How One Game Mechanic Could Unify Kingdom Hearts 4 and Final Fantasy 7!

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With excitement building for news about Kingdom Hearts 4, there’s been a growing buzz about how Square Enix might seamlessly integrate influences from different sources. The Kingdom Hearts series has always been known for merging its unique characters and realms with those hailing from Final Fantasy and Disney, but Kingdom Hearts 3 noticeably scaled back on the presence of Final Fantasy elements. This shift left some fans split, as many still yearn for the franchise’s previous equilibrium. One potential approach to restore balance in Kingdom Hearts 4 could be by incorporating a Materia system reminiscent of Final Fantasy 7. Such a mechanic would pay tribute to Final Fantasy without detracting from the primary narrative centered around the Kingdom Hearts universe.

In the game “Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth” and its precursor, the Materia system enables players to insert skills into their weapons and armor, providing a multitude of customization possibilities for both battle tactics and strategy. If a similar system were implemented in “Kingdom Hearts 4”, it could harmoniously blend with the existing gameplay, while also acknowledging one of Square Enix’s most recognized franchises.

Kingdom Hearts 4 Could Adapt Materia’s Versatility

In Final Fantasy 7, the Materia system stands out by offering players the chance to tinker with various spells, boosts, and intriguing combinations such as coupling AP Up Materia with others to double experience points. For Kingdom Hearts 4, a comparable system might serve as an enhancement or alternative to the current Keyblade upgrades. Imagine Sora integrating Materia into his Keyblade to cast defensive spells like Protect or Shell, absorb damage, or even summon beloved Final Fantasy creatures such as Ifrit and Shiva.

Incorporating a Materia system in Kingdom Hearts 4 could enhance the combat experience, while preserving its unique character. For instance, combining a Thunder Materia with a Stun Materia might trigger an electric shockwave that incapacitates numerous enemies. This mechanic aligns with Kingdom Hearts’ focus on player decision-making, as Materia customization could expand Sora’s move set and strategy options. The inclusion of Materia would also deepen the exploration aspect of the game, mirroring how players gathered materials for Keyblade upgrades in Kingdom Hearts 3. Players would find Materia hidden in treasure chests, earned as rewards for quests, or dropped by formidable foes. This encourages players to delve into every corner of Kingdom Hearts 4’s worlds, linking the mechanic with the game’s sense of adventure.

A Subtle Tribute to Final Fantasy Without Overshadowing

A frequent complaint about the latest installment in the series was its limited appearance of characters from Final Fantasy in Kingdom Hearts 3. Although this choice allowed the game to concentrate on its expanding roster of unique characters, it disappointed fans who enjoyed the cross-over aspect present in earlier games. Introducing the Materia system in Kingdom Hearts 4 could recapture the spirit of Final Fantasy in a way that feels seamless and unobtrusive.

The Materia mechanic won’t necessitate actual appearances from characters like Cloud or Sephiroth from the Final Fantasy series, but it can still pay tribute to their history in an indirect manner. For instance, Materia linked to spells or abilities originating from Final Fantasy 7 could function as hidden references or Easter eggs. Players may come across text descriptions that subtly hint at the shared lore between the two franchises, serving as a reminder of their connection.

Additionally, the Materia system could significantly enhance the narrative of Kingdom Hearts 4 by integrating it with gameplay mechanics. For instance, imagine a Materia in Kingdom Hearts 4 specifically linked to its enigmatic new Quadratum environment, providing distinctive abilities that mirror its unusual characteristics.

Materia Could Redefine Keyblade Customization

In Kingdom Hearts 3, players could enhance their Keyblades by collecting materials to improve stats and gain new powers. This approach was efficient but tended to feel monotonous, particularly during the endgame. Materia, however, would introduce a more dynamic element of customization for Keyblades.

For example, in the game Kingdom Hearts 4, players can insert Materia into Keyblades, which unlocks various abilities based on the scenario. A Healing Materia might transform one Keyblade into a supportive weapon, while an Attack Up Materia could make another perfect for dealing high damage. During battles, players have the flexibility to switch between different Materia, adding a strategic layer to combat and promoting experimentation. This way, even veteran fans can discover something fresh and thrilling as they play Kingdom Hearts 4.

Bridging FF and KH Universes with One Mechanic

In Kingdom Hearts 4, incorporating a Materia system might strike the ideal balance between preserving the heritage of Final Fantasy and keeping the story centered around its own characters and settings. As Kingdom Hearts 4 grows, the introduction of Materia would serve as a respectful tribute to Square Enix’s past, gracefully infusing cherished aspects into an engaging and thrilling fresh installment.

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2025-01-26 00:04