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{{Game|DDD|Real}}
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{{appearances|DDD}}
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{{Expand|create=Expand on the "Story" section...}}
{{cleanup|ALL CLAIMS NEED TO BE CITED TO PRIMARY SOURCES. CLAIMS CITED TO FANSITES OR OTHER SECONDARY SOURCES WILL BE REMOVED.}}
 
 
{{Infobox CVG
 
{{Infobox CVG
 
|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance
 
|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance
 
|japan= キングダム ハーツ 3D [ドリーム ドロップ ディスタンス]
 
|japan= キングダム ハーツ 3D [ドリーム ドロップ ディスタンス]
 
|romaji=Kingudamu Hātsu 3D [Dorīmu Doroppu Disutansu]
 
|romaji=Kingudamu Hātsu 3D [Dorīmu Doroppu Disutansu]
|image=[[File:KH3D_Dream_Drop_Distance.PNG|center|300px]]
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|image=[[File:KH3D_Dream_Drop_Distance.PNG|center|250px]]
 
|developer=[[wikipedia:Square Enix|Square Enix]]
 
|developer=[[wikipedia:Square Enix|Square Enix]]
|publisher=[[Image:Flag of the United States.png|20px|United States]]/[[Image:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]], [[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] Square Enix
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|publisher=[[File:Flag of the United States.png|20px|United States]]/[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]], [[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] Square Enix
|release=[[Image:Flag of the United States.png|20px]]/[[Image:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] July 31st 2012<ref name="gameinformer">[http://www.gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2011/12/20/kingdom-hearts-3d-release-info-dropped.aspx '''''gameinformer''': Square confirms Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance for 2012 western release]''</ref><br/>
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|release=[[File:Flag of the United States.png|20px]]/[[File:Flag of Canada.png|20px|Canada]] July 31st 2012<br>
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[[File:Flag of European Union.png|20px|Europe]] July 20th, 2012 <br>
[[Image:European flag.svg.png|20px|Europe]] July 20th, 2012 <ref name="Gonintendo">http://www.gonintendo.com/?mode=viewstory&id=175019]]</ref><br>[[Image:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] March 29th 2012<ref name="Official JP Site"> Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance Official JP Site''</ref><br>
 
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[[File:Flag of Australia.png|20px|Australia]] July 26th, 2012<br>
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[[File:Flag of Japan.png|20px|Japan]] March 29th 2012<br>
 
|genre=Console action Role-playing game
 
|genre=Console action Role-playing game
 
|modes=
 
|modes=
|ratings= [[Wikipedia:Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]]: A<br>[[Wikipedia:ESRB|ESRB]]: E10+<br> [[Wikipedia:PEGI|PEGI]]: 12+<br> [[Wikipedia:OFLC|OFLC]]:[[Image:OFLC small PG.png|12px|PG]]
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|ratings= [[Wikipedia:Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]]: A<br>[[Wikipedia:ESRB|ESRB]]: E10+<br> [[Wikipedia:PEGI|PEGI]]: 12+<br> [[Wikipedia:OFLC|OFLC]]:[[File:OFLC small PG.png|12px|PG]]
 
|platforms=[[Wikipedia:Nintendo 3DS|Nintendo 3DS]]
 
|platforms=[[Wikipedia:Nintendo 3DS|Nintendo 3DS]]
 
}}
 
}}
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{{quote|Darkness becomes light, light falls into darkness.|Tagline}}
{{spoiler}}
 
 
'''''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''''' (previously known as '''''Kingdom Hearts 3D''''') is a game in the [[Kingdom Hearts (series)|''Kingdom Hearts'' series]] released on the Nintendo 3DS hand-held system. It was released on March 29, 2012 in Japan, July 31, 2012 in US and Canada, July 20, 2012 in Europe, and July 26th in Australia.
{{Q|Darkness becomes light.<br> Light falls into darkness.<br> Dreams are connected to each other.<br> When you fall into a dream<br> You are connected through dreams to "The world enclosed in sleep". <br>And if you open the "Keyhole of sleep" in that world...<br> The world will be released...|Yen Sid}}
 
  +
'''''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''''' (previously known as '''''Kingdom Hearts 3D''''') is a game in the [[Kingdom Hearts (series)|''Kingdom Hearts'' series]] released on the Nintendo 3DS hand-held system. It was released on March 29, 2012 in Japan, and has been announced to have a US/Canadian release date of July 31, 2012, and a European release date of July 20, 2012.<ref name="gameinformer"/>and the Australian release date has been announced for the August 3, 2012.
 
  +
The game has been remastered in HD and released as part of ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue]] ''under the title of ''[[Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance HD]]''.
   
 
==Story==
 
==Story==
Following the destruction of [[Ansem, Seeker of Darkness|Ansem]] and [[Xemnas]] at the hands of [[Sora]] and [[Riku]], [[Xehanort]] is revived. In response, [[Yen Sid]] puts Sora and Riku through a [[Mark of Mastery]] exam in order for them to become full-fledged [[Keyblade Master]]s and counter the coming return of Master Xehanort. As part of this trial, the two are separated from each other and sent to worlds previously destroyed by the Heartless that have since been restored, though now in a state of "deep sleep" that disconnects them from the other worlds.
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Following the destruction of [[Ansem, Seeker of Darkness|Ansem]] and [[Xemnas]] at the hands of [[Sora]] and [[Riku]], Xehanort is revived. In response, [[Yen Sid]] puts Sora and Riku through a [[Mark of Mastery]] exam in order for them to become full-fledged [[Keyblade Master]]s and counter the coming return of Master Xehanort. As part of this trial, the two are separated from each other and sent to worlds previously destroyed by the [[Heartless]] that have since been restored, though now in a state of "deep sleep" which disconnects them from the other worlds.
   
These seven worlds are plagued by Dream Eaters — creatures born from darkness that seek out the sleeping worlds' Keyholes. Sora and Riku's given task is to reawaken the sleeping worlds by unlocking the seven Keyholes they find there and then return to the realm of light, recruiting benevolent "Spirit" Dream Eaters to guide them and battle the malevolent "Nightmare" Dream Eaters, after which they will be deemed Keyblade Masters.
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These seven worlds are plagued by [[Dream Eaters]] — creatures born from darkness that seek out the sleeping worlds' [[Keyhole]]s. Sora and Riku's given task is to reawaken the sleeping worlds by unlocking the seven Keyholes they find there and then return to the realm of light, recruiting benevolent "Spirit" Dream Eaters to guide them and battle the malevolent "Nightmare" Dream Eaters, after which they will be deemed Keyblade Masters.
   
During the exam, Sora and Riku cross paths with the resurrected "Ansem" and Xemnas, as well as a younger incarnation of Master Xehanort from an alternate past. The three bring Sora to the World That Never Was, where he learns of Organization XIII's true purpose—to serve as vessels for Master Xehanort to place pieces of his heart inside, thereby transforming them into clones of Xehanort. Sora is forced into a comatose state by the young Xehanort and his heart is swallowed by darkness, though it is protected by Ventus's suit of armor residing within him.
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During the exam, Sora and Riku cross paths with the resurrected "Ansem" and Xemnas, as well as a younger incarnation of Master Xehanort from an alternate past. The three bring Sora to the World That Never Was, where he learns of [[Organization XIII]]'s true purpose—to serve as vessels for Master Xehanort to place pieces of his heart inside, thereby transforming them into clones of Xehanort. Sora is forced into a comatose state by the young Xehanort and his heart is swallowed by darkness, though it is protected by [[Ventus]]'s [[Keyblade Armor|suit of armor]] residing within him.
   
Riku goes to rescue Sora, only to be confronted by the young Xehanort, who unveils a new Organization XIII comprised of the newly revived Master Xehanort and his eleven vessels, whom Xehanort plans to pit against seven Keyblade wielders and recreate the χ-blade. Master Xehanort tries to turn Sora into his last needed vessel, but Sora is rescued by Riku, Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and Lea—the revived human form of the original Organization's Axel—after which Xehanort and his other vessels retreat.
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Riku goes to rescue Sora, only to be confronted by the young Xehanort, who unveils a new Organization XIII composed of the newly revived Master Xehanort and his eleven vessels, whom Xehanort plans to pit against seven Keyblade wielders and recreate the [[χ-blade]]. Master Xehanort tries to turn Sora into his last needed vessel, but Sora is rescued by Riku, Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and Lea—the revived human form of the original Organization's Axel—after which Xehanort and his other vessels retreat.
   
 
Sora's body is brought back to Yen Sid's tower, where Riku enters his body and releases Sora's heart from Ventus' armor, now possessed by a Nightmare. After Sora reawakens, only Riku is declared a Keyblade Master by Yen Sid, and Lea reveals himself to have become a Keyblade wielder. Undaunted by his failure, Sora embarks on a new journey by himself to train. While Sora travels to Traverse Town in order to meet all his Dream Eater friends, Ventus is shown still being at Castle Oblivion, but suddenly starts smiling a bit.
 
Sora's body is brought back to Yen Sid's tower, where Riku enters his body and releases Sora's heart from Ventus' armor, now possessed by a Nightmare. After Sora reawakens, only Riku is declared a Keyblade Master by Yen Sid, and Lea reveals himself to have become a Keyblade wielder. Undaunted by his failure, Sora embarks on a new journey by himself to train. While Sora travels to Traverse Town in order to meet all his Dream Eater friends, Ventus is shown still being at Castle Oblivion, but suddenly starts smiling a bit.
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The game's secret ending shows Yen Sid planning to gather seven Keyblade wielders to combat the new Organization and prevent Xehanort from bringing about another Keyblade War. To this end, Yen Sid has Riku bring Kairi to him so she can be trained to wield the Keyblade she received from Riku in ''Kingdom Hearts II''.
 
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{{section}}
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===''[[Another Guardian of Light]]''===
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The unlockable secret ending for ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' is comprised of three scenes. In the first scene, [[Young Xehanort]] is seen standing alone on the beach in Destiny Islands. The second shows Aqua staring into the distance at the [[Dark Margin]] whilst smiling.
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In the final segment, Donald and Goofy sit outside the Mysterious Tower and are met by Riku and a visitor whom they had not expected. Inside the tower, Yen Sid outlines to Mickey the history of the [[Keyblade War]] and the [[χ-blade]], and the two speak about the seven lights, the Princesses of Heart. Yen Sid explains that there is no avoiding the gathering of the seven guardians of light to protect the seven pure lights, and thus a clash with the thirteen seekers of darkness is inevitable. Mickey arrives at the conclusion that only one more guardian of light is required to complete the total. At this point, Riku enters the tower with [[Kairi]] close behind.
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==Gameplay==
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===Drop System===
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The game is split into two scenarios, each fulfilled by one of the two protagonists: Sora and Riku. Unlike in previous games, however, the scenarios are not played separately, but are instead played concurrently in a linear fashion. This is achieved through the use of the drop system, and acts toward maintaining story continuity between Sora and Riku.
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Whenever play as one character is taking place, the Drop Gauge counts down towards the drop time. Once thirty seconds remain, a time counter becomes visible, alerting the player of the impending drop. The drop can be avoided temporarily with the use of items such as the [[Drop-Me-Not]] and [[Drop-Me-Never]], both of which restore 50% and 100% of the Drop Gauge respectively. Once a character has dropped, then play switches to the other character. The player can manually force a drop at times during gameplay.
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===Abilities===
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''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' features both old and new means to act within the game. The [[Command Deck]] system originally introduced in ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'' is reintroduced for the use of active commands. These must be installed and feature a cool-down timer once used. Passive commands, however, must be installed through the [[Abilities (Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance)|Abilities]] menu, and can be obtained only from Spirit [[Ability Link]]s. Several new abilities are introduced in this game, including certain [[Abilities (Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance)|Deck Commands]], [[Flowmotion]], [[Reality Shift]], and the Link System. Flowmotion is a new gameplay mechanic which provides ease of movement and a new method with which to strike at enemies. Reality Shift is a feature unique to each game world, with uses differing between each. Spirit Linking allows the protagonists to link with their Spirits to combat the enemy.
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  +
===Dive Mode===
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{{Main|Dive Mode}}
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Whilst previous games have made use of means such as the [[Gummi Ship]] to access game worlds, ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' introduced the Dive Mode gameplay system for the first time. This mini-game system is a free-fall into each game world where the protagonist must complete objectives, often having to defeat Nightmare Dream Eater bosses in addition to lesser enemies.
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===Forecast===
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{{Main|Forecast}}
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A new gameplay element introduced in this game is that of the Forecast. Unique to each world, it alters each time the player drops. The Forecast affects the enemy difficulty of that particular world, among other things.
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  +
==A New Enemy==
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''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' features the introduction of a new enemy to the ''Kingdom Hearts'' series. [[Dream Eaters]], the embodiment of dreams in the Realm of Sleep, come in two varieties: Spirits and Nightmares. Nightmare Dream Eaters act as opposition to the protagonists throughout the game, and play a role in the story on multiple occasions as well as acting as world bosses. Nightmares range in size from the lithe [[Toximander]] to the gigantic [[Skelterwild]]. As in previous games, the Nightmares increase in strength as the protagonists advance from world to world in the Realm of Sleep.
   
 
==Development==
 
==Development==
It is known that the game is the next major release in the ''Kingdom Hearts'' series<ref name="andriasang"/>, and it features both Sora and Riku as playable characters, both feature new designs which look similar to their ''Kingdom Hearts'' appearance. Utilizing the 3DS's high-spec graphics processing, the game has graphics that are on-par with those of the PS2 titles, as well as making use of the system's 3D technology such as "falling from high places" and "flying far distances". <ref>[http://au.ds.ign.com/articles/109/1098342p1.html "E3 2010: Kingdom Hearts 3D First Look"]</ref><!--<ref>[http://www.kh2.co.uk/kingdom-hearts-3d/news/kingdom-hearts-3d-official-name-revealed.php Yasushi Yasue's reveal on the 3D-utilizing system] </ref> CITE TO PRIMARY SOURCES--> The development team is currently selecting worlds, planning to use all-new Disney worlds, along with Traverse Town and other original worlds,<ref>[http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/11/17/kingdom_hearts_3d_update/ "Kingdom Hearts 3D Connects to Kingdom Hearts III"]</ref> one of which has been revealed to be based on ''[[wikipedia:The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996 film)|The Hunchback of Notre Dame]]'' (although the world itself has already been featured in the non-canonical ''[[The Sceptre and the Kingdom]]'').
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The game is the major release in the ''Kingdom Hearts'' series<ref>"andriasang"</ref> following ''Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep'', and it features both Sora and Riku as playable characters. Both feature new clothing designs which appear similar to their ''Kingdom Hearts'' attire. Utilizing the 3DS's high-spec graphics processing, the game has graphics that are on-par with those of the PS2 titles, as well as making use of the system's 3D technology. This would be used in instances such as "falling from high places" and "flying far distances".<ref>[http://au.ds.ign.com/articles/109/1098342p1.html "E3 2010: Kingdom Hearts 3D First Look"]</ref> The development team at the time was said to be currently selecting worlds, and planned to use all-new Disney worlds, in addition to Traverse Town and other original worlds,<ref>[http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2010/11/17/kingdom_hearts_3d_update/ "Kingdom Hearts 3D Connects to Kingdom Hearts III"]</ref> one of which has been revealed to be based on ''[[wikipedia:The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996 film)|The Hunchback of Notre Dame]]'' (although the world itself had already been featured in the non-canonical ''[[The Sceptre and the Kingdom]]'').
  +
 
Nomura stated that, with the parallel development of ''[[w:c:finalfantasy:Final Fantasy Versus XIII|Final Fantasy Versus XIII]]'', he would make sure to retain any game elements that couldn't be put into ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' for use in ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.<ref>Weekly Famitsu, November 17, 2010: '''Tetsuya Nomura''': "Since it’s different than the Final Fantasy series which is founded on party play, the way the characters level up is different. Because there are various things that can and can’t be done, the things I can’t do in Final Fantasy Versus XIII I’m doing in Kingdom Hearts."</ref> Nomura also stated that the transition between playing as Sora and playing as Riku would be forced upon and sudden, and could occur whilst simply walking around. The game also has the keyword of "drop", as in something falling. The 3D effect of the Nintendo 3DS will be used more for "going into the screen" rather than things popping out, as well.<ref>Weekly Famitsu, January 26, 2011.</ref>
  +
 
In the July's issue of ''Weekly Famitsu'', Nomura stated that the game would focus on the "hidden data" inside of Sora and that development of the game was 40-50% finished, with voice recording to begin soon after. A secret movie was confirmed, along with new characters that would appear in Traverse Town. Nomura also stated that the Xehanort Saga would end with ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and that there would be "answers" about ''Kingdom Hearts III'' in ''Dream Drop Distance''.<ref>[http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2011/07/13/famitsu_squenix_feature/ "Kingdom Hearts 3D, Final Fantasy XI, Dissidia and More in Famitsu"]</ref>
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A playable demo was available at the [[wikipedia:Tokyo Game Show|2011 Tokyo Game Show]], which revealed that [[Neku Sakuraba]], the protagonist from ''The World Ends with You'', would appear in the game, along with two new allies, the [[Komory Bat]] and the [[Meow Wow]].<ref name='siliconeratgs'>[http://www.siliconera.com/2011/09/14/kingdom-hearts-3d-features-characters-from-the-world-ends-with-you/ Siliconera - Kingdom Hearts 3D Features Characters From The World Ends With You]</ref> Sora is seen with the Meow Wow and [[Kuma Panda]] Dream Eaters as his allies while Riku is seen with the [[Komory Bat]] and [[Yoggy Ram]] Dream Eaters as his allies.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nseTIVGvWHA</ref> A new type of enemy known as [[Dream Eater]]s were also shown.
   
 
The November 2011 issues of ''Famitsu'' and V Jump confirmed a world based on ''[[wikipedia:Pinocchio (1940 film)|Pinocchio]]'', "[[Prankster's Paradise]]", and another based on ''[[wikipedia:The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996 film)|The Hunchback of Notre Dame]]'', "[[La Cité des Cloches]]".
Nomura has stated that, with the parallel development of ''[[w:c:finalfantasy:Final Fantasy Versus XIII|Final Fantasy Versus XIII]]'', he will make sure to retain any game elements that can't be put in ''Final Fantasy Versus XIII'' for use in ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.<ref>Weekly Famitsu, November 17, 2010: '''Tetsuya Nomura''': "Since it’s different than the Final Fantasy series which is founded on party play, the way the characters level up is different. Because there are various things that can and can’t be done, the things I can’t do in Final Fantasy Versus XIII I’m doing in Kingdom Hearts."</ref> Nomura has also stated that the transition between playing as Sora and playing as Riku will be forced upon and sudden, and can occur while simply walking around. The game also has the keyword of "drop", as in something falling. The 3D effect of the Nintendo 3DS will be used more for "going into the screen" rather than things popping out, as well.<ref>Weekly Famitsu, January 26, 2011.</ref>
 
   
 
A December issue of V Jump revealed a new world based on ''[[wikipedia:Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers|Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers]]'', as well as Joshua and Beat from ''The World Ends with You'' set to be in [[Traverse Town]] alongside Neku Sakuraba.
In the July's issue of ''Weekly Famitsu'', Nomura stated that the game will focus on the "hidden data" inside of Sora and development of the game was 40-50% finished, with voice recording to begin soon after. A secret movie was confirmed, along with new characters that will appear in Traverse Town. Nomura also stated that the Xehanort Saga will end with ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and there will be "answers" about ''Kingdom Hearts III'' in ''Dream Drop Distance''.<ref>[http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2011/07/13/famitsu_squenix_feature/ "Kingdom Hearts 3D, Final Fantasy XI, Dissidia and More in Famitsu"]</ref>
 
   
 
On the new updated Square Enix website Square Enix revealed information about the Drop Gauge. When the Drop gauge empties, the player will switch from Sora to Riku or vice versa, depending on which character is in use at the time.
A playable demo was available at the [[wikipedia:Tokyo Game Show|2011 Tokyo Game Show]], which revealed that [[Neku Sakuraba]], the protagonist from ''The World Ends with You'', would appear in the game, along with two new allies, the [[Bat Bat|Koumori Bat]] and the [[Wonder Meow]].<ref name='siliconeratgs'>[http://www.siliconera.com/2011/09/14/kingdom-hearts-3d-features-characters-from-the-world-ends-with-you/ Siliconera - Kingdom Hearts 3D Features Characters From The World Ends With You]</ref> Sora is seen with the Wonder Meow and [[Kuma Panda]] Dream Eaters as his allies while Riku is seen with the [[Bat Bat|Koumori Bat]] and [[Goat Horn]] Dream Eaters as his allies.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nseTIVGvWHA</ref> A new type of enemy known as [[Dream Eater]]s were also shown.
 
   
 
During Jump Festa 2012, a playable demo and an eight-minute trailer were shown. [[Axel]], [[Lea]], a young [[Master Xehanort]], [[Vanitas]], [[Roxas]], [[Xion]], [[Kairi]], [[Naminé]], [[Ventus]], [[Tron|Rinzler]], [[Maleficent]], and [[Pete]] along with [[Joshua]], [[Shiki]], [[Beat]], and [[Rhyme]] from ''The World Ends with You'' were shown in the trailer. A world based off ''[[wikipedia:Tron: Legacy|Tron: Legacy]]'', called [[The Grid]], was revealed, where like in ''Kingdom Hearts II'', there will be a data form for both Sora and Riku. The [[Keyblade Graveyard]] was also shown.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zlex8ja2eNI</ref>
The November 2011 issues of ''Famitsu'' and V Jump confirmed two worlds based on ''[[wikipedia:Pinocchio (1940 film)|Pinocchio]]'', "[[Prankster's Paradise]]", and another based on ''[[wikipedia:The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996 film)|The Hunchback of Notre Dame]]'', "[[La Cité des Cloches]]".
 
   
  +
On June 22, 2012, another playable and free demo was made available on the 3DS's Nintendo eShop.
A December issue of V Jump revealed a new world based on ''[[wikipedia:Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers|Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers]]'', as well as Joshua and Beat from ''The World Ends with You'' set to be in [[Traverse Town]] along sides with Neku.
 
   
  +
==Reception==
On the new updated Square Enix website Square Enix reveals information about the [[Drop Gauge]]. When the Drop gauge empties, your character will switch from Sora to Riku or vice versa, depending on who your character is.
 
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''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' was well-received by fans of the game, more so in Japan than in other regions. It sold 250,000 units in Japan and 180,000 units in the United States of America immediately after its release. The game has won numerous awards, including "Best 3DS RPG" in RPG Land's Tokyo Game Show Awards and the "Most Valuable Game" award from the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nintendo_Power Nintendo Power magazine].<ref>http://rpgland.com/2011/10/03/best-rpgs-of-the-tokyo-game-show/</ref><ref>http://na.square-enix.com/us/go/article/view/press_release/258993/square_enix_e3_line-up_recognized_with_top_game_industry_media_awards</ref> Additionally, the game received ratings from many different magazines and game reviewers, with ratings generally lying between '''7/10''' and '''8/10'''.<ref>http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/07/17/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance-review IGN Review of ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''</ref> [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Famitsu Famitsu] also rated the game as '''38/40''' and ranked it on the "most wanted" list of October 2011.<ref>http://www.gamespot.com/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance/reviews/kingdom-hearts-3d-review-6388531/ GameSpot Review of ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''</ref>
   
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Criticisms of the game mainly focused on the plot, often labelling it as being too complex and difficult to follow easily. However, reviewers also praised the high quality of gameplay, boss fights, and relation of the plot to previous ''Kingdom Hearts'' games.
During Jump Festa 2012, a playable demo and an eight-minute trailer were shown. [[Axel]], [[Lea]], a young [[Master Xehanort]], [[Vanitas]], [[Roxas]], [[Xion]], [[Kairi]], [[Naminé]], [[Ventus]], [[Tron|Rinzler]], [[Maleficent]], and [[Pete]] along with [[Joshua]], [[Shiki]], [[Beat]] and [[Rhyme]] from ''The World Ends with You'' were shown in the trailer. A world based off ''[[wikipedia:Tron: Legacy|Tron: Legacy]]'', called [[The Grid]], was revealed, where like in ''Kingdom Hearts II'', there will be a data form for both Sora and Riku. The [[Keyblade Graveyard]] was also shown.<ref>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zlex8ja2eNI</ref>
 
   
 
==Worlds and Characters==
 
==Worlds and Characters==
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*[[Riku]]
 
*[[Riku]]
 
*[[Kairi]]
 
*[[Kairi]]
*[[Ursula]]
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*Phantom [[Ursula]]
   
 
;[[La Cité des Cloches]]
 
;[[La Cité des Cloches]]
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*[[Jiminy Cricket]]
 
*[[Jiminy Cricket]]
 
*[[Blue Fairy]]
 
*[[Blue Fairy]]
*[[Cleo]]
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*[[Cleo]]
 
*[[Monstro]]
 
*[[Monstro]]
   
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*[[Quorra]]
 
*[[Quorra]]
 
*[[CLU]]
 
*[[CLU]]
*[[Rinzler]]
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*[[Rinzler]] (Tron)
 
*[[Black Guard]]s
 
*[[Black Guard]]s
   
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*[[Isa]]
 
*[[Isa]]
 
*[[Anti Black Coat]]
 
*[[Anti Black Coat]]
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'''[[Realm of Darkness]]'''
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*[[Ansem, Seeker of Darkness]]
   
 
;Others
 
;Others
 
*[[Roxas]]
 
*[[Roxas]]
 
*[[Xion]]
 
*[[Xion]]
*[[Axel]]
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*[[Lea]]
 
*[[Terra]]
 
*[[Terra]]
 
*[[Ventus]]
 
*[[Ventus]]
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==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
File:KH3D_TGS_Poster_(Keyart).png|''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' Main Artwork.
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File:Promotional Artwork 2 KH3D.png|''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' Main Artwork.
File:KH3D_Sora_and_Riku.png|Sora and Riku Promotional Art.
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File:Promotional Artwork KH3D.png|Sora and Riku Promotional Art.
 
File:KH3D_Demo.png|''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' Demo Promotional Art.
 
File:KH3D_Demo.png|''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' Demo Promotional Art.
 
File:KH3D_TGS_Demo.png|''KH3D TGS'' demo start screen.
 
File:KH3D_TGS_Demo.png|''KH3D TGS'' demo start screen.
 
File:KH3D_Demo_Controls.png|TGS demo controls sheet.
 
File:KH3D_Demo_Controls.png|TGS demo controls sheet.
  +
File:Promotional Artwork (Scan) KH3D.png|Promotional Scan.
File:KH3D_3DS.jpg|A ''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' 3DS.
 
  +
File:Promotional Artwork 3 KH3D.png|Promotional Art.
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
   
 
==Packing Artwork==
 
==Packing Artwork==
  +
<gallery>
<gallery perrow="5" captionalign="left" orientation="square">
 
File:Kingdom Hearts 3D Dream Drop Distance Boxart JP.png|Japanese boxart for ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.
+
File:Japanese Cover Art KH3D.png|Japanese boxart for ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.
kh3deuroboxart.png|European boxart for ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.
+
File:European Cover Art KH3D.png|European boxart for ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.
  +
File:North American Cover Art KH3D.png|North American boxart for ''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance''.
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
 
==Video==
 
<!--USED OFFICIAL VIDEO FROM THE SQUARE ENIX YOUTUBE CHANNEL, ONLY ANOTHER SOURCE IF THEY DON'T HAVE IT-->
 
===Square-Enix 1st Department Premiere Trailer===
 
The trailer begins with the final scene of ''[[Blank Points]]'', where Riku asks Sora if he has made his mind up and Sora answers "Yes". The trailer then cuts to a scene from ''[[Signs of What's Next]]'', where Yen Sid is then shown ordering Mickey to summon Sora and Riku to him to undertake a Mark of Mastery Exam. The scene then switches to Sora and Riku, in their ''Kingdom Hearts'' attire, on the beach of Destiny Islands, wondering if Riku's raft will get them far. Riku is shown in Traverse Town, surrounded by Shadows. He looks up to see multiple Soras raining down from the sky. One lands and prepares to fight the Shadows. Several gameplay videos are then shown.
 
 
Sora is seen running through an area with many large bells and jumps off the edge, falling through a plethora of balloons. Riku is shown in the second district of Traverse Town, where he sees Ansem looming above with what appears to be a transparent Xemnas beside him. The same is shown with Sora, only he encounters Xemnas with a transparent Ansem. Sora and Riku prepare to engage Xemnas and Ansem as the game logo ends the trailer.
 
 
The gameplay scenes displayed in the trailer focus on Sora and Riku performing advanced acrobatics: gliding, wall-jumping, and swinging around poles. The [[wikipedia:Heads up display|HUD]] also features a "Command" list which includes "[[Thunder]]", "[[Fire]]", "[[Blizzard]]", and "Attack", and a "Drop" gauge that goes up to 1.5, placed where the [[Magic|MP]], [[Focus Gauge|Focus]], [[Drive Gauge|Drive]], and Clock gauges were in previous games.
 
 
===2011 Tokyo Game Show===
 
The trailer begins with Sora, Riku, Yen Sid, Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy inside Yen Sid's tower, where Yen Sid prepares to put Sora and Riku through the Mark of Mastery exam. Sora claims that he is unbeatable without taking it, while Riku wonders if he can wield the Keyblade, due to his past conflict with Darkness. Yen Sid then proceeds with the exam, where he opens the "keyhole of sleep" and if they return he will consider them masters. The scene then changes to Destiny Island where Sora and Riku are in their ''Kingdom Hearts'' attire and shift to Sora falling through clouds.
 
 
Sora then finds himself in Traverse Town in his new attire. Wondering where Riku is, he calls out for him, but finds Neku instead, who appears to know who Sora is. Gameplay footage is shown, showing Sora and Riku performing acrobatic skills and facing the new enemies known as the Dream Eaters, while Yen Sid's voice explain that while Heartless exist in the world of Darkness, but in a world submerged in sleep, Dream Eaters exist, creatures who consume dreams, and that searching for them will guide them to the key of sleep.
 
 
Neku explains to Sora that he has been trapped in the "Reaper's Game" and that he can't afford to lose it. Sora, not knowing what the "Reaper's Game" is, decides to help him out. Riku is shown running through of La Cité des Cloches, where he finds Quasimodo holding an unconscious Esmeralda, asking him where the Dream Eater has gone. Quasimodo replied back telling him that the creature has gone to the rooftop. Riku pursues after the Dream Eater, Quasimodo then offers to fight the beast too. In Traverse Town, Sora asks about Neku's name, but they are then attacked by a group of Wonder Meows. More gameplay videos are shown, with Yen Sid explaining that opening the keyhole of sleep, along with finding new power, the power in sleep will be revealed.
 
 
The scene then changes to the computer room of Radiant Garden being seen from Xehanort's point of view. Even and Ienzo are seen on the floor fading away with darkness coming out of their bodies. Braig asked Xehanort what was he thinking and if his memories have returned. Xehanort then by summons Master Xehanort's Keyblade and stabs Braig in the chest with it. The trailer ends with the game logo and a release date for Spring 2012. Neku's and Sora's voice can be heard, with Neku telling Sora that his name is Neku Sakuraba, to which Sora replies, "That's an interesting name", and Neku responds that it's nothing special.
 
 
===Jump Festa 2012===
 
The trailer begins with Yen Sid describing what a powerful man Master Xehanort was, along with saying that his reign of terror is not over yet. Sora and Riku are then seen in different areas of Traverse Town. Maleficent is shown in Disney Castle, speaking with King Mickey, Donald, and Goofy about the Seven Princesses of Heart. The trailer then shows different clips and gameplay footage of Sora's and Riku's adventures as they travel across different worlds and encounter new people, as well as the Dream Eaters.
 
 
Yen Sid reveals the nature of the worlds and the Dream Eaters: when the worlds were first attacked by the darkness in the original ''Kingdom Hearts'', they were saved by Sora, Donald, and Goofy. However, some were not completely saved, and instead fell into sleep. These sleeping worlds became completely disconnected with the others, so even Heartless cannot enter them. However, darkness in the sleeping worlds instead manifests as the Dream Eaters. Like the Heartless, Dream Eaters also search for the Keyholes of the worlds. The trailer then recaps the events of the previous games in a manner similar to ''Kingdom Hearts II'''s opening scene. Sora is shown on a dark beach, saying that this world must be one of the dream worlds.
 
 
More footage is shown, notably a short scene in Ansem the Wise's study, showing Lea, Ienzo, and Aeleus. Riku is seen in Monstro, demanding the identity of a figure in a black coat. The man removes his hood, revealing a face exactly like Riku's. The scene shifts to Xemnas speaking with Sora, then to Lea attacking Maleficent and Pete in Disney Castle. Riku is then shown meeting another man in a black coat, who is revealed to be a young Master Xehanort. This Xehanort is then seen confronting Sora in what looks like the interior of a cathedral, suggesting the Cathedral in ''The Hunchback of Notre Dame''. Vanitas is then seen next to Xehanort as both point out that there is [[Ventus|more than one heart]] in Sora.
 
 
===''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' Special Trailer===
 
The trailer begins with The Unknown telling Sora that there are other hearts besides his own within him (with Vanitas talking side-by-side with The Unknown at this point). The Unknown then disappears through a Corridor of Darkness, leaving Sora to ponder over his words. The trailer then recaps the events of the previous games in a manner similar to ''Kingdom Hearts II's'' opening scene. Footage is then shown of different scenes of Sora and Riku's encounters through various worlds. [[The Grid]] is further dwelled into. Gameplay footage is then shown, with ''Ursula'' making an appearance. After the gameplay footage, more scenes are shown, with the first being Riku engaging in a conversation with an unknown person in an Organization coat, after having him kick a doll into Riku's chest.
 
 
The scene then shifts to Roxas talking to Axel about how he promised to always bring back Roxas, no matter how many times he left. Lea is then shown waking up in the computer room in ''Radiant Garden'', confused. He looks in a window to see his reflection, then realizes what has happened. Yen Sid is then seen talking to Sora and Riku in the ''Mysterious Tower ''about how the only way to defeat Xehanort is to rescue those sleeping in sadness. They also need to gain the power to open the ''Seven Keyholes of Sleep''. More scenes are shown, including The Unknown taking off his hood in front of Riku, while Sora and Joshua talk about this, Riku confronting Ansem, Seeker of Darkness, while The Unknown stands beside him, Sora confronting The Unknown, Mickey talking to Yen Sid, Sora confronting Braig, and calling him his enemy, The Unknown talking about the darkness in Riku's heart, an unknown person talking to Sora about how he feels the memories inside of him, and questioning whether he can call himself the original, and Lea talking to Yen Sid.
 
 
Mickey is then shown trying to reach a comatose Sora in ''Where Nothing Gathers'', only to be subdued by Xemnas. Riku tries to rescue him, but gets subdued himself by Ansem. Mickey then sees Master Xehanort on one of the thrones, exclaiming that he knew it was him. Sora is then surrounded by Braig's laser-bullets, which transform into eleven hooded figures. The Unknown appears before Sora, and offers a hand in friendship, while changing into Riku. A Dark Remnant of Ventus is then seen with the Dream Eater mark on his armor, while the real Ventus is sleeping. Namine is then shown, changing into Xion, who appears before Sora. Kairi and Riku are seen before the Castle That Never Was, but they suddenly change into Aqua and Terra. Then a red-eyed figure in a cloak is seen, after that, Xehanort's Guardian is seen reaching out to something. The last scene shows Sora, sitting alongside the robed men from earlier.
 
 
==Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance English Trailer==
 
An English trailer for Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance was released on May 14, 2012.
 
 
<center>
 
{{videobegin}}
 
{{video|Square-Enix 1st Department Premiere Trailer|wcKDo39twwc}}
 
{{video|Tokyo Game Show 2011|LbuMbQyF4Sk}}
 
{{video|Jump Festa 2012|IPtX25lSRmE}}
 
{{video|''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' Special Trailer|rAPBAm1GkHE}}
 
{{videoend}}
 
</center>
 
   
 
==Trivia==
 
==Trivia==
  +
*''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' is the first game in the Kingdom Hearts series to not feature the [[Olympus Coliseum]], in a flashback or otherwise. However, its theme "Road to a Hero" can be heard in Country of the Musketeers when Sora, Donald, and Goofy save Mickey from drowning.
*In the opening video in the fight between [[Sora]] and [[Riku]] against [[Xemnas]], Sora is seen equiped with the [[Oathkeeper]] Keyblade. This is the first time Sora is seen in a CG Opening with a Keyblade other than the [[Kingdom Key]].
 
  +
*''Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance'' is the first game in the Kingdom Hearts series to be released in Australia and Europe before North America.
   
 
==Notes and references==
 
==Notes and references==
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*[http://www.square-enix.co.jp/kingdom/3d/ Official JP Site]
 
*[http://www.square-enix.co.jp/kingdom/3d/ Official JP Site]
 
*[http://na.square-enix.com/kh3d/ Official US Site]
 
*[http://na.square-enix.com/kh3d/ Official US Site]
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*[http://kingdomhearts3dgame.com/uk/characters.php Official UK Site]
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Revision as of 00:30, 22 May 2020

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Template:Infobox CVG

Darkness becomes light, light falls into darkness.

Tagline

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (previously known as Kingdom Hearts 3D) is a game in the Kingdom Hearts series released on the Nintendo 3DS hand-held system. It was released on March 29, 2012 in Japan, July 31, 2012 in US and Canada, July 20, 2012 in Europe, and July 26th in Australia.

The game has been remastered in HD and released as part of Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue under the title of Kingdom Hearts Dream Drop Distance HD.

Story

Following the destruction of Ansem and Xemnas at the hands of Sora and Riku, Xehanort is revived. In response, Yen Sid puts Sora and Riku through a Mark of Mastery exam in order for them to become full-fledged Keyblade Masters and counter the coming return of Master Xehanort. As part of this trial, the two are separated from each other and sent to worlds previously destroyed by the Heartless that have since been restored, though now in a state of "deep sleep" which disconnects them from the other worlds.

These seven worlds are plagued by Dream Eaters — creatures born from darkness that seek out the sleeping worlds' Keyholes. Sora and Riku's given task is to reawaken the sleeping worlds by unlocking the seven Keyholes they find there and then return to the realm of light, recruiting benevolent "Spirit" Dream Eaters to guide them and battle the malevolent "Nightmare" Dream Eaters, after which they will be deemed Keyblade Masters.

During the exam, Sora and Riku cross paths with the resurrected "Ansem" and Xemnas, as well as a younger incarnation of Master Xehanort from an alternate past. The three bring Sora to the World That Never Was, where he learns of Organization XIII's true purpose—to serve as vessels for Master Xehanort to place pieces of his heart inside, thereby transforming them into clones of Xehanort. Sora is forced into a comatose state by the young Xehanort and his heart is swallowed by darkness, though it is protected by Ventus's suit of armor residing within him.

Riku goes to rescue Sora, only to be confronted by the young Xehanort, who unveils a new Organization XIII composed of the newly revived Master Xehanort and his eleven vessels, whom Xehanort plans to pit against seven Keyblade wielders and recreate the χ-blade. Master Xehanort tries to turn Sora into his last needed vessel, but Sora is rescued by Riku, Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and Lea—the revived human form of the original Organization's Axel—after which Xehanort and his other vessels retreat.

Sora's body is brought back to Yen Sid's tower, where Riku enters his body and releases Sora's heart from Ventus' armor, now possessed by a Nightmare. After Sora reawakens, only Riku is declared a Keyblade Master by Yen Sid, and Lea reveals himself to have become a Keyblade wielder. Undaunted by his failure, Sora embarks on a new journey by himself to train. While Sora travels to Traverse Town in order to meet all his Dream Eater friends, Ventus is shown still being at Castle Oblivion, but suddenly starts smiling a bit.

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Another Guardian of Light

The unlockable secret ending for Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance is comprised of three scenes. In the first scene, Young Xehanort is seen standing alone on the beach in Destiny Islands. The second shows Aqua staring into the distance at the Dark Margin whilst smiling.

In the final segment, Donald and Goofy sit outside the Mysterious Tower and are met by Riku and a visitor whom they had not expected. Inside the tower, Yen Sid outlines to Mickey the history of the Keyblade War and the χ-blade, and the two speak about the seven lights, the Princesses of Heart. Yen Sid explains that there is no avoiding the gathering of the seven guardians of light to protect the seven pure lights, and thus a clash with the thirteen seekers of darkness is inevitable. Mickey arrives at the conclusion that only one more guardian of light is required to complete the total. At this point, Riku enters the tower with Kairi close behind.

Gameplay

Drop System

The game is split into two scenarios, each fulfilled by one of the two protagonists: Sora and Riku. Unlike in previous games, however, the scenarios are not played separately, but are instead played concurrently in a linear fashion. This is achieved through the use of the drop system, and acts toward maintaining story continuity between Sora and Riku.

Whenever play as one character is taking place, the Drop Gauge counts down towards the drop time. Once thirty seconds remain, a time counter becomes visible, alerting the player of the impending drop. The drop can be avoided temporarily with the use of items such as the Drop-Me-Not and Drop-Me-Never, both of which restore 50% and 100% of the Drop Gauge respectively. Once a character has dropped, then play switches to the other character. The player can manually force a drop at times during gameplay.

Abilities

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance features both old and new means to act within the game. The Command Deck system originally introduced in Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep is reintroduced for the use of active commands. These must be installed and feature a cool-down timer once used. Passive commands, however, must be installed through the Abilities menu, and can be obtained only from Spirit Ability Links. Several new abilities are introduced in this game, including certain Deck Commands, Flowmotion, Reality Shift, and the Link System. Flowmotion is a new gameplay mechanic which provides ease of movement and a new method with which to strike at enemies. Reality Shift is a feature unique to each game world, with uses differing between each. Spirit Linking allows the protagonists to link with their Spirits to combat the enemy.

Dive Mode

Whilst previous games have made use of means such as the Gummi Ship to access game worlds, Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance introduced the Dive Mode gameplay system for the first time. This mini-game system is a free-fall into each game world where the protagonist must complete objectives, often having to defeat Nightmare Dream Eater bosses in addition to lesser enemies.

Forecast

A new gameplay element introduced in this game is that of the Forecast. Unique to each world, it alters each time the player drops. The Forecast affects the enemy difficulty of that particular world, among other things.

A New Enemy

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance features the introduction of a new enemy to the Kingdom Hearts series. Dream Eaters, the embodiment of dreams in the Realm of Sleep, come in two varieties: Spirits and Nightmares. Nightmare Dream Eaters act as opposition to the protagonists throughout the game, and play a role in the story on multiple occasions as well as acting as world bosses. Nightmares range in size from the lithe Toximander to the gigantic Skelterwild. As in previous games, the Nightmares increase in strength as the protagonists advance from world to world in the Realm of Sleep.

Development

The game is the major release in the Kingdom Hearts series[1] following Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep, and it features both Sora and Riku as playable characters. Both feature new clothing designs which appear similar to their Kingdom Hearts attire. Utilizing the 3DS's high-spec graphics processing, the game has graphics that are on-par with those of the PS2 titles, as well as making use of the system's 3D technology. This would be used in instances such as "falling from high places" and "flying far distances".[2] The development team at the time was said to be currently selecting worlds, and planned to use all-new Disney worlds, in addition to Traverse Town and other original worlds,[3] one of which has been revealed to be based on The Hunchback of Notre Dame (although the world itself had already been featured in the non-canonical The Sceptre and the Kingdom).

Nomura stated that, with the parallel development of Final Fantasy Versus XIII, he would make sure to retain any game elements that couldn't be put into Final Fantasy Versus XIII for use in Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance.[4] Nomura also stated that the transition between playing as Sora and playing as Riku would be forced upon and sudden, and could occur whilst simply walking around. The game also has the keyword of "drop", as in something falling. The 3D effect of the Nintendo 3DS will be used more for "going into the screen" rather than things popping out, as well.[5]

In the July's issue of Weekly Famitsu, Nomura stated that the game would focus on the "hidden data" inside of Sora and that development of the game was 40-50% finished, with voice recording to begin soon after. A secret movie was confirmed, along with new characters that would appear in Traverse Town. Nomura also stated that the Xehanort Saga would end with Kingdom Hearts III and that there would be "answers" about Kingdom Hearts III in Dream Drop Distance.[6]

A playable demo was available at the 2011 Tokyo Game Show, which revealed that Neku Sakuraba, the protagonist from The World Ends with You, would appear in the game, along with two new allies, the Komory Bat and the Meow Wow.[7] Sora is seen with the Meow Wow and Kuma Panda Dream Eaters as his allies while Riku is seen with the Komory Bat and Yoggy Ram Dream Eaters as his allies.[8] A new type of enemy known as Dream Eaters were also shown.

The November 2011 issues of Famitsu and V Jump confirmed a world based on Pinocchio, "Prankster's Paradise", and another based on The Hunchback of Notre Dame, "La Cité des Cloches".

A December issue of V Jump revealed a new world based on Mickey, Donald, Goofy: The Three Musketeers, as well as Joshua and Beat from The World Ends with You set to be in Traverse Town alongside Neku Sakuraba.

On the new updated Square Enix website Square Enix revealed information about the Drop Gauge. When the Drop gauge empties, the player will switch from Sora to Riku or vice versa, depending on which character is in use at the time.

During Jump Festa 2012, a playable demo and an eight-minute trailer were shown. Axel, Lea, a young Master Xehanort, Vanitas, Roxas, Xion, Kairi, Naminé, Ventus, Rinzler, Maleficent, and Pete along with Joshua, Shiki, Beat, and Rhyme from The World Ends with You were shown in the trailer. A world based off Tron: Legacy, called The Grid, was revealed, where like in Kingdom Hearts II, there will be a data form for both Sora and Riku. The Keyblade Graveyard was also shown.[9]

On June 22, 2012, another playable and free demo was made available on the 3DS's Nintendo eShop.

Reception

Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance was well-received by fans of the game, more so in Japan than in other regions. It sold 250,000 units in Japan and 180,000 units in the United States of America immediately after its release. The game has won numerous awards, including "Best 3DS RPG" in RPG Land's Tokyo Game Show Awards and the "Most Valuable Game" award from the Nintendo Power magazine.[10][11] Additionally, the game received ratings from many different magazines and game reviewers, with ratings generally lying between 7/10 and 8/10.[12] Famitsu also rated the game as 38/40 and ranked it on the "most wanted" list of October 2011.[13]

Criticisms of the game mainly focused on the plot, often labelling it as being too complex and difficult to follow easily. However, reviewers also praised the high quality of gameplay, boss fights, and relation of the plot to previous Kingdom Hearts games.

Worlds and Characters

The game mostly takes place in the World of Sleep, and all the Disney-based worlds are brand new to the series, creating the 7 Worlds of Sleep. The only Final Fantasy characters who appear in the game are the Moogles, but several characters from The World Ends with You appear in the game, replacing the traditional Final Fantasy cast.

Destiny Islands
La Cité des Cloches
Prankster's Paradise
Radiant Garden
Traverse Town
Country of the Musketeers
Symphony of Sorcery
The Grid
Disney Castle
Keyblade Graveyard
Mysterious Tower
The World That Never Was

Realm of Darkness

Others

Gallery

Packing Artwork

Trivia

  • Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance is the first game in the Kingdom Hearts series to not feature the Olympus Coliseum, in a flashback or otherwise. However, its theme "Road to a Hero" can be heard in Country of the Musketeers when Sora, Donald, and Goofy save Mickey from drowning.
  • Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance is the first game in the Kingdom Hearts series to be released in Australia and Europe before North America.

Notes and references

  1. "andriasang"
  2. "E3 2010: Kingdom Hearts 3D First Look"
  3. "Kingdom Hearts 3D Connects to Kingdom Hearts III"
  4. Weekly Famitsu, November 17, 2010: Tetsuya Nomura: "Since it’s different than the Final Fantasy series which is founded on party play, the way the characters level up is different. Because there are various things that can and can’t be done, the things I can’t do in Final Fantasy Versus XIII I’m doing in Kingdom Hearts."
  5. Weekly Famitsu, January 26, 2011.
  6. "Kingdom Hearts 3D, Final Fantasy XI, Dissidia and More in Famitsu"
  7. Siliconera - Kingdom Hearts 3D Features Characters From The World Ends With You
  8. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nseTIVGvWHA
  9. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zlex8ja2eNI
  10. http://rpgland.com/2011/10/03/best-rpgs-of-the-tokyo-game-show/
  11. http://na.square-enix.com/us/go/article/view/press_release/258993/square_enix_e3_line-up_recognized_with_top_game_industry_media_awards
  12. http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/07/17/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance-review IGN Review of Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance
  13. http://www.gamespot.com/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance/reviews/kingdom-hearts-3d-review-6388531/ GameSpot Review of Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance

External links


Template:KH series