The unlikely but successful collaboration between Square Enix and Disney Interactive returns in “Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance.” Square Enix celebrates the 10th year of the “Kingdom Hearts” game series as this latest installment debuts in 3-D exclusively on the handheld Nintendo 3DS console. Returning characters include King Mickey and Yen Sid with top-notch voice talent that includes Leonard Nimoy (Master Xehanort), Haley Joel Osment (Sora), David Gallagher (Riku), Hayden Panetierre (Xion), Jesse McCartney (Roxas/Ventus) and Quinton Flynn (Axel/Lea).

The action-filled role-playing game has a high replay value stemming from deep customization options, detailed gameplay and challenging level designs. Protagonists Sora and Riku switch automatically or any time using save points, which would have been more convenient as an anytime option when pausing the game. Players move among level gates in the “dive mode” as character advance through enemies and obstacles to collect enough stars to open the gate.

Game developers crafted a storyline with Sora and Riku battling new enemies and the familiar Dream Eaters in the Sleeping Worlds. The ally Spirits and enemy Nightmares also factor into the gameplay. Players unlock and customize the companion Spirits. The open world movements and battles against multiple enemies require some precise camera movements. The L and R button rotate the camera horizontally, but players might want to consider using a second analog stick for the camera via the Nyko Power Grip Pro for 3DS or the Circle Pad Pro controller peripheral add-ons.

StreetPass features include special trades and lending objects to other players. Players can use augmented reality (AR) elements and challenge other players as well (***1/2, rated E10+ for animated violence). Also available in a collector’s (Mark of Mastery) edition that includes special packaging, five AR cards, 12 art cards and a special protector case.

Tags: Disney Interactive, Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance, Square Enix

This entry was posted on Tuesday, July 31st, 2012 at 10:53 am and is filed under Star, Video games.
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