The Kingdom Hearts franchise is about to celebrate its 24th anniversary. While we await for some concrete info about the fourth entry announced back in April 2022, Square Enix could also have another project in store for the franchise. Please keep in mind that what follows should be taken with a grain of salt.
According to insider eXtas1s (who has not always been reliable in the past), a remake of the first episode is in the works. It would be titled Kingdom Hearts Relux and is expected to be released before Kingdom Hearts 4. The developers have reportedly reused elements from a canceled mobile game to design the new version of this classic RPG.
The Osaka-based team behind Kingdom Hearts 3 is reportedly not involved in the remake. Development has been entrusted to Tose Software, a Japanese “ghost studio” that has co-developed several thousand games.
This remake of Kingdom Hearts is expected to feature modernized graphics while retaining the colorful aesthetic of the original game. Crisis Core: Final Fantasy VII Reunion has been mentioned as an example to illustrate the visual jump. The music has also reportedly been reorchestrated.
What’s more, this version could get some brand-new content, such as a restored The Jungle Book-inspired world that was cut from the original 2002 game. Other worlds could get new zones, and Riku will be playable.
What’s more, Kingdom Hearts Relux would be released for the PS5, Xbox Series, Switch 2, and PC. Square Enix wanted to release it this year, but plans changed because its new multi-platform strategy. The game could be out on Spring 2027. Finally, Kingdom Hearts 4 would be scheduled for Winter 2027.
