Kingdom Hearts (series)

nihongo|"Kingdom Hearts"|キングダムハーツ|Kingudamu Hātsu is a series of action role-playing games developed and published by Square Enix (formerly Square). It is the result of a collaboration between Square and Disney Interactive Studios and is under the direction of Tetsuya Nomura, a longtime Square character designer. "Kingdom Hearts" is a crossover of various Disney settings based in a universe made specifically for the series. In addition, it has an all-star voice cast which includes many of the Disney characters' official voice actors. Characters from Square Enix's "Final Fantasy" series make appearances and interact with the player and Disney characters. The series centers around the main character Sora's search for his friends and his encounters with Disney and "Final Fantasy" characters on their worlds.

The "Kingdom Hearts" series currently consists of four games across different video game platforms, and future titles are planned. Most of the games in the series have been both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, though each installment has seen varying levels of success. As of September 2008, the "Kingdom Hearts" series has shipped over 12.0 million copies worldwide, with 2.0 million copies in PAL regions, 3.0 million copies in Japan, and 5.6 million copies in North America.cite web| url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6179212.html?sid=6179212 | title=TGS '07: Three new Kingdom Hearts games coming | author=Boyes, Emma | publisher=GameSpot | accessdate=2008-02-14 | date=2007-09-20] cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6165399&om_act=convert&om_clk=gsupdates&tag=updates;title;1| title = "Kingdom Hearts" Series Ships over 10 Million Worldwide| author = Square EA| publisher = GameSpot| accessdate=2007-05-13 | date=2007-02-05] cite web| url = http://www.watch.impress.co.jp/game/docs/20070105/khfm.htm| title = スクウェア・エニックス、イベントなど追加「Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+」「キングダム ハーツ」 シリーズ累計出荷本数1,000万本達成| publisher = Game Watch| language = Japanese| accessdate = 2007-03-11] There have been several types of merchandise released along with the games, such as soundtracks, figurines, and companion books. In addition, the series has been adapted into a manga series and novels.

Overview

Common gameplay elements

The "Kingdom Hearts" series games contain elements from both action and role-playing games. The games are driven by a linear progression from one story event to the next, usually shown in the form of a cut scene, though there are numerous side quests available that provide bonus benefits to the characters. The player primarily controls of the principal protagonist of the series, Sora. Sora is usually accompanied by Donald Duck and Goofy, who are non-playable characters that aid Sora in battle. In the first and third game, their behavior could be altered to suit different combat objectives. The games feature real-time combat that incorporates physical attacks, magic, and summonings; though each game handled battles differently.

Gummi Ships are another common theme in the series, though they are only featured in the first and third installment. The Gummi Ships serve as the main mode of transportation between worlds in the games. The gameplay for the Gummi Ships sections is more akin to a rail shooter. Because it received negative criticism in the first game, it was improved in the third installment.cite web| url = http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/1UP-2| title = 1UP - E3 2005 Interview| publisher = Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate = 2007-08-31] All three games also feature a journal which is accessible from the main menu. The journal keeps track of information regarding the story, characters, enemies, and locations. In the game, the journal is kept by Jiminy Cricket, who was appointed by Queen Minnie as the royal chronicler. [Minnie: Oh, and to chronicle your travels, he will accompany you. / Jiminy: Over here! Cricket’s the name. Jiminy Cricket, at your service. cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2]

The games are influenced by their parent franchise, "Final Fantasy", [Citation |date= July 2007|title= Tetsuya Nomura Interview|periodical= Edge|publisher= Future Publishing|volume= |issue= 177|pages= 80-81|id= |url= |accessdate= 2007-09-28 |quote= ] and carry its gameplay elements over into their own action-based, hack-and-slash system. Like many traditional role-playing games, "Kingdom Hearts" features an experience point system which determines character development. As enemies are defeated, the player gains experience which culminate in a "level-up", where the characters grow stronger and gain access to new abilities.cite book | author = Square | year = 2002 | title = "Kingdom Hearts" Instruction Booklet | publisher = Square] The amount of experience is shared with all party members and each character grows stronger as experience is gained.cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/review.html| publisher = GameSpot| title = "Kingdom Hearts" for PlayStation 2 Review| author = Greg Kasavin| date = 2002-09-09| accessdate = 2007-05-13]

Disney and "Final Fantasy" characters

"Kingdom Hearts" features a mixture of familiar Disney and "Final Fantasy" characters, as well as several new characters designed and created by Nomura.cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6089696| publisher = GameSpot| title = Kingdom Hearts Company Line| accessdate=2007-05-13] Though the series features locations unique to the "Kingdom Hearts" franchise, worlds from Disney films are heavily explored. Sora must visit these worlds and interact with popular Disney characters to protect them from enemies. Often, Sora's actions in these worlds follow closely to the storylines featured in their accompanying Disney films. The main characters try not to interfere with the affairs of other worlds, as it could negatively affect the universe's order. [Donald: But we can’t. If we take him to another world, we would be... / Goofy: Muh... Mudd-- / Donald: Meddling! cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2] [Kingdom Hearts manga, Volume 1. Page 99. Tokyopop.] Moogles, small creatures from "Final Fantasy", are another common element in the games. They provide the player with a synthesis shop in order to create items for use in the game.

tory

The three main games in the "Kingdom Hearts" series focus on the adventures of Sora and his search for his friends, Kairi and Riku. The first game shows how Sora is separated from his friends when their world is invaded by an army of corrupted hearts known as the Heartless. During the invasion, he obtains a special weapon known as a Keyblade. Soon after, Sora meets Donald Duck, the Disney Castle court magician, and Goofy, the Disney Castle captain of the royal guard.cite web| url = http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/kingdom-hearts/540394p1.html| title = Kingdom Hearts Review (PS2)| author=Turner, Benjamin | date=September 3, 2002 | publisher = GameSpy| accessdate=2007-07-05] Donald and Goofy are searching for the "key" per instructions from King Mickey.King Mickey's Note: Donald, Sorry to rush off without sayin’ goodbye, but there’s big trouble brewin’. Not sure why, but the stars have been blinkin’ out, one by one. And that means disaster can’t be far behind. I hate to leave you all but I’ve gotta go check into it. There’s someone with a “key”—the key to our survival. So I need you and Goofy to find him, and stick with him. Got it? We need that key or we’re doomed! So go to Traverse Town and find Leon. He’ll point you in the right direction. P.S. Would ya apologize to Minnie for me? Thanks, pal. cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2] The three band together and travel to different Disney themed worlds, sealing the hearts of the worlds to prevent more Heartless invasions. Along the way they encounter a group of Disney villains, led by Maleficent, that are controlling the Heartless. [cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/136/136467p1.html| title = Kingdom Hearts Preview| publisher = IGN| author = Dave Zdyrko| date = 2002-02-06| accessdate = 2007-09-05] cite web| url = http://www.mobygames.com/game/kingdom-hearts/| publisher = MobyGames| title = Kingdom Hearts for PlayStation2| accessdate=2007-05-18] Though they eventually defeat Maleficent, the three discover that a man named Ansem is the true antagonist. Ansem's plan is to open the door to Kingdom Hearts in the hopes of attaining eternal darkness. Sora, Donald, and Goofy defeat Ansem, and seal the door with the help of Riku and King Mickey on the other side of the door.

After sealing the door to Kingdom Hearts, the three begin searching for Riku and King Mickey. [Donald: Well, now what do we do? / Sora: We’ve gotta find Riku and King Mickey. cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2] They encounter a mysterious fortress called Castle Oblivion.cite book| last= Hollinger| first= Elizabeth| year = 2004| title = Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories Official Strategy Guide| publisher = BradyGames Publishing| isbn= 0-7440-0473-X] Upon entering the fortress, they begin to lose their memories.Unknown: The moment you set foot in this castle, you forgot every spell and ability you knew...though the forgetting does not end there. In this place, to find is to lose and to lose is to find. That is the way of things in Castle Oblivion. cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories| developer = Jupiter| publisher = Square Enix U.S.A., Disney Interactive| date=2004-12-07| platform=Game Boy Advance] The three encounter a group of dark hooded villains referred to as the Organization XIII. After defeating the Organization members in the castle, Sora learns his memories have been manipulated by a girl named Naminé who is controlled by the Organization. To allow them to regain their memories, Naminé puts Sora, Donald, and Goofy to sleep for a year. [Donald: We have to sleep in these to get our memories back? / Naminé: You'll be fine. It might take a little time, but I'll take care of you. / Goofy: But when we wake up, we won't remember you anymore... cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories| developer = Jupiter| publisher = Square Enix U.S.A., Disney Interactive| date=2004-12-07| platform=Game Boy Advance] While the three are ascending to the top floor of the castle, Riku and King Mickey arrive in the basement and began traveling to the top as well. Riku fights the darkness in his heart and learns to accept his dual nature between light and dark. [Ansem: You need the darkness. Submit! Bow to the darkness, and bow to me. / Riku: Not a...chance... / Ansem: Only darkness can help you now. cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories| developer = Jupiter| publisher = Square Enix U.S.A., Disney Interactive| date=2004-12-07| platform = Game Boy Advance]

A year later, Sora, Donald, and Goofy awaken with no memory of anything that had transpired in Castle Oblivion and continue their search for Riku and King Mickey. They learn of the Nobodies and are re-familiarized with their leaders, Organization XIII. Afterwards, Maleficent is resurrected and joins with Pete, another Disney villain, to continue her quest for power. Sora once again travels to many Disney-themed worlds and resolves the troubles caused by Organization XIII, the Heartless, Maleficent and Pete, and local villains. Meanwhile, Kairi is kidnapped by the Organization. They meet King Mickey, who reveals the true nature of Ansem, the antagonist of "Kingdom Hearts". The Ansem who Sora defeated was actually the Heartless of Xehanort, a student of Ansem the Wise. Xemnas, the leader of Organization XIII, reveals himself to be the Nobody of Xehanort.Mickey: But, what you actually fought was his Heartless. Ya see, he wasn't really Ansem. He just went around telling everybody that he was. cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28 |platform=PlayStation 2] Mickey: Now I remember! Xehanort! Ansem's apprentice! The leader of Organization XIII is Xehanort's Nobody! cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28 |platform=PlayStation 2] The three arrive at the headquarters of Organization XIII, with Kingdom Hearts looming overhead. Ansem the Wise uses a device that dissipates some of Kingdom Hearts' power, but a system overload causes the machine to explode and kill Ansem. [Ansem the Wise: It's a device to reclaim Kingdom Hearts and encode it as data. / Mickey: Not sure I get it. / Ansem the Wise: I do not claim to know the outcome of this venture, either. After all...Hearts are unpredictable. cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28 |platform=PlayStation 2] At the top of the castle, Sora and his friends battle Xemnas, who uses the remnants of Kingdom Hearts to fight them. [Xemnas: Heed me, Kingdom Hearts! Lend me your power, so that we may be complete! The power to erase the fools that hinder us. cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28 |platform=PlayStation 2] After Xemnas' defeat, Sora and Riku are reunited with their friends at Destiny Islands, their home. [Sora: W-We're back. / Kairi: You're home. cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28 |platform=PlayStation 2]

Games

The series consists of four games; three main games developed by Square Enix and a V CAST mobile game developed by Superscape. The three main games were released in chronological order, with each new installment following the events of the previous installment, while the V CAST game was developed independently from the main series. Three more titles developed by Square Enix are planned for release.

Main games

"Kingdom Hearts" is the first game in the series, and was released in Japan on March 28, 2002 for the PlayStation 2.cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/objects/016/016467.html| title = Kingdom Hearts| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-09-04] cite web| url = http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/ps2/data/516587.html| publisher = GameFAQs| title = "Kingdom Hearts" Info| accessdate = 2007-05-12] This was Nomura's first time in a directorial position. "Kingdom Hearts" introduced most of the main characters for the series and established the plot's framework involving hearts and the Heartless. It also established the presence of previous Disney fiction, with character cameos from the "Final Fantasy" series. "Kingdom Hearts" was released in North America on September 17, 2002, and featured additional content that was not in the original Japanese version. The game was later rereleased exclusively in Japan as "Kingdom Hearts Final Mix" on December 26, 2002. "Final Mix" included the content from the North America version and additional enemies, cut scenes, and weapons.cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/370/370690p1.html| title = "Kingdom Hearts" Final Mix Images| publisher = IGN| author = IGN Staff| date = 2002-09-11| accessdate = 2007-03-11]

The second game in the series is "". It was released on the Game Boy Advance in Japan on November 11, 2004 and in North America on December 7, 2004.cite web| url = http://gameboy.ign.com/objects/606/606154.html| title = Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-09-04] cite web| url = http://www.gamefaqs.com/portable/gbadvance/data/919011.html| publisher = GameFAQs| title = Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories Info| accessdate = 2007-05-24] "Chain of Memories" was touted as a bridge between the two PlayStation 2 installments, introducing and previewing plot elements that would be played out in the next game. [cite web| url = http://gameboy.ign.com/articles/453/453041p1.html| title = Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories - Square-Enix continues its Disney-based adventure on the GBA. New screens and details| publisher = IGN| author = Craig Harris| date = 2003-10-03| accessdate = 2007-03-11] The gameplay was based on a card system; player-composed decks of cards, with each card allowing the player to perform an action in battle, such as attacking or using magic. It was remade into a PlayStation 2 game titled "Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories", which was released in Japan as a second disc packaged with "Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix" on March 29, 2007. The remake will be released as a standalone in North America on December 2, 2008.cite web| url = http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2008/0919/| title = Square Enix Announces Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories for North America| publisher = Square Enix| date = 2008-09-19| accessdate = 2008-09-19]

"Kingdom Hearts II" is the third game in the series, set one year after "Chain of Memories". It was released in Japan on December 22, 2005 for the PlayStation 2.cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/objects/550/550308.html| title = Kingdom Hearts II| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-09-04] cite web| url = http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/ps2/data/915410.html| publisher = GameFAQs| title = "Kingdom Hearts" II Info| accessdate = 2007-06-14] The game furthered the "heart" concept by involving the Nobodies and "bodies". The gameplay is based on the first "Kingdom Hearts"'s, with the addition of more options to attack enemies and the Reaction Command, which utilized the triangle button to perform preset actions in battle and interaction with characters and the surroundings. "Kingdom Hearts II" was revised into "Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix", which contained more material than the original release, such as additional cut scenes and bosses. "Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix" was released with "Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories", a remake of "Chain of Memories" for the PlayStation 2, containing polygon graphics instead of the sprites used in the original Game Boy Advance game. This collection is titled "Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+" and was released in Japan on March 29, 2007.cite web| title = "Kingdom Hearts" II Update For PS2| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/732/732513p1.html| publisher = IGN| author = Anoop Gantayat| date = 2006-09-13| accessdate = 2007-03-11]

V CAST

A "Kingdom Hearts" game was developed exclusively for V CAST, Verizon Wireless's broadband service, and was released on October 1, 2004 in Japan and on February 4, 2005 in the United States. [cite web| url = http://wireless.ign.com/objects/706/706954.html| title = Kingdom Hearts| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-08-08] It was one of the launch games for the V CAST services. [cite web| url = http://wireless.ign.com/articles/584/584910p1.html| title = V CAST Launches| author = Levi Buchanan| date = 2005-02-02| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-08-08] The game, developed by Superscape and published by Disney Mobile with no involvement from Square Enix, features the original "Kingdom Hearts"'s gameplay, modified for the input method of mobile phones.cite web| url = http://wireless.ign.com/articles/558/558619p1.html| title = "Kingdom Hearts" - Disney Mobile presents the future of wireless gaming| publisher = IGN| author = Levi Buchanan| date = 2004-10-20| accessdate = 2007-03-11]

The first section begins with the protagonist of the original "Kingdom Hearts", Sora, shipwrecked on a seemingly uninhabited island, his friends Goofy and Donald missing. Sora must find a way to escape the island, as well as reuniting with Donald and Goofy. Reception of the first mission pack was mixed. The game was criticized for its awkward controls and limited availability. The visual appeal was praised; GameSpot stated Sora "is very detailed and well animated" and complimented the 3D environments. [cite web| author = Bethany Massimilla| date = 2005-02-09| url = http://www.gamespot.com/mobile/rpg/kingdomhearts/review.html?tag=tabs;reviews| title = "Kingdom Hearts" for Mobile Review| publisher = GameSpot| accessdate = 2007-06-27]

Future of the series

At the 2007 Tokyo Game Show, three new installments in the series were announced. "Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days", focusing on Roxas, will be released for the Nintendo DS, while "Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep", focusing on new characters Terra, Ven, and Aqua, will be released on the PlayStation Portable. Another game, "Kingdom Hearts coded", will be released to mobile phones. [cite web| url = http://ds.ign.com/articles/821/821306p1.html| title = Three New Kingdom Hearts Titles| publisher = IGN| author = Charles Onyett| date = 2007-09-19| accessdate = 2007-09-19] Currently the titles are only confirmed for a Japanese release, though Square Enix has plans for releases in other territories. [cite web| title = TGS '07: Three new Kingdom Hearts games coming| url = http://tgs.gamespot.com/story.html?sid=6179212| author = Emma Boyes| date = 2007-09-20| publisher = GameSpot| accessdate = 2007-09-20] Nomura has stated that the three new titles are not the final titles in the series and they will have a connection to a future game.cite web| url = http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/KHC1| title = Kingdom Hearts: coded (Famitsu Interview)| publisher = Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate = 2007-09-28]

Development

History

The first "Kingdom Hearts" began development in February 2000. [cite web| url = http://ffx.sakura.ne.jp/kh.htm| title = Kingdom Hearts キングダム　ハーツ| publisher = "Final Fantasy" 2000| language = Japanese| accessdate = 2007-05-30] It was directed by Tetsuya Nomura and produced by Shinji Hashimoto, who had conceived the idea when he met with a Disney executive in an elevator; [cite video| date2=2007-10-10| url=http://www.gametrailers.com/player/26204.html| title=Final Fantasy Retrospective Part XI| medium=GameTrailers.com feature| publisher=GameTrailers| accessdate=2007-11-20] Square and Disney had previously worked in the same building in Japan.cite web| publisher = IGN| title = TGS 2004: Tetsuya Nomura Q&A| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/550/550462p1.html| author = Anoop Gantayat| date = 2004-09-23| accessdate = 2007-06-12] While Nomura had done previous work in the "Final Fantasy" series as monster designer and graphic director, he did not gain widespread recognition until he was the lead character designer for "Final Fantasy VII". "Kingdom Hearts" marked his transition into a directional position, though he also served as the game's character designer. Scenarios were provided by Kazushige Nojima who was a scenario writer for Square from "Final Fantasy VII" until he left Square Enix in 2003. Originally the development focused on the gameplay with a simple story to appeal to Disney's target age range. After "Kingdom Hearts" executive producer Hironobu Sakaguchi told Nomura the game would be a failure if it did not aim for the same level as the "Final Fantasy" series, he began to develop the story further.cite web| url = http://www.khinsider.com/content/view/42/41/| title = KHU Interview w/Tetsuya Nomura| publisher = Kingdom Hearts Insider| accessdate = 2007-08-10]

Nomura placed a secret trailer in "Kingdom Hearts" in hopes that fans would want a sequel. He was unsure if fans would want a sequel and felt that if they did not, then it would be best to leave certain events in the first game unexplained.cite web| title = Kingdom Hearts II Ultimania - Tetsuya Nomura Interview| url = http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/KH2U| publisher = Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate = 2007-08-10] After "Kingdom Hearts Final Mix" was completed, plans for "Kingdom Hearts II" began.cite web| author = GameSpot staff| publisher = GameSpot| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6076646| date = 2003-10-10| title = "Kingdom Hearts" II's Tetsuya Nomura Q & A| accessdate = 2007-06-15] There were several obstacles to clear before development could begin on a sequel. One was the development team's desire to showcase Mickey Mouse more; Mickey's inclusion in the first game was restricted to a very small role. Nomura had planned for the sequel to take place a year after the first and originally intended for the events of that year to be left unexplained. To bridge the gap between the two games, "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories" was developed.cite web| url = http://gba.gamespy.com/gameboy-advance/kingdom-hearts-chain-of-memories/571890p1.html| author = Raymond Padilla| date = 2004-12-08| publisher = GameSpy| title = Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories Review| accessdate = 2007-05-23] Nomura was hesitant about releasing a game on the Game Boy Advance because he felt the 3D graphics of the original game would not translate well into 2D. He changed his position after hearing that children wanted to play "Kingdom Hearts" on the Game Boy Advance.cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/kingdomheartschainofmemories/news.html?sid=6076646| publisher = GameSpot| title = "Kingdom Hearts" II's Tetsuya Nomura Q & A| accessdate = 2007-06-08]

Creation and design

Though Disney gave Nomura freedom in the characters and worlds used for the games, he and his staff tried to stay within the established roles of characters and boundaries of the worlds.cite web| url = http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/TechTv| title = Nomura Interview TechTv| publisher = Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate = 2007-07-18] Nomura has stated that though many of the Disney characters are not normally dark and serious, there were not many challenges making them so for the story, and despite this, their personalities shine because they maintain their own characteristics.cite web| title=Playstation.com Europe - E3 Interview| url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Playstation| publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate=2007-09-20] He also felt managing and keeping multiple worlds was problematic.cite web| url = http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/IGN| title = IGN - Nomura Interview| publisher = Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate = 2007-08-02] When deciding which worlds to include in the game, the development staff tried to take into account worlds with Disney characters that would be interesting and made an effort to minimize any overlap in the overall look and feel of each world.cite web| url = http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2006/08/11/kingdom-hearts-ii-tetsuya-nomura-interview.htm| title = Kingdom Hearts II Tetsuya Nomura interview| publisher = Video Game Blogger| accessdate = 2007-07-21] cite web| url=http://www.khinsider.com/content/view/42/41/| title = KHU Interview w/Tetsuya Nomura| publisher=Kingdom Hearts Insider| accessdate=2007-08-10]

The inclusion of specific "Final Fantasy" characters was based on the opinions of both fans and staff.cite web| author=Boulette, Bryan| url=http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2005/112705b.html| publisher = RPGamer| title=Nomura Divulges Kingdom Hearts II Details| accessdate=2007-07-23| date=2005-11-27] Another criteria for inclusion was whether the staff felt the characters would fit into the storyline and in the "Kingdom Hearts" universe.cite web| title=Tetsuya Nomura 1st 1UP Interview| url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/1UP-1| publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate=2007-09-20] Initially, Nomura was hesitant to use characters he did not design, because he was unfamiliar with the background work of such characters.cite web| url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Dengeki-2| publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| title=Dengeki - Kingdom Hearts 2 Progress Report| accessdate=2007-07-27] For "Kingdom Hearts II", he changed his mind after receiving pressure from his staff. Throughout the development of the games, Nomura has often left certain events and connections between characters unexplained until the release of future games. Nomura does this because he feels that games should have room for fans to speculate and use their imagination. He has stated that with speculation, even though a game gets old, people can still be happy with it.cite web| title=Kingdom Hearts II Ultimania - Tetsuya Nomura Interview| url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/KH2U| publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania| accessdate=2007-08-10]

Promotion

The first "Kingdom Hearts" was announced at E3 in May 2001. Initial details were that it would be a collaboration between Square and Disney Interactive, and would feature worlds developed by both companies and Disney characters. New characters were designed by Nomura and include Sora, Riku, Kairi, and the Heartless.cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=2761861| author = Gerstmann, Jeff | date=2001-05-17| publisher = GameSpot| title = E3 2001: Square announces Disney RPG for PS2| accessdate=2008-01-23] On May 14, 2002, a press release announced a list of the English voice actors. The list included Haley Joel Osment, David Gallagher, and Hayden Panettiere as the three new characters introduced in the game. It was also announced that many of the Disney characters would be voiced by their official voice actors from their respective Disney films. [cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/359/359415p1.html| author = IGN Staff| publisher = IGN| title = IGN: Kingdom Hearts Voice Cast| accessdate=2007-05-13]

An secret trailer in the first "Kingdom Hearts" and "Kingdom Hearts Final Mix" hinted at the possibility of a sequel. Rumors for a sequel on the PlayStation 2 were spurred in Japan when a Japanese video game site, Quiter, stated that "an internal (and anonymous source) at Square Japan" confirmed that development of "Kingdom Hearts II" had begun. [cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/388/388537p1.html| title = Kingdom Hearts 2 on PS2?| publisher = IGN| author = IGN staff| date = 2003-03-07| accessmonthday = June 14| accessyear = 2007] It was not until "Kingdom Hearts II" was announced, along with "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories", at the Tokyo Game Show in September 2003 that rumors were confirmed.cite web| author = Justin Calvert| publisher = GameSpot| title = TGS 2003: Kingdom Hearts sequels announced| url = http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/kingdomheartschainofmemories/news.html?sid=6075893| date = 2003-09-26| accessmonthday = June 8| accessyear = 2007] Initial details were that it would take place some time after "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories", which takes place directly after the first game. Other details included the return of Sora, Donald, and Goofy, as well as new costumes. At the 2004 Square Enix E3 Press conference, the producer, Shinji Hashimoto, stated that many mysteries of the first game would be answered. [cite web| url = http://www.gaming-age.com/event/2004/e3/12-60| title = Square Enix E3 Press Conference and "Dear Friends" Concert| publisher = Gaming Age| date = 2004-05-12| author = Benson, Mike| accessdate = 2007-09-25]

To help market the games, websites were set up for each game and demos were on display at gaming events. Each game in the main series were also rereleased in Japan with additional content and served as canonical updates to the series. [cite web| url = http://www.neoseeker.com/Games/Products/PS2/kingdomhearts_final/| publisher = Neoseeker| title = Kingdom Hearts: Final Mix (Import)| accessdate=2007-05-29] [cite web| language = Japanese| title = 『キングダム ハーツII ファイナル ミックス』に新要素が!!| url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/2007/03/23/104,1174620771,68873,0,0.html| publisher = Famitsu| date = 2007-03-24| accessdate = 2007-07-06] The additional content foreshadowed later plot elements in the series. The rereleases of the main series games had the term "Final Mix" added after the title, while "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories" was rereleased as "Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories" and released on the PlayStation 2 with 3D graphics, voice overs during some cutscenes, and new game content. [cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/objects/853/853598.html| title = Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-06-21] [cite web| url = http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-43-49-en-70-1xlx.html| publisher = Play-Asia| title = Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+ (Limited Package Version)| accessdate = 2007-06-21]

Audio

Musical score

The music for the video game series was primarily composed by Yoko Shimomura. Kaoru Wada works as the arranger for orchestral music in the "Kingdom Hearts" series, including orchestral renditions of the main vocal themes and the ending themes.Kingdom Hearts Original Soundtrack CD insert. Toshiba-Emi Limited. 2002.] Kingdom Hearts II Original Soundtrack CD insert. Toshiba-Emi Limited. 2006.] The orchestral music was performed by the New Japan Philharmonic Orchestra and the Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra.Kingdom Hearts Original Soundtrack CD insert. Toshiba-Emi Limited. 2002.] Soundtracks were released for the first and third installments following the release of their respective games. A compilation soundtrack was later released that included soundtracks for the entire series, including reworked tracks for the re-released "Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories".cite web| url = http://www.i-mezzo.net/log/2007/03/30004857.html| title = キングダムハーツサントラコンプリートBoxとKH2FM+を買ったよ！レポ| publisher = Intermezzo| language = Japanese| date = 2007-03-30| accessdate = 2007-07-16]

While the themes for some of the Disney-based worlds are taken directly from their Disney film counterparts, most of them are given entirely original musical scores. In addition to each world having unique background music, each is given its own battle theme rather than having a common theme to cover all fights. Several of the Disney villains get themes based on the film from which they originated, and the final boss of each game has several themes played in the various phases of those fights. The fights with Sephiroth feature Nobuo Uematsu's "One-Winged Angel" from "Final Fantasy VII".

The main theme songs for the "Kingdom Hearts" games were written and performed by Japanese pop star, Utada Hikaru. The two main themes are "Hikari", from "Kingdom Hearts" and "Chain of Memories", [cite web| url = http://www.lyricsfreak.com/u/utada+hikaru/biography.html| title = Utada Hikaru biography| publisher = Lyrics Freak| accessdate = 2007-06-18] [cite web| author = IGN Staff| publisher = IGN| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/100/100803p1.html| title = Hikaru Utada Sings "Kingdom Hearts" Theme| accessmonthday = May 13| accessyear = 2007| date = 2002-01-10] and "Passion", from "Kingdom Hearts II". [cite web| author = Hirohiko Niizumi| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6130068| publisher = GameSpot| date = 2005-07-29| title = "Kingdom Hearts" vocalist returns for sequel| accessmonthday = June 15| accessyear = 2007] Each song has an English counterpart, Simple and Clean and Sanctuary respectively, for the North American and European releases. Utada was the only singer Tetsuya Nomura had in mind for the first "Kingdom Hearts" theme song.cite web| author = Stephen Coleman| publisher = IGN| url = http://games.ign.com/articles/368/368583p1.html| title = Square, Disney and Japanese Pop Star Utada Hikaru Collaborate on Kingdom Hearts| accessdate = 2007-05-13| date = 2002-08-22] This marked the first time Utada had produced a song for a video game. Both theme songs reached notable popularity in Japan. On weekly Oricon charts, "Hikari" reached #1 in 2002 and "Passion" reached #4 in 2005.cite web| url = http://www.tbs.co.jp/cdtv/songdb/song6784.html| title = CDTV PowerWeb! : 宇多田ヒカル - 光| publisher = Tokyo Broadcasting System| accessmonthday = June 26| accessyear = 2007] cite web| url = http://www.tbs.co.jp/cdtv/songdb/song11375.html| title = CDTV PowerWeb! : 宇多田ヒカル - Passion| publisher = Tokyo Broadcasting System| accessdate = 2007-06-26]

Voice cast

The "Kingdom Hearts" games featured well-known voice actors for the Japanese and English versions. The Japanese version featured Miyu Irino as Sora, Risa Uchida as Kairi, and Mamoru Miyano as Riku.cite web| url = http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0322968/fullcredits#cast| title = Full cast and crew for "Kingdom Hearts" (2002)(VG)| publisher = IMDB| accessdate = 2007-06-14] cite web| title = Kingdom Hearts II Tech Info| publisher = GameSpot| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/tech_info.html| accessdate = 2007-09-04] The third game introduced Kōki Uchiyama as Roxas, Iku Nakahara as Naminé, and Genzō Wakayama as DiZ.cite web| url = http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390163/fullcredits#cast| title = Full cast and crew for Kingdom Hearts II (2005)(VG)| publisher = IMDB| accessdate = 2007-06-14] Other notable voice actors included Kōichi Yamadera, Hideo Ishikawa, Maaya Sakamoto, Takashi Aoyagi, Yū Shimaka and Shinichirō Miki.

The English release of the "Kingdom Hearts" games featured an all-star voice cast which included many of the Disney characters' official voice actors. Wayne Allwine, Tony Anselmo, and Bill Farmer voiced Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy.cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/tech_info.html| title = Kingdom Hearts Tech Info| publisher = GameSpot| accessdate = 2007-09-04] Several high profile actors provided the voice acting of the main characters. The first game featured Haley Joel Osment as Sora, David Gallagher as Riku, and Hayden Panettiere as Kairi.cite web| author = GamePro Staff| url = http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/23475/kingdom-hearts-voice-talent-announced/| publisher = GamePro| title = "Kingdom Hearts" Voice Talent Announced| accessdate = 2008-09-30| date = 2003-04-30] The third game, "Kingdom Hearts II", saw the return of the main character voice actors and added Jesse McCartney as Roxas, Brittany Snow as Naminé, and Christopher Lee as DiZ.cite web| author = Stephen Coleman| title = "Kingdom Hearts" II Gets All-Star Cast| url = http://games.ign.com/articles/686/686944p1.html| publisher = IGN| date = 2006-02-08| accessdate = 2007-06-14] Other notable actors included, Sean Astin, Steve Burton, Billy Zane, Will Friedle, Ming-Na, and James Woods.

Merchandise

There are multiple versions of each of the main "Kingdom Hearts" games. They each had a release in Japan, North America, and the PAL region. The were also rereleased in Japan with new content. Both Square and Disney released numerous types of merchandise before and after the release of the games. Merchandise ranged from toys and figurines to clothing items and jewelry.Cite web| publisher = Square Enix| url = http://na.square-enix.com/games/kingdomhearts/KH_newsframe.html| title = Official Kingdom Hearts Website: News| accessdate=2007-05-14] [cite web| title = Square Enix Official Goods - Kingdom Hearts| url = http://www.square-enix-shop.com/jp/list_product.cfm?game_cat_id=8&site_id=1#| publisher = Square Enix| accessdate = 2007-08-27] Two of the games, "Kingdom Hearts" and "Kingdom Hearts II", had a soundtrack released to coincide with the video games. [cite web| url = http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TOCT-24768| title = Kingdom Hearts: Original Soundtrack| publisher = CD Japan| accessdate = 2007-08-08] [cite web| url = http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TOCT-25871| title = Kingdom Hearts II - Original Soundtrack| publisher = CD Japan| accessdate = 2007-08-08] These were followed by a nine CD complete set which featured both soundtracks and unreleased tracks.cite web| url = http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TOCT-26221| publisher = CD Japan| title = Game Music / Kingdom Hearts Original Soundtrack Complete| accessmonthday = May 16| accessyear = 2007] "Kingdom Hearts" has been published as a trading card game by the Tomy corporation of Japan.cite web| url = http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200409/N04.0924.1614.42907.htm| author = Chris Cook| date = 2004-09-24| title = TGS 2004: Square Enix Press Conference Wrap Up| publisher = Game Informer| accessdate = 2007-06-22] An English version of the game was released in November 2007 by Fantasy Flight Games.cite web| url = http://fantasyflightgames.com/kingdom_hearts.html| archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070817172957/http://www.fantasyflightgames.com/kingdom_hearts.html| archivedate=2007-08-17| title = Fantasy Flight Games to publish "Kingdom Hearts TCG"| publisher = Fantasy Flight Games| accessdate = 2007-10-04] The video games have also been adapted into a manga and novel series.

Like the "Final Fantasy" games, a series of Ultimania books were also released in Japan for the three main games. There are six books which include game walkthroughs, interviews, and extra information from the developers. Released along with "Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+" was "Kingdom Hearts -Another Report-", a hardback book which includes game information, visuals by Shiro Amano, and a director interview.cite web| publisher = Famitsu| title = ビジュアルブック『キングダム ハーツ -Another Report-』が予約特典！| url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/01/25/103,1169704450,66102,0,0.html| date = 2007-01-25| language = Japanese| accessdate = 2007-07-06] In North America, Brady Games released strategy guides for each game. For "Kingdom Hearts II", they released two versions, a standard version and a limited edition version. The limited edition was available in four different covers and included a copy of Jiminy's Journal along with 400 stickers. [cite web| url = http://www.bradygames.com/press/press_releases_detail.asp?promo=3459| title = The Key to Unlimited Adventures Lies Within Bradygames' Latest Collectible Kingdom Hearts II Strategy Guide Products | date = 2006-04-06| publisher = Brady Games| accessdate = 2007-07-06]

Printed adaptations

A manga based on the "Kingdom Hearts" storyline has been released in Japan and the United States. The story and art are done by Shiro Amano, who is also known for his manga adaptation of the "Legend of Mana" video game. The story follows the events that took place in the video games with differences to account for the loss of interactivity a video game provides. The manga was originally serialized in Japan by Square Enix's "Monthly Shonen Gangan" and eventually released in tankōbons. The first tankōbon was released in Japan in October 2003. [cite web| publisher = Amazon.com| language = Japanese| url = http://www.amazon.co.jp/キングダムハーツ-1-天野-シロ/dp/4757716575/| title = キングダムハーツ (1) (コミック)| accessdate = 2007-06-11] The manga was released in the USA by Tokyopop two years later in October 2005. [cite web| url = http://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Hearts-Vol-Shiro-Amano/dp/1598162179/| title = Kingdom Hearts, Vol. 1 (Paperback)| publisher = Amazon.com| accessdate = 2008-09-30] It was divided into three manga series based on "Kingdom Hearts", "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories", and "Kingdom Hearts II". The first series, "Kingdom Hearts", was further diveded into four volumes, while the second series, "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories", was divided into two volumes. The third series, "Kingdom Hearts II", is currently being serialized. The first volume was released in Japan in December 2006 and was released in the USA on July 3, 2007. [cite web|url = http://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Hearts-II-Graphic-Novels/dp/1427800588/| title = Kingdom Hearts II Volume 1 (Kingdom Hearts (Graphic Novels)) (Paperback)| publisher = Amazon.com| accessdate = 2008-09-30] [cite web| publisher = Amazon.com| language = Japanese| url = http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4757518323/250-3568433-3689859| title = キングダムハーツ2 1 (1) (コミック)| accessdate = 2007-06-11]

A novel series has also been released. It is written by Tomoco Kanemaki and illustrated by Shiro Amano. Like the manga series, it is divided into separate series based on the games. "Kingdom Hearts" is divided into two volumes; "The First Door" [cite web| url = http://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Hearts-First-Door/dp/1423103955/| title = Kingdom Hearts: The First Door - #1 (Kingdom Hearts) (Paperback)| publisher = Amazon.com| accessdate = 2007-06-27] and "Darkness Within". [cite web| publisher = Amazon.com| url = http://www.amazon.com/Kingdom-Hearts-Darkness-Within/dp/1423103963/| title = Kingdom Hearts: Darkness Within - #2 (Kingdom Hearts) (Paperback)| accessdate = 2007-06-27] They were released in North America in 2008. "Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories" is divided into three volumes. "Kingdom Hearts II" is divided into four volumes; "Roxas - Seven Days", [cite web| url = http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4757516797/| title = Game Novels キングダム ハーツII　Vol.1　Roxas-Sevendays (単行本)| publisher = Amazon.com| language = Japanese| accessdate = 2007-06-18] "The Destruction of Hollow Bastion", [cite web| title = Game Novels キングダム ハーツII Vol.2 The Destruction of Hollow Bastion (新書)| publisher = Amazon.com| url = http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4757517157/| language = Japanese| accessdate = 2007-06-18] "Tears of Nobody", [cite web| title = Game Novels　キングダム ハーツII　Vol.3 Tears ofNobody (新書)| publisher = Amazon.com| language = Japanese| url = http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4757517920/| accessdate = 2007-06-18] and "Anthem-Meet Again/Axel Last Stand". [cite web| title = Game Novels　キングダム ハーツII　Vol.4 Anthem-Meet Again/Axel Last Stand (単行本)| url = http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/4757519648/| publisher = Amazon.com| language = Japanese| accessdate = 2007-06-18]

Reception

The "Kingdom Hearts" series has been critically and commercially successful, though each installment has seen different levels of success. By December 2005, the "Kingdom Hearts" series had shipped more than 8.5 million copies worldwide. As of September 2008, the series has shipped over twelve million copies worldwide, with 2.0 million copies in PAL regions, 3.0 million copies in Japan, and 5.6 million copies in North America. The three main games in the series all met with positive sales at the time of their releases. During the first two months of "Kingdom Hearts"'s North American release, it was one of the top three highest-selling video games. [cite web| author = Calvert, Justin | url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=2897836| publisher = GameSpot| title = October video game sales |date=2002-11-18 |accessdate=2007-07-05] "Chain of Memories" sold 104,000 units in 48 hours in Japan, a record for a Game Boy Advance title at the time.cite web| url = http://www.the-magicbox.com/game20041113.shtml| archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070313190631/http://www.the-magicbox.com/game20041113.shtml| archivedate=2007-03-13|publisher = The Magic Box| title = News: November 13, 2004| accessdate = 2007-05-23] Its positive debut sales placed it in the top spot of sales charts in Japan. [cite web| author = GamePro Staff| url = http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/39648/kingdom-hearts-for-gba-debuts-number-one-in-japan/| publisher = GamePro| title = Kingdom Hearts for GBA Debuts Number One in Japan| accessdate = 2008-09-30] In the first month of its North American release, it was ranked 1^st on GameSpot's ChartSpot for portable systems and 6^th for all consoles. [cite web| author = Tor Thorsen| url = http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/kingdomheartschainofmemories/news.html?sid=6116646| date = 2005-01-31| publisher = GameSpot| title = ChartSpot: December 2004| accessdate = 2007-06-08] Within a week of "Kingdom Hearts II"'s Japanese release, it shipped 1 million copies,cite web| author = Anoop Gantayat| title = Kingdom Hearts 2 Goes Platinum| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/678/678247p1.html| date = 2005-12-27| publisher = IGN| accessdate=2007-06-14] cite web| url = http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0502/| publisher = Square Enix| title = Kingdom Hearts II Achieves Million-Unit Sales Mark in North America in Four Weeks| date = 2006-05-02| accessdate = 2007-08-25] selling almost 730,000 copies. [cite web| url = http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=5934| title = News - Japan: weekly software sales from 12/19 - 12/25| author = Richard Brownell| date = 2005-12-28| publisher = Gamesarefun.com| accessdate = 2006-12-15] By the end of March 2006, the NPD Group reported that "Kingdom Hearts II" was the highest-selling console game in North America, with 614,000 copies. [cite web| author = Tor Thorsen| url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6147802.html| publisher = GameSpot| title = ChartSpot: March 2006| accessdate = 2007-05-15] In the month after its release in North America, "Kingdom Hearts II" sold an estimated 1 million copies.cite web| url = http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0502/| title = TGS06: Kingdom Hearts II Achieves Million-Unit Sales Mark in North America in Four Weeks | publisher = Square Enix| accessdate = 2006-12-15]

The games have also received high ratings and positive comments from reviewers. The three main games have scored a 36 out of 40 or higher from the Japanese game magazine "Famitsu", known for its extremely harsh grading. [cite web | author= KK | url=http://www.zelda-fans.com/archives/2006/02/highest-scoring-games-in-famitsus-history/ | title=Highest Scoring Games in Famitsu’s History | publisher = Zelda-fans.com| accessdate=2007-07-11] cite web| url = http://www.the-magicbox.com/game20041103.shtml| archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070313190620/http://www.the-magicbox.com/game20041103.shtml| archivedate=2007-03-13|publisher = The Magic Box| title = News: November 3, 2004| accessdate = 2007-05-23] cite web| author = Josh Freund| date = 2005-12-20| url = http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=5915| title = News - Latest Famitsu review scores - Kingdom Hearts II, Mario & Luigi 2, & more| publisher = Gamesarefun.com| accessdate = 2006-12-15] All four games have been praised for their visuals. "Game Informer" considers the series the eleventh "must-play PlayStation 2" series. [cite web| url = http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/7ebf604c-f8f9-4f66-9f53-7b1b58a910e1.htm| title = PlayStation 2: The Games That Defined a Generation| date = 2008-09-29| publisher = Game Informer| accessdate = 2008-10-06] The individual games have also won several awards. GameSpot commented that the concept of mixing the serious elements of "Final Fantasy" with the lighter elements of Disney seemed impossible, but was pulled off quite well. Because of that they awarded "Kingdom Hearts" "Best Crossover Since "Capcom vs. SNK" in their 2002 Best and Worst of the Year awards.cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/gamespot/features/all/bestof2002/general13.html| publisher = GameSpot| title = GameSpot's Best and Worst of 2002| accessdate=2007-05-13 | year=2002] IGN named "Kingdom Hearts" "Best Art Style/Direction" in their 2003 list of "Best Looking Games on PS2". [cite web| author = Perry, Douglass C. | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/390/390226p1.html| publisher = IGN| title = IGN: The Best Looking Games on PS2| date = 2003-03-20 | accessdate=2007-05-13] G4 awarded it "Best Story" at their 2003 "G-Phoria" awards show. [cite web| url = http://cube.ign.com/articles/431/431546p1.html| title = G-Phoria Report| author = IGN Staff| date = 2003-07-31| publisher = IGN| accessdate = 2007-08-07] "Electronic Gaming Monthly" awarded "Kingdom Hearts II" "Best Sequel" of 2006. [Citation| last = EGM Staff| title = The 2006 1UP Network Awards| newspaper = Electronic Gaming Monthly| pages = pp 76–81| issue = 213| year = 2007| date = March 2007|] It tied with "Resident Evil 4" as "Famitsu's" Game of the Year 2005.cite web| url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2006/04/21/103,1145605197,52094,0,0.html| publisher = Famitsu| title = Famitsu Awards 2005"大賞は『キングダム ハーツII』と『バイオハザード4』!!| accessdate = 2006-12-15| language=Japanese] The manga series has also been well received. Several of the manga volumes were listed on "USA Today"'s "Top 150 best sellers". [cite web| url = http://asp.usatoday.com/life/books/booksdatabase/default.aspx?sortBy=&lastValue=90&date=10/20/2005| work = USA Today| title = USA Today Best-Selling Books Databse - Top 150 best sellers| accessmonthday = May 17| accessyear = 2007] cite web| work = USA Today| url = http://asp.usatoday.com/life/books/booksdatabase/default.aspx?sortBy=&lastValue=60&date=7/20/2006| title = USA Today Best-Selling Books Databse - Top 150 best sellers| accessmonthday = June 7| accessyear = 2007] [cite web| url = http://asp.usatoday.com/life/books/booksdatabase/default.aspx?sortBy=&lastValue=105&date=10/20/2006| work = USA Today| title = USA Today Best-Selling Books Databse - Top 150 best sellers| accessmonthday = May 24| accessyear = 2007] The highest ranked volume was "Kingdom Hearts" volume 4 at #73. Every volume listed stayed on the list for at least two weeks; "Kingdom Hearts" volume 4 stayed the longest at four weeks.

References

External links

* [http://www.kingdomhearts.com/ Official website]
* [http://www.square-enix.co.jp/kingdom/ Official website] ja icon
* [http://www.disney.co.jp/interactive/kingdom/ Disney's "Kingdom Hearts" site] ja icon
* [http://kingdomhearts.wikia.com/ "Kingdom Hearts"] Wikia