Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory cover image

Links

Twitch

MONSTER

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, PC, 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 offers a nostalgic trip through the franchise's lore, appealing to long-time fans with its digestible recaps and hints for the future. However, critics largely deem the story shallow and lacking depth, with minimal new content and poor character development, particularly for Kairi. Overall, it's seen more as a musical experience than a compelling narrative, leaving newcomers confused and disappointed.

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 opinions surrounding the story of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory highlight a few positive aspects that critics have noted. Many reviewers appreciate the nostalgic value the game brings, as it serves as a tribute to the expansive lore of the Kingdom Hearts series. For instance, GameSpace mentions that the game recaps 20 years of the franchise's story in a digestible format, which can be appealing for long-time fans. Additionally, Nintendo Insider points out that while the story is minor, it includes exciting hints for the future of the series, suggesting that there is some anticipation for what lies ahead. Furthermore, LevelUp notes that the narration by Kairi helps connect narrative threads, making it accessible for both veterans and newcomers, albeit in a limited capacity. However, the overwhelming sentiment from critics leans towards disappointment regarding the story's depth and originality. Many reviews, such as those from Atomix and GameCritics, emphasize that the narrative primarily serves as a recap of previous titles, lacking significant new content. Critics like Slant Magazine have described the story as contrived and incoherent, while Hardcore Gamer points out the absence of character development, particularly with Kairi's minimal role. The consensus among reviewers is that the game fails to provide a substantial storyline, with NintendoWorldReport highlighting the negligible amount of new story content and the excessive time required to unlock it. Overall, the critics agree that while Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory offers a nostalgic journey through the franchise's history, it does so at the expense of a compelling narrative. The game is viewed as primarily a musical experience rather than a story-driven one, as noted by Noisy Pixel, who states that it is about the songs rather than the story. The general consensus is that the game may cater more to die-hard fans who appreciate the recaps and nostalgic elements, while newcomers might find themselves lost in a convoluted narrative that lacks clarity and depth, as echoed by Game Rant and Destructoid.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory impresses with its engaging rhythm mechanics and nostalgic ties to the franchise, earning praise for its fun, accessible gameplay and variety of modes. However, critics highlight issues like repetitiveness, awkward controls, and a shallow crafting system that diminish its depth. While the game offers a unique experience for fans, it struggles to satisfy players seeking a more substantial RPG adventure, making it best enjoyed in short bursts rather than long sessions.

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 mix of praise from critics, particularly for its engaging rhythm mechanics and nostalgic connection to the Kingdom Hearts franchise. Reviewers like Destructoid and Hardcore Gamer commend the game for successfully adapting the series' action-RPG elements into a rhythm-based format, creating a fun and rewarding experience, especially on higher difficulty levels. Critics such as GameSpew and Nintendo Insider highlight the accessibility of the gameplay, noting that it is easy to learn yet offers complexity for those looking to master it. The inclusion of various modes, such as Field Battles, Memory Dives, and Boss Battles, adds to the variety, making the gameplay engaging and appealing to both newcomers and seasoned players. However, the game is not without its criticisms, as several reviewers point out significant flaws that detract from the overall experience. Multiplayer.it and Atomix express concerns about the repetitive nature of the gameplay, with level designs that can feel monotonous over time. The control mapping has been described as awkward, and mechanics such as special attacks and dodging can be confusing, as noted by Game Informer and Slant Magazine. Additionally, the crafting system has been deemed unnecessary by IGN, contributing to a sense of shallowness in the gameplay that some players may find disappointing after extended play. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory offers a unique and enjoyable rhythm-based experience, it struggles with repetitiveness and a lack of depth in certain gameplay mechanics. The game has successfully attracted positive attention for its nostalgic elements and engaging rhythm challenges, as seen in reviews from XGN and SpazioGames. However, the criticisms regarding gameplay depth and control complexity, highlighted by GameCritics and IGN, suggest that while the game is fun, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a deeper RPG experience. Ultimately, it appears that Melody of Memory is best enjoyed in shorter bursts, appealing primarily to dedicated fans of the series rather than newcomers looking for a robust gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory features vibrant visuals and engaging character designs praised by some critics but suffers from outdated graphics and recycled assets, leading to a mixed reception. While its colorful aesthetic aligns with franchise traditions, many fans are disappointed by its lack of visual ambition compared to Kingdom Hearts III, resulting in a nostalgic yet underwhelming 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 some positive remarks from various critics, highlighting the game's vibrant and colorful aesthetic that aligns with the franchise's legacy. Attack of the Fanboy praised the engaging backdrops that correspond to each song's game world, creating a visually stimulating experience. Similarly, Noisy Pixel and Hey Poor Player emphasized the game's vibrant visuals and unique style, noting the appealing character designs and animations that contribute to the overall charm. Critics like GameSpace and PlayStation Universe appreciated the inclusion of stunning cutscenes and themed worlds that complement the rhythm gameplay, enhancing the player's immersion in the musical experience. However, the game has also faced significant criticism regarding its visual fidelity and design choices. Several reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy and Everyeye.it, pointed out the reuse of character models and recycled assets, which can make the visuals feel outdated compared to newer entries in the franchise. Gameblog.fr and SpazioGames echoed this sentiment, noting that the visuals resemble those from earlier titles, particularly the PS2 era, which may disappoint fans expecting a more ambitious graphical presentation. Additionally, critics like Multiplayer.it and RPG Fan highlighted issues with the 3D perspective, which can distort depth perception and distract players during gameplay, further detracting from the overall visual experience. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates a mixed reception for the graphics and visual design of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory. While some reviewers, such as GameCritics and IGN Italia, appreciated the game's nostalgic art style and smooth performance, many others pointed out the shortcomings in visual fidelity and the reliance on recycled assets. The game's visuals are often described as colorful and engaging, yet they fall short of the high standards set by Kingdom Hearts III, leading to a sense of disappointment among long-time fans. Ultimately, while the game captures the essence of the franchise, it struggles to deliver a visually compelling experience that meets contemporary expectations.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory boasts a stellar soundtrack of over 140 tracks by Yoko Shimomura, resonating deeply with fans and praised for its emotional depth and nostalgia. While critics laud the engaging music and rhythm-based gameplay, some note issues like repetitive loops and missing Disney songs. Despite these shortcomings, the game's rich musical experience solidifies its appeal, making it a standout in the Kingdom Hearts franchise.

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 garnered significant praise from a majority of critics, highlighting the game's extensive and nostalgic soundtrack. With over 140 tracks composed primarily by Yoko Shimomura, the music serves as a powerful homage to the beloved franchise. Critics such as Game Informer and Hardcore Gamer commend the soundtrack for capturing the essence of the Kingdom Hearts series, emphasizing its ability to evoke strong emotions and nostalgia among long-time fans. Additionally, the inclusion of iconic Disney songs and a mix of original compositions enhances the overall experience, as noted by SpazioGames and Nintendo Insider. The dynamic nature of the music, combined with the rhythm-based gameplay, creates an engaging auditory experience that appeals to both fans and newcomers alike. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out notable shortcomings in the sound design and music. GameCritics mentioned the repetitive nature of background loops, while Slant Magazine expressed disappointment over the lack of licensed Disney songs, suggesting that a broader selection could have enhanced the game's appeal. Moreover, Atomix and Digital Chumps highlighted that while the soundtrack features a wealth of tracks, the absence of vocal versions for many songs and missing tracks from Kingdom Hearts III detracts from the overall experience. Critics like Comicbook.com and Siliconera also noted that not all tracks align well with the rhythm mechanics, which could hinder the gameplay experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory successfully delivers an impressive musical experience that resonates with fans of the franchise. While there are criticisms regarding repetitiveness and missing tracks, the majority of reviewers, including IGN and XGN, agree that the extensive selection of songs and the quality of sound design significantly enhance the game. The combination of nostalgia, emotional depth, and the legacy of Yoko Shimomura's compositions solidifies the music as a standout feature, making it a compelling addition to the Kingdom Hearts series.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Voice acting in "Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory" receives mostly positive reviews, with Kairi’s portrayal by Hayden Panettiere praised for enhancing the story. Critics highlight effective narration and integration within the gameplay. However, some note a lack of detail on voice quality and a limited English-only option, suggesting a missed opportunity for diversity. Overall, it's a strong aspect of the game but with room for improvement.

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 overall sentiment regarding the voice acting in "Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory" is largely positive among critics. Reviewers like PlayStation Universe and Atomix highlight the contributions of Kairi's voice actress, Hayden Panettiere, noting that her performance adds significant depth to the storytelling. Eurogamer Italy and Gameblog.fr also mention Kairi's narration as a central element, suggesting that her voice-over effectively guides players through the saga's events. Additionally, Hey Poor Player emphasizes that the cinematics are narrated capably, enhancing the overall gaming experience, which indicates that the voice acting is well-integrated into the game's narrative structure. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that warrant attention. For instance, while Gameblog.fr acknowledges the presence of voice acting, it does not elaborate on its quality, leaving a gap in understanding the overall impact. Furthermore, Nintenderos points out a limitation in the game's voice acting options, noting that the game primarily features English voice acting and suggests that the inclusion of Japanese voices would have been a valuable addition for fans of the franchise. This sentiment reflects a desire for more diversity in voice options, which may detract from the experience for some players. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in "Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory" is a strong aspect of the game, particularly through Kairi's narration. Critics like Atomix and PlayStation Universe commend the execution and its contribution to the game's narrative depth. However, the lack of elaboration on quality from some reviewers and the absence of Japanese voice options indicate areas for improvement. Despite these minor drawbacks, the voice acting is generally viewed as a positive element that enhances the overall experience of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory shines on PS4 with smooth performance and stable frame rates, earning high praise from critics. In contrast, the Nintendo Switch version struggles with visual quality, stuttering, and gameplay issues, leading to a less satisfying experience. Overall, the PS4 offers a polished gameplay experience while the Switch falls short in technical execution.

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.

In analyzing the technical performance of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory across the PS4 and Nintendo Switch platforms, several positive aspects emerge, particularly for the PS4. Critics such as Eurogamer Italy and GameOver.gr noted that the game runs smoothly with quick loading times and a stable frame rate, which is essential for a rhythm-based game. Everyeye.it echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the absence of significant performance issues. Gameblog.fr also implied a stable performance by not mentioning any technical flaws, while LevelUp highlighted the importance of this stability for gameplay. Overall, the PS4 version is praised for its technical execution, providing a reliable experience for players. Conversely, the Nintendo Switch version received mixed feedback regarding its technical performance. Critics like GamingTrend pointed out that the PS2-era art style doesn't translate well on the Switch, resulting in stuttering during cutscenes and gameplay. Atomix and Switch Player noted issues with visual quality and occasional tracking problems that could disrupt the musical experience. Additionally, Hey Poor Player mentioned gameplay difficulties stemming from camera angles, while RPG Fan highlighted the lower resolution leading to blurry CGI cutscenes. Despite some critics like Nintendo Enthusiast and Nintenderos reporting no major technical issues, the overall sentiment suggests that the Switch version struggles with performance consistency. In summary, while the PS4 version of Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is generally well-received for its smooth performance and stability, the Nintendo Switch version faces notable challenges that detract from the overall experience. Critics like XGN and GamingTrend emphasize synchronization issues and input lag on the PS4, while the Switch version is criticized for its visual fidelity and gameplay responsiveness. The consensus indicates that although both platforms offer enjoyable gameplay, the PS4 provides a more polished and technically sound experience, whereas the Switch version requires some adjustments to meet player expectations.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory delivers strong replay value, with critics praising its diverse modes like World Tour and engaging multiplayer options. Unlockable tracks and collectibles keep players hooked, appealing to both completionists and casual gamers. However, concerns about slow pacing and repetitive challenges could dampen the experience for some. Overall, it’s a nostalgic treat for franchise fans, offering enough variety to entice players back, despite a few gameplay drawbacks.

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 largely positive, with many critics praising the variety of modes and challenges that contribute to its longevity. Critics like App Trigger and Attack of the Fanboy highlight the engaging World Tour mode, which offers different worlds and missions, alongside multiplayer options that enhance the experience. The inclusion of unlockable tracks, collectibles, and various gameplay modes, such as Free Play, Performer mode, and multiplayer elements, is frequently mentioned as a significant draw for players. For instance, Game Informer notes the appeal of chasing high scores and unlocking songs, while IGN Italia emphasizes the game’s ability to cater to both completionists and casual players alike, enhancing its replay value. However, some critics express concerns regarding the game's pacing and repetitive nature. Destructoid and TheSixthAxis point out that the campaign can feel slow, with songs needing to be unlocked before players can access them in Free Play mode. This gating mechanism can lead to a sense of frustration, as players may have to engage in repetitive challenges to unlock content. Additionally, while many reviewers appreciate the various modes available, some, like Hardcore Gamer and Multiplayer.it, suggest that the game may not hold players' attention for extended periods due to a lack of depth in gameplay and the potential for repetitive experiences. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory offers substantial replay value, particularly for fans of the franchise. The variety of modes, collectibles, and multiplayer options are frequently cited as strengths, with critics like Game Rant and Gamer.no underscoring the game's ability to foster competition and camaraderie among players. While there are valid concerns about pacing and repetitive gameplay, the multitude of challenges and the nostalgic appeal of the music from the series create a compelling reason for players to return. Ultimately, the game seems well-suited for dedicated fans, as emphasized by critics like Comicbook.com and GameSkinny, who believe that the replay value is particularly rewarding for those invested in the Kingdom Hearts universe.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

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 largely positive, particularly among dedicated fans of the franchise. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Nintendo Insider commend the game for its charming presentation and engaging rhythm gameplay, highlighting its addictive nature and the nostalgia it evokes from the series' iconic music. Many reviewers, including IGN and Game Informer, appreciate how the game serves as a celebration of the Kingdom Hearts legacy, offering a solid rhythm game experience that resonates with long-time players. The multiplayer features and extensive World Tour campaign are also noted as enjoyable elements that enhance the overall experience, making it a worthwhile title for those familiar with the franchise. However, the game is not without its criticisms. Several reviewers, such as Slant Magazine and Atomix, point out that it feels more like a mobile game priced at full retail, offering limited new content and a simplistic gameplay experience. Critics like Multiplayer.it and GameCritics express disappointment in the lack of depth in the storytelling and RPG mechanics, suggesting that the game may not satisfy those looking for a more substantial narrative experience. Additionally, some reviewers, including IGN and Hardcore Gamer, mention that while the gameplay is enjoyable, it can feel shallow and repetitive, potentially alienating newcomers who are not already invested in the series. The overall consensus among critics indicates that Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory is primarily aimed at diehard fans of the franchise, with many reviews emphasizing its nostalgic appeal and musical elements. While it offers a competent rhythm game experience, the lack of significant story advancement and depth may deter new players. Critics like Game Rant and Digital Chumps highlight that while the game is a fun tribute to the series, it ultimately serves as a love letter to fans rather than a comprehensive entry point for newcomers. This sentiment is echoed by many, suggesting that while the game has its merits, it is best appreciated by those who already have a connection to the Kingdom Hearts universe.

TL;DR

Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory delights dedicated fans with its nostalgic music and engaging rhythm gameplay, earning praise for its charming presentation and multiplayer features. Critics celebrate it as a tribute to the franchise, but many point out that it feels more like a mobile game priced for consoles, lacking depth in storytelling and RPG mechanics. While it’s a fun experience for diehard fans, newcomers may find it repetitive and shallow, making it more of a love letter to existing players than a solid entry point for the series.

MONSTER

Reviews

108 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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review

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.

Read full review