Square Enix has released fresh screenshots of Kingdom Hearts 4, giving us our first look at the game in three years.
The last time the game was shown was back in 2022 for the series’ 20th anniversary, revealing Sora’s return and the expansive metropolis of Quadratum.
Now, following the cancellation of mobile game Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link yesterday, Square Enix is appeasing fans with a handful of screenshots.
“We’re currently working hard on Kingdom Hearts 4 and will continue pouring ourselves into the game’s development. We’re dedicated to making this an experience that lives up to your expectations!” reads an official social media post.
“We’ve seen how excited you are, and we are truly grateful from the bottom of our hearts. We are equally excited and can’t wait to share more about Kingdom Hearts 4 when the time is right. Until then, we appreciate your patience.”
The screenshots show Sora mid-battle in Quadratum against a handful of Heartless, as well as close-ups of some character models and moments in the city.
One screenshot suggests Mickey Mouse will be playable in this game. Disney’s lead character has always been a part of the series, but his inclusion here hints at a bigger playable role this time around.
Perhaps what’s most interesting is what isn’t shown in these screenshots. The Kingdom Hearts games fuse together the worlds of Disney and Final Fantasy, but we’re yet to see which Disney kingdoms will be featured in the new game, nor which Final Fantasy characters will make an appearance. I can certainly imagine Clive turning up at some point.
Also, where are longtime partners Donald and Goofy?
Kingdom Hearts 4 remains without a release date, but it’s been in development for quite some time. It’s been six years since the release of Kingdom Hearts 3 on PS4 and Xbox One and fans are eagerly anticipating the next installment.
Last year, series director Tetsuya Nomura said Kingdom Hearts 4 will lead towards a series conclusion as he looks to retire.