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- Nov 6, 2012
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New to Kingdom Hearts 3 and looking for a convenient way to learn what we know so far? Are you a veteran who is looking for a little refresher? Are you someone who questions you or someone else’s comments/claims about KH3 and you go digging through interview to interview to confirm or “deconfirm” it? Well, hopefully this thread is for you.
I have had trouble finding quotes in the past because I couldn’t find a place where you could quickly find what you are looking for. And thus I found myself combing through the archives reading every line of every interview until I found it. This could take up to 20 minutes sometimes. There was also a time or two it was all in vain because it wasn’t even listed in the KH3 section, and I had to turn to google or comb through months of articles dating back to January 2014! Me personally, I don’t want to say Nomura or Yasue said something, if they actually didn’t; so I like to check to make sure. And sometimes in my searches, I come across a small detail I overlooked or totally forgot about. This was the inspiration for this thread.
It’s organized into categories. Each category has a summary list, listing all of what we know about the current category you are viewing, in the form of points. Each point is numbered, and corresponds to a subsection in which the original quote is located (for reference). For example, if a point is numbered 2, it will be in the 1-3 subsection. I’ve even added commentary to better describe the points, in hopes to make a few things more clear. If you just want to comb through virtually everything we’ve learned from Kingdom Hearts 3 interviews in about 3-5 minutes with no bulky quotes or commentary, I’ve created the Master List, which is all of the Summary Lists combined. If you find any major errors, or if you notice something I missed, feel free to let me know and I will do the best I can to edit it.
It sure took a lot of work, so I hope at least one of you will find some use in this. I hope this makes your searches a lot faster.
CREDITS AND SOURCES:
KHINSIDER, SQUARE ENIX CHANNEL, SQUARE ENIX PRESENTS, DENGEKI, GEMATSU, FAMITSU MAGAZINE, KH13, KHDESTINY, KHISLAND, EDGE ONLINE, MERISTATION, and all other sources and interviewers for providing interviews and information.
It is thanks to their hard work, talents, and kindness that we know all of what we know today. I would like to personally thank the aforementioned kind, talented, and hard working people at KHInsider for providing most of the information in one place; and 93% of this information can all be found in in the KINGDOM HEARTS 3 Interviews section of this site, or through the news tab.
WORLDS
STORY
GAMEPLAY
PLAYABLE CHARACTERS
ENEMIES
MULTIPLAYER AND ONLINE
GRAPHICS, MODELS, AND EFFECTS
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
MASTER LIST
I have had trouble finding quotes in the past because I couldn’t find a place where you could quickly find what you are looking for. And thus I found myself combing through the archives reading every line of every interview until I found it. This could take up to 20 minutes sometimes. There was also a time or two it was all in vain because it wasn’t even listed in the KH3 section, and I had to turn to google or comb through months of articles dating back to January 2014! Me personally, I don’t want to say Nomura or Yasue said something, if they actually didn’t; so I like to check to make sure. And sometimes in my searches, I come across a small detail I overlooked or totally forgot about. This was the inspiration for this thread.
It’s organized into categories. Each category has a summary list, listing all of what we know about the current category you are viewing, in the form of points. Each point is numbered, and corresponds to a subsection in which the original quote is located (for reference). For example, if a point is numbered 2, it will be in the 1-3 subsection. I’ve even added commentary to better describe the points, in hopes to make a few things more clear. If you just want to comb through virtually everything we’ve learned from Kingdom Hearts 3 interviews in about 3-5 minutes with no bulky quotes or commentary, I’ve created the Master List, which is all of the Summary Lists combined. If you find any major errors, or if you notice something I missed, feel free to let me know and I will do the best I can to edit it.
It sure took a lot of work, so I hope at least one of you will find some use in this. I hope this makes your searches a lot faster.
CREDITS AND SOURCES:
KHINSIDER, SQUARE ENIX CHANNEL, SQUARE ENIX PRESENTS, DENGEKI, GEMATSU, FAMITSU MAGAZINE, KH13, KHDESTINY, KHISLAND, EDGE ONLINE, MERISTATION, and all other sources and interviewers for providing interviews and information.
It is thanks to their hard work, talents, and kindness that we know all of what we know today. I would like to personally thank the aforementioned kind, talented, and hard working people at KHInsider for providing most of the information in one place; and 93% of this information can all be found in in the KINGDOM HEARTS 3 Interviews section of this site, or through the news tab.
WORLDS
Spoiler Show
Summary List
-- As of April 9th 2015, despite the interviews and footage there are no officially confirmed worlds
-1 Nomura wishes to have more "stable" worlds in Kingdom Hearts 3 for story purposes
-1 Nomura wishes to implement a number of surprising worlds
-2 Nomura still wants to implement Jungle Book into the Kingdom Hearts Series
-3 Yoshinori and Nomura are fans of Star Wars and want to implement it, but there are restrictions
-4 Square Enix Staff and Disney contribute to world ideas
-4 Returning worlds are also considered for a new titles story consistency
-5 New Disney films that are released and announced during the development of KH3 can be considered
-6 There are many potential worlds that they have deemed candidates
-7 There are many new worlds in Kingdom Hearts 3 since many have yet to appear, according to Nomura
-7 Returning worlds will feature completely new areas
-8 No Disney properties are off limits (As of December 2014)
1-3
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1. World Stability and Surprises
“Regarding the worlds in KH3, Nomura wishes to have some "stable" worlds for story purposes, along with some surprising ones. He actually wants to implement a number of surprising worlds this time to KH3, so we should definitely anticipate them.”
COMMENTARY: Fans have complained that the Disney aspect of Kingdom Hearts has become secondary over the years, and when Sora visits a world, he usually has little reason to be there as far as the main plot is concerned; or that he is too easily distracted by the affairs of that world. I take this to mean that Nomura is fixing this and adding more stability and relevance to worlds.
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2. Jungle Book
“When asked about worlds in the KH series, Nomura mentioned Jungle Book and that they have numerous times tried to implement it in a number of games, but each time it gets cut, much to his dismay.”
COMMENTARY: Tetsuya Nomura has tried to implement a Jungle Book world for many years now. Shortly after the release of Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep it was discovered that a number of models and assets from the movie Jungle Book were still in the code. Therefore, it is fairly likely that the Jungle Book will finally make it into the Kingdom Hearts series in the upcoming installment.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zKGO8-_mPZ4
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3. Star Wars and Licensing Restrictions
“Tetsuya Nomura: (laughs) Of course it would be great if we could add those licenses as well. But there are lots of rules and restrictions by Disney so we can’t actually put everything people want, so it’s a quite difficult decision but we’re going prepare some surprises for you so, just wait for the information.
Finaland & FFDream: Because you know that Kitase-san (Yoshinori Kitase) is a big fan of Star Wars! So you have to do that!
Tetsuya Nomura: (laughs) We’re not going to decide it whether Kitase-san likes Star Wars or not but we’ve been talking about Star Wars itself since it became Disney’s content recently. When I learned the news I was like “Wow! Wow!” Yeah obviously it’s going to be great if we could add it, but like I said there are a lot of restrictions and rules by Disney so we don’t know what’s going to happen but yeah, we’ll see.”
COMMENTARY: As much as they like Star Wars, it is a big name property and has to be taken under much consideration when including Star Wars elements in a franchise that is not base around Star Wars. As a result, the likelihood of a Star Wars world being featured in Kingdom Hearts 3 may be small. It may however have small representation, like a keyblade, an enemy, a reference, and etcetera.
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4-6
4.World Selection
“What is the creative process in choosing worlds for KINGDOM HEARTS? Do you start development with some worlds already in mind, or are there guidelines to follow for consistency with the previous games, or possibly requests from Disney?
Nomura: Several factors come into play. First off, Disney will sometimes offer us ideas of worlds to integrate, and then there are the worlds that I really want to include personally in KINGDOM HEARTS III. I also think of the worlds of the previous games in order to maintain consistency in the story. My team will not hesitate to provide suggestions for their own ideas. After deciding what worlds will be present, we start planning the conduct of the story in these worlds but also to make them interesting and fun for the players.”
COMMENTARY: Here it speaks of how both Kingdom Hearts Staff and Disney also contribute world ideas for Kingdom Hearts titles in development, alongside Nomura’s. They also consider previously featured worlds (for consistency) with the world scenario writing, and implementing interesting elements to make each world fun and enjoyable.
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5. Future Disney Releases
“Nomura: Of course, it is possible to include the worlds from future Disney productions. We currently have some ideas for the worlds of KINGDOM HEARTS III that we cannot speak about. Until the game’s release, new Disney productions will continue to emerge and we'll see in time with Disney for the possible integration of these films.”
COMMENTARY: Disney Films that are on the horizon and films that will be released during the development cycle of Kingdom Hearts 3 can also be potential world candidates.
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6. Many Potential World Candidates
“Nomura: The shape it's taking for KH3 is everyone sharing what sort of things we'd like to do on what sort of worlds, and then making decisions looking at that. A wide range of works fall within our targets so there are a lot of candidates, but we can't make them all, and in the end we also need the OK from Disney. But, the staff working on KH3 are pushier than they've ever been (laughs). They get highly passionate on the spot, elaborating to me exactly why we 'just have to do this!', so it's difficult to make choices.”
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7-8
7. New and Old Disney Franchises/ New Areas in Returning Worlds
“Nomura: As for worlds, I've made some choices and started making them, but at this stage I can't announce what world and which characters. Information will come little by little... There are a lot of new worlds since there are so many Disney titles that haven't appeared yet. As for familiar worlds and characters, you can expect that the locations will be completely, the visuals will be different
Yasue: Yeah, I can’t go into specifics, but there’s a LOT of new Disney stuff and we have our plates full,” said Yasue. “There’s a lot to consider - we’re looking at all of Disney, the new ones as well, they have a lot of pull and draw.”
COMMENTARY: They are considering many older Disney properties, as well as the new. When it comes to returning worlds, it looks like we’ll be exploring completely new areas.
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8. No Disney Property Off-Limits
“When I asked whether I could safely infer that that Star Wars and Marvel are not off-limits, Yasue confirmed that they are being considered. “Well, yeah. They’re all under consideration,” he said. “Nothing’s off-limits; we’re considering all of the worlds. There are so many wonderful concepts. We’re happy about that, but at the same time it’s really tough to choose.”
COMMENTARY: As of December of 2014, there are no Disney Properties that are off limits. Though to reiterate, there are many rules and restrictions in place, so the likelihood of Marvel or Star Wars making their way into Kingdom Hearts 3 is fairly small. But as was stated, as of now there is nothing that is untouchable or off limits.
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STORY
Summary List
The Dark Seeker Chronicles
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 is the final installment of what Tetsuya Nomura has tagged, the Dark Seeker Chronicles.
-1 There will be a final showdown with Xehanort
-1 Nomura did not have a clear vision for this saga from the beginning, but has known for a time that it would end in Kingdom Hearts 3
Main Storyline
-2 In Kingdom Hearts 3, Sora must find a key (An actual key or a "light" key that opens something else). He however doesn't know what or where it is.
-2 Sora is not a Keyblade Master at the beginning of Kingdom Hearts 3 because Nomura says he "isn’t ready for it yet", and wants him to remain an ordinary boy
-2 It looks as though Kairi and (DDD Spoilers) Axel will play a more prominent role in KH3, and will be talked about at a later date
Connections with Kingdom Hearts χ and the Future of Kingdom Hearts
-3 The last sentence in the Foreteller’s Script leads to Kingdom Hearts 3.
-3 The scenarios of KH3 and KHχ (Key) are intimately related, so they are being written at the same time.
-3 Nomura cannot speak for Disney, but he does have ideas for the Kingdom Hearts series beyond Kingdom Hearts 3
1-3
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1. The Dark Seeker Chronicles
“Nomura: Yes. We are currently working through the selection of new worlds. As this is the last chapter of the Dark Seeker Chronicles that has been going since KH1, there will be a final showdown with Xehanort.
---Will the plot follow on from Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance...?
Nomura: Yes, that's right. It will be the last chapter in the Dark Seeker Chronicle that we have been expanding up until now. I am thinking of some ways to make it easier for newcomers to the series to join in.
Nomura: When I created the first KINGDOM HEARTS, I did not have a clear vision of the history of the Seeker of Darkness, but I was already thinking of the KINGDOM HEARTS II and Chain of Memories. I knew at that time that there were two additional games after the first KINGDOM HEARTS. Later, when I finished KINGDOM HEARTS Chain of Memories, I had other plans: Birth by Sleep, 358/2 Days and coded. This is kind of what happened in the history of the series: I did not have a clear idea of the whole story from the beginning, but it is built over time.
Nomura: About the history of the Seeker of Darkness, I knew long ago that it would end in KINGDOM HEARTS III, and also, I've always wanted so KINGDOM HEARTS III on a console. The reason for the announcement of this title took us so long, is that some things that we wanted to add in the game asked us some time to think before making a decision. More details will be announced shortly.
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2. Main Storyline
Nomura: There are two possible meanings of the "key." One of which is the “hardware” key, which opens doors - this is what keys are in general (laughs), and the other is the “light” key, that opens something else. In this case, it is currently unknown as to which type of key Sora must find. This is the main storyline of KINGDOM HEARTS III - Sora must go on an adventure to find the "key" without knowing what or where it is. But as you know, we can’t really say anything else on the subject (laughs).
In KINGDOM HEARTS 3D, Sora does not become a Keyblade Master. Because Sora is one of your favorite characters, was it difficult for you to put him in this position or choice due to KINGDOM HEARTS III? And with Kairi, will she and Sora ever achieve the Mark of Mastery?
Nomura : I thought a lot about whether Sora was to become Keyblade Master or not. But because I always wanted Sora to relate to the players, if he became Master, it would have meant he would have really reached a very high level and it is not yet ready for it, and we do not want that to happen. The decision to not make Sora a Keyblade Master was not really difficult, but I thought it was better that he remains an ordinary boy to be closer to the players.
Nomura: About Kairi, we really considered the question but we cannot say anything about it yet. During the summit announcement at E3, we did not mention Kairi at all. We will share information when we are ready, so please be patient during the wait (laughs). And of course, there is the matter of the other Keyblade Bearer at the end of KINGDOM HEARTS 3D. Unfortunately we are not allowed to disclose the details of this character presently.
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3. Connections with Kingdom Hearts χ and the Future of Kingdom Hearts
Nomura: The last sentence in the Foreteller’s Script leads to KINGDOM HEARTS III.
Nomura: The scenarios of KH3 and KHχ (Key) are intimately related, so they are being written at the same time. That's why the plot of KHχ (Key) has been on pause for a little while, and I am very sorry, but I have to ask you to please wait a little longer. We are also currently investigating developments that would allow more people to experience KHχ (Key).
By the way, we'll see the end of the Dark Seeker Saga in KH3, but what will happen after that?
Nomura: Kingdom Hearts is a Disney title, so I can't speak for them, but naturally, in my own mind I have ideas about what happens after KH3. About characters, and developments. Maybe sometime there will be a chance to talk about that, but rather than thinking out the concrete details regarding that, right now my first priority is completing KH3. I want to put out KH3 quickly.”
COMMENTARY: The Dark Seeker Chronicles, often referred to as the Xehanort Saga, will be conclusively concluded in Kingdom Hearts 3. Along with finally defeating Xehanort, Sora must find a key. Nomura stated that the word key can refer to an actual key with basic functions, or a "key of light" that opens something unknown. It has been stated this is the main storyline of Kingdom Hearts 3. KH3 is a direct sequel to Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance, and thus Sora is not an official keyblade master as of yet, and this will be reflected in kingdom Hearts 3. It looks as though Kairi and (Dream Drop Distance Spoilers) Axel will play a more prominent role in KH3, and will be talked about at a later date. We also have learned that Kingdom Hearts χ and Kingdom Hearts 3 are intimately linked, and that the last sentence in the Foreteller’s Script leads to Kingdom Hearts 3. It has been noted that this is not necessarily (and quite likely isn’t) the end of the Kingdom Hearts series, but the Dark Seeker Chronicles. If given the okay by Disney, Nomura has some plans for what will transpire after the events of Kingdom Hearts 3.
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GAMEPLAY
Summary List
Keyblade Transformation
-1 Sora can transform his keyblade into multiple weapons
-1 Each keyblade has a different transformation and battle style
-1 Nomura confirmed at least one transformation will turn the keyblade into guns
-1 They are meant to be some sort of gimmick according to Nomura
-1 Apparently these transformations will be reminiscent of the way the original keyblade wielders fought
Attraction Flow
-2 Sora learns 3 new abilities in Kingdom Hearts 3
-2 One new ability is something called Attraction Flow
-2 Attraction Flow has the motif of Disney Attractions
-2 Attraction Flow depends on the enemy and location, and Boss Battles have the richest ones, according to Nomura
-2 Attraction Flow is an evolution of Flowmotion
-2 Keyblade Transformation and Attraction Flow are but a fraction of Kingdom Hearts 3's new components
Numbered titles
-3 Kingdom Hearts 3 gameplay is an improved version of Kingdom Hearts 3D's, according to Nomura
-3 There are still many "amazing" character actions that we have not seen
-3 There are apparently action elements that have yet to be seen in any action game to date
-3 Kingdom Hearts 1 and 2 are considered core battle systems, and Kingdom hearts 3 will be an evolved version of both
-3 Elements of "spin off" titles, such as the command deck, may be lightly implemented as well
-3 Nomura expresses that he feels numbered titles star Sora as the main protagonist, and Donald and Goofy as comrades
Allies and Bold Action
-4 Kingdom Hearts 3 features what Nomura describes as Bold Action
-4 Kingdom Hearts features a 3 person party, but NPC's will also join the fight
-4 Apparently Kingdom Hearts 3 features flashy battles in the air without touching the ground
-4 Sora's mobility has really improved, and he already has more mobility than his Final Form from Kingdom Hearts 2
-4 Kingdom Hearts 3 features a version of "Free Run" which includes swift movements, climbing, etc.
-4 Your Jump and Aerial abilities rise very quickly in Kingdom Hearts, and are designed to feel extravagant
-4 Sora will be very impressive near the end of the game, according to Nomura
Donald and Goofy, and Ally AI
-4 The AI (artificial intelligence) for Donald and Goofy have been significantly upgraded. They have been designed to act more like themselves in combat.
Playstation 4/Xbox One Features and Elements
-5 The PS4's memory volume positively affects Kingdom Hearts 3
-5 The DUALSHOCK 4 touch pad is being considered for gameplay (However the Xbox One version one must be considered as well)
-5 Nomura thinks it would be interesting to use Voice Recognition to control Donald and Goofy
Summons
-6 Summons will be different than how they were in previous Kingdom Hearts games
-6 The Kingdom Hearts Remixes helped Osaka team understand the care and dedication required for character summons (KH1 and 2 were developed by different teams)
1-3
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1. Keyblade Transformation
Nomura: In this stage of testing he can transform it. By the way, in the trailer, Sora picks up the Keyblade belonging to Master Eraqus that Aqua had. We put that together in order to remind you of the story of KHIII, as this time we weren't able to prepare a scene that would show you a portion of the drama.
Nomura: When I went to Osaka the other day and saw how development was coming along, Sora's mobility was too high. He'd reached a level where just moving around would probably make him invincible (laughs). Of course, he can't move like that from the beginning, but it looks like by the end he will be incredible. I'm looking forward to the next check. In a previous trailer Sora fought by transforming his Keyblade. The variations of those are also turning out to be amazing. It's close to the way the original Keyblade wielders fought in BbS.
Nomura: There are various amazing transformations of the Keyblade such as guns.
Nomura: We’re planning it should be used as some sort of gimmick.
Nomura: In Kingdom Hearts 3, Sora learns three new abilities. Two of which are special abilities and one that changes the Keyblade. It has the motif of Disney attractions, the Keyblade changes differently depending which Keyblade is equipped, and the special abilities, evolved from KH3D's flowmotion, are activated depending which enemy it is.
Nomura: The trailer we showed of Kingdom Hearts 3 isn't its true quality and we will continue to update it. Sora has three new skills and they are categorized into two parts: Changing the Keyblade's form and abilities that reflect attractions. The Keyblade style changes according to the Keyblade equipped.
Nomura: Also, this is the first time that KH3 was shown using in-engine footage, but it’s not in a condition where viewers can fully grasp it. We’re going to improve the quality much more still after this. In the trailer you see 3 of Sora’s new moves, and they demonstrate the 2 attack systems, the first being Keyblade transformation. The Keyblade transformation is different for each Keyblade, and the battle style changes as well.
COMMENTARY: Sora has a new ability in Kingdom Hearts 3 called Keyblade Transformation. This is an ability that is utilized by keyblade masters (though as of now, Sora is not a master). In Kingdom Hearts 3, Sora transforms his keyblade into various shapes and forms that in the end create what appears to be some kind of weapon. It’s meant to be a gimmick of some sort. Each keyblade also has its own battle and play style. It has been confirmed that every keyblade will have a transformation.
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2. Attraction Flow
“Nomura: In Kingdom Hearts 3, Sora learns three new abilities. Two of which are special abilities and one that changes the Keyblade. It has the motif of Disney attractions, the Keyblade changes differently depending which Keyblade is equipped, and the special abilities, evolved from KH3D's flowmotion, are activated depending which enemy it is.
Nomura: You can choose the “Attraction Flow” ability according to the enemy and location. I’d like to mention in particular, boss battles have the richest ones. It is a system that has evolved from Flowmotion and it is a vital part of KINGDOM HEARTS III.
Nomura: These attractions, which are currently in development, are the evolution of KH3D's Flowmotion and they can be selected according to particular enemies. These are a small portion of these new elements.
Nomura: The second is the Disney attraction inspired Attraction Flow. Attraction Flow is an evolution of Kingdom Hearts 3D’s Flowmotion. With Attraction Flow, you can choose which move you want to use against which enemies on the spot, and even during an enemy outbreak you control Sora’s attacks. These new actions are just a fraction of Kingdom Hearts 3′s new components, so please wait for information hereafter.”
COMMENTARY: Attraction Flow is an ability that summons and utilizes Disney inspired theme park attractions depending on the enemy and location. It is intended to be an evolution of Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance’s Flowmotion. Both this and Keyblade Transformation are but a small portion of Kingdom Hearts 3’s, new components.
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3. Numbered Titles
“Nomura: As I said, we are currently doing a lot of testing on KINGDOM HEARTS III. There are many amazing things that you still have not seen, as the actions that the main characters will perform. It will be really exciting and impressive. As you know, we have developed many new features in KINGDOM HEARTS 3D with very fast movements. It was sort of what we were hoping for KINGDOM HEARTS III, and with that you could say Dream Drop Distance was a test for this game. The gameplay of KINGDOM HEARTS III will be an improved version of the KINGDOM HEARTS 3D. This is truly amazing and never seen in any existing action game.
Yasue: Next he's asked about the battle system in the game. He said that the KH1 and KH2 battle systems are "core" battle-systems, so he would like to evolve the KH3 battle system based on that. The battle systems in the "spin-off" titles might be lightly implemented as well, but we'll have to wait and see.
When Yasumoto asks how work on the numbered titles begins, Nomura says that he thinks of a numbered title as something following the pattern of KH1, with Sora as protagonist and Donald and Goofy as friends that come with you.
On the topic of gameplay and battling, Nomura says since it's a numbered title they plan to evolve the basic style of KH2, while perhaps incorporating some of the elements of gameplay they challenged themselves to develop for the spin off titles. Apparently there will be a lot of gameplay from KH3D in particular, and he thinks you can feel the future KH3 in that game.
Currently, Sora and Riku have developed many skills. In every KINGDOM HEARTS title, you have always managed to explain why the main characters like Sora are starting from scratch in terms of their skills. Do you have an idea for why this would occur in KINGDOM HEARTS III? Are Sora's action sections also evolving nicely?
Nomura: Kingdom Hearts is a series where action continues to evolve. With the past spin off titles, we did something new and the bold action elements changed each time. One thing I want to do with KH3 is to pick and choose the challenges and unique systems from the spin off titles while keeping the system based in the flow of KH1 & KH2.”
COMMENTARY: To start, I would like to point out that Nomura completely glossed over the question regarding to how he plans to make Sora and Riku lose all their skills again for Kingdom Hearts 3 lol. Mr. Nomura has stated that he views the battle systems from Kingdom Heart 1 and 2 as core systems, and he plans for Kingdom Hearts 3 to be an evolved version of that. Apparently, Kingdom Hearts 3 will have the feel of Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance. He is also considering elements from other Kingdom Hearts titles (I personally suspect the Command Deck and Command Styles).
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4-5
4. Bold Action and Allies
“Nomura: Right now there’s a demo version that works on our existing equipment… and it’s an absolute storm (laughs). It goes even beyond ‘bold action’. In KHIII you will have a three person party, but depending on the world NPCs will also join in fighting. Basically, we’re developing some very flashy action. You’ll be flying through the sky unfolding into air battles without landing.
Nomura: Sora's mobility has really improved. There are so many possibilities, but implementing all of them would be extravagant, so right now I'm considering what elements and to what degree they'll be liberalized. After all, it's an RPG as well as an action game. It does have that "jump as far as you want" kind of the action characteristic. In the actual game there will be some sort of limit, but this time we are adopting the "free run" style like in current action games, where you can run around, climb, etc. Additionally, your aerial ability and jump ability rise rapidly, so it feels like the action elements are really extravagant. I think people who have played KH2 might understand it easily; it already has greater mobility than Sora's Final Form from that game.
Nomura: When I went to Osaka the other day and saw how development was coming along, Sora's mobility was too high. He'd reached a level where just moving around would probably make him invincible (laughs). Of course, he can't move like that from the beginning, but it looks like by the end he will be incredible. I'm looking forward to the next check. In a previous trailer Sora fought by transforming his Keyblade. The variations of those are also turning out to be amazing. It's close to the way the original Keyblade wielders fought in BbS.
Speaking of allies, will the actions of our travel partners Goofy and Donald change as well?
Nomura: Their AI is also being powered up considerably. Since Disney characters have concrete personalities, I want them to act according to their own thoughts instead of just giving them an order and having them obey like in the Final Fantasy series. Relating to their AI, we're configuring it so Donald and Goofy act more like themselves. The direction we're taking in their growth is to have it so they consider the situation, and help out accordingly. As the player is busy controlling Sora in battle, they consider how they'll participate and their actions increase accordingly.”
COMMENTARY: Kingdom Hearts 3 will unsurprisingly feature the boldest action ever seen in a Kingdom Hearts title. Nomura has given an example of this. According to him some battles will feature Sora fighting in the air without even touching the ground. In the game you will have a 3 person party, though depending on the world, NPC’s will also join the fight. Sora’s mobility has also been given an upgrade. It’s been confirmed that his jump and aerial abilities will rise rapidly, and is a part of Sora’s increased mobility. There’s also a “Free Run” like ability which includes things like running, climbing, and more that has yet to be revealed. Nomura states that after his visits to Osaka Team headquarters and viewing their progress, Sora will be impressive towards the end of the game.
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5. Playstation 4/ Xbox One features and Elements
“With the PS4's specs and memory volume, the PS4 is able to implement those features?
Nomura: Well, even with the KH games so far, we've made it as seamless to the best of our ability, but the data is resident in the memory... So we include as many actions, motions and effects as possible. Luckily, the PS4's memory volume is big, so it helps.
Are the plans for KH3 to utilize the DUALSHOCK 4 functions?
Nomura: Like Final Fantasy XV, KH3 is being developed in DirectX 11, so in what ways it will use the PS4's functions hasn't been decided concretely yet. Right now we're in a stage where we are making note of the hardware and it'll become clearer in the future. When I have an idea, I think how about we use the DUALSHOCK 4 touch pad? So I think I'd use it in some form, but right now nothing is decided.
The PlayStation 4 and Xbox One offers interesting features such as voice recognition, motion detection or the use of touch with the PSVita and Xbox SmartGlass. Do you plan to exploit these opportunities for your games? What is your opinion on these technologies?
Nomura : We would like to incorporate these features in KINGDOM HEARTS III. The one that we find most interesting is the voice recognition. I think it would be great to be able to control Donald and Goofy through voice command to tell them what to do. Wouldn’t that be nice? (Laughs).”
COMMENTARY: The special features of both the Playstation 4 and Xbox One are being considered for Kingdom Hearts 3. The KH staff has apparently taken a shine to voice recognition, and think it would be interesting if it could be used to communicate with Donald and Goofy.
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6-7
6. Summons
Regarding summoning characters, Nomura said that in previous KH titles, we could summon Disney characters, but this will be different in KH3. He didn't say more on this subject though.
Yasue: There’s a lot to get used to working with the Disney content, you have to have a lot of dedication and respect for their visual IPs for example, and when you play Kingdom Hearts 2 you see that: when you summon a character or use a spell there’s a lot of love and care that goes into the presentation. When you see Stich coming out of the screen, for example, it’s very true to the original movie. That dedication is something you learn through the process or remaking 2.
COMMENTARY: Summons will apparently be different this time around. As for Osaka team, the remixes were apparently great practice for getting the feel and dedication put into summoning characters and effectively capturing the essence of the character.
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PLAYABLE CHARACTERS
Summary List
-1 Nomura describes that the numbered titled game formula is Sora as the protagonist, and Donald and Goofy as friends who accompany you
-1 Nomura wants to clarify that Sora is the main character/protagonist in Kingdom Hearts 3 (and as such, features him as the main playable character)
-1 While he wants to stress that this adventure stars Sora, he realizes fans want to play as their favorite characters, and is considering that
-1 When asked about Riku and Kairi being playable, Nomura responded by saying that he couldn't say the possibility was zero
-1 Nomura said that he would consider making King Mickey playable
1.
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1. Playable Characters
“When Yasumoto asks how work on the numbered titles begin, Nomura says that he thinks of a numbered title as something following the pattern of KH1, with Sora as protagonist and Donald and Goofy as friends that come with you.
Nomura was then asked about potential FINAL FANTASY characters, and whether we might be able to play as King Mickey. He answered that KH3 will most likely include FF characters again, since they were absent in previous entries.
Regarding Mickey, he will take it under consideration; though he wanted to clarify that Sora will of course be the main character.
Nomura: The Kingdom Hearts series always had Sora as the main character, so we want to make the most of Sora, playable Sora of course. But again, Kingdom Hearts III is going to be the last chapter of the Kingdom Hearts main numbering title series, so lots of fans actually want to play as their favorite characters in Kingdom Hearts III so we will consider that, we will listen to what fans wants but hopefully we could give you some surprises in the future announcements.
If the story continues from KH3D, then is it possible that we will be able to control not only Sora but other characters such as Riku and Kairi?
Nomura: I can't say the possibility is zero.”
COMMENTARY: The formula for numbered titled games appears to be Sora as the main protagonist, along with Donald and Goofy as accompanying friends/comrades. As it has been confirmed that Sora is the main character, if there are multiple characters it will not work the way it did in Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep, or Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance, as those games featured multiple playable protagonists. I highly suspect you will simply take over certain characters at certain points during the story. Sora of course will have the vast majority of gameplay time, and will likely have a better arsenal of techniques. When asked about Kairi, Riku and Mickey when it comes to them being in a playable form in Kingdom Hearts 3, Nomura is considering them and others, and can’t say that the possibility is zero (Which I take to mean, “yes but we can’t talk about it yet”). I can almost assure you that at the very least Riku and Kairi will be playable in some format in Kingdom Hearts 3. Whether it be in the story, or a multiplayer format.
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ENEMIES
Summary List
-1 The Organization will return indefinitely and nobodies have a chance of returning as well
-1 The enemy AI has drastically improved and is becoming elaborate
-1 Each enemy acts according to it’s own personal thought process
-1 There is a confirmed vehicle type enemy that Sora can ride around the battlefield
-1 Enemies can apparently lift up entire buildings in Kingdom Hearts 3, with the player still in it
-1 Enemies will have coordinated actions (Like the Shadow Tidal Wave in the reveal trailer)
-1 The PS4 and Xbox One are capable of battles against large numbers of enemies, in large areas
1.
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1. Enemies
“About the Organization and nobodies, we will definitely see more of the Organization, since Master Xehanort is behind it, but this will not necessarily be the end of nobodies; meaning that we will see more of them in the future.
Nomura: This time we are focusing our attention on developing the AI. The AI of both your allies and enemies has evolved in a way that hasn’t been seen so far. Before when a large number of enemies appeared, they all followed a program action pattern. But this time each enemy behaves according to it’s own thought process. I think it’s something that has been drastically powered up compared to the previous Kingdom Hearts titles.
Nomura: The enemy AI is becoming rather elaborate, and we’d like for coordinated action to flow from enemies and allies alike. For example, there’s a vehicle-type enemy, and we’ve already got Sora being able to ride that enemy all around during battle.
Nomura: We're preparing a fair number of actions that involve the world maps. Things like climbing up a cliff that crumbles with falling stones, and enemies lifting up a building that you are in.
Nomura: I think that the PS4's power is capable of handling a diverse array of actions in a wide area and battles against large numbers of enemies.”
COMMENTARY: It looks like the Organization will be back in Kingdom Hearts 3, at least in part, and it would seem that nobodies may return as well. The enemy AI in Kingdom Hearts 3 has been drastically improved, as they all now have their own individual thought processes, as opposed to the program action patterns in past installments; especially when enemies were in large numbers. Enemy attacks are also coordinated now. There are even enemies that can pick up entire buildings, with you still inside! I take this to mean Kingdom Hearts will have larger enemies that would usually be reserved for boss battles, as regular enemies. After all, Behemoths and Wyverns were intended to be in the VS. 1000 Heartless battle from Kingdom Hearts 2, but were cut because of hardware limitations. Final Fantasy XV, Kingdom Heart’s sister title, also features large enemies as regular enemies, and both games are being developed on the same platforms. The power of the Playstation 4 and Xbox One also allow for battles against large amounts of enemies in wide areas, according to Nomura.
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MULTIPLAYER AND ONLINE
Summary List
-1 Multiplayer components are under consideration and investigation
-1 Nomura thinks it may be possible to link any potential Kingdom Hearts 3 multiplayer components with Kingdom Heartsχ's
-1 Though the main focus will not be on multiplayer, Nomura is looking for ways to make the best use of multiplayer for Kingdom Hearts 3 and it's unique elements and story setting
1.
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1. Multiplayer and Online
“Then he was asked about multiplayer in KH3, and Nomura said that next gen hardware had good online functions, so he will take that under consideration, but we will learn more at a later time.
Nomura: For KHIII, developments unseen in the KH series so far involving online elements are under investigation, so please look forward to upcoming news
Nomura: I think setting an end to KINGDOM HEARTS χ[chi], considering the nature of an online game, is difficult. I think KINGDOM HEARTS III may have online elements and it may be possible to link them but I currently don’t know.
We are very interested in Aqua's Episode. There were multiplayer sections in the original version. What do you think about the compatibility of KH and multiplayer?
Nomura: If I had to say one way or the other, I think perhaps the players of KH want to be made to be immersed completely in the world they are playing, so I don't think we will actively move towards multiplayer. Perhaps something that gives an asynchronous feeling of being connected, like in Re:coded, would fit better. Of course, I do consider multiplayer elements if it would fit the title, such as in KHχ (Key), where the premise is based on the Keyblade War, and BbS, where the three main characters made for interesting opportunities.”
COMMENTARY: Nomura has complimented the Playstation 4 and the Xbox One, stating they both have great online components, and he is currently considering and investigating them for both platforms. He also thinks it’s possible to potentially link potential online components for Kingdom Hearts 3 with those of an online Kingdom Hearts game, Kingdom Heartsχ (It should be noted that he has stated that these games are intimately related and connected). The main focus will not be on multiplayer, but he’s looking for possible ways to make it work for Kingdom Hearts 3 and it’s unique properties and story setting.
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GRAPHICS, MODELS, AND EFFECTS
Summary List
Kingdom Shader
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 will utilize and unofficially named texture shader currently labeled, the "Kingdom Shader"
-1 The purpose of the new shader is to capture the look and feel of each Disney work in its original format.
-1 The shader will adjust to the overall style of each Disney film/work
-1 The plan is to create a photo realistic representation, with the tone of each Disney World
-1 This shader will showcase what Nomura has wanted too ever since the original Kingdom Hearts
-1 The Kingdom Shader also apparently has a significant effect on some gameplay mechanics as well
World Map Effects and Quality Increase
-1 " Nomura: We're preparing a fair number of actions that involve the world maps. Things like climbing up a cliff that crumbles with falling stones, and enemies lifting up a building that you are in."
-1 While the Disney Expo 23 gameplay trailer was running in engine, Nomura plans to significantly upgrade the visual quality before release
1-2
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1. Kingdom Shader
“Then suddenly Nomura said he remembered what he wanted to add, in regards to the worlds in KH3. For KINGDOM HEARTS III, if you noticed in the trailer, there are high quality shaders being used and the description of characters has changed. The textures for models have thus changed in order to make them better realized for the next generation hardware. In KINGDOM HEARTS III, they will change the shaders depending on the worlds.
Nomura: Among the developers we are calling the visuals the ‘Kingdom Shader’. On original worlds, the characters will go around with that feel to them. Then, to match the style of each Disney World, the Shader will adjust the visuals depending on the world.
Nomura: Perhaps the ordinary course of things would be to go with the realism close to the visuals in the movies so far, but then there wouldn't be any surprises, would there? I think the same thing about existing things like cel shading, too.
Nomura: How should next-gen Kingdom Hearts be... should I go with the realism from recent works, or go with something different? I thought long and hard about several answers. From that, I knew we had to go back to our original goal for the graphics of the Kingdom Hearts characters: evoking the feel of the brush paintings in Disney works. So, I called on (Mr Takeshi) Nozue and we did test after test, and the result of all our investigating is the 'Kingdom Shader'. Because we are skipping a generation of hardware with our numbered titles, Kingdom Hearts II having been released on PS2, perhaps it will seem like we are changing things too radically. However, we are doing our utmost best to take everything you have seen so far and evolve it to be even richer.
Nomura: That would be because of what the developers are referring to as the 'Kingdom Shader', which adds shading to the base image generation of the original 'Kingdom Hearts' that reproduces the brush painting of Disney works in even greater beauty. So instead we made a concept FMV that depicts what is possible in real time. That said, the actual thing working in real time doesn't look much different at all.
Nomura: The gameplay seen in the E3 trailer has not been finalized. As I said earlier, we are in the testing phase and this version of gameplay was one of the features being tested at that time. What you have seen in the KINGDOM HEARTS III trailer was a more successful version of a test version. but the final elements of gameplay depended on the "Kingdom Shader" greatly change the game according to the environment in which progresses the characters. You will see the differences in each world, it will be really interesting.
Nomura: We're aiming for a photo realistic representation combined with a tone of each Disney world.
Nomura: This isn't the official name, but it's something we call the Kingdom Shader. You saw it a little bit in the E3 trailer, this visual of a Disney 2D produced painted image represented in 3D. This time, when I was thinking about how the graphics in KH3 would be visualized, it started with Takeshi Nozue working in Visual Works, and he made patterns of various visuals for me. He gave me this "painted looking visual" pattern and I wound up showing it at E3. Visual Works makes pre-rendered footage, and this is based on a way to make it work in real time.
Nomura: Since the very first title, the graphic gradation was made with the intention of representing the painted look of Disney's animations. But with the hardware back then didn't have the capability to adjust the lighting freely, so we tried to portray a painted visual in the textures we used. But this time the hardware's capabilities are better, there is no option of "not using light." You don't get a sense of graphical evolution just by setting old graphics to HD; my goal with the next gen isn't to do something that reproduces the pre-rendered scenes from KH1 & KH2 in real time. I considered the concept of the visuals and thus the representation Kingdom Shader was created.
COMMENTARY: While the name is currently unofficial, the graphic style for Kingdom Hearts 3 is being developed with something called, the “Kingdom Shader”. This shader has been designed to turn the 2Dimensional paint brush style Disney Paintings into full 3D. As lighting tools and options have been drastically improved since the release of Kingdom Hearts 2, Nomura believes he can finally achieve the look he has wanted since the very beginning of the series. The tone and style of each world will change from world to world, and will be based of the original Disney Film/Work in which it appeared; a photo realistic representation, with the tone of each Disney World. It will also apparently have a significant effect on a few gameplay elements as well.
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2. World Map Effects and Quality Increase
Nomura: We're preparing a fair number of actions that involve the world maps. Things like climbing up a cliff that crumbles with falling stones, and enemies lifting up a building that you are in.
Nomura: Also, this is the first time that KH3 was shown using in-engine footage, but it’s not in a condition where viewers can fully grasp it. We’re going to improve the quality much more still after this. In the trailer you see 3 of Sora’s new moves, and they demonstrate the 2 attack systems, the first being Keyblade transformation. The Keyblade transformation is different for each Keyblade, and the battle style changes as well.”
Nomura: We are currently verifying going with Luminous as our main. Working on an over-spec and porting to both PS4 and Xbox One is also going to be the same. In the trailer we showed, for the battle section we didn't have time to prepare a clip of it working on the actual hardware because of tool issues, so instead we made a concept FMV that depicts what is possible in real time. That said, the actual thing working in real time doesn't look much different at all.
COMMENTARY: The World Maps will hold much more significance and interactivity than in previous Kingdom Hearts titles. For example, when climbing or scaling things like a cliff, stones will fall and certain parts of said cliff will crumble. Enemies will also be able to move entire buildings, and thus slightly or drastically changing a section of the map. Also, despite the big graphical changes we saw in the D23 expo trailer, the graphic quality will be increased much more before Kingdom hearts 3 is officially released.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Summary List
Game Development
-1 Both the English and Japanese voice actors for Master Xehanort passed away during the development of Kingdom Hearts 3.
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 is being developed in DirectX 11
-1 Square Enix is no longer using the Luminous engine to develop Kingdom Hearts 3, and have switched to Unreal Engine 4
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 is also being developed on PC and will be ported to Playstation 4 and Xbox One
-1 Osaka Team is developing Kingdom Hears 3 alongside Tai Yasue and the Tokyo Kingdom Hearts Staff
-1 The experience from all past experiments will be important for developing Kingdom Hearts 3
-1 With all the new things available, they are forced to choose what ideas to keep and which to toss in the interest of time
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3's initial reveal was a little early considering where it was from a development standpoint
Story Elements
-2 Nomura thinks Kingdom Hearts will appear in Kingdom Hearts 3
-2 Kingdom Hearts 3 apparently begins somewhere no one is expecting, and is related to the secret conversation at the end of the Kingdom Hearts 2.5 Remix trailer
-2 The aforementioned conversation was actually a snippet, and the actual conversation goes on for over 2 minutes.
-2 Nomura has had trouble trying to piece everything together, and reaches out to staff and also thinks about how he can make things surprising
-2 Nomura is unsure if new players can truly enjoy Kingdom Hearts 3 without knowledge of previous entries
-2 (Dream Drop Distance Spoilers) Meow Wow may return, as the end of Kingdom Hearts 3D was meant to be "tentative foreshadowing", according to Nomura
Remaining Details
-3 Sora and Riku have new outfits in Kingdom Hearts 3
-3 Tai Yasue has a personal desire to include more Square Enix properties in Kingdom Hearts 3, and favors Final Fantasy VII
-3 Upon further investigation of the D23 trailer, it would seem that Kingdom Hearts 3 and Kingdom Hearts Xchi may share a few keyblades.
-3 Nomura is considering external devices
-3 Tai Yasue has confirmed that there will be more information in 2015
1.
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1. Game Development
Kingdom Hearts 3 is being developed for Playstation 4 and Xbox One
“The interview then continues about FINAL FANTASY XV, but as Nomura finished discussing XV, he said that when making both KH3 and XV, he's focusing on developing with DirectX 11 in mind, and not necessarily for a single platform.
Nomura: The team creating Kingdom Hearts III is in the studios in Osaka, and as you guys know Osaka and Tokyo are a little bit far away from each other but we meet enough with meetings quite often and we’re doing telephone conferences too. So we communicate all the time as I am quite heavily involved on this project.
Nomura: I know there are many fans that are restless because we have only released spin off titles since KHII, so I decided to announce it along with FFXV. Considering the stage of development, though, I do think perhaps it is a bit early to be announcing it.
Nomura: The base is the Osaka team. With (Mr Tai) Yasue as Co. Director, they are working in conjunction with the Tokyo Kingdom Hearts staff.
---We apologise for what might be an overly-specific question, but, what happened to Meow Wow.......
Fans of the series would be quite happy for the game to be the same as the last one, but as a designer and developer don’t you want to experiment and do new things? How do you balance those desires in Kingdom Hearts 3?
Nomura: As you know, it took a while to actually announce Kingdom Hearts 3, but in the meantime we announced several spin-off titles in the series, and each time for the spin-off title we did experiment and challenge with new things. So we did definitely feel like we have reached enough experimentation and experiences and also I do the development of Final Fantasy, so I feel like for this Kingdom Hearts 3 we are putting everything – all of the experimentation and experiences – into this new title.
They talk about the difficulties of working on new hardware such as the PS4 and XBONE. Nomura says that the way they have to make the game is very different from how they have done things so far. They are using the method of making the base of the whole thing on PC and then adjusting for the features of each console, which is apparently the best way to go about ported projects.”
Both the English and Japanese voice actors for Master Xehanort passed away during the development of Kingdom Hearts 3. You can read more on their unfortunate passing here:
Chikao Ohtsuka, voice of Master Xehanort, dies at 85 - News - Kingdom Hearts Insider
Leonard Nimoy, voice of Master Xehanort, dies at 83 - News - Kingdom Hearts Insider
Upon further investigation of the D23 trailer, it would seem that Kingdom Hearts 3 and Kingdom Hearts Xchi may share a few keyblades.
Kingdom Hearts 3 and KHx [Chi] Share Keyblades - Features - Kingdom Hearts Insider
“Once more, may we as about the state of development on KH3?
Nomura: It’s moving steadily along the estimated schedule. As an effect of us changing the game engine to Unreal Engine 4, which we did for several reasons, we had a lot of problems with the image creation, but we have been able to progress without incident with the collaboration of Epic Games.
Nomura: The number of things we have to do keeps increasing and if we keep trying to expand as far as it will go, we'll never be finished. I think we're going to end up being faced with the choice of what to keep and what to give up on [for Kingdom Hearts III].
Nomura: The things you can do have increased immensely, so once you start broadening the possibilities, it doesn't end; the possibilities just grow. You're pressed to choose what ideas to keep and what to toss.”
COMMENTARY: Kingdom Hearts 3 is being developed in DirectX 11, with Epic Game’s game engine, Unreal Engine 4. Square Enix originally used their in-house engine, Luminous, but there was much trouble with image creation and thus they reached out to Epic Games, and everything has gone smoothly ever since. It’s also being developed for PC, as opposed to the Playstation 4 and Xbox One. It is said to be easier to create the game for PC and then port it to console devices. The main developers are a team called Osaka Team, and they work alongside Tetsuya Nomura and Tai Yasue personally, as well as the Tokyo Kingdom Hearts staff. Osaka team hasn’t been around from the beginning, but the experience they gained remaking the first two numbered titled games, as well as a portion of the handhelds will be vitally important while developing Kingdom Hearts 3 according to Yasue and Nomura. It should be noted that when Kingdom Hearts 3 was first announced, Kingdom Hearts 3 was very early in development, and as such, was a little early for an announcement. However, after the engine switch, things have gone smoothly and at the estimated pace, or so Nomura says. The massive jump from PS2 to PS4 has been overwhelming for Mr. Nomura. There are so many possibilities that can be implemented that they are forced choose which ideas to utilize and which ones to scrap in the interest of time. System limitations made it easier on the team in the past, but with the limit raised dramatically, they have reached a positive obstacle, according to Mr.Nomura
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2-3
2. Story Elements
“He was then asked if we would see the actual Kingdom Hearts in KH3, and he answered: "I think it will appear". Interesting.
Nomura: I had received so many responses after releasing that play video previously, and I could feel that people were eagerly anticipating KH3. I really wanted to put out some sort of message, even though I couldn't show any content at that time. And, I wanted to show everyone that KH3 begins somewhere nobody is expecting, with speaking from new voice actors that haven't appeared in the series before. I really enjoyed seeing everyone try to guess who those two are.
---We definitely were surprised. We hadn't expected it to begin like that at all.
Nomura: I wanted to go with an introduction that wouldn't make fans be like 'yeah, we knew that' upon seeing the opening section, and that would have both fans who knew the series and fans who didn't be like 'what's this? What's going to happen next?' and start feeling anticipation. I do this every time, but I want to try and make things even for both fans and newcomers. By the way, the conversation between those two is actually a lot longer; it goes for over two minutes. When you hear their conversation, you'll understand the flow of everything so far.
Nomura: When I’m writing the scenario and connecting them together, I can no longer make sense in the answer that goal approaches. Therefore, I seek to answer how can I make this surprising?
When asked whether people who are completely new to the KH series will be able to enjoy KH3 without playing any other titles, Nomura is unsure!
Nomura: ......What indeed (laughs). The last part of KH3D was meant to be tentative foreshadowing.
COMMENTARY: It looks like there is a good chance we will finally see/visit Kingdom Hearts at some point in Kingdom Hearts 3. It is not confirmed, but Nomura thinks it will appear. Kingdom Hearts 3 begins at a point that no one’s expecting. He wants to avoid the whole “we know all this already” scenario. There was a small snippet of a conversation at the end of a Kingdom Hearts 2.5 Remix trailer between two mystery characters (both voice actors are new to the series). It was meant to get the players talking and guessing. It seems it truly was a snippet at heart, as the full conversation goes on for a time longer. The Kingdom Hearts series has been known to be a little convoluted at points, and even Nomura himself has trouble piecing things together to fit and still leave the players surprised. As for newcomers, Nomura is unsure if you can enjoy Kingdom Hearts 3 with no knowledge or previous installment (KHInsder and Gametrailers collaborated to make a Kingdom Hearts Timeline if you’re interested, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xm-NoyqzGkY). Finally, Nomura was asked what happened to Meow Wow from Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance. (Dream Drop Distance Spoilers) He responded by saying “[I]The last part of KH3D was meant to be tentative foreshadowing.” [/I]This may potentially hint at a possible return in Kingdom Hearts 3.
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3. Remaining Details
“Nomura: Things like Sora's outfit and battle gameplay are still to be revealed, so please look forward to that.
Nomura: I've also drawn new clothes for Sora and Riku and the others.
Yasue also mentioned a personal desire to put in new characters from Square Enix properties, in particular more characters from Final Fantasy VII.”
Kingdom Hearts 3 footage was seen at the Kingdom Hearts 2.5 Remix Launch Event, and a few of the KHInsider Staff and Members were fortunate enough to bear witness to it. If you’d like to read what they saw, it can be found here. New Kingdom Hearts III Footage at 2.5 Launch Event! - News - Kingdom Hearts Insider
“-You used the opening section of KH3 in a recently released trailer for KH2.5, didn't you? The conversation between those strangers was rather enigmatic.
Nomura: Naturally I'm considering external devices, but I'm still thinking of ideas right now.
Tai Yasue: We’re hoping to be able to show our fans the fruits of these labors step by step during 2015, so stay on the lookout for more information”
COMMENTARY: As expected, Nomura has designed new outfits for Sora and Riku. He has quite likely designed new outfits for other recurring characters as well. Tai Yasue has expressed his desire for more Square Enix Properties in the Kingdom Hearts series, favoring Final Fantasy VII in particular. While likely a fake, sometime a while ago there were rumors about Steve Blum being onboard for Kingdom Hearts 3, and he just so happens to voice Vincent Valentine. A few of our KHInsider Staff and members were fortunate enough to attend the Kingdom hearts 2.5 Remix Launch Event, and were treated to a brief teaser from Kingdom Hearts 3. The things they saw will not be released in the raw format in which they saw them, but they did document what they saw. If you are interested you can check out the link above (There were also some people who noticed more or different things than our staff, and can be found on other Kingdom Hearts sites if interested.) Nomura is also considering external device interconnectivity for the first time, but nothing is confirmed or set in stone as of April 14th, 2015. Lastly, Tai Yasue has promised more news will come in 2015, so please be excited! According to Famitsu, it should be shown at D23 in November.
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MASTER LIST
WORLDS
-- As of April 9th 2015, despite the interviews and footage there are no officially confirmed worlds
-1 Nomura wishes to have more "stable" worlds in Kingdom Hearts 3 for story purposes
-1 Nomura wishes to implement a number of surprising worlds
-2 Nomura still wants to implement Jungle Book into the Kingdom Hearts Series
-3 Yoshinori and Nomura are fans of Star Wars and want to implement it, but there are restrictions
-4 Square Enix Staff and Disney contribute to world ideas
-4 Returning worlds are also considered for a new titles story consistency
-5 New Disney films that are released and announced during the development of KH3 can be considered
-6 There are many potential worlds that they have deemed candidates
-7 There are many new worlds in Kingdom Hearts 3 since many have yet to appear, according to Nomura
-7 Returning worlds will feature completely new areas
-8 No Disney properties are off limits (As of December 2014)
STORY
The Dark Seeker Chronicles
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 is the final installment of what Tetsuya Nomura has tagged, the Dark Seeker Chronicles.
-1 There will be a final showdown with Xehanort
-1 Nomura did not have a clear vision for this saga from the beginning, but has known for a time that it would end in Kingdom Hearts 3
Main Storyline
-2 In Kingdom Hearts 3, Sora must find a key (An actual key or a "light" key that opens something else). He however doesn't know what or where it is.
-2 Sora is not a Keyblade Master at the beginning of Kingdom Hearts 3 because Nomura says he "isn’t ready for it yet", and wants him to remain an ordinary boy
-2 It looks as though Kairi and (DDD Spoilers) Axel will play a more prominent role in KH3, and will be talked about at a later date
Connections with Kingdom Hearts χ and the Future of Kingdom Hearts
-3 The last sentence in the Foreteller’s Script leads to Kingdom Hearts 3.
-3 The scenarios of KH3 and KHχ (Key) are intimately related, so they are being written at the same time.
-3 Nomura cannot speak for Disney, but he does have ideas for the Kingdom Hearts series beyond Kingdom Hearts 3
GAMEPLAY
Keyblade Transformation
-1 Sora can transform his keyblade into multiple weapons
-1 Each keyblade has a different transformation and battle style
-1 Nomura confirmed at least one transformation will turn the keyblade into guns
-1 They are meant to be some sort of gimmick according to Nomura
-1 Apparently these transformations will be reminiscent of the way the original keyblade wielders fought
Attraction Flow
-2 Sora learns 3 new abilities in Kingdom Hearts 3
-2 One new ability is something called Attraction Flow
-2 Attraction Flow has the motif of Disney Attractions
-2 Attraction Flow depends on the enemy and location, and Boss Battles have the richest ones, according to Nomura
-2 Attraction Flow is an evolution of Flowmotion
-2 Keyblade Transformation and Attraction Flow are but a fraction of Kingdom Hearts 3's new components
Numbered titles
-3 Kingdom Hearts 3 gameplay is an improved version of Kingdom Hearts 3D's, according to Nomura
-3 There are still many "amazing" character actions that we have not seen
-3 There are apparently action elements that have yet to be seen in any action game to date
-3 Kingdom Hearts 1 and 2 are considered core battle systems, and Kingdom hearts 3 will be an evolved version of both
-3 Elements of "spin off" titles, such as the command deck, may be lightly implemented as well
-3 Nomura expresses that he feels numbered titles star Sora as the main protagonist, and Donald and Goofy as comrades
Allies and Bold Action
-4 Kingdom Hearts 3 features what Nomura describes as Bold Action
-4 Kingdom Hearts features a 3 person party, but NPC's will also join the fight
-4 Apparently Kingdom Hearts 3 features flashy battles in the air without touching the ground
-4 Sora's mobility has really improved, and he already has more mobility than his Final Form from Kingdom Hearts 2
-4 Kingdom Hearts 3 features a version of "Free Run" which includes swift movements, climbing, etc.
-4 Your Jump and Aerial abilities rise very quickly in Kingdom Hearts, and are designed to feel extravagant
-4 Sora will be very impressive near the end of the game, according to Nomura
Donald and Goofy, and Ally AI
-4 The AI (artificial intelligence) for Donald and Goofy have been significantly upgraded. They have been designed to act more like themselves in combat.
Playstation 4/Xbox One Features and Elements
-5 The PS4's memory volume positively affects Kingdom Hearts 3
-5 The DUALSHOCK 4 touch pad is being considered for gameplay (However the Xbox One version one must be considered as well)
-5 Nomura thinks it would be interesting to use Voice Recognition to control Donald and Goofy
Summons
-6 Summons will be different than how they were in previous Kingdom Hearts games
-6 The Kingdom Hearts Remixes helped Osaka team understand the care and dedication required for character summons (KH1 and 2 were developed by different teams)
PLAYABLE CHARACTERS
-1 Nomura describes that the numbered titled game formula is Sora as the protagonist, and Donald and Goofy as friends who accompany you
-1 Nomura wants to clarify that Sora is the main character/protagonist in Kingdom Hearts 3 (and as such, features him as the main playable character)
-1 While he wants to stress that this adventure stars Sora, he realizes fans want to play as their favorite characters, and is considering that
-1 When asked about Riku and Kairi being playable, Nomura responded by saying that he couldn't say the possibility was zero
-1 Nomura said that he would consider making King Mickey playable
ENEMIES
-1 The Organization will return indefinitely and nobodies have a chance of returning as well
-1 The enemy AI has drastically improved and is becoming elaborate
-1 Each enemy acts according to it’s own personal thought process
-1 There is a confirmed vehicle type enemy that Sora can ride around the battlefield
-1 Enemies can apparently lift up entire buildings in Kingdom Hearts 3, with the player still in it
-1 Enemies will have coordinated actions (Like the Shadow Tidal Wave in the reveal trailer)
-1 The PS4 and Xbox One are capable of battles against large numbers of enemies, in large areas
MULTIPLAYER AND ONLINE
-1 Multiplayer components are under consideration and investigation
-1 Nomura thinks it may be possible to link any potential Kingdom Hearts 3 multiplayer components with Kingdom Heartsχ's
-1 Though the main focus will not be on multiplayer, Nomura is looking for ways to make the best use of multiplayer for Kingdom Hearts 3 and it's unique elements and story setting
GRAPHICS, MODELS, AND EFFECTS
Kingdom Shader
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 will utilize and unofficially named texture shader currently labeled, the "Kingdom Shader"
-1 The purpose of the new shader is to capture the look and feel of each Disney work in its original format.
-1 The shader will adjust to the overall style of each Disney film/work
-1 The plan is to create a photo realistic representation, with the tone of each Disney World
-1 This shader will showcase what Nomura has wanted too ever since the original Kingdom Hearts
-1 The Kingdom Shader also apparently has a significant effect on some gameplay mechanics as well
World Map Effects and Quality Increase
-1 " Nomura: We're preparing a fair number of actions that involve the world maps. Things like climbing up a cliff that crumbles with falling stones, and enemies lifting up a building that you are in."
-1 While the Disney Expo 23 gameplay trailer was running in engine, Nomura plans to significantly upgrade the visual quality before release
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Game Development
-1 Both the English and Japanese voice actors for Master Xehanort passed away during the development of Kingdom Hearts 3.
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 is being developed in DirectX 11
-1 Square Enix is no longer using the Luminous engine to develop Kingdom Hearts 3, and have switched to Unreal Engine 4
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3 is also being developed on PC and will be ported to Playstation 4 and Xbox One
-1 Osaka Team is developing Kingdom Hears 3 alongside Tai Yasue and the Tokyo Kingdom Hearts Staff
-1 The experience from all past experiments will be important for developing Kingdom Hearts 3
-1 With all the new things available, they are forced to choose what ideas to keep and which to toss in the interest of time
-1 Kingdom Hearts 3's initial reveal was a little early considering where it was from a development standpoint
Story Elements
-2 Nomura thinks Kingdom Hearts will appear in Kingdom Hearts 3
-2 Kingdom Hearts 3 apparently begins somewhere no one is expecting, and is related to the secret conversation at the end of the Kingdom Hearts 2.5 Remix trailer
-2 The aforementioned conversation was actually a snippet, and the actual conversation goes on for over 2 minutes.
-2 Nomura has had trouble trying to piece everything together, and reaches out to staff and also thinks about how he can make things surprising
-2 Nomura is unsure if new players can truly enjoy Kingdom Hearts 3 without knowledge of previous entries
-2 (Dream Drop Distance Spoilers) Meow Wow may return, as the end of Kingdom Hearts 3D was meant to be "tentative foreshadowing", according to Nomura
Remaining Details
-3 Sora and Riku have new outfits in Kingdom Hearts 3
-3 Tai Yasue has a personal desire to include more Square Enix properties in Kingdom Hearts 3, and favors Final Fantasy VII
-3 Upon further investigation of the D23 trailer, it would seem that Kingdom Hearts 3 and Kingdom Hearts Xchi may share a few keyblades.
-3 Nomura is considering external devices
-3 Tai Yasue has confirmed that there will be more information in 2015
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Attraction flow sounds really interesting, and I love how Nomura is making the worlds more interactive now. Thanks for the summaries man!
