Key Highlights:
- Square Enix suggests two ways to play Kingdom Hearts games.
- The series is now available on Steam for PC gamers.
- Playing order options: release order or story chronology.
In a recent announcement via a video uploaded to YouTube, game developer Square Enix has addressed a common question among fans and newcomers alike: “What order should you play Kingdom Hearts?”
This query has become particularly relevant following the release of the entire Kingdom Hearts series on Steam, making it more accessible to PC gamers than ever before.
For those unfamiliar with the series, Kingdom Hearts is a popular video game franchise that blends characters from Disney and Square Enix’s Final Fantasy.
The series is known for its complex storyline that spans multiple games, including main titles, spin-offs, and even mobile titles. This complexity has often left players wondering where to begin their journey through the Kingdom Hearts universe.
Kingdom Hearts Play Order Explained: A Guide for New and Returning Players
To help clarify matters, Square Enix has released a video (see above) offering two main suggestions for tackling the series. Let’s break down these options and explore what they mean for players.
Option 1: Release Order
The first and most commonly recommended approach is to play the games in the order they were released. This method allows players to experience the story as it unfolded for original fans of the series. Here’s the suggested order:
- Kingdom Hearts Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories
- Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (HD cutscene compilation)
- Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep
- Kingdom Hearts Re:coded (HD cutscene compilation)
- Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance HD
- Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A Fragmentary Passage-
- Kingdom Hearts III
- Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind (DLC)
It’s worth noting that some of these titles, like 358/2 Days and Re:coded, are available as cutscene compilations rather than full games in the current collections.
For those playing Birth by Sleep, Square Enix suggests experiencing the three main characters’ stories in this order: Terra, Ventus, and Aqua. After completing these, a final episode becomes available.
Option 2: Chronological Story Order
The second option Square Enix proposes is to play the games in the order of the story’s timeline.
This approach might appeal to players who prefer to understand the background and lore of the KH universe before diving into the main story.
Here’s how this order would look:
- Kingdom Hearts χ Back Cover (movie)
- Kingdom Hearts Union χ Dark Road
- Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep
- Kingdom Hearts Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days
- Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories
- Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix
- Kingdom Hearts Re:coded
- Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance HD
- Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A Fragmentary Passage-
- Kingdom Hearts III
- Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind (DLC)
This order starts with the earliest events in the series timeline, providing context for the later games.
It might help players understand certain plot points and character motivations better as they progress through the series.
Which Order is Best?
Square Enix emphasises that there isn’t a “correct” starting point for the Kingdom Hearts series. Each player’s journey can be unique, and one game could be anyone’s first.
For example, some players might start with Kingdom Hearts II simply because they want to see Sora’s adventures with beloved Disney characters like Mulan and Simba from The Lion King.
However, for those who want to fully grasp the intricate storyline and character development, following one of the suggested orders might provide a more cohesive experience.
The Steam Release: A New Chapter for Kingdom Hearts
The release of the entire Kingdom Hearts series on Steam marks a significant moment for the franchise.
Previously, the series was available on PC exclusively through the Epic Games Store, a decision that received mixed reactions from fans.
Now, PC gamers have the freedom to choose their preferred platform to experience these beloved titles.
This wider availability opens up the magical world to a potentially new audience. For those who have been curious about the franchise but haven’t had the chance to play it, this Steam release provides an excellent opportunity to dive in.
Collections and Content
To make it easier for players to access the series, Square Enix has bundled the games into collections:
- Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX: This collection includes six titles from the series, covering the early parts of the story.
- Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue: This bundle contains Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance HD, Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A Fragmentary Passage-, and the movie Kingdom Hearts χ Back Cover.
- Kingdom Hearts III + Re Mind (DLC): This is the most recent main entry in the series, along with its downloadable content.
These collections make it convenient for players to access multiple games in the series without having to purchase each title separately.
Whether you’re a longtime fan looking to replay the series or a newcomer curious about seeing what it’s all about, Square Enix’s suggestions provide helpful guidance.
The choice between release order and chronological order ultimately depends on personal preference and how you want to experience the story.
So, grab your Keyblade, team up with Donald and Goofy, and get ready to explore the rich, interconnected worlds and fight the mysterious Organisation XIII.
