Is Kingdom Hearts II all its cracked up to be? Read this review and find out yourself!
Gameplay: Unfortunately, the gameplay is overly simplistic. For veterans of the first game, there were many platforming elements in the original which made it potentially difficult. The player was forced to use magic in some cases, dodged roll, and jumped around quite a bit. Not to mention the onslaught of unique abilities. In the case of Kingdom Hearts II, it is a separate story. With the exclusion of using magic on few mandatory segments, the player can button mash the “X” button until the enemies are gone. It requires almost no strategic thinking at all. The game itself is straightforward in nearly all respects. The player should experience little to no casualties .In spite of this, Square-Enix has decided to give us a few bonuses. They have incorporated in “Drive” system. This system enables the player to merge with one or both of the helping AI. Sora will gain new abilities and transform into an even more powerful entity. Each one has it’s own unique style and capabilities. These forms are thrilling to look at, but are hardly necessary. The game itself is far too uncomplicated for the use of them. As well as this “limits” (taken form FF titles). Sora has the ability to do multiple techniques with various party members. But similar to the Drive system, they are not essential to complete the game. “Summoning” has also made a return. However, the summons are useless. The game also implements something called “Reaction Commands”. The player will be using this mechanic quite frequently through out the game. These commands can be executed with the “Triangle” button. When certain requirements are met, Sora will be able to do a special move that will make the battle easier. Most of them are cinematic animation sequences. There are many reaction commands and can pop up at any given time. Its best to keep an eye out for them.
Now, moving on to the environments. The worlds in this game are far too linear. Compared to the original, the worlds are considerably small. Each can be completed within 8-10 minutes if all cutscenes are skipped. As compensation for this, each world is detailed extremely well to give the player a feel of the atmosphere. Most levels have Mini-Games. The objectives are mostly meeting a certain time limit or getting a higher score. The majority of them are pretty pleasurable. Now, leveling up is the same as the first. As the player slays through countless Heartless and Nobodies, they gain EXP and learn new abilities. The new moves are great to have, but make the game easier than it previously was. Also returning from the first game, is the ever so notorious Gummi Ship. It has been revamped is no longer a blemish on Kingdom Hearts II’s beautiful skin. The levels have more depth, customization options are enhanced, and they are actually enjoyable. The challenges are without a doubt some of the most difficult task the game has to offer. It is only obligatory to complete a Gummi Ship level once, so the player may feel no desire to complete them again. Overall, my main complaint in KH2 is the simplicity of the gameplay. Over than that, the game is spectacular.
Sound: The voice acting is pretty good in most cases. The Disney voice actors have done an outstanding job giving life to their characters. Most Original characters are great as well, with one or two exceptions. The soundtrack is nearly flawless. Each level’s music suites the atmosphere perfectly. Boss fights, normal battles, theme music, it is all pleasure to the ears. The player certainly will not be disappointed.
Storyline: The plot is less engaging than the first. Sora and company get new adversaries called Nobodies and Organization XIII. They go revisit some old worlds, fight heartless, the Organization, nobodies and try to find the King, Riku, and Kairi. I have broken this down as best I can without revealing spoilers.
I recommend this game to anyone who wants to enjoy a decent RPG. If you are looking for a difficult title such as Devil May Cry 3, this is not your type. It may seem childish for a while, but it will grow on you if you do not criticize and neglect it.