Kingdom Hearts 3 got a new trailer and a release window at D23 , and it confirms that a Toy Story world is, in fact, coming to the game when it releases in 2018. The five-minute clip is available to watch below, but we’ll unpack everything we can.
The first thing worth noting are the new character designs for Sora, Donald and Goofy that perfectly reflect the atmosphere of the film. All three characters are modeled as proportionate action figures that navigate larger-than-life replicas of iconic locations like Andy’s bedroom, his front lawn and Galaxy Toys.
Of course, with so many memorable Toy Story locations in play, loveable characters will be along for the ride as well. As seen in various combat sequences with new and old Heartless, both Buzz Lightyear and Woody can join the party to offer special abilities against powerful foes. There’s also lots of footage of a brand new hammer-like Keyblade transformation and an Attraction Flow mini-game that enables mech suit battles. These sequences embody everything fans love about Kingdom Hearts amplified by the power of current-gen consoles.
Just like every new world reveal, there’s a lot to be offered in terms of story tidbits too. Within the Toy Story world itself, we learn that a hooded figure from Organization XIII has arrived and caused Heartless to spawn there. Refusing to let the protagonist trio fight that enemy alone, Andy’s toys have offered to help in small ways. It’s a rather classic arc for anyone who’s ever seen any of the source material. In fact, shortly after the trailer’s reveal, it was said that the in-world narrative was personally approved by Toy Story director John Lasseter. His only request was to “make it good.” In terms of game-wide plot, Organization XIII continues its pleas from last month’s Orchestra trailer and pushes Sora to confront his dark side to help keep his friends together.
Not to be outdone by his own footage, game director Tetsuya Nomura had a few words to share about the project as well. He mentioned the he “always hoped Toy Story would come to Kingdom Hearts” and described the collaboration as a “dream come true.” I’m very happy, and I hope the fans are happy too,” he added.
Now that fans know Kingdom Hearts 3 is set to release next year, there are many more reveals to anticipate in the immediate future. Nomura has said that he’s “thinking about the next announcement” and hopes fans will “please wait” for more news as it arrives.
Curiously, despite being able to watch the Toy Story world in full gameplay form, we’ve yet to see anything beyond concept art for Big Hero 6’s San Fransokyo. That world was first revealed during D23 2015 with a much more generalized presentation.
Kingdom Hearts 3 is slated for a 2018 release on PS4 and Xbox One.
What did you think of the Kingdom Hearts 3 D23 trailer? Will this game actually release in 2018? Tell us in the comments section!
