One of the best games i've played in a good long while
Kingdom hearts starts you off with a new character, Roxas. It is not first apparant why you are starting out with Roxas and not Sora, but later on you will find out that there is a very good reason why.
After the 3 and a 1/2 hr. tutorial, you will then get to play as Sora. When Sora awakens, you will soon find out that the heartless are up to no good again and that there are new enimies, the nobodies.
Now, on to the review.
Story:
I loved the story in this game. Some games tell you the whole story in the first few hours of the game. Some even tell you the whole thing before you even get to play, in the opening cutscene! Well, in kh2 they don't spoil the story for you all at once, in fact, there are things in this game that aren't explained yet, leaving ppl to wait until kh3 comes out. This is a great way to stack on the plot twists and new sequels.
Gameplay:
Now I personally, like button mashing (cause i no like use brain O.o).
But since about 75% of the people who will read this review don't like it, i guess i have to hold buton mashing against kh2. Not only that, but the game is way too easy. Proud mode will give you a run for your money, but i shouldn't have to play the hardest difficulty mode just to get a little bit of challenge! But, the good things about the gameplay is the variety. Drives, summons, magic,limits,abilities and all kinds of other things are here to spice up the battles. Although, you could just hit the atack button or use reaction commands.
Sound:
The music in this game is the best i've ever heard in a game. This music even rivals that of FF music! The music fits the mood just right so you feel immersed. Never does the music feel out of place. The music is so heartwarming at somepoints, it will give you goose bumps. The really sad moments are even sadder with the slow, creeping pace of the music in the background.
Graphics:
This is definitly one of the best looking games on the ps2. It may not be the best, but it is definitly up there. The pixels jump up out of the screen and almost in to your lap. Sometimes you forget that you're playing a game. There may be a few collision problems (like when you swing a large keyblade and it goes through the floor.) But that is overlooked easily by the gorgeous cutscenes and special effects.
Value:
This is one of the longest games i have ever played. Some people are saying they have beaten the game in like, 25 hours. Well they have not truly beaten the game. They have rushed through it like Angelina rushing to an adoption center. In order to TRULY beat the game, it will take you upwards of 60 hours to unlock all the Olympus cups, beat the special side-boss, make the ultimate wepon, complaete your journal, unlock all the treasure chests, get all of the gummi ship parts, get a high score on the mini games, and synthesize all of the rings, wepons, and healing items. Gee, sounds like alot to do in 25 hours, doesn't it?? But, besides the length value, there is some other values here as well. You can revisit your favorite disney characters from you past in this game. LIked mickey? Well he is in this game and plays a major role. Ther are buttloads of other disney characters in this game as well, as well as FF characters (for you fanboys).
In conclusion, if you like Action Role Playing Games, or like to have fun in general, you will fall in love with the series and this game, just like i have.
So stop reading my review and go pick up this game now!