Editing Kingdom Hearts III

{{Game|KH3|Real}}
{{suite}}
{{Infobox CVG
|title=Kingdom Hearts III
|japan= キングダム ハーツ III
|romaji=Kingudamu Hātsu III
|image=[[File:Kingdom Hearts III Logo KHIII.png|center|300px]]
|developer={{w|Square Enix}}
|publisher={{w|Square Enix}}
|release=[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] January 25, 2019<br>[[File:Flag of the United States.png|20px|United States]]/[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] January 29, 2019<br>[[File:Flag of European Union.png|20px|Europe]]/[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] January 29, 2019<br>'''PC:{{note|Digital only via Epic Games Store}}'''<br>[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] March 30, 2021<br>[[File:Flag of the United States.png|20px|United States]]/[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] March 30, 2021<br>[[File:Flag of European Union.png|20px|Europe]]/[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] March 30, 2021<br>'''Nintendo Switch:{{note|Cloud Version}}'''<br>[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] TBA<br>[[File:Flag of the United States.png|20px|United States]]/[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] TBA<br>[[File:Flag of European Union.png|20px|Europe]]/[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] TBA
|genre=Console action role-playing game
|modes=Single player
|ratings={{w|ESRB}}:[[File:Ratingsymbol e10.gif|12px|Everyone 10+]]Everyone 10+<br>{{w|PEGI}}:[[File:PEGI 12.png|12px|12+]]12+
|platforms={{w|PlayStation 4}}<br>{{w|Xbox One}}<br>{{w|Personal computer}}<br>{{w|Nintendo Switch}}
}}
{{q|The ultimate battle for KINGDOM HEARTS is upon us.|Tagline}}
'''''Kingdom Hearts III''''' is the twelfth title in the ''{{c|Kingdom Hearts|series}}'' series. It was officially announced at E3 2013, and is the first ''Kingdom Hearts'' game available on multiple platforms at launch, releasing on both the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.

''Kingdom Hearts III'' serves as the final chapter of the [[Dark Seeker Saga]], and focuses primarily on the events leading up to the final showdown between [[Sora]] and [[Master Xehanort]].

A playable prologue to ''Kingdom Hearts III'' called ''[[Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep -A fragmentary passage-]]'' as part of the ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue]]'' collection.

The game has two theme songs. The opening theme song is "[[Face My Fears]]" which is a collaboration between Utada Hikaru and Skrillex. The ending theme song is "[[Don't Think Twice]]" (titled "Chikai" in the Japanese version) performed by Utada Hikaru.

A downloadable expansion pack titled ''[[Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind]]'' was released worldwide on January 23, 2020 for the PlayStation 4 and on February 25, 2020 for the Xbox One. It added new gameplay and story elements. ''Kingdom Hearts III'' along with ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind'', was released together on PC via the {{w|Epic Games Store}} on March 30, 2021.<ref>[https://www.epicgames.com/store/en-US/product/kingdom-hearts-iii/home Epic Games Store's page]</ref>. A cloud version for the Nintendo Switch has been announced.<ref>[https://twitter.com/KINGDOMHEARTS/status/1445402204190515216 Nintendo Switch Announcement For KH Games]</ref>

''Kingdom Hearts III'' was released alongside ''Kingdom Hearts The Story So Far'' as part of the compendium pack ''[[Kingdom Hearts All-In-One Package]]''.

==Development==
The game was announced to be in development alongside a trailer during the {{w|Electronic Entertainment Expo}} (E3) in June 2013. A trailer was later released at the first D23 Exposition in Japan in October 2013, revealing initial gameplay.

For E3 2014, Square Enix released a thirty-second trailer as part of a trailer to ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX]]''. In the Square Enix Present segment, co-director Tai Yasue revealed the sequence seen in the E3 2014 teaser would be relevant from the beginning of the game and the text seen and heard was going to "be a real integral part of the story".<ref>[http://dengekionline.com/elem/000/000/864/864150/ '''''Dengeki Playstation''''': "『キングダム ハーツ HD 2.5 リミックス』安江泰氏インタビュー。HD化にまつわる開発秘話の他、最新作『KHIII』の話題も【E3 2014】"]</ref> On September 17, 2014, Square Enix announced [[Tetsuya Nomura]] would be stepping down as director for ''Final Fantasy XV'' so he can focus his efforts on other upcoming titles, namely ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<ref>[http://www.siliconera.com/2014/09/17/tabata-takes-final-fantasy-xv-tetsuya-nomura-moves-kingdom-hearts-iii '''''Siliconera''''': "Tabata Takes Over Final Fantasy XV; Tetsuya Nomura Moves On To Kingdom Hearts III"]</ref>
<!-- "Focus" gauge was labeled "EX" before E3 2015 trailer-->

During the Square Enix E3 Conference on June 16, 2015, the ''Kingdom Hearts'' series's executive producer, Shinji Hashimoto, revealed the first gameplay trailer which shows Sora in a new outfit. Sora is seen wielding new Keyblades, fighting new Heartless, and also exploring [[Kingdom of Corona]], a world based on ''{{w|Tangled}}''.<ref>[https://youtu.be/aQwlJzROy38?t=53m21s '''''Square Enix E3 Conference 2015''''']</ref> In the Square Enix Presents segment, Nomura revealed Kingdom of Corona was one of the first to be considered for the game.<ref>[https://youtu.be/LEZcHr3BR20?t=3h2m36s '''''Square Enix Presents E3 2015 - Day 1''''']</ref> In a PlayStation Access interview, Nomura confirmed ''Final Fantasy'' characters will return.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hmcaxvmj5nU '''''PlayStation Access''''': "Kingdom Hearts 3: 8 Things You Need To Know"], "#2 Final Fantasy characters in KH3", '''Nomura''': "I want them in."</ref>

During Disney's D23 Expo 2015, Shinji Hashimoto announced a world based on ''{{w|Big Hero 6 (film)|Big Hero 6}}''; [[San Fransokyo]].<ref>[http://www.siliconera.com/2015/08/16/kingdom-hearts-iii-has-a-big-hero-6-world '''''Siliconera''''': "Kingdom Hearts III Has A Big Hero 6 World"]</ref>

In a ''Famitsu'' interview, Nomura confirmed the game would contain a secret movie.<ref>[https://www.famitsu.com/news/201506/23081572.html ''''' Famitsu''''', 25 June 2015], '''Nomura''': "We are steadily progressing and deciding what to do with the ending… as well as considering content for the secret movie."</ref>

In their financial Results Briefing Session, Square Enix President and Representative Director Yosuke Matsuda and Chief Financial Officer Kazuharu Watanabe stated the expected release can be sometime between 2018 and 2020.<ref>[http://www.siliconera.com/2017/05/26/expect-final-fantasy-vii-remake-kingdom-hearts-iii-release-sometime-three-years/ '''''Siliconera''''': "Expect Final Fantasy VII Remake And Kingdom Hearts III To Release Sometime In “Three Years Or So”"]</ref>

During Disney D23 Expo 2017, Nomura showed a trailer depicting [[Toy Box]], a ''{{w|Toy Story}}'' world, and announced the game would be released in 2018.<ref name="D3 Trailer"/> Nomura stated the game's delay is not due to development issues, but rather technical decisions made by Square Enix such as moving the game to Unreal Engine 4.<ref>[https://www.kotaku.com.au/2017/07/kingdom-hearts-3-director-says-its-squares-fault-the-game-is-taking-so-long/ '''''Kotaku''''': "Kingdom Hearts 3 Director Says It's Square's Fault The Game Is Taking So Long"]</ref> Nomura confirmed the ''Toy Story'' world features an original storyline set sometime after ''{{w|Toy Story 2}}'', and hinted there would be another playable character besides Sora.<ref>[http://www.ign.com/articles/2017/07/16/kingdom-hearts-3-director-hints-at-second-playable-character '''''IGN''''': "KINGDOM HEARTS 3 DIRECTOR HINTS AT SECOND PLAYABLE CHARACTER"], '''Nomura''': "So it would be tough to introduce many, multiple playable characters, but there is an intention of adding a playable character aside from Sora. Unfortunately we're not able to disclose who it is yet, but there will be [another playable character]."</ref>

In April 2018, a collaboration campaign between ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and ''[[Kingdom Hearts Union χ]]'', titled "[[Kingdom Hearts Make Your Mark]]" was announced where the 300 players could have their name appear in ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<ref>[https://api.sp.kingdomhearts.com/information/detail/39483 '''''Kingdom Hearts Union χ''''': "Make Your Mark in KHIII!"]</ref>

During Disney's D23 Expo Japan 2018 Conference, a private ''Kingdom Hearts'' event was held where two trailers were revealed. In one, [[Monstropolis]], a ''{{w|Monsters, Inc.}}'' world was confirmed, while the other announced {{w|Utada Hikaru}} would perform the theme song, titled "Don't Think Twice" ("Oath" in Japanese). The event also revealed the game was being developed by the largest developing team in the history of the series,<ref name="IGN Japan D23 JPN 2018">[http://jp.ign.com/kingdom-hearts-iii-ps4/21908/news/d23-expo-japaniii11 '''''IGN''''': 11 New pieces of information from D23 Expo Japan that have shed some light on Kingdom Hearts 3]</ref> including 100 people from the Square Enix's Tokyo offices.<ref name="PlayStation Access D23 JPN 2018">[https://youtu.be/cn1AMOmcPy8 '''''PlayStation Access''''': "Kingdom Hearts 3: 10 New Things we've had Confirmed"]</ref> The return of the Gummi Ship was confirmed, and it was revealed the gameplay for it, now playable as open-world instead of the preset paths from the first two games, had been split into "Battle" and "Searching" phases.<ref name="IGN Japan D23 JPN 2018"/> The game was revealed to have been developed in three parts, with the first part being about 90% done, and the second between 60% and 70% done. Nomura noted the final world would feature "something incredible" he wanted to do for a while.<ref name="PlayStation Access D23 JPN 2018"/>

''Kingdom Hearts III'' was originally scheduled to be released in 2018,<ref name="D3 Trailer">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4y7UK4nqnQ '''''KINGDOM HEARTS III – D23 2017 Toy Story Trailer''''']</ref> but at the 2018 E3 presentation, Square Enix announced it had been postponed until January 25, 2019 for Japan and January 29, 2019 globally.<ref name="KHWO">[https://twitter.com/KINGDOMHEARTS/status/1005683145990025216 '''''@KINGDOMHEARTS''''']</ref>

During the Los Angeles performance of the ''Kingdom Hearts Orchestra -World Tour-'' in 2018, the game's release date was announced as January 25, 2019 in Japan and January 29, 2019 worldwide.<ref name="KHWO"/> Two trailers were released, the first one confirming [[Arendelle]], a world based on ''{{w|Frozen (2013 film)|Frozen}}'', along with confirming a number of returning characters, the second video, a Square Enix E3 Showcase 2018 trailer, which is similar to the first but with extra footage confirming a few more returning characters. Another video was released shortly afterwards to show a [[The Caribbean]], based on ''{{w|Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End}}''.<ref>[https://gamerant.com/kingdom-hearts-3-pirates-of-the-carribbean-trailer/ '''''Game Rant'''': "Kingdom Hearts 3 Showcases Pirates of the Caribbean"]</ref> Nomura confirmed there were no plans for a Final Mix version and that if there was additional content, it would be through patches and DLC.<ref>[https://gearnuke.com/kingdom-hearts-3-no-final-mix-confirmed-secret-movie/ '''''GearNuke''''': "Kingdom Hearts 3 Won't Get Any Final Mix Release, Confirmed To Have A Secret Movie"]</ref>

During Tokyo Game Show 2018, Nomura talked more about the Secret Ending and how staff were considering a different unlock method from before, such as having the Secret Ending be exclusive DLC to avoid spoilers. They also considered adding online features.<ref>[https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2018-09-22/tetsuya-nomura-kingdom-hearts-will-not-end-with-kingdom-hearts-iii/.137160 '''''Anime News Network''''': "Tetsuya Nomura: ''Kingdom Hearts'' Will Not End with ''Kingdom Hearts III''"]</ref> 

On November 20, 2018, the development for the game was confirmed to be completed.<ref>[https://twitter.com/KINGDOMHEARTS/status/1064881296915095552 '''''Twitter (@KINGDOMHEARTS)''''']: "...And guess what? We've wrapped up development of #KingdomHearts III! If you haven't had the chance yet, now would be a good time to prep by playing 1.5+2.5 & 2.8. See you next month!"</ref>

In December 2018, several videos of the game were leaked online after an individual stole copies from the manufacturer a month prior to release. Nomura released a statement on the ''Kingdom Hearts'' official Twitter account, notifying fans Square Enix was aware of the leaks and are working to rectify the situation, as well as urging fans not to share leaked media before the game's release.<ref>[https://twitter.com/KINGDOMHEARTS/status/1074192394176815105 An important message for ''Kingdom Hearts III'' from Director Tetsuya Nomura]</ref><ref>[https://www.ign.com/articles/2018/12/16/kingdom-hearts-3-has-reportedly-leaked-online-beware-of-spoilers '''''IGN''''': "''KINGDOM HEARTS III'' DIRECTOR RESPONDS TO REPORTED LEAKS"]</ref>

''Star Wars'' and Marvel titles were some of the most requested themes to appear in the game, but were unable due to legal issues.<ref>[https://www.gamerevolution.com/news/397863-kingdom-hearts-3-not-having-star-wars-or-avengers-is-finally-explained '''''GameRevolution''''': "''Kingdom Hearts III'' Not Having ''Star Wars'' or ''Avengers'' Is Finally Explained"]</ref>

An additional difficulty mode, Critical Mode, was eventually released. Nomura also mentioned there will be paid DLC which is planned to release in 2019.<ref>[http://dengekionline.com/elem/000/001/886/1886230/ ''Kingdom Hearts III'' Interview with Tetsuya Nomura (Dengeki PS)]; '''Interviewer''': "There's no "Critical Mode" difficulty level in this game. Was there a reason you didn't include it?" / '''Tetsuya Nomura''': "Critical Mode wasn't originally in the base versions of the game, they were an extra feature we added to the ''Final Mix'' versions. So, we will be following that and releasing it for download later on. It's not simply a matter of changing numbers and making things stronger; we fine-tune and debug multiple times. We are polishing things to make sure it's not simply a "more difficult mode," and is as fun as you would expect from Critical." [https://www.khinsider.com/news/Dengeki-Playstation-interviews-Nomura-on-Kingdom-Hearts-3-14711 Translation via Goldpanner].</ref>

Nomura plans to explain how Xion was revived and recruited into the real Organization XIII in the DLC.<ref>[http://dengekionline.com/elem/000/001/886/1886230/ ''Kingdom Hearts III'' Interview with Tetsuya Nomura (Dengeki PS)]; '''Interviewer''': "The process behind reviving Ventus and Roxas was fairly easy to understand, but how was Xion brought back, and how did she end up in the New Organisation XIII?" / '''Tetsuya Nomura''': "I think it's possible to figure it out for yourself. However, I do plan to explain it in DLC." [https://www.khinsider.com/news/Dengeki-Playstation-interviews-Nomura-on-Kingdom-Hearts-3-14711 Translation via Goldpanner].</ref>

On March 14, 2019, Square Enix announced that Olaf's Japanese voice actor will be replaced in a future update, after his original voice actor; {{w|Pierre Taki}} was arrested after admitting to drug usage.<ref>[https://www.jp.square-enix.com/topics/detail/745/ Notice of "Kingdom Hearts III" voice actor change and update delivery]</ref><ref>[https://www.siliconera.com/2019/03/14/kingdom-hearts-iii-is-changing-olafs-japanese-voice-in-an-update-following-arrest-of-pierre-taki/ '''''Siliconera''''': "Kingdom Hearts III Is Changing Olaf's Japanese Voice In An Update Following Pierre Taki's Arrest"]</ref>

On June 8, 2019, during the ''[[Kingdom Hearts Orchestra -World of Tres-]]'' concert, a trailer for an downloadable expansion pack titled ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind'' was announced. It will add new gameplay and story elements. During Square Enix's E3 2019 broadcast, the same trailer that premier at the ''Kingdom Hearts Orchestra -World of Tres-'' was shown again, except with the added information the expansion will be released during Winter 2019-2020.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qqD_cz85S1A '''''KINGDOM HEARTS III Re Mind DLC Trailer (E3 2019) (Closed Captions)''''']</ref>

==Story==
{{Q|Believing light and darkness must remain in balance, Master Xehanort seeks to spark war against the 'tyranny of light' to restore equilibrium.<br><br>In an effort to undermine Xehanort's plot, Sora, Donald and Goofy search for seven guardians of light and the “Key to Return Hearts,” while King Mickey and Riku search for previous Keyblade wielders.|''Kingdom Hearts III'' press release}}
After [[Master Xehanort]]'s return, [[Yen Sid]] begins searching for seven [[Guardians of Light]] to counteract Xehanort's plan to forge the [[χ-blade]] using the [[real Organization XIII]]. He tells [[Sora]] that he has lost much of his own strength as a result nearly being taken over by Xehanort when latter tried to use him as 13th vessel for his heart{{storylink|Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance}}. Backed up by [[Donald Duck]] and [[Goofy]], Sora taken advice from Yen Sid to travel to meet [[Hercules]] who also lost and later regained his powers not long ago. The most important power Sora must regain is his "[[Power of waking]]", the ability to restore lost hearts, which he failed to master during his [[Mark of Mastery Exam]]. Meanwhile, [[Riku]] and [[King Mickey]] traverse the [[Realm of Darkness]] looking for [[Aqua]], while [[Kairi]] and [[Lea]], safely train to use their [[Keyblade]]s to fight.

During each of their travels, Sora and Riku are contacted by [[Ienzo]], who has deciphered pieces of [[Ansem's Code]] to learn that Sora's body contains the hearts of [[Roxas]], [[Ventus]], and [[Xion]]. Riku realizes that the Organization's members from the past are using [[replica]]s created by [[Vexen]] as vessels that enable their existence in the present, which inspires Sora to restore Roxas by transferring his [[heart]] into a replica body. 

In search for Power of Waking, Sora, Donald and Goofy land in [[Twilight Town]] where they stumble on [[Hayner]], [[Pence]], and [[Olette]], chased by [[Demon Tide]]. After it's defeat, Sora asks if the trio knows Roxas, showing them a photo they made together back in the [[Virtual Twilight Town]]. The trio respond that they don't know who the boy is, but Hayner mention that name sounds familiar. They head to the Old Mansion where, with Ienzo's help they attempt to hack into computer to reach simulation. 

[[File:Ansem and Xemnas 02 KHIII.png|thumb|left|Ansem and Xemnas taunts Sora for being naive.]]
In their way back to the town, Sora, Donald and Goofy are meet by Ansem and Xemnas, who tried to convince Sora to give his Heart to Darkness. Goofy guess that both Ansem and Xemnas used to be one person but now their both stand here. The Seekers of Darkness does not pay attention to that claim and insisted that Sora should become a Heartless, as it's only way to bring Roxas back. They summon a couple of [[Neoshadow]]s and [[Dusk]]s before disappearing.

After a short fight, Sora is now willing bring Roxas back "with all his Heart". The trio return to Twilight Town where Sora tell Hayner, Pence, and Olette they need to wish Roxas to return, with all their hearts. Meanwhile, on the near roof Xigbar tells Ansem and Xemnas that they make it too obvious, but Xemnas tells him that they were instructed to guide Sora and, if he refuse to take path they carve, they will simply destroy him. Xigbar reminds them that they will be left without last vessel.

Meanwhile, Ansem, Seeker of Darkness enters the Realm of Darkness and tries to secure [[Ansem the Wise]]. Aqua tried to stop Xehanort but was overpowered by the [[Dark Figure]]. Ansem begs Xehanort to spare Aqua's life by willingly go with him. However, Xehanort throws Aqua in water, where she succumbs to Darkness.

Vexen reveals himself to be a double agent loyal to Ansem the Wise and he helps rescue him before sending an extra replica to Ienzo for Roxas to live in.

[[File:Too Late 01 KHIII.png|thumb|right|Aqua, corrupted by darkness, stands ready to fight Mickey and Riku.]]
Riku and Mickey locate and battle the corrupted [[Aqua]] in the realm of darkness. At the same time, Sora finds the [[Master's Defender]] on [[Destiny Islands]] and uses it to enter the dark realm. Sora manages to defeat Anti-Aqua and exorcise the [[darkness]] from her and return to the Realm of Light. Sora, Donald, and Goofy then follow Aqua to [[Castle Oblivion]], which she transforms back into the [[Land of Departure]]. In the main hall, where Ventus still sleeping, group encounter Vanitas, who give respect to Aqua for such trick, now understanding why no one has ever been able to locate Ven. Vanitas then attack the group and Sora is ready for battle, but Aqua insists that she's the one who'll defeat him. Seeing that Aqua in danger, Ven's heart return to it's proper place so Ventus fight Vanitas off. Refusing to fight three guardians at once, Vanitas retreats. Party then warmly welcomes Ven, and together they travel back to Mysterious Tower.

Back in the tower Yen Cid greets latest member of the Guardians. The party greet and introduce themselves to each other, while Yen Cid tells them that their ranks is complete and now they can rest, but tomorrow they'll go to the Keyblade Graveyard. 

[[File:The Xehanorts Gather 01 KHIII.png|thumb|left|The guardians have to fight off a horde of enemies.]]
With the seven Guardins of Light present, they they arrive at the Keyblade Graveyard and immideatly encountered by Master Xehanort who, accompanying by Ansem, Xemnas, Young Xehanort and Vanitas tells them why he doing all of this - as previous Keyblade War brings creation to this world, Xehanort wants to see, what another War would bring. Five Xehanorts then emanate the Darkness, turning sky purple. A large horde of Heartless, Nobodies and Unversed forms around Guardisns of Light, forcing them to fight. After great battle, the party proceeds further, only to be encountered by Terra, who is actually Terra-Xehanort in disguise. He single-handedly overpower Guardians, forcing Donald to use [[Zettaflare]]. Terra-Xehanort is blasted away, but Donald is now lying unconsious. Large swarm of [[Heartless]] appears, and all of the Guardians is consumed. Awakening in a limbo realm called [[The Final World]], Sora is guided back to the realm of light with the help of Kairi and [[Chirithy]] and uses the power of waking to revive his friends, by chasing down and battling a powerful [[Lich]] who tried to steal Sora's friends. However, [[Young Xehanort]] warns Sora that abusing this power will result in losing his own heart again. Sora asks why Xehanort suddenly worries about him to which Xehanort replies that he's not because there's no saving for him.

[[File:The Price 01 KHIII.png|thumb|right|Young Xehanort warns Sora that his recklessness will soon catch up with him.]]
Returning moments before disaster, Terra-Xehanort again tries to defeat Guardins, only to be stopped by [[Lingering Will]], who Naminé calls upon. Lingering Will summons the Ultima Cannon to blast Terra-Xehanort away and then goes after him itself. The party then encountered by large horde of Heartless again, so they must fight again. Sora, Donald and Goofy meet and defeat [[Demon Tower]], but large Tornado consumes all of the Heartless and now ready to destroy Guardins again, but this time Light from the past, in the form of Ephemer, comes to an aid. Large swarm of Keyblades is flying right at the tornado with Sora riding on it. Together, they manage to defeat Tornado, only to be encountered by Dark Riku and Xigbar, who sends another horde of Heartless at them. Guardians is ready to take fight, but Yen Cid arrives just in time to halt the horde, forming a hallway for Guardians. With Donald and Goofy stayed to back up retired Master, party proceeds next.

Now, in the crossroad where 11 years ago Xehanort encountered Wayfinder trio, Seven Guardians of Light finally meet with Elder Master and his Thirteen Seekers of Darkness. Xehanort tells them that he waited patiently for this moment and creates a large labyrinth with multiple rooms. Sora and his friends proceed to a maze, where they have to separate and fight every Organization member. 
Sora aids Riku against Xigbar, Dark Riku and Ansem, but latter quickly depart, leaving Sora and Riku to take down the others. Boys managed to defeat opponents, and Xigbar tells them that outcome would be different if he only had a Keyblade. Sora tells him that he's not worthy of it and it would be wasted on him. Xigbar denies both claims and teleported to the top of the maze's wall, falling from it. His weapons are faded away, seemingly indicating his demise. 

After that, Sora proceed to aid King Mickey in his fight against Marluxia, Luxord, Larxene and Xemnas. Although, Xemnas soon abandon the battle, but not before empowering Luxord. The latter traps Mickey in a card, forcing Sora to fight alone. After his defeat Luxord frees Mickey and gives Sora the "wild card", telling that it could turn the tables. Larxene and Marluxia also regain their human selves and fading away from battlefield.

Sora is proceeding further into labyrinth to help Aqua and Ventus fight Vanitas and Terra-Xehanort. After Vanitas is defeated his helmet is shattered, revealing his appearance. Sora asks why Vanitas and he looks identical, to which Vanitas respond that he's the piece taken from Ventus and Sora is the piece need to awaken Ventus, so together they made a whole. Sora asks why he won't fight alongside them, to which Vanitas explain that he is darkness. Ven tells him that he can choose and not be just light or darkness. Vanitas tells him that he already decided and fades away.
Party then fight Terra-Xehanort, but he empower them by chaining Ventus and Aqua by their bonds of friendship. He start swinging them, laying both unconscious, but Terra's heart, awaken by Ven inside Dark Figure, is able to resist Xehanort's influence and save both his friends, when Terra-Xehanort tryed slamming them on the ground. Together with Sora, Terra manages to regain control of his body, casting Xehanort's heart to fade away back to his time. The Wayfinder Trio is reunited and Sora goes to a next battle.

[[File:From Chains to Bonds 02 KHIII.png|thumb|left|Terra regains control over his heart and reclaims his body.]] 
Meanwhile, Lea and Kairi fight Saix and hooded Xion. Sora arrived to help them, but Saix is managed to defeat them. Xemnas arrives on the scene, reminding Lea, that he trusted him to deal with traitors to the Organization but now his betrayal "outstrips them all". Xemnas prepares to kill Lea, but hooded Xion is stopped him. She tell Xemnas that they need him, but Xemnas refuse it, telling that he don't have to be alive in order to forge the χ-blade. Xemnas orders Xion to kill Lea by herself, while latter tries to remember her. Sora stops her by saying her name. Xemnas kick them both with Xion's face now revealed and now Lea remembers her. Xemnas again prepare to kill them, but suddenly ray of light shoots from the sky, forcing Xemnas to jump back. The ray of light revealed to be [[Roxas]]. Xemnas asks how it;s possoble and Roxas explain that he's been provided with vessel. Xemnas takes Kairi with him and leaves, leaving others to take down Saix. Sora, together with Xion and Roxas manage to defeat him. Lea then asks Saix, is it all of this worth it, to which Saix replies that it was for locating Subject X at first, but after Axel make new friends Saix grew jealous which makes them grew apart from each other. Before fading away, Axel and Saix both call each other by their human names - Lea and Isa. 
Sea Salt Trio reunites and Sora again go further.     
   
[[File:The Last Light 02 KHIII.png|thumb|right|A revived Roxas comes to the guardians aid.]]
Sora runs on the wall to the Tower of Endings, where together with King Mickey and Riku they confront three main Xehanort incarnations - Ansem, Xemnas and Young Xehanort. After battle, Ansem tells that he knew he never could win over Riku's heart, as his strengh is vaster than darkness. Riku tells him that he would miss him, to which Ansem replies that there's more than darkness to seek and fades away to his own time. Xemnas say to Sora that it's very hard to have a heart, as his first surge of emotion is loneliness. But Sora tells him that's what  makes human themselves - feel all kinds of emotions. Xemnas replies then it takes incredible strength to be a human and fades away. Young Xehanort tell Sora that he's not defeated and just goes back to his own time to live his life and eventually become all of these people. He then threatens Sora that latter will soon fades from existence.

[[File:Thirteen and Seven 02 KHIII.png|thumb|left|Ansem, Xemnas, and Young Xehanort face off against Sora, Riku, and Mickey.]]
When only Xehanort remains, he provokes Sora into attacking him by destroying Kairi's body. Riku and Sora tries to stop him, but it proven no use. Mickey then casts Ultima spell, but Xehanort counters it with Stopza, freezing Riku and Mickey in place. After the last, thirteenth key appears, Xehanort summons [[Kingdom Hearts]], as the χ-blade now in his hands, and Old Master confirms that it is now complete. Xehanort plunges Kingdom Hearts in his Darkness, turning the entity purple in color. Purple shots starts firing from it, covering all sky. Sora thinks they lost, but Mickey, now unfrozen, tells him that it is still possible to defeat Master Xehanort. Using Xehanort's power of time travel against him, Sora, Donald, and Goofy open a portal to trap Xehanort in his boyhood training grounds. Leaving Guardins to hold Kingdom Hearts at bay, Sora, Donald and Goofy travel after Xehanort to a mysterious world. They arrive in a beautiful stark-white city on the water, and proceed into the town. There, they confront multiple Master Xehanorts only to see them turning into twelve [[Replica Xehanort|faceless clones]]. After the battle, Master Xehanort himself arrives, telling party that this world once seat of power of Keyblade wielders and it's a nexus from which all other worlds spring. He tells them the name of the world - [[Scala ad Caelum]]. After that, he declares that here he can be one with his other selves, absorbing defeated replicas and summon a new, large [[Keyblade Armor]], resembling a goat. He calls his Keyblade and transform world into a vertical arena, where fight begins. After three phases of battle on land, underwater and sky, Sora manages to destroy the armor, tearing place down in the process, but Xehanort escapes. Atop the tallest building, Sora, together with Donald and Goofy battle Xehanort, who now wields χ-blade, for one final time. Old Master manages to nearly kill Sora, but voices from his friends reach the boy and together they defeated Master Xehanort once and for all. 
Xehanort, heavily wounded and barely able to stand, tells trio that he wanted to create a new world, where light nor darkness shall not reign and he will be the one who protects people from mistakes of the past. Sora declares that if this world is possible, Xehanort is not right person to do this. These words remind Xehanort of his old friend, [[Eraqus]].

Other Keyblade wielders rejoin the trio, explaining that they closed Kingdom Hearts on their side and managed to follow their hearts after Sora. Eraqus's spirit emerges from Terra's body and tells Xehanort to hand over the χ-blade. Xehanort refuse at first, but Eraqus lay his hand on him and saying "checkmate", reminding him of their old days together. Old master give χ-blade to Sora and telling him "Very well done". Xehanort and Eraqus turn into their young selves and depart together to Kingdom Hearts, while Sora and his friends use the χ-blade to close Kingdom Hearts and return back.

[[File:Checkmate 01 KHIII.png|thumb|right|A defeated Xehanort joins Eraqus to the afterlife.]]
Trying to save Kairi, Sora uses the power of waking again to revive her; despite the risk of becoming lost forever, Sora promises to return. Afterwards, Eraqus's students return to the Land of Departure where Ventus reunites with Chirithy; Roxas, [[Isa]], Lea, and Xion stay in Twilight Town and [[Naminé]] is restored in a replica obtained during the battle with Xehanort. Sora's friends gather at the Destiny Islands, where Kairi stays beside Sora before he fades away.

[[File:Ending 05 KHIII.png|thumb|left|Kairi remembers Sora as he fades away.]]
[[Xigbar]], who survived the [[Keyblade War]], retrieves Xehanort's [[No Name]] Keyblade and summons four of the five [[Foreteller]]s, revealing himself to be a reincarnation of their fellow Keyblade apprentice, [[Luxu]]. He begins to recount his actions to the foretellers, with [[Maleficent]] and [[Pete]] watching from afar. In a flashback to their youth, Eraqus and Xehanort begin a new game of chess. Eraqus place seven new dark pieces, telling Xehanort that he's heard about this new game and then placing a white piece on board.
{{-}}

==Gameplay==
<!--
section should match gameplay example like on other pages; http://www.khwiki.com/Kingdom_Hearts_3D:_Dream_Drop_Distance#Gameplay
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*Early interview for FFXV said that KH3's combat system would be like that{{fact}}
**May or may not change not change due to development
*"Big Magic Mountain"
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===Growth path===
The player can choose their growth path in the [[Dive to the Heart]]. The first set of options are Wisdom, Vitality, and Balance, with the first focusing on MP, the second on HP, and the third focusing on both HP and MP equally. For example, if the player chooses Vitality, he will begin the game with 120 HP and 100 MP. By the end of the game, he should have 135 MP and 270 HP.

The second set of options are Guardian, Warrior, and Mystic, with the first being focused on Defense, the second on Attack, and the third on Magic. For example, if the player chooses Guardian, Sora will gain [[Withstand Combo]], an excellent defensive ability, at level 4. However, if they choose Warrior, Sora will not learn Withstand Combo until level 26.

===Combat features===
[[File:Kingdom of Corona Keyblade (Trailer) KHIII.png|thumb|Situation Commands seen on the left side are unlocked through battle performance.]]
The [[Command Menu]] from ''Kingdom Hearts'' and ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'' returns. The gauges for [[Donald]] and [[Goofy]] now appear next to Sora's in the bottom right corner instead of above. The [[MP]] gauge from ''KHII'' returns. The "Focus" gauge which from ''Birth by Sleep'' returns and is also meant for [[Shotlock]]s which are now tied to [[Keyblades]]. [[Reaction Command]]s are replaced by [[Situation Command]]s.

Shortcuts return which function like in ''Kingdom Hearts II''. The player can now arrange commands in three separate configurations, similar to the Deck System with the [[Cards]] from ''[[Kingdom Hearts Chain of Memories]]'', and the [[Panel System]] from ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]''.

[[Formchange]], a mechanic that allows Sora to change his [[abilities]] or the form of his Keyblade. Sora's Keyblade can transform into various items such as a double bow gun or a chariot to attack enemies. Each Keyblade have at least two transformations, with the second activating if Sora connects enough combos, similar to [[Command Style]]s or Situation Commands. After activating a Keyblade transformation, said transformation will be saved when switching out. To enter a Formchange, Sora must use a Keyblade transformation by using the Situation Command, although [[Second Form]], [[Rage Form]], and [[Ultimate Form]] are labeled exactly by their names.

Sora can now switch between three [[Keychains]] on the fly by pressing the Left or Right Directional Buttons while the cursor in on the [[Attack]] Command. This means the player can use up to three different Formchanges in active combat apart from Rage Mode.
The character images on the HUD are more expressive, no longer being fixed for the teammates: like Sora, they smile when they're on the overworld, appear angry when fighting, have a pained expression when they take damage and look tired when their HP are low. If a teammate has lost all their HP, they have their eyes closed and their image is darkened.

Keychains can now [[level]] up to become stronger through the upgrading them with materials in the [[Keyblade Forge]].

[[Attractions]], a type of Situation Command, are a new feature which lets the [[party]] execute skills based on theme park attractions. An attraction sequence can easily be skipped by pressing {{button|square}} or X button or turned off completely from the Options menu.

Similar to ''0.2'', magic affects the surrounding environment—for example, [[Blizzard]] will create a sheet of ice to slide on and [[Aero]] will move and shape the grass. If Sora uses enough [[magic]], he can use more powerful magic. For example, using [[Fire]] repeatedly can allow him to use Fira as a Situation Command.

Characters join Sora's team as temporary party members. Now the limit of party members has been expanded from 3 to 5, so Donald and Goofy no longer need to be replaced. The AI has been improved, so allies can invite Sora into special techniques (similar to the [[Limit]] attacks from ''Kingdom Hearts II''). However, enemies are also able to work together. Some enemies also have "armor" mode where their [[HP]] bar becomes blue and they can use powerful attacks until enough damage is dealt to end it.

The [[Summon]] system operates very differently from in ''Kingdom Hearts'' and ''Kingdom Hearts II''. Summons are now called [[Link]]s with Ariel's "Lagoon Showtime", Ralph's "8 Bit Blast", Simba's "Kingsflare", Meow Wow's "Wonder Balloon", and Stitch's "Plasma Encounter". A summon sequence can easily be skipped by pressing {{button|square}} or X button or turned off completely from the Options menu.

=== Exploration ===
Worlds in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' are more open world with less loading screens. In the [[The Caribbean]], Sora has his own ship and the player can sail the seas, fight enemy ships and explore various small islands.

[[Free Running]] allows Sora to run up walls. When using the Shotlock reticle, Sora can airstep.

Textboxes when talking to NPCs are removed. The dialogue is now voiced.

The player can now instantly teleport between [[save point]]s in worlds instead of going to the world map.

===Other features===
[[File:Lucky Emblem KHIII.png|thumb|Sora photographs a Lucky Emblem.]]
The [[Gummi Ship]] returns with a revised system and going between worlds is more open-world.

Sora has a [[Gummiphone]] which can take pictures of the environment, selfies, as well as [[Lucky Emblem]]s which are {{w|hidden Mickey}}s. The amount of Lucky Emblems photographed is tied to unlocking the Secret Ending. For example, on Beginner, the player must photograph all of them, but on Proud, the player only needs to photograph 30 of them.<ref>[https://kotaku.com/how-to-unlock-kingdom-hearts-iiis-secret-movie-1832011374 Tetsuya Nomura explains how to unlock ''Kingdom Hearts III'''s Secret Ending]</ref> The Gummiphone also takes on the role for [[Jiminy's Journal]], where the journal entries are stored in it.

The game contains [[mini-games]], such as a cooking mini-game with Little Chef in Twilight Town and harvesting mini-games in 100 Acre Wood. Returning from [[Kingdom Hearts Union χ]] are the [[Classic Kingdom]] mini-games, playable through the Gummiphone and collected mainly from [[treasure chest]]s.

[[Theater Mode]] is back, which is unlocked by completing Olympus. Unlike before, the cutscenes are now unlocked by completing each world, rather than having to complete the game itself. 

As of the compilation titles, there is a Streaming Restriction guideline, called "Before You Stream...", which can be viewed with the {{button|Triangle}} or Y button. It can also be viewed under the Game Options menu on the PC version by pressing the Esc Key in the Title Menu or Pause Menu, which also allows the option to change the text and voice language, key bindings for keyboard and mouse and gamepad, graphic quality, display resolution, refresh rate, framerate cap, etc.

On Xbox One, pressing X will allow the player to change profiles.
{{-}}

==Worlds and Characters==
{|width="100%"
|valign="top" width="25%"|
;[[Dive to the Heart]]

;[[Olympus]]
*[[Hercules]]
*[[Megara]]
*[[Philoctetes]]
*[[Pegasus]]
*[[Zeus]]
*[[Hermes]]
*[[Apollo]]
*[[Athena]]
*[[Hades]]
*[[Rock Titan]]
*[[Ice Titan]]
*[[Lava Titan]]
*[[Tornado Titan]]

;[[Dark World]]
*[[Riku Replica]]
*[[Anti-Aqua]]

;[[The Mysterious Tower]] {{note|World only seen in cutscenes}}
*[[Yen Sid]]

;[[Disney Castle]] {{note|World only seen in cutscenes}}
*[[Donald Duck]]
*[[Goofy]]
*[[Jiminy Cricket]]
*[[Mickey Mouse]]
*[[Chip and Dale]]
*[[Minnie Mouse]]
*[[Daisy Duck]]
*[[Pluto]]

;[[Radiant Garden]] {{note|World only seen in cutscenes}}
*[[Ansem the Wise]]
*[[Dilan]]
*[[Even]]
*[[Aeleus]]
*[[Ienzo]]
*[[Naminé]]

;[[Twilight Town]]
*[[Hayner]]
*[[Pence]]
*[[Olette]]
*[[Scrooge McDuck]]
*[[Remy]]
*[[Huey, Dewey, and Louie]]
*[[Merlin]]
*[[Isa]]
*[[Lea]]
*[[Roxas]]
*[[Xion]]

|valign="top" width="25%"|
;[[Toy Box]]
*[[Woody]]
*[[Buzz Lightyear]]
*[[Rex]]
*[[Hamm]]
*[[Little Green Men]]
*[[Green Army Men]]
<!--Slinky Dog, Emperor Zurg, Andy Davis and his family (mentioned)-->

;[[Kingdom of Corona]]
*[[Rapunzel]]
*[[Eugene Fitzherbert]]
*[[Pascal]]
*[[Maximus]]
*[[Mother Gothel]]

;[[Monstropolis]]
*[[Sulley]]
*[[Mike Wazowski]]
*[[Boo]]
*[[Randall]]
*[[CDA Agent]]

;[[Arendelle]]
*[[Elsa]]
*[[Anna]]
*[[Olaf]]
*[[Kristoff]]
*[[Sven]]
*[[Marshmallow]]
*[[Hans]]

;[[The Caribbean]]
*[[Jack Sparrow]]
*[[Will Turner]]
*[[Elizabeth Swann]]
*[[Hector Barbossa]]
*[[Tia Dalma]]
*[[Joshamee Gibbs]]
*[[Cutler Beckett]]
*[[Davy Jones]]
*[[Kraken]]

;[[San Fransokyo]]
*[[Hiro Hamada]]
*[[Baymax]]
*[[Dark Baymax]]
*[[Go Go Tomago]]
*[[Honey Lemon]]
*[[Wasabi]]
*[[Fred]]

;[[100 Acre Wood]]
*[[Winnie the Pooh]]
*[[Piglet]]
*[[Rabbit]]
*[[Tigger]]
*[[Roo]]
*[[Lumpy]]
*[[Gopher]]

|valign="top" width="25%"|
;[[Destiny Islands]] {{note|World only seen in cutscenes}}
*[[Sora]]
*[[Riku]]
*[[Kairi]]

;[[Castle Oblivion]] {{note|World only seen in cutscenes}} / [[Land of Departure]]
*[[Aqua]]
*[[Ventus]]
*[[Terra]]

;[[Keyblade Graveyard]] ([[The Final World]], [[Scala ad Caelum]])
*[[Eraqus]]
*[[Xehanort]]
*[[Young Xehanort]]
*[[Terra-Xehanort]]
*[[Dark Figure]]
*[[Ansem, Seeker of Darkness]]
*[[Xemnas]]
*[[Vanitas]]
*[[Xigbar]]
*[[Vexen]]
*[[Saïx]]
*[[Demyx]]
*[[Luxord]]
*[[Marluxia]]
*[[Larxene]]
*[[Dark Riku]]
*[[Chirithy]]
*[[Nameless Star]]
*[[Lingering Will]]
*[[Replica Xehanort]]s
*[[Ephemer]]
*[[Luxu]]
*[[Ira]]
*[[Invi]]
*[[Aced]]
*[[Gula]]
;[[Quadratum]]
*[[Yozora]]

;Other
*[[Maleficent]]
*[[Pete]]
*[[Moogle]]
*[[Meow Wow]] {{note|Summon only}}
*[[Wreck-It Ralph]]  {{note|Summon only}}
*[[Simba]]  {{note|Summon only}}
*[[Stitch]] {{note|Summon only}}
*[[Ariel]] {{note|Summon only}}
*[[The Master of Masters]]
|}

==Special Editions==
A Deluxe Edition is available alongside the main release. The Deluxe Edition retails for $79.99 USD MSRP and includes an exclusive steelbook case, a mini-art book with concept artwork by Tetsuya Nomura, a collectible KHIII pin and the game in original packaging. A Square Enix Store exclusive edition was also available for $229.99 and it includes the Deluxe Edition along with three Bring Arts figures of Sora, Donald, and Goofy from their appearance in the Toy Box.<ref>[https://gematsu.com/2018/06/kingdom-hearts-iii-special-editions-announced-e3-2018-square-enix-showcase-trailer Kingdom Hearts III special editions announced, E3 2018 Square Enix showcase trailer]</ref>

==DLC==
{{main|List of Kingdom Hearts III DLC}}
There is downloadable contents (DLC) for the game either adding additional elements<ref>[https://twitter.com/KINGDOMHEARTS/status/1083719463000788992 '''''Twitter (@KINGDOMHEARTS)''''']: "#KingdomHearts III free game update release schedule..."</ref> or in the form of Keyblades. Some are only available as pre-order bonuses.<ref>[https://twitter.com/KINGDOMHEARTS/status/1067166321710981120 '''''Twitter (@KINGDOMHEARTS)''''']: "Fans in the US and Canada, pre-order #KingdomHearts III from @amazongames for this exclusive Keyblade, Dawn Till Dusk!"</ref> These include:

===''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind''===
{{main|Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind}}
On June 8, 2019, during the ''Kingdom Hearts Orchestra -World of Tres-'' concert, a trailer for an downloadable expansion pack titled ''Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind'' was announced. It will add new gameplay and story elements. It was released worldwide on January 23, 2020 on the PlayStation 4 and February 25, 2020 on the Xbox One.

===Patch update data===
<!-- release date for the Patch update should be added -->
**1.01: Released on January 24, 2019. The [[Memory Archive]] was added to the Title Menu.<ref>[https://www.jp.square-enix.com/kingdom/episode/ Square Enix's site's Episode]</ref> The English release for this DLC was given an English Dub.<ref>[https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2019-01-28/get-up-to-speed-on-kingdom-hearts-story-through-5-cute-timeline-videos/.142674 Get Up to Speed on Kingdom Hearts' Story Through 5 Cute Timeline Videos]</ref>
**1.02: Released on January 30, 2019. The epilogue ending for ''Kingdom Hearts III'' is made available upon beating the game.
**1.03: Released on January 31, 2019. A [[Yozora (video)|secret ending video]] is added to the game and capable of being unlocked under certain conditions.
**1.04: Released on April 23, 2019. The difficulty level [[Critical Mode]] was added as well as new exclusive abilities; the enemy AI is adjusted, treasures in the [[Frozen Slider]] mini-game can be checked from the results screen and Gummiphone; synthesized items in the Moogle Shop now have checkmarks; Game Help messages added; and New Save Data created after being installed.
**1.05: Released on April 23, 2019. A New Game Plus is added allowing players to transfer items including Keyblades to a new save file and Photo capacity in the Gummiphone is now increased to 200.
**1.06: Released on November 15, 2019. The Title Menu has been changed so that the "Theater", "Memory Archives", and "Tutorials" are now under a "Special" tab, instead of individually listed on the title screen. Various other issues have been fixed, including the [[Lock-On]] switching feature.
**1.07: Released on January 22, 2020. The [[Proof of Promises]] and the [[Proof of Times Past]] can be exchanged at the Moogle Shop for the Keyblades [[Oathkeeper]] and [[Oblivion]], respectively. New Formchanges and abilities are also added. The Title Menu has been updated to include a link to the PlayStation Store. Select cutscenes have been modified, and the sky above the Keyblade Graveyard after defeating the [[real Organization XIII]] has changed. The previously optional cutscenes with [[Naminé]] and the [[Nameless Star]] in [[The Final World]] have been added to the Theater Menu.
**1.08: Released on January 22, 2020. Players are able to skip cutscenes in the opening customization and tutorial sections in the [[Dive to the Heart]].
**1.09: Released on January 22, 2020. Improvements have been made to air combo chains; combo finishers can be canceled using [[Dodge Roll]] and [[Air Slide]]; and [[Magic Flash]] has been redone with new animation and a clearer hitbox.
**1.10: Released on February 11, 2020. The number of active [[Premium Menu]] codes is now displayed on the in-game HUD.
{{sec-stub}}

==Notes and references==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[http://www.square-enix.co.jp/kingdom/kh3/ Official Japanese website]
*[http://www.kingdomhearts.com/3/us/ Official North American website]
{{KH3}}
{{KH series}}
[[Category:Kingdom Hearts III]]
[[Category:Games]]
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