With the Kingdom Hearts III finally a reality, we couldn't help but anticipate what Square Enix and Disney have in store for Sora and company. Part of Kingdom Hearts' magic is stepping into Disney worlds and feeling like you're transported back to your childhood. The nostalgia factor fuels the experience, letting your reminisce about these iconic characters and their journey as you're embarking on your own with Sora.
Square Enix hasn't announced what's coming in the next entry, but did reveal there would be "new and legendary" worlds. While Square Enix has done a good job at incorporating some of our favorites, it has yet to include some of the other well-loved Disney properties for our digital pleasure. Here's some places the franchise has yet to venture, that would truly make Kingdom Hearts III a treat.
Pixar Worlds
The Pixar movies have been a huge part of Disney's success in recent years, and Kingdom Hearts fans have been waiting to set foot into one of these worlds. The possibilities are plentiful: Finding Nemo, Toy Story, The Incredibles, and Brave, to name a few. A cool way to get in as many worlds as possible might be by having the entire stage set in the Monsters Inc. verse, with the closet containing portals to other Pixar worlds. Sulley and Mike's humor could provide some entertaining dialogue (and, yes, I demand Boo make an appearance), while companions from other Pixar films through each of their worlds, like Woody and Buzz or Dory and Marlin, are sure to delight. Also, the backdrops for these specific worlds are just about endless with Monstropolis, Port Jackson, and Pizza Planet. Throw in some vicious villains: The Incredibles' Omnidroids and Syndrome, Braves' Elderly Witch, and Toy Story's Lots-O or Spike. At this point, a whole Kingdom Hearts game could be made of Pixar worlds, but we'd be happy with even one of these making the cut.
Studio Ghibli Lands
Anybody who has seen a Studio Ghibli film knows the visuals are absolutely breathtaking - we even saw a glimpse of this beauty with Ni No Kuni. Can you imagine stepping into one of these gorgeous lands as Sora? Similar to Pixar movies, the choices are abundant: Square Enix couldn't go wrong with any film it selects. I've put a lot of thought into what movie would fit best. While Kiki's Delivery Service would have you flying through the air and Howl's Moving Castle would have you on the contraption helping Sophie and Howl, I believe that Spirited Away would be the way to go. Chihiro "Sen" Ogino becoming trapped in an alternate reality where her parents turn into pigs is not only an engaging ride, but Yubaba, the owner of the magical bathhouse, is a terrifying antagonist to go up against. Let's not forget her giant baby and her creepy No-Face, who eats servants. Having your sidekick, Haku, for dragon rides while overcoming Yubaba is just icing on the cake.
Wreck-It Ralph
Entering a video game within a video game is a cool concept that Square Enix could definitely capitalize on. And having Wreck-It Ralph's Sugar Rush to kart race on would be a great change of pace for a level. Of course, that's not all that could happen; you'd also trek through the candy-filled land with the out-of-place Ralph and adorable Vanellope bantering and trying to take down King Candy. Add in glitches (though they'd have to be handled better than re:Coded) and hacks throughout the world, and this could give Sora and company a run for their money.
Oliver and Company
Oliver and Company was one of my favorite movies growing up. How adorable is Oliver? How cool is Dodger? And how absolutely diva is Georgette? The characters' witty banter could provide levity as you trek through the rough streets of New York City in the'80s . The majority of the time Kingdom Hearts' locations are extremely fantastical, so a real-world location is always appreciated, bringing some reality into the fantasy. Plus, Fagin needs to learn not to steal little girls' kittens for ransom. Wouldn't you love to explore that experience?
[Up next: Sora needs to find the force, a sword gets stuck, and a new Disney property could take the wheel...]