It was an awakening that would signal the beginning of the Hearts saga

It was an awakening that would signal the beginning of the Hearts of The Kingdom saga

It was an awakening that would signal the beginning of the Hearts of Kingdom saga. Hearts of Kingdom Warrior is the tale of a new trio of heroes, told across three scenarios utilizing the groundbreaking technology. Exciting new features are introduced on top of the traditional controls, game system, and visual style of its predecessors. The Keyblade is said to hold phenomenal power. One legend says its wielder saved the world, while another says that he wrought chaos and ruin upon it

You piece together an overarching story with themes of friendship, light versus dark, and true identity all while exploring colorful Hearts themed worlds and interacting with classic Hearts characters.

This intriguing Square mixture has served the series well, as have great boss fights and flashy keyblade action. This prequel inherits those assets but also some of the awkwardness that has plagued previous games. The platforming is a bit clumsy, and the camera and lock-on system can both lead to awkward moments. The game's structure also leads to some repetition.

You explore many of the same areas, fight many of the same enemies, and view some of the same cutscenes three times over, which might make you wish Birth by Sleep featured the never-ending parade of cameos and Hearts worlds of the console games. But mechanical flaws and occasional tedium aside, both series fans and newcomers will feel at home with this good, fun third-person adventure.

Hearts of Kingdom multiplayer is really enjoyable, particularly the cooperative arenas. Teaming up with a buddy or two to take down a towering boss, particularly if the players are at about the same level, is immensely rewarding. Furthermore, you earn medals that you can cash in for new abilities and other goodies, including team-based abilities like group heals. You can even forge d-links with other players, which gives you access to their special moves in battle.