The Kingdom Hearts series is known for its complex storyline and has captured the hearts of many gamers. However, the answer isn’t always easy when deciding what is the best Kingdom Hearts game.
The Best Kingdom Hearts Game, Ranked
When it comes to ranking Kingdom Hearts titles, opinions can vary widely. Your list may be totally different, and that’s perfectly fine. I’m excluding the recent mobile titles and Melody of Memory due to their different playstyles. I’ve also left out Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A Fragmentary Passage- due to its short length.
Here’s my definitive Kingdom Hearts ranking from worst to best:
8. Kingdom Hearts Re: coded
Kingdom Hearts Re: coded almost didn’t make the list due to its underwhelming impact. While the gameplay is fine, it’s not particularly groundbreaking. Even with visual upgrades, it still feels very much like a side experience, even if it’s not meant to be. The story beats worth seeing are better experienced through the cutscene compilation included in the Kingdom Hearts collections.
7. Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days
Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days offers a compelling backstory for key characters. It’s a great narrative that is, unfortunately, limited by its original platform. The game didn’t receive a full HD remake, which really holds back the experience if you’re trying to play it now. Thankfully, a cutscene collection is available for the crucial lore.
6. Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories
Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories introduces a card-based combat system that adds surprising depth to the gameplay. The upgraded visuals from the original GBA version make it more accessible. There’s also an entirely separate Riku storyline, which increases the game’s replayability. Despite these improvements, it lacks some quality-of-life features found in later titles.
5. Kingdom Hearts
The original Kingdom Hearts remains iconic, with a nostalgic charm and a strong story. The Final Mix version has received several welcome updates, with further HD collections improving it further. While it is the one that started it all, it’s also over 20 years old, and there are only so many updated versions that can do it. Its gameplay has been outpaced by the more technically advanced entries that followed.
4. Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance
Dream Drop Distance is packed with content, though it can feel overstuffed at times. The ability to play as Riku is a highlight, as it always is. The combat system is engaging, especially on the console, using an updated version of the Command Deck. However, some confusing mechanics and an overwhelming amount of fluff can detract from the experience.
3. Kingdom Hearts III + Re Mind
While Kingdom Hearts III had a mixed reception regarding its story conclusion, it’s visually stunning and features the most fluid combat in the entire series. The Re Mind DLC adds significant depth to the ending, and is absolutely crucial to have installed.
The DLC also provides plenty of new content and tries to make the whole package a more complete experience. The game is held back by the unimaginative use of many Disney characters and the absence of almost all Final Fantasy characters.
2. Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep
Birth by Sleep offers three main storylines, each with unique gameplay and a full narrative, making it one of the most content-rich entries. Originally a PSP game, the HD editions still look quite incredible and maybe even better than Kingdom Hearts 1.
It features strong voice performances by Mark Hamill and Leonard Nimoy that elevate the gravity of the plot. The game’s combat system laid the groundwork for future titles, and its standalone storyline is among the most accessible in the series.
1. Kingdom Hearts II
Kingdom Hearts II is the highlight of the entire series, improving on its predecessor in nearly every way. The combat is refined, the story ramps up with compelling characters and crazy twists, and it boasts excellent use of Disney properties. It set a standard for the series that others have strived to match but haven’t surpassed in all categories. Kingdom Heart II nabs the top spot simply because it just has it all.
While this is my list, there are many ways you could rank this incredible franchise. Everyone probably has a favorite Kingdom Hearts, and each game offers something unique. I recommend playing them in order anyway and not just picking up the best one first. Otherwise, you will absolutely get lost in the franchise’s complex lore.
The Kingdom Hearts series will be released on Steam on June 13, 2024.
Published: May 31, 2024 06:45 pm