Overview
“Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories” is an action role-playing video game developed by Jupiter Corporation and Square Enix for the Game Boy Advance. Released in 2004, the game is a direct sequel to the original “Kingdom Hearts” and bridges the gap between the events of the first game and the later “Kingdom Hearts II.”
The story of “Chain of Memories” follows Sora, Donald, and Goofy as they explore a mysterious castle known as Castle Oblivion. Inside the castle, they encounter a unique card-based battle system that is influenced by memories and emotions. As Sora traverses the castle’s floors, he relives past experiences, faces enemies, and encounters characters from his past.
The gameplay of “Chain of Memories” introduces the “Card Battle System,” where battles are fought using decks of cards representing attacks, magic, items, and abilities. Players must strategize by selecting and combining cards to execute attacks, defend against enemies, and cast spells. The game also incorporates platforming elements and exploration as Sora navigates through the castle’s interconnected rooms.
The narrative of “Chain of Memories” reveals deeper layers of the “Kingdom Hearts” storyline, exploring themes of memory, identity, and the struggle against darkness. Sora’s interactions with characters like Organization XIII and the enigmatic figure Naminé add complexity to the series’ lore.
“Chain of Memories” was praised for its engaging card-based gameplay, its ability to expand the story and characters, and its impact on the “Kingdom Hearts” narrative. The game’s release also set the stage for later entries in the series and introduced concepts that continued to be explored in future titles.
The success of “Chain of Memories” led to its inclusion in various compilations and remastered releases, making it accessible to players who may have missed the original Game Boy Advance version. It remains a significant chapter in the “Kingdom Hearts” saga, offering a unique gameplay experience while advancing the overarching narrative of the series.
Player Count
How many people played Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories?
1 million game units sold worldwide
360,000 game units sold in Japan
720,000 game units sold in North America
Last updated 3/31/2005
At a Glance
- Developer: Square Enix
- Publisher: Square Enix
- Year Released: 2004
- Number of Players: Multiplayer
- Available On: Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 2
- App or Game Type: Role Playing Game (RPG)
