As we approach 2025, the Kingdom Hearts 4 saga remains shrouded in mystery since its initial announcement in 2022. The anticipated title, Kingdom Hearts Missing-Link, faced a delay in November 2024, leaving its release date uncertain. Although the possibility of a 2025 launch looms, the unpredictability surrounding the Kingdom Hearts franchise is not entirely new. Fans are hopeful that the long wait experienced with Kingdom Hearts 3—almost six years—will not be repeated. Nevertheless, 2025 will be a pivotal year for the franchise, and fans are eagerly anticipating new developments.
Much about Kingdom Hearts 4 still remains undisclosed, but the fervent fanbase fills the silence with speculation and theories. The intriguing teaser trailer, coupled with the secret ending of Kingdom Hearts 3 and scenes from Melody of Memory, has sparked excitement and many guesses about the game’s potential surprises and cameo appearances. Speculations about the selection of Disney worlds and the potential party members to accompany Sora are particularly engaging among the community.
The Perfect Party Members for Kingdom Hearts 4
Donald and Goofy
Transitioning to new characters is essential, yet Kingdom Hearts has a rich history of honoring its iconic roster. The beloved trio of Sora, Donald, and Goofy embodies the essence of the series. While Sora might journey alone for much of Kingdom Hearts 4, a reunion towards the finale would undoubtedly resonate with fans. Goofy’s resilience and strength will continue to be invaluable, while Donald’s magical prowess promises to enhance gameplay, especially with improvements to the party AI anticipated in KH4. Fans can rest assured that Donald and Goofy will reemerge in future adventures.
Strelitzia
Strelitzia, a character from the mobile game Kingdom Hearts Union Cross, mysteriously appears in the afterlife realm of Quadratum to meet Sora. Clarity regarding her role in Kingdom Hearts 4 is awaited, but the potential for her to join Sora’s party would excite many mobile game enthusiasts. Such a development would be unprecedented in the series, as a female party member alongside Sora, albeit some fans would prefer Kairi in this slot.
Riku
The narrative suggests a return of Sora’s long-time companions, with Riku likely leading the way. Insights from Melody of Memory hint at Riku utilizing the Power of Waking to seek out Sora, indicating his presence in the surreal realms is inevitable. Whether as a playable character akin to his role in Kingdom Hearts 2 or as a featured addition later in the game, Riku’s appearance will surely please fans who yearn for more dynamic duo moments with Sora.
Yozora
Although Riku’s return is expected, Yozora is another intriguing character already established in Quadratum. Initially presented as a humorous figure in Kingdom Hearts 3’s Toy Story world, he has evolved into a significant character connected to the game’s secret ending and ReMind DLC. A Kingdom Hearts spin-off dedicated to him could be highly engaging; however, his outstanding abilities could also greatly augment Sora’s journey in Kingdom Hearts 4, making it vital to uncover his story soon.
Other Returning Keyblade Masters
While Quadratum’s details remain largely undisclosed, it presents an excellent opportunity to showcase an array of original characters from the Kingdom Hearts universe. Characters from Birth By Sleep‘s Wayfinder trio and 358/2 Days‘ Sea Salt trio are fan favorites ripe for redemption as playable characters. Key figures like King Mickey and Kairi will be waiting for their moments in the limelight, while other Keyblade wielders—such as Lauriam, Elrena, Ava, and Skuld—could also make appearances, each carrying unfinished storylines. The potential return of Young Xehanort adds an intriguing layer of mystery.
Luke Skywalker
Beyond the original characters lies a tantalizing question: which Disney characters will join the ranks as companions? Among these, the prospect of teaming up with Luke Skywalker from Star Wars stands out as an electrifying option. Although the inclusion of a Star Wars world in Kingdom Hearts 4 remains unconfirmed, the opportunity to create memorable interactions with the original trilogy’s Luke is one that the developers would be wise to explore. The combinations of adventures within this crossover could be extraordinary.
Fresh Disney and Square Enix Inclusion
In Kingdom Hearts 4, the potential for collaboration with Disney and possibly Square Enix characters is enormous. The game could introduce characters from franchises not yet explored. Here are some exciting possibilities:
- Moana — Featuring Moana and Maui
- Coco — Including Hector
- The Incredibles — The Parr Family
- Marvel — Multiple characters, with Spider-Man being a standout
- Treasure Planet — Focusing on Jim Hawkins
- Final Fantasy — Any new character, especially FF15’s Noctis as a nod
- NEO: The World Ends With You — Featuring Sho Minamimoto
- Dragon Quest — Any representative
Even if only a select few characters join the journey, Kingdom Hearts 4 promises some of the most thrilling team-ups in the series to date.
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