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Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory
Item: Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2020

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, RPG, Music and Dance, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableNov 13, 2020

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

Developerindieszero

Overview

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a rhythm action game developed and published by Square Enix for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. It is the fourteenth installment in the Kingdom Hearts series. The game features over 140 songs from the series and the ability to play as over 20 characters. Additionally, Kairi's story is continued from the end of the Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind downloadable content. Hints at the next Kingdom Hearts game came in January 2020 from series creator Tetsuya Nomura, with the game being revealed in June 2020. Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory will be released worldwide in 2020. Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a rhythm action game featuring over 140 songs from the series and its Disney worlds. The game features both single and multiplayer gameplay, with four different game modes, including online battles. The gameplay of Melody of Memory has been compared to Theatrhythm Final Fantasy. Traversal between each of the worlds is done through the Gummi Ship, a system used in previous mainline Kingdom Hearts games.

Elsewhere

6.9

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory delivers nostalgia but falters in story depth. Critics praise its musical gameplay and Kairi's narration for bridging gaps for fans, yet many feel the plot is thin and overly reliant on past content. While it appeals to die-hard fans, newcomers may be left unsatisfied, as the game mainly recaps previous titles with minimal originality. Overall, it’s a nostalgic trip that lacks the narrative heft to make a lasting impression.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

18%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The overall sentiment regarding the story of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory reveals a mixed bag of opinions among critics, with some positive aspects highlighted. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic elements woven into the narrative, as it revisits key moments from the Kingdom Hearts series. Critics like Game Rant and LevelUp note that Kairi's narration helps connect the dots for both veterans and newcomers, providing a sense of continuity in the franchise. Additionally, the game is praised for its musical elements, which many reviewers, such as GameSpew and Noisy Pixel, emphasize as the primary focus, suggesting that the rhythm gameplay enhances the experience even if the story takes a backseat. However, the negatives are prevalent, with a significant number of critics expressing disappointment in the depth and originality of the story. GameCritics and Worth Playing point out that the plot feels thin and serves mainly as a vehicle for nostalgia, lacking substantial new content. Many reviews, including those from Slant Magazine and Gameblog.fr, criticize the story as a mere recap of previous titles, with Kairi’s character often overshadowed by Sora. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and DualShockers highlight that the minimal new story content may not be sufficient to engage newcomers or provide a satisfying experience for returning fans, leading to feelings of frustration regarding the game’s narrative direction. The overall consensus among critics is that while Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory successfully taps into the nostalgia of the franchise, it falls short in delivering a compelling and original story. Most reviewers agree that the game serves primarily as a recap of the series, with only a few new plot elements introduced, as noted by IGN and Everyeye.it. Critics such as GamingTrend and SpazioGames emphasize that the narrative lacks the depth and complexity that fans may expect, making it more appealing to die-hard fans rather than newcomers. Ultimately, while the game offers a nostalgic experience through its music and familiar story beats, it does not provide enough new content or narrative substance to leave a lasting impact.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory serves up engaging rhythm gameplay that successfully adapts beloved series elements, winning praise for its accessibility and variety. However, critics point to repetitiveness, shallow mechanics, and confusing boss battles as major flaws. While it offers a fun twist for newcomers, die-hard fans may find it lacks the depth and complexity they crave, resulting in a mixed reception overall.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

70%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

28%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory has garnered a range of positive feedback from various critics, particularly for its engaging rhythm-based mechanics. Many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and CGMagazine, praised how the game successfully adapts the beloved action-RPG elements of the Kingdom Hearts series into a rhythm format, offering players a fun and dynamic experience. Critics like Digitally Downloaded highlighted the simplicity of the controls, making it easy for newcomers to pick up, while still presenting a challenge for seasoned players. The inclusion of various modes, such as Field Battles, Memory Dives, and Boss Battles, adds diversity to the gameplay, allowing for different experiences within the rhythm framework, as noted by GameSpew and Nintendo Insider. However, the gameplay has also faced considerable criticism, with many reviewers pointing out significant flaws. Multiplayer.it and Atomix both mentioned the repetitiveness of the level design, which can lead to a monotonous experience over time. Critics like IGN and Slant Magazine expressed concerns about the gameplay feeling shallow and lacking depth, particularly after extended play sessions. Additionally, some reviewers, such as GameCritics and GameSpace, noted that the mechanics could become confusing, especially during boss battles where the complexity increases without adequate explanation or guidance. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory. While the rhythm-based gameplay offers a fresh and enjoyable twist on the franchise, many feel that it ultimately lacks the depth and variety expected from a Kingdom Hearts title. Critics like Destructoid and Screen Rant found the experience fun, especially at higher difficulty levels, but others, including GameOver.gr and Gameblog.fr, pointed out that the RPG elements felt minimal and did not significantly impact gameplay. This dichotomy suggests that while the game succeeds in delivering an accessible rhythm experience, it may not fully satisfy fans seeking the depth and complexity characteristic of the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory dazzles with vibrant visuals and immersive backdrops, earning praise for its colorful design and smooth 60 fps performance. Critics highlight nostalgic elements that resonate with fans. However, many express disappointment over reused character models and lower graphical fidelity compared to previous titles, with some visuals feeling outdated. While it captures the franchise's charm, the game struggles with modern standards, leaving a mixed reception among players seeking a polished experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

37%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory have garnered a mix of praise from critics, particularly for their vibrant and colorful presentation. Reviewers such as Attack of the Fanboy highlight the engaging backdrops that correspond to each song's game world, creating a visually immersive experience. GameSpace and PlayStation Universe commend the game for its stunning compositions and the use of music videos that enhance the rhythm gameplay. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Nintendo Life also appreciate the game's unique style and vibrant colors, noting that the visuals maintain a certain charm reminiscent of the earlier titles in the franchise. Additionally, GameOver.gr mentions the game's smooth performance at 60 fps, which contributes positively to the overall visual experience. Conversely, several critics express disappointment with the visual fidelity and design choices in Melody of Memory. Eurogamer Italy and Everyeye.it point out the reuse of character models and recycled assets, suggesting a lack of innovation and budget constraints that detract from the overall experience. GameSkinny and SpazioGames echo this sentiment, noting that the graphics feel like a step back compared to Kingdom Hearts III, with some visuals resembling remastered versions of earlier games. Multiplayer.it raises concerns about the 3D perspective, which can distort depth perception and distract players, while RPG Fan mentions the lower resolution on the Nintendo Switch leading to blurry cutscenes. Such critiques indicate that while the game has its visual strengths, it also suffers from significant shortcomings that impact gameplay and overall aesthetic appeal. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory presents a visually appealing experience that resonates with long-time fans of the franchise, yet it falls short in terms of modern graphical standards and innovation. While some reviewers, like Impulsegamer and The Games Machine, appreciate the nostalgic elements and the game's ability to evoke memories from the series, others, like Hardcore Gamer and Vandal, highlight the lack of ambition in graphics and the noticeable downgrade from previous entries. This duality in opinion suggests that while the game successfully captures the essence of Kingdom Hearts, it may not fully meet the expectations of players seeking a visually polished experience in line with contemporary gaming standards.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory boasts a praised soundtrack with over 140 tracks by Yoko Shimomura, enhancing gameplay with nostalgic Disney and Kingdom Hearts tunes. While critics lauded its emotional impact, some noted shortcomings like the absence of licensed Disney songs and repetitive loops. Overall, the music is seen as a standout feature that enriches the experience for fans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory have received widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the extensive soundtrack that features over 140 tracks composed by Yoko Shimomura. Reviewers such as Gamer.no and Nintendo Insider highlighted the nostalgic and emotional experience that the music provides, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. The game successfully integrates iconic Disney tunes and beloved tracks from the Kingdom Hearts series, creating a rich auditory experience that enhances gameplay. Critics like Game Informer and GameSpew emphasized the significance of the music in the rhythm combat experience, showcasing how it effectively ties into the gameplay mechanics. However, despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in the soundtrack. Slant Magazine expressed disappointment over the absence of licensed Disney songs, suggesting that their inclusion could have broadened the game's appeal. GameCritics mentioned the repetitiveness of background music loops, while Multiplayer.it criticized the lackluster execution of the music, which they felt diminished the game's potential. Additionally, several reviews, including those from Atomix and Digitally Downloaded, noted that while the selection was vast, some tracks lacked vocal versions, which could detract from the experience for a rhythm game. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory features a strong and engaging soundtrack that is a highlight of the game. While there are criticisms regarding the absence of certain iconic tracks and the repetitive nature of some music loops, the majority of reviewers agree that the music is a standout feature that evokes nostalgia and enhances the gameplay experience. Critics like XGN and CGMagazine encapsulated this sentiment by praising the game's ability to capture the charm and distinct style of the Kingdom Hearts series, making it a worthwhile addition for fans and newcomers alike.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Voice acting in Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is largely praised, especially Kairi's portrayal by Hayden Panettiere, which adds emotional depth to the story. Critics highlight the game's narrative strength but note shortcomings, including limited language options and vague assessments of voice quality. Overall, while effective, there's clear room for improvement in future games.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory has received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its contribution to the game's narrative depth. Eurogamer Italy and PlayStation Universe both emphasize the role of Kairi's voice-over in narrating the events of the saga, suggesting that her character's voice adds a layer of emotional resonance to the storytelling. Atomix specifically praises Hayden Panettiere's performance as Kairi, noting that her portrayal enhances the overall experience of the game. Additionally, Hey Poor Player echoes this sentiment, stating that the cinematics are narrated capably, which further enriches the gameplay. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. Gameblog.fr acknowledges the presence of voice acting but fails to elaborate on its quality, leaving a gap in the assessment of its effectiveness. Furthermore, Nintenderos points out a limitation in the voice acting options, noting that the game primarily features English voices and expresses a desire for Japanese voice options, which could have offered a more authentic experience for fans of the franchise. This sentiment suggests that while the execution may be solid, the choices made in voice acting could have been more inclusive. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while the voice acting in Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is generally well-received and adds value to the game's narrative, there are areas for improvement. The acknowledgment of Kairi's voice acting as a highlight by several reviewers, such as Atomix and PlayStation Universe, underscores its importance in the game's storytelling. However, the lack of depth in some reviews and the desire for additional voice options, as noted by Nintenderos, indicate that there is room for enhancement in future installments.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory shows mixed technical performance across platforms. The PS4 version generally impresses with smooth gameplay and quick loading, though some reviewers report issues with button registration and sync. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch version is hit-or-miss: some praise its performance, but others criticize stuttering, input lag, and visual blurriness. Overall, the PS4 offers a more consistent experience, while the Switch needs optimization.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory has received a mix of opinions from critics across different platforms, particularly the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch. On the PS4, many reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy and GameOver.gr, noted that the game runs smoothly with quick loading times and a stable frame rate, which is crucial for a rhythm game. Critics like Everyeye.it and Gameblog.fr echoed this sentiment, highlighting the absence of significant performance issues and the overall stable performance. LevelUp also emphasized the importance of smooth gameplay for a rhythm title, reinforcing the positive reception of the PS4 version's technical performance. However, not all reviews were uniformly positive for the PS4. App Trigger pointed out issues with button registration and potential sync problems, which could detract from the overall experience. Similarly, XGN highlighted synchronization issues and settings adjustments that impacted gameplay, suggesting that some players may encounter challenges that could affect their enjoyment. On the Nintendo Switch, while some critics like Nintendo Enthusiast and Nintenderos reported solid performance with no significant technical issues, others, such as GamingTrend and RPG Fan, noted that the game struggled with stuttering during cutscenes and gameplay, as well as occasional input lag and blurry visuals in CGI sequences. Hey Poor Player mentioned gameplay difficulties due to camera angles, indicating that minor issues could affect the overall experience on this platform. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while the PS4 version of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory generally performs well with stable frame rates and minimal issues, there are notable exceptions that could impact player experience. The Nintendo Switch version, on the other hand, presents a more mixed bag; while some reviewers found it to be solid, others pointed out significant technical shortcomings that could hinder gameplay enjoyment. Critics like Atomix and Nintendo Life provide a more favorable view of the Switch's performance, but the concerns raised by GamingTrend and Switch Player about input lag and visual quality indicate that the Switch version may require further optimization. Thus, while both platforms have their strengths, the PS4 appears to offer a more consistent technical experience overall.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory boasts strong replay value with diverse modes, multiplayer options, and collectible quests, thrilling fans and casual players alike. However, criticisms of slow campaign pacing, repetitive gameplay, and song unlock requirements may dampen long-term engagement for some. Overall, it’s a solid experience for fans, but individual enjoyment may vary.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

66%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

34%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is predominantly positive among critics. Many reviewers highlight the game's extensive content and variety of modes that enhance replayability. For instance, App Trigger notes the additional modes and multiplayer options that keep players engaged after completing the World Tour. Similarly, Attack of the Fanboy emphasizes the different worlds and missions available, alongside collectibles and multiplayer components that provide long-time fans with reasons to continue playing. Critics like Game Informer and PlayStation LifeStyle also mention the appeal of chasing high scores and unlocking various collectibles, which cater to both completionists and casual players. The inclusion of multiple difficulty levels and modes, such as Free Play and Performer mode, further adds to the game's replay value, making it enjoyable for a wide audience. However, some critics have pointed out notable drawbacks that may affect long-term engagement. Destructoid expresses concerns about the slow pace of the campaign and the need to unlock songs before accessing Free Play mode, which can hinder the experience for some players. GameCritics and LevelUp echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the game offers a variety of modes, it may lack substantial content for those seeking a deeper experience. Additionally, TheSixthAxis mentions that the challenges can feel simple and repetitive, which might lead to a decline in interest over time. Critics like Atomix and Digital Chumps also highlight the repetitive nature of gameplay as a limitation, particularly on the Nintendo Switch version. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory provides a solid replay experience, especially for fans of the franchise. While the game offers a wealth of content and engaging modes, it is not without its flaws, particularly regarding the pacing of the campaign and the potential for repetitive gameplay. Critics such as IGN and Nintendo Life note that the game's replay value is bolstered by its collectibles and various modes, appealing to both dedicated fans and newcomers alike. In summary, while the game excels in providing replayable content, the experience may vary based on individual expectations and preferences.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

52%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

46%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment surrounding Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is predominantly positive, particularly among fans of the franchise. Many critics praised the game for its engaging rhythm gameplay and nostalgic value, highlighting the excellent music selection that pays homage to the beloved series. For instance, Game Rant describes it as an "astounding take on the rhythm game genre," while Nintendo Life emphasizes its replayability and killer setlist, making it a worthy experience for both fans and rhythm game enthusiasts. Additionally, GameCritics and Digital Chumps note the game's ability to evoke nostalgia and celebrate the franchise's music, suggesting that it offers a fun way for players to engage with the series' history. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's depth and narrative content. Several reviewers, including Slant Magazine and Multiplayer.it, argue that the game feels gimmicky and lacks substantial storytelling, making it more appealing to dedicated fans than newcomers. Critics like Atomix and Pocket Tactics mention that while the rhythm gameplay is enjoyable, the game can become repetitive and does not provide new story content, which may frustrate players seeking a deeper experience. Furthermore, Gameblog.fr and God is a Geek point out that the game falls short in character development and storytelling, leading to a perception that it is more of a diversion than a significant addition to the franchise. The overall consensus among critics is that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory serves as a nostalgic tribute primarily for fans of the series, with its rhythm gameplay and music being its strongest aspects. While many reviews, such as those from PlayStation Universe and Hey Poor Player, commend its engaging gameplay and enjoyable experience, they also caution that it may not satisfy those looking for a robust narrative or challenging rhythm mechanics. The game is generally recommended for fans who appreciate the franchise's music and history, as noted by Comicbook.com and GameSpace, while newcomers may find it lacking in the depth necessary to fully appreciate the series.

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a nostalgic hit for franchise fans, praised for its engaging rhythm gameplay and stellar music selection. Critics highlight its replayability but criticize the lack of depth and storytelling, deeming it more of a fun diversion than a substantial sequel. Recommended for fans, but newcomers may find it lacking in narrative richness.

MONSTER

Reviews

107 reviews found

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Nov 17, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer had a very positive experience with Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory, praising its gameplay, visuals, sound design, and replay value, ultimately giving it a score of 4.5/5.

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Nintendo Insider

Nintendo Switch

Nov 17, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A love letter to fans, providing an engaging and fun rhythm game experience with some minor flaws.

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Switch Player

Nintendo Switch

Nov 25, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a cohesive and chunky package that offers addictive and nostalgia-inducing rhythm gameplay.

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Nintendo Enthusiast

Nintendo Switch

Nov 12, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer enjoyed the game and found it to be a good entry point for newcomers and a love letter to the Kingdom Hearts franchise. Some minor complaints include the lack of variety in stage types and the potential battery life issue in handheld mode.

Digital Chumps

Nintendo Switch

Nov 16, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review concludes that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is an amazing way to pay tribute to the music and story of the series. It suggests that the creative rhythmic gameplay is enough to have fun, but warns that those looking for new story content may be disappointed.

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Impulsegamer

PlayStation 4

Nov 12, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as wonderful, offering a nostalgic trip down memory lane and a well-crafted rhythm game. Some minor problems are mentioned, but overall it is highly praised.

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IGN Italia

PlayStation 4

Nov 12, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a well-crafted rhythm game that appeals to fans of the series and newcomers alike, celebrating its music and offering engaging gameplay.

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Noisy Pixel

PlayStation 4

Nov 12, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is an incredibly charming game that brings the music from the series into the spotlight. It has a competent and addictive rhythm system.

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GameGrin

Nintendo Switch

Jan 20, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is a great rhythm game that is enjoyable for newcomers and veteran players of the genre. However, it is not recommended for those looking for a strong story.

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Nintenderos

Nintendo Switch

Nov 12, 2020

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, the game is praised as a notable addition to the Nintendo Switch library, celebrating the Kingdom Hearts legacy while having some minor shortcomings.

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