Kingdom Hearts (PlayStation 2, 2002)

As a huge RPG fan, I replay my games more than once over time. It's always nice to go back to an old favorite and replay it, as the experience always changes. With Kingdom Hearts, as soon as it was finished, I wanted to replay it immediately. I have never been so taken by a game before, it's absolutely astonishing. It affects so many different aspects of people. It will thrill the most ardent die-hard RPG game fan; bring you back to your childhood with endearing and well-loved characters from Disney classics; touch your heart with it's romance, love, friendship, and the power of good over evil. I had no idea what it was going to be like when I bought it, and I urge you not to read too much into before purchasing it. JUST BUY IT. You WILL love it. You WILL enjoy every minute of this epic and groundbreaking masterpiece.

The graphics are stunning and original, and set the backdrop for this unforgettable story. The main character, Sora, is endearing and instantly likeable, and the story of how he and his friends Riku and Kairi are separated by the forces of evil, and how he struggles to reunite them with the help of new pals Donald and Goofy, is stirring, touching, and ultimately unforgettable. The graphics, stellar voice casting, and superb storyline combine to give you an experience you will never forget. Of course, Disney characters abound, over 100 fo them. Don't think for a minute these are all cheerful, harmless, boring additions used simply as a marketing ploy, as they all play integral and unique roles in the story. Sora and his pals help certain characters with their own particular stories, while receiving assistance for their own in return. There are villains as well as classic beloved characters, and each setting is appropriate and unique for each confrontation. There are also tons of familiar characters from Squaresoft, especially the Final Fantasy series, and for any avid RPG fan it's like a walk down memory lane.

Sora and his pals use weapons, armor, magic, and accessories to defeat the many forces of evil that stand in the way of reuniting him and his friends. These modes are relatively simple to use, and you don't have to get bogged down with an endless and dizzying display of possibilities to equip and use these items. The game is intuitive, allowing you to proceed without having to agonize over what you have to do next. A journal also helps you keep track, which was handy. The game is also full of side quests that are fulfilling and lets you get more out of the story than you already are (hard to believe). The mode of travel between worlds, the gummi ship, is the only aspect of the game that I thought could use improvement. The customization is awkward and poorly explained.

In sum, this is a game that anyone who possesses a PS2 should own. I can't imagine anyone not being drawn into the engaging story, lush and unmatched graphics, straightfoward game play, and hundreds of familiar and entertaining characters. Whether you're six or sixty, you're bound to love it and will play it again and again while wishing for the next installment.