Kingdom Hearts 4: New Screenshots Spark Frenzy After Missing Link Cancellation
The Kingdom Hearts fandom is buzzing after Square Enix released new screenshots for Kingdom Hearts 4. This comes shortly after the cancellation of Kingdom Hearts: Missing Link, a mobile game intended to bridge the gap between Kingdom Hearts III and Kingdom Hearts IV. The abrupt cancellation, announced earlier this week, initially disappointed fans, but the subsequent release of Kingdom Hearts 4 screenshots has reignited their excitement.
The development team at Square Enix stated, "We're currently working hard on Kingdom Hearts IV and will continue pouring ourselves into the game's development. We're dedicated to making this an experience that lives up to your expectations!"
The new images, shared on official Kingdom Hearts social media accounts, offer tantalizing glimpses into the game's progress. One striking screenshot showcases humanoid Heartless, distinct from Neo Heartless, potentially linked to the world of Quadratum. These enemies sport shield-shaped fists, suggesting new combat mechanics. Sora's keyblade is also shown utilizing its Form Change ability.
According to Tetsuya Nomura, the game will introduce a Build mechanic, allowing Sora to scrap and rebuild items. A separate screenshot, originating from the Japanese Kingdom Hearts account, reveals a third creature with a unique design. Some observers have likened this enemy to Pokemon such as Magearna and Alolan Exeggutor.
Eagle-eyed fans at TheGamersJoint have pointed out changes to the user interface (UI). The EX Gauge has been relocated and might be renamed, a common practice for Square Enix. Other details are that Sora is now sporting a smartwatch in Kingdom Hearts 4. Speculation is already ripe about its potential function.
Furthermore, the screenshots include an improved character model for Strelitzia from Kingdom Hearts Cross Union and rotary phones, indicating that technology will have a presence in Kingdom Hearts 4.
One of the screenshots appears to show Mickey, potentially playable, in what looks like a library. Theories posit this location to be Scala ad Caelum.
Another image showcases a redesigned Darkside Heartless, now with wings, alongside two forms of light rushing towards it. This hints at possible allies, with speculation centering on Yozora.
The remaining images show an urban environment, potentially after a battle which indicates that this section of the story continues where Kingdom Hearts 3 last left off.
While Square Enix offered no release date or trailer announcement, the recent update and screenshots have assured fans that Kingdom Hearts 4 remains a high priority. The cancellation of Missing Link coupled with these new glimpses into Kingdom Hearts 4 suggest a shift towards prioritizing quality over quantity. What do you think of this development? Share your theories and expectations for Kingdom Hearts 4 in the comments below!
Related issues news
Is KH Missing Link cancelled?
After years in development, beta tests, and delays, Square Enix has finally canceled the next Kingdom Hearts game, Kingdom Hearts Missing Link. The development team behind Missing Link announced the game's cancellation on the official Kingdom Hearts website.
When was Kingdom Hearts 4 announced?
Following its announcement in 2022, official updates for Kingdom Hearts IV have been few and far between. Though franchise fans are no strangers to waiting for information and, subsequently, game launches, Square Enix wanted to update fans on how development is progressing and provide a few new screenshots.
