IT’S FINALLY HERE AND ABOUT TIME! KINGDOM HEARTS 1.5 REMIX REVIEW
Square Enix’s most favored Disney/Final Fantasy influenced RPG series of all time, Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix has finally arrived to be released exclusively for the PlayStation 3.
Since Kingdom Hearts 2 was the last title to be released 12 years ago on the PlayStation 2; fans have barely hung on to their interests for the series, which I don’t blame them. It is disappointing to see that it has taken this long for a Kingdom Hearts console title to be released.
What is Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix?
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix is a HD collection that includes previously released Kingdom Hearts titles, re-imagined into HD gloriousness. The bundle includes Kingdom Hearts Final Mix, which is a new content/enhanced version of the original PS2 Kingdom Hearts title. The PS2 remake of Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories and the exclusive Nintendo DS title, Kingdom Hearts: 358/2 Days.
Storyline:
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix follows multiple storylines that lead up to the beginning of Kingdom Hearts 2. Final Mix and Chain of Memories follows the story of Sora, Goofy and Donald as they descend into Disney influence worlds in order to save the inhabitants and their friends from the captive of the world’s plaguing enemies, The Heartless and Organization XIII. 358/ 2 days follows the story of Roxas, a member of Organization XIII as he uncovers betrayals and secrets within the organization, as well as his connection to Sora. The title also sets the stage for KH: Chain of Memories.
Gameplay:
Kingdom Hearts Final Mix:
Final Mix’s gameplay follows the same action oriented keyblade combat system as the original PS2 title, however has some updates making gameplay smoother such as easier shortcuts to access items, spells and attack commands. The major floor in the title is there is no inclusion of an updated camera system, so the chaotic to adjust camera previously included in the original PS2 title is still intact. The plat forming is extremely annoying, simple jumps and climbs can at times be more of nuisance then enemies.
Kingdom Hearts Chain Memories:
Chain of Memories gameplay it very unappealing and time consuming. The main combat system follows a card battle system, which is a major learning curb to overcome. Building strong card decks help the player to progress further, it’s practically like a Yu-Gi-Oh strategy game mixed in with a Kingdom Hearts title. To engage enemies the player has to walk up to them where they are transported to an arena to fight rather than taking on enemies on the spot. This type of system takes too long, is boring and just drags the game on too much. There is also very little exploration in the title, which takes away the whole Kingdom Hearts experience, however the game possess a very hard driven plot, which tends to keep the player engaged.
Kingdom Hearts 358/ 2 Days:
358/2 Days is a non-playable title but is a 3 hour movie filled with updated cut scenes from the playable DS title. It may seem like a bonus but it’s a failing movie with a dull tale, minor interesting points and has slow movie pacing. Although un-intriguing compared to its original playable title, it’s recommended to watch as it ties in to Kingdom Hearts overall storyline.
Visuals:
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix’s rich colored visuals are at top notch and have been tightened to amazement. The visuals have been cleaned up compared to their original display in the previously released titles, particularly the games player models, environment and cut scenes.
REPLAY VALUE:
Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix is trophy supported so if the player is an awesome trophy collector it may be wise to hit up trophy requirements. As well there are also some pretty tough hidden bosses players can seek out after they complete the game to a certain point, but be warned they are insane to beat, so make sure teams are well trained and equipped.
OVERALL:
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Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 does live up to the HD requirements; unfortunately it is a very weak collection, particularly through Chain of Memories time consuming gameplay and 358/2 Days as a non-playable title. However the highlight is clearly Kingdom Hearts: Final Mix and proves fun mashing enemies and immersing with the Disney worlds which are also filled with memorable Disney characters.
If you’ve never experienced a Kingdom Hearts adventure or are keen on checking out the series, this is a perfect entry point into the series.
