - Kingdom Hearts III launch campaign at Square Enix Cafe Osaka and Tokyo and ARTNIA starting February - Kingdom Hearts Orchestra -World of Tres- worldwide tour announced for 2019 - More on the power of awakening, Roxas's resurrection, and Kingdom Hearts III's secret ending requirement (interview with Tetsuya Nomura)
- Tetsuya Nomura discusses writing the scenario (including dialogue) for Kingdom Hearts III and the game's own Instagram-like social network
- Tetsuya Nomura on free and inclusive DLC for Kingdom Hearts III, prioritizing the next title, and rethinking simultaneous worldwide releases after leaks
Click here for more Kingdom Hearts III news!
Kingdom Hearts III Reviews
KH13's Kingdom Hearts III review: "It is definitely a masterpiece"
KH13's video review (full, spoiler-free discussion:
Metacritic's current aggregated critic review: 85/100
Critic
Excerpt
Score
Gamereactor
"Simply put, Kingdom Hearts III is a masterpiece."
100
PlayStation LifeStyle
(Editor's Choice) "I never once thought there was a way Square Enix could live up to the hype the company has built up for this game. But bravo, it has done it and then some."
100
Impulsegamer
"It’s a great use of the Disney characters and imagining of the locations that should entertain young and old… it does in our house."
98
XGN
"Magical from start to finish."
98
Famitsu
-
97.5 (39/40)
Hobby Consolas
"Its greatest achievement is that, despite the passage of time, it is still an experience that can only be described with one word: magic."
95
The Games Machine
"Kingdom Hearts 3 succeeds in the difficult task of being up to expectations, not distorting anything but raising to the nth degree the strengths of the previous chapters."
95
Game Informer
(Game of the Month) "A main attraction worth waiting for."
95
Easy Allies
"It may have a been a long time coming, but Kingdom Hearts III delivers on its promises, and it’s easily the best game in the series. "
95
Meristation
"An outstanding adventure that has come to remind us why Sora, Riku and Kairi ... and Donald, Goofy and Mickey Mouse, of course, are living videogame history."
91
3DJuegos
"Its extraordinary fusion of creative worlds reaches a new peak in the history of the franchise, giving rise to playable concepts that surprise from start to finish in a durable video game loaded with content."
90
US Gamer
"Kingdom Hearts 3 ushers a beloved series into a new generation, while wholeheartedly embracing its roots."
90
Atomix
"The wait for KH3 was very long, but believe me when I tell you that it was really worth it."
90
GamesBeat
"Excessive, yet satisfying."
90
IGN Italia
"A game that focuses on spectacularity, coming out head-on. Kingdom Hearts III is the worthy conclusion of a journey begun seventeen years ago."
90
IGN Germany
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is by far the best Disney game, a fun action RPG and the successful completion of the Xehanort saga. Those interested in just one of these three aspects will have fun with the third part of the crossover series."
90
IGN Spain
"It's magic."
90
Multiplayer.it
"It would have been absurd to drastically change a structure that, for better or for worse, has become iconic. So Tetsuya Nomura did not do it."
90
Press Start Australia
"With exhilarating combat, fantastic Disney worlds and a smart approach to an unavoidably convoluted story, it does everything it needs to not only please hardcore fans but anyone up for a solid action JRPG. Against all odds, this might be the perfect Kingdom Hearts game."
90
Vandal
"Kingdom Hearts ends an era with a fantastic game, spectacular, varied and, above all, very fun."
90
GamePro Germany
"A colorful firework of childhood memories, motivating role-playing mechanics, and spectacular boss fights."
90
Gameblog.fr
"A true homage to the fans of the saga, to whom it addresses itself above all, Kingdoms Hearts III retraces the end of Sora's journey through the exploration of new worlds, more beautiful and vast than in the past, with a strong respect for the Disney worlds from which it is inspired. "
90
Trusted Reviews
"Whether you’re a hardcore fan or a hesitant newcomer, there is an undeniable charm to Kingdom Hearts 3 that’s easy to fall in love with."
90
PushSquare
"The fact that Kingdom Hearts III even managed to release could be considered a miracle in of itself, but what’s perhaps even more surprising is that the finished product defies all expectations."
90
Twinfinite
"It’s an unerring tribute to everything Disney and what the Kingdom Hearts series has become, and despite its few flaws creates an interesting blueprint for where the series could go next with gameplay and story."
90
Shacknews
"Kingdom Hearts III is an absolute triumph, conquering the darkness that plagued the series' past and standing firmly in the light."
90
Worth Playing
"Kingdom Hearts III is exactly the sequel it should be."
90
Hardcore Gamer
"From combat to story to graphics, Kingdom Hearts III delivers the magic, gut-punches and grandeur the series is known for."
90
Game Revolution
"When the credits finish rolling, you’ll be safe in the knowledge that you’ve played a game like no other."
90
Digital Trends
"Kingdom Hearts III plays similarly to its PS2 predecessors while bringing new elements to the gameplay that make it feel incredibly modern."
90
Power Unlimited
"If you have warm feelings for Disney characters and worlds, this is perhaps the best game ever, but even if you do not feel anything for Disney, it is actually mandatory."
90
LevelUp
"Undoubtedly, Kingdom Hearts III is a satisfying chapter in one of the most beloved sagas by fans of the action JRPGs."
88
4Players.de
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is more than the sum of its items, more than a franchise mix of Disney and Square characters. Despite small weaknesses, it is an experience that leads me through a wide range of emotions and will establish itself as one of the most outstanding action-adventure of the year."
88
IGN
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is a fulfilling evolution and resolution of the franchise that shows it’s still full of heart."
87
App Trigger
"Though the plot is a little too reliant on side entries and remembering almost everything in the series, Kingdom Hearts III is a welcome return of the Disney action-RPG epic and the best game in the series to date, making you really want to see the next chapter in the series as soon as possible."
85
Gamer.ni
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is far from perfect, but it is everything the fans hoped for."
85
GameCrate
"Kingdom Hearts III is too much game for its own good."
85
SpazioGames
"Kingdom Hearts III is technically excellent, aesthetically bewitching and in some moments manages to shine and sweep away any limitations it might have."
80
GamesRadar+
"I'm not sure how I lived without its Mickey Mouse shaped madness in my life."
80
GameSpot
"In 2002, as Sora, I left Destiny Islands to travel across the universe and make new friends. In 2019 I brought old ones home, and I had so much fun doing it."
80
Eurogamer Italy
"Congestions aside, the combat system is one of the best in the saga for variety and dynamics, and there is no shortage of battles that will challenge the most experienced players."
80
FANDOM
"This magical finale overcomes its storytelling flaws."
80
Game Rant
"You may find yourself googling character names and plot details from 15 years ago, but all of that confusion fades away when you get lost in the moment summoning tea cups or a giant rollercoaster to help attack a big boss with your best friends."
80
ScreenRant
"A sprawling, varied game that is all the better for its wild, confusing moments."
80
Destructoid
"Despite all of the absurd twists and turns, the character missteps and the complete lack of some series-defining cast members, there are very few creations out there that make me smile this often."
80
PlayStation Universe
"Kingdom Hearts 3 has everything a title could want: iconic characters, enthralling and accessible gameplay, and a story that just won’t quit."
80
CGMagazine
"Kingdom Hearts III is the biggest, boldest, flashiest entry in the saga—one that builds upon the gameplay systems of its forebears in a kaleidoscopic carnival of action RPG jubilance."
80
JeuxActu
"Backed up by a enjoyable battle system and a genuine love for the animation films it has adapted, Tetsuya Nomura’s work takes on the big boys and we cannot not suggest it to you."
80
GameSpace
"If you embrace that it’s all nonsense to serve you up a delightful nostalgic romp through some of the greatest and most beloved family films, you’re not going to be disappointed."
80
The Digital Fix
"Kingdom Hearts 3 is a great game that parades itself around in a plethora of showy and colourful clothing and just asks you to watch."
80
Cultured Vultures
"While the game does come with some problems with its plot and big empty worlds, I wouldn’t call them deal breakers, as whatever they lacked for they made up for with energy and, no pun intended, heart."
80
Jeuxvideos.com
"Despite its shortcomings, Kingdom Hearts III remains a very good experience which distils its world brilliantly."
80
Gamers Heroes
"Newcomers to the series will be baffled by the complexity and bizarre nature of Kingdom Hearts III’s story. Despite this, if you like good combat and want to visit Disney World, you can do far worse than this title."
80
EGM
"Is it a game that lives up to a decade of hype, though? Perhaps not. But maybe no game could."
75
God is a Geek
"It may have been challenging at times, and the final flourish of boss fights nearly killed me, but I did enjoy playing the concluding game in Sora’s journey to vanquish evil once and for all."
75
The Guardian
"Kingdom Hearts III plays it extremely safe, ultimately banking on nostalgia and delivering more of the same. Its charm is only skin-deep."
60
VideoGamer
"Kingdom Hearts III is a beautiful hunk of sugary writing, convoluted plotting, and repetitive combat with a reliance on beloved IP that exposes its shallow core."
40
Game Watch
-
N/A
Eurogamer
"A grand finale that's both torturous and sublime."
N/A
Kotaku
"Wow, they filled this game with stuff."
N/A
The Verge
"Maybe this is actually the ideal way to play: you’re going to be confused no matter what, so you might as well embrace it."
N/A
Mashable
"I love the idea of this game being able to float me back into a time where I could cheer for Mickey Mouse without feeling silly and cry because Naminé was lonely. That feeling alone is worth the box price on Kingdom Hearts III."
N/A
Waypoint
"Kingdom Hearts III is an absolute disaster. I loved every minute of it."
N/A
The A.V. Club
"Kingdom Hearts III is a cheerful celebration of Disney’s inescapable cultural monopoly."
N/A
Jimquisition
"Yes, it’s more total nonsense from a story perspective. As a game? Well, it’s a ton of bloody fun, because it’s a very good game!"
N/A
Polygon
"After years of buildup, the story’s conclusion fails to do it justice."
N/A
Resources
KH13 Datascape: Gallery, Videos, Wikis, and more!
KH3 Renders & Screenshots
Interviews
Retrospective Documentaries
Kingdom Hearts Timeline series
Kingdom Hearts Games
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX includes the following titles (in the order they were released originally):
- Kingdom Hearts Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (movie)
- Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts Re:coded (movie)
Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue includes the following titles (in the order they were released originally):
- Kingdom Hearts HD Dream Drop Distance
- Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A fragmentary passage-
- Kingdom Hearts χ Back Cover
Kingdom Hearts Union χ[Cross] is an ongoing mobile game.
Kingdom Hearts Recap Videos
Square Enix have published five short episodes to recap the Kingdom Hearts series for Kingdom Hearts III!
Episode 1: Departure
Episode 2: Memories
Episode 3: Twilight
Episode 4: Dawn
Episode 5: Darkness
Kingdom Hearts III Characters
More characters include various Disney (and Pixar) protagonist and returning characters from the series!
Click here for information on more characters from the series!
Kingdom Hearts III Worlds
More worlds (playable/non-playable) include Radiant Garden, Disney Castle, Destiny Islands, Yen Sid's Tower, Castle Oblivion/Land of Departure, and Dark World!
Kingdom Hearts III Gameplay
Keyblade transformations: There are many different weapons that each Keyblade can transform into to give even more variety to the gameplay. You can also equip up to 3 Keyblades and switch between them in battle.
Magic: Use a range of spells for offense and defense, as well as to manipulate your environement, for example, by creating ice slides.
Gummi Ships: Used to travel between worlds. There are many different Gummi blocks to collect and use to design and empower your own Gummi Ship.
Links: Summon friends from other worlds to use their powers in battle.
Attractions: Disney theme park rides can be summoned to deal powerful blows to the enemy.
Team Attacks: You can play with up to 5 party members; companions can collaborate with Sora to deliver powerful attacks.
Mini-games: A range of mini-games can be played in each world.
Classic Kingdom: A special set of over 20 LCD-type mini-games that Sora can play on his Gummi Phone.
Selfies: Sora can also use his Gummi Phone to take selfies!
Today marks the final day on Kingdom Hearts III's countdown! Each day until January 25, director Tetsuya Nomura is making an announcement. Today, he announced that Kingdom Hearts III will be featured in a full spread advertisement in the Yomiuri Shimbun National edition of the morning newspaper as well as reminding fans that the Kingdom Hearts χ The Tale of You and the Keyblade goes on sale tomorrow.
The animated short was San Fransokyo themed today, showing Baymax and played the battle theme from the world as the battle music. You can video the video below!
UPDATE [Jan 25, 2019]: Here is the two page full spread advertisement shown off in the Yumiuri Shimbun by Nomura!
GAME UK will have a midnight release for Kingdom Hearts III! The launch will take place at the Stratford branch in London. The first 200 people will also receive a free goodie bag!
The launch seems to be sponsored by Square Enix.
Various GameStop branches in the United States have confirmed to inquiring customers that they will be having a 9PM (local time) release for the game. The main EBGames branch in Melbourne, Australia, will have a midnight release. Gamers Hideout branches in Malaysia will also hold a midnight release, during which they will host activities such as cosplay photo session & giveaway and photo op with Kingdom Hearts props.
Inquire at your local store to find out whether they will have an early or a midnight release for the game!
Kingdom Hearts III will release in Japan on January 25, and worldwide on January 29, 2019.
![Kingdom Hearts Union χ[Cross]](https://www.khwiki.com/images/9/93/Kingdom_Hearts_Union_X_Logo_KHUX.png){kind=logo}
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