When it comes to the Kingdom Hearts series, the word ‘weird’ seems to be inseparable, as it inherently embodies that quality.
Consider the fact that there exists a series of games that essentially combines Final Fantasy with Disney, born out of a real-life elevator pitch. That in itself is bizarre! However, despite its oddity, the series is equally captivating. With 12 games in its repertoire, you can expect a wide range of experiences. From Birth by Sleep’s introduction of playing as three different characters to Dream Drop Distance incorporating Pokemon-like elements, and Melody of Memory offering a unique rhythm game experience.
Out of all the entries in the series, there is one game that stands out as the weirdest of them all, surprisingly being the second one released. No, it’s not Kingdom Hearts 2, but rather Chain of Memories for the Game Boy Advance. Despite its reputation, this often criticized game is now 20 years old and holds a special place in the hearts of many fans.
Imagine transitioning from the relatively straightforward original Kingdom Hearts to discovering Chain of Memories on the GBA. Suddenly, Sora finds himself in a mysterious castle, encountering a hooded figure and a girl resembling Kairi, engaging in battles using cards. It’s undeniably strange but incredibly engaging.
While many are more familiar with the PS2 remake, Re:Chain of Memories, there’s a unique charm to the original GBA version. The blend of real-time action combat and card-based strategy sets it apart from other games. Building a deck, strategizing combos, and executing them offer a gameplay experience unlike any other.
Despite its unconventional gameplay, the standout feature of Chain of Memories is its captivating story. Centered around themes of memory and how they shape our identity, the game delves into the concept of altered memories and the desire to protect them. This narrative element adds depth and emotional resonance to the gameplay experience.
While the Kingdom Hearts series explores various themes and complexities in its subsequent titles, the innovative approach of Chain of Memories remains a standout. Its blend of gameplay mechanics and storytelling offers a truly unique and memorable experience that fans continue to appreciate.
