WhenKingdom Hearts 4eventually launches, theKingdom Hearts All-In-One Packagewill no longer live up to its name. Released in 2020, this comprehensive collection was intended to serve as a definitive way for fans to experience theKingdom Heartsseries. The collection includesKingdom Hearts HD 1.5 + 2.5 Remix,Kingdom Hearts HD 2.8 Final Chapter Prologue, andKingdom Hearts 3, offering an expansive look at the series’ mainline storylines. The collection already had some notable exclusions upon release, and with the arrival ofKingdom Hearts 4, it will feel even more incomplete.
TheKingdom Hearts All-In-One Packagedoes not contain several key pieces of content from the franchise. Titles likeKingdom Hearts 358/2 DaysandKingdom Hearts Re:codedare presented only as cutscenes, omitting their original gameplay. Additionally, pivotal entries likeKingdom Hearts Union XDark Roadare absent entirely, leaving gaps in the lore. WithKingdom Hearts 4set to expand the series’ already sprawling narrative, fans deserve a more updated collection to match its ambitious storytelling.
Kingdom Hearts 4 Makes a Case for New Editions
TheKingdom Hearts All-In-One Packagewas marketed as a definitive way to understand the main storyline, but it only scratches the surface of the series’ extensive lore.Missing titles, such as the mobile-exclusiveKingdom Hearts Union X, have left gaps for fans wanting to explore the ancient backstory of theKingdom Heartsuniverse. Unfortunately,Union XDark Roadwas quietly delisted, making it harder for new fans to access these essential narratives.
WhenKingdom Hearts 4releases, a new collection would allow Square Enix to address these gaps. A revised package could include a comprehensive version ofUnion XDark Road, potentially adding new gameplay rather than relying solely on cutscenes. This would not only preserve these stories but also give fans a more interactive way to experience the lore.
Improvements to Kingdom Hearts 3 Could Be Included
RevisitingKingdom Hearts 3as part of an updated collection presents an opportunity for Square Enix to refine some of its elements. One of thebiggest criticisms ofKingdom Hearts 3was its somewhat messy storyand the uneven integration of itsRe:MindDLC. Instead of leaving the DLC as a standalone add-on, Square Enix could incorporate its additional content more naturally into the main story.
For example, the DLC expands on key battles and plot points, such as the climactic showdown with Xehanort, but its separation from the main game disrupts the flow for players experiencing it for the first time. Seamlessly merging the DLC’s content with the core game would provide a more cohesive narrative and allow players to experience the full scope of the story without additional downloads.
The Kingdom Hearts Rhythm Game and New Mobile Titles Need Attention
Another major omission from theKingdom Hearts All-In-One PackageisKingdom Hearts Melody of Memory, a rhythm-based game that recapsthe series while adding new scenes to set upKingdom Hearts 4from Kairi’s point of view. While the game itself has a niche appeal, it contains critical lore that cannot be overlooked. The exclusion ofMelody of Memoryin the original package leaves newcomers at a disadvantage, especially since some of its revelations directly tie into the next chapter of the series.
Additionally,upcoming mobile releases likeKingdom Hearts Missing Linkwill further expand the timeline, bridging the gap betweenUnion XDark Road. Tetsuya Nomura purposely makes all separate games essential to the overall storyline, so these side narratives are arguably just as important as the mainline entries. The delisting ofUnion Xcould also be addressed in this manner too.
A New Collection Could Preserve Kingdom Hearts' Legacy
The originalKingdom Hearts All-In-One Packagewas a significant step toward creating an accessible way for fans to experience the series. However, the exclusion of key titles and gameplay content has left it feeling incomplete. WithKingdom Hearts 4set to introduce new characters, worlds, and lore, Square Enixhas an opportunity to create a more comprehensive collection that addresses these gaps.
This is arguably more important than ever becauseKingdom Hearts 4’s Lost Master Arc has been touted as the “beginning of the end,”with this being the end of Sora’s narrative arc. Tetsuya Nomura has already told fans that he hopes to finish this particular storyline before he retires. With that in mind, the perfect way to go would be with the most comprehensive collection ofKHgames ever.
Kingdom Hearts 4
Kingdom Hearts 4 is an action RPG developed by Square Enix and represents the fifteenth installment in the franchise. Players once again are put in the shoes of Sora who is suddenly trapped in a more realistic world called Quadratum, with companions like Donald and Goofy attempting to rescue him. Kingdom Hearts 4 is a direct sequel to Kingdom Hearts 3 and Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory.
