As fans eagerly await more updates onKingdom Hearts 4, speculation about how Square Enix will bridge its various inspirations continues to grow. Historically, theKingdom Heartsseries has blended its original characters and worlds with those fromFinal Fantasyand Disney, butKingdom Hearts 3notably reduced the presence ofFinal Fantasyelements. This decision left some fans divided, with many longing for the franchise’s earlier balance. One way to strike this balance inKingdom Hearts 4could be the introduction of aFinal Fantasy 7-inspired Materia system. This mechanic would subtly honorFinal Fantasywithout disrupting the narrative focus onKingdom Hearts' universe.
TheMateria system fromFinal Fantasy 7 Rebirthand its predecessor allows players to slot abilities into weapons and armor, offering a wealth of customization options for both combat and strategy. A similar system inKingdom Hearts 4could integrate seamlessly, enhancing gameplay while paying homage to one of Square Enix’s most iconic franchises.
Kingdom Hearts 4 Could Adapt Materia’s Versatility
TheMateria system excels inFinal Fantasy 7by giving players the freedom to experiment with spells, buffs, and even unique combinations like linking AP Up Materia with others to double experience gain. InKingdom Hearts 4, a similar system could replace or complement the existing upgrade mechanics for Keyblades. Imagine Sora slotting Materia into his Keyblade to cast spells like Protect or Shell, reduce incoming damage, or even summon familiarFinal Fantasycreatures like Ifrit or Shiva.
This mechanic would elevate combat without overshadowingKingdom Hearts' identity. For example, pairing a Thunder Materia with a Stun Materia could create an electric shockwave that immobilizes multiple enemies. The system would also align well withKingdom Hearts' emphasis on player choice, as Materia could allow for further customization of Sora’s moveset and strategy. Integrating Materia would also enrich exploration. Similar to how players gathered materials forKeyblade upgrades inKingdom Hearts 3, Materia could be discovered in treasure chests, obtained as rewards for quests, or dropped by powerful enemies. This would incentivize players to explore every nook and cranny ofKingdom Hearts 4’s worlds, tying the mechanic into the game’s sense of adventure.
A Subtle Tribute to Final Fantasy Without Overshadowing
One common critique of the series' most recent entry was theminimal use ofFinal Fantasycharacters inKingdom Hearts3.While this decision allowed the game to focus on its growing cast of original characters, it left a gap for fans who appreciated the crossover aspect of earlier titles. Incorporating the Materia system inKingdom Hearts 4would bring back the essence ofFinal Fantasyin a way that feels natural and unobtrusive.
The Materia mechanic wouldn’t require direct appearances fromFinal Fantasycharacters like Cloud or Sephiroth but could still evoke their legacy. For example, Materia tied to spells or abilities fromFinal Fantasy 7could serve as Easter eggs. Players might encounter flavor text descriptions referencing classicFinal Fantasylore, subtly reminding them of the connection between the two franchises.
Moreover, the Materia system could elevateKingdom Hearts 4’s storytelling by tying it to gameplay. Imagine a Materia tied toKingdom Hearts 4’smysterious new Quadratum setting, offering unique abilities that reflect its otherworldly nature.
Materia Could Redefine Keyblade Customization
Keyblade upgrades inKingdom Hearts 3allowed players to tailor their weapons to their preferred playstyle by gathering materials to boost stats and unlock new abilities. While effective, this system could feel repetitive, especially in the endgame. Materia, on the other hand, would bring a dynamic layer of customization to Keyblades.
For instance, players could slot Materia into Keyblades to unlock abilities that change depending on the situation. A Healing Materia could turn one Keyblade into a support weapon, while an Attack Up Materia might make another ideal for high-damage output. Players could swap Materia mid-battle, adding a tactical element to combat and encouraging experimentation. This would ensure that even longtime fans experience something new and exciting while playingKingdom Hearts 4.
Bridging FF and KH Universes with One Mechanic
A Materia system inKingdom Hearts 4could be the perfect compromise between honoring the legacy ofFinal Fantasyand maintaining the narrative focus on its original characters and worlds.AsKingdom Hearts 4continues to evolve, the inclusion of Materia would be a thoughtful nod to Square Enix’s history, seamlessly blending its most beloved elements into a cohesive and exciting new chapter.
