Kingdom Hearts Series

Kingdom Hearts series – what is it about?

The Kingdom Hearts series is a popular action RPG game franchise developed by Square Enix in collaboration with Disney. The games follow Sora, a Keyblade wielder, and his friends as they travel across various Disney and original worlds to battle the forces of darkness. Along the way, they encounter characters from Disney, Final Fantasy, and other Square Enix properties.

The games are known for their real-time combat, deep lore, and emotional storytelling. One of the franchise’s trademarks is its blend of action-packed gameplay and rich narrative, which explores themes of friendship, destiny, and the balance between light and darkness.

When did Kingdom Hearts come out?

First released in 2002 for PlayStation 2, Kingdom Hearts quickly became a beloved classic thanks to its unique mix of Disney magic and RPG mechanics. The franchise has since expanded with multiple sequels, spin-offs, and remasters. The latest mainline entry, Kingdom Hearts III (2019), concluded the Xehanort Saga while setting the stage for new adventures in Kingdom Hearts IV.

How many Kingdom Hearts games are there?
There are 13 main titles and spin-offs in the Kingdom Hearts series, along with several remasters and compilations.

Here is the full Kingdom Hearts game series in order:

• Kingdom Hearts (2002)
• Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (2004)
• Kingdom Hearts II (2005)
• Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (2009)
• Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep (2010)
• Kingdom Hearts: Re:coded (2010)
• Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (2012)
• Kingdom Hearts χ (2013)
• Kingdom Hearts Unchained χ / Union χ (2015)
• Kingdom Hearts 0.2: Birth by Sleep – A Fragmentary Passage (2017)
• Kingdom Hearts III (2019)
• Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory (2020)

Several collections, such as Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX and Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, make it easier to play the series on modern platforms.

What is the best order to play Kingdom Hearts games in?

If you’re a newcomer, you should start with Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 ReMIX, which includes remastered versions of the first few games and essential story content. The series has a complex timeline, but playing in release order is the most natural way to experience the story.

However, the Kingdom Hearts timeline follows a chronological order:

• Kingdom Hearts χ / Union χ (Ancient past)
• Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep (Prequel to the main series)
• Kingdom Hearts 0.2: Birth by Sleep – A Fragmentary Passage (Bridge to KH1)
• Kingdom Hearts (The original game)
• Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (Direct sequel to KH1)
• Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (Parallel to Chain of Memories, backstory for KH2)
• Kingdom Hearts II (Major sequel in the series)
• Kingdom Hearts: Re:coded (Side story exploring data-based memories)
• Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (Leads into KH3)
• Kingdom Hearts III (Conclusion of the Xehanort Saga)
• Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory (A musical recap with new story hints)

Since Kingdom Hearts games are spread across multiple consoles, remastered collections provide the best way to experience them on modern platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and PC.

The best Kingdom Hearts games

Choosing the best Kingdom Hearts games is tough, but Kingdom Hearts II (2005) is often considered the pinnacle of the series due to its refined combat, deep story, and thrilling boss battles. Birth by Sleep (2010) expanded the lore with three playable characters and new abilities. Kingdom Hearts III (2019) delivered an emotional conclusion to the saga with modern graphics and fast-paced combat. Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (2012) introduced new mechanics that shaped the future of the series. Fans also love Kingdom Hearts 0.2: Birth by Sleep, which set the stage for KH3 with its stunning visuals and tight gameplay.

Who are the most iconic Kingdom Hearts characters?

The most iconic Kingdom Hearts character is Sora, the cheerful and determined wielder of the Keyblade. He is the heart of the series, traveling across different worlds to protect them from darkness.

Another major character is Riku, Sora’s childhood friend and rival, who struggles with the balance between light and darkness. Kairi, their close friend, plays a key role in the story as well.

Other beloved characters include Organization XIII’s leader, Xehanort, the mastermind behind much of the series' conflicts. Donald and Goofy, Sora’s loyal Disney companions, bring humor and support throughout his journey. The series also features original characters like Aqua, Ventus, and Terra, whose stories intertwine with the main narrative.