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{{Infobox video game
| title = Kingdom Hearts II
| image = Kingdom Hearts II (PS2).jpg
| caption = Packaging artwork for ''Kingdom Hearts II'', featuring the game's protagonists{{efn|Main artwork used for box art in all regions. The box art's design, such as the border texture and background color, vary between regions.}}
| developer = [[Square Enix#Development organization|Square Enix Product Development Division 1]]<ref name="PDD1" />
| publisher = [[Square Enix]]
| director = [[Tetsuya Nomura]]
| producer = [[Shinji Hashimoto]]<br />[[Yoshinori Kitase]]
| programmer = Hiroshi Harata<br />Kentaro Yasui
| artist = Takayuki Odachi<br/>Tetsuya Nomura
| writer = [[Kazushige Nojima]]
| composer = [[Yoko Shimomura]]
| series = ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]''
| platforms = [[PlayStation 2]]
| released = {{Video game release|JP|December 22, 2005|NA|March 28, 2006|AUS|September 28, 2006|EU|September 29, 2006}}'''''Final Mix'''''{{Video game release|JP|March 29, 2007}}
| genre = [[Action role-playing game|Action role-playing]]<br>[[Hack and slash]]
| modes = [[Single-player video game|Single-player]]
}}
'''''Kingdom Hearts II'''''{{efn|{{nihongo||キングダムハーツII|Kingudamu Hātsu Tsū|lead=yes}}}} is
''Kingdom Hearts II'' is the third game in the ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'' series, and takes place one year after the events of ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine| url = http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/35541/kingdom-hearts-ii-e3-2004/| magazine = [[GamePro]]| date = May 12, 2004| title = Feature: Kingdom Hearts II (E3 2004) |access-date=September 24, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090214011952/http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/35541/kingdom-hearts-ii-e3-2004/|archive-date=February 14, 2009}}</ref> [[Sora (Kingdom Hearts)|Sora]], the protagonist of the first two games, returns to search for his lost friends while battling the sinister [[Organization XIII]], a group of antagonists previously introduced in ''Chain of Memories''.<ref name="KH2gameinformer">{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/6385AA1E-9EC1-4F7C-A8D6-14D0545D1C81.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070311005700/http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/6385AA1E-9EC1-4F7C-A8D6-14D0545D1C81.htm |title=''Kingdom Hearts 2'' |first=Andrew |last=Reiner |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |archive-date=March 11, 2007 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 15, 2006}}</ref> Like previous games, ''Kingdom Hearts II'' features a large cast of characters from Disney and Square Enix properties.
Concepts for ''Kingdom Hearts II'' began during the end of development of ''[[Kingdom Hearts Final Mix]]'', with the game entering full development in 2003 and being announced at [[Tokyo Game Show]] 2003. Most of the first game's development team returned, including director [[Tetsuya Nomura]], with the game being developed concurrently with ''Chain of Memories''. In developing ''Kingdom Hearts II'', the development team sought to address user feedback from the first game, give the player more freedom and options in combat and present a deeper and more mature plot.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.khinsider.com/news/Kingdom-Hearts-II-Ultimania-Main-Nomura-Interview-2553 |title=Kingdom Hearts II Ultimania Main Nomura Interview |date=December 2005 |access-date=4 April 2020 |publisher=KH Insider |archive-date=September 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200924112617/https://www.khinsider.com/news/Kingdom-Hearts-II-Ultimania-Main-Nomura-Interview-2553 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.khinsider.com/news/Playstation-com-Europe-May-2005-Interview-2567 |title=Dengeki Playstation.com Europe May 2005 Interview |date=May 2005 |access-date=4 April 2020 |publisher=KH Insider |archive-date=June 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160627190346/http://www.khinsider.com/news/Playstation-com-Europe-May-2005-Interview-2567 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.khinsider.com/news/1up-E3-2005-Interview-2566 |title=1up E3 2005 Interview |date=June 2005 |access-date=4 April 2020 |publisher=KH Insider |archive-date=June 28, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160628121802/http://www.khinsider.com/news/1up-E3-2005-Interview-2566 |url-status=live }}</ref>
The game was released to a very positive reaction from critics; earning several awards upon release. Reviewers praised the visuals, soundtrack, voice acting, and emotional weight, but assessments of the gameplay and narrative were mixed. In both Japan and North America, it shipped more than one million copies within weeks of its release, with over four million worldwide by April 2007. It has been cited as one of the [[List of video games considered the best|greatest video games of all time]].<ref>{{cite web| url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/38.html| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070110000202/http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/38.html| archive-date = January 10, 2007| title = News—IGN Best of 06| publisher = IGN | url-status = dead|access-date=December 15, 2006}}</ref><ref name="square-enix.com">{{Cite web |url=http://www.square-enix.com/jp/common/images/sqex_07profile_e.pdf#page=6 |title=Archived copy |access-date=August 18, 2009 |archive-date=March 25, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090325013130/http://www.square-enix.com/jp/common/images/sqex_07profile_e.pdf#page=6 |url-status=live }}</ref>
==Gameplay==
{{See also|Kingdom Hearts#Gameplay|l1=Gameplay of Kingdom Hearts}}
[[File:KH2 gameplay.png|thumb|left|Sora battles [[Sephiroth (Final Fantasy)|Sephiroth]] in Radiant Garden. The player uses the game menu at the bottom left of the screen to control Sora's actions and can monitor Sora's HP and MP gauges on the bottom right.]]
The gameplay of ''Kingdom Hearts II'' is similar to the [[action RPG]] and [[hack and slash]] gameplay of the first ''Kingdom Hearts'' game, though developers made an effort to address some of the complaints of no map and camera bugs with the previous game.<ref name="EuroGamerReview1">{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=63760 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060409034526/http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=63760 |title=Review - ''Kingdom Hearts II'' |first=Luke |last=Albiges |website=[[Eurogamer]] |date=April 5, 2006 |archive-date=April 9, 2006 |access-date=July 31, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="KH-NI-1UP2005">{{cite web|url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/1up-2 |title=1UP—E3 2005 Interview |publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |access-date=June 15, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070610200628/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/1UP-2 |archive-date=June 10, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The player directly controls Sora from a [[virtual camera system|third-person]] camera angle,<ref name="KHII-MobyGames">{{cite web|url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/kingdom-hearts-ii|title=Kingdom Hearts II for PlayStation 2|publisher=[[MobyGames]]|access-date=June 18, 2007|archive-date=November 10, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121110022858/http://www.mobygames.com/game/kingdom-hearts-ii|url-status=live}}</ref> though first-person perspective is available via Select button. Most of the gameplay occurs on interconnected field maps where battles take place. The game is driven by a linear progression from one story event to the next, usually told via [[cutscene]]s, though there are numerous [[quest (gaming)|side-quests]] available that provide bonuses to characters.
Like many traditional [[role-playing video game]]s, ''Kingdom Hearts II'' features an [[experience point]] system which determines character development.<ref name="KHII-StrategyGuide">{{cite book|last=Hollinger|first=Elizabeth|year=2006|title=Kingdom Hearts II Official Strategy Guide|publisher=[[BradyGames]]|isbn=0-7440-0526-4}}</ref> As enemies are defeated, the player and allies gain experience to "level up", allowing them to grow stronger and gain access to new [[Skill (role-playing games)|abilities]].<ref name="Instructions">{{cite book|author=[[Square Enix]]|year=2006|title=Kingdom Hearts II Instruction Booklet|publisher=[[Square Enix]]}}</ref>
Combat in ''Kingdom Hearts II'' takes place in real-time and involves [[hack and slash]] elements with button presses which initiate attacks by the on-screen character. A role-playing game menu on the screen's bottom left, similar to those found in ''Final Fantasy'' games, provides other combat options, such as using magic or items, summoning beings to assist in battle, or executing combination attacks with other party members.<ref name="Instructions"/> A new feature is the "Reaction Command", special enemy-specific attacks that are triggered when the player presses the triangle button at the correct time during battle.<ref name="KH2x-play">{{cite web|url=http://www.g4tv.com/games/ps2/19829/Kingdom-Hearts-II/review/|title=Kingdom Hearts II|publisher=[[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4]]|access-date=December 15, 2006|archive-date=March 11, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130311065222/http://www.g4tv.com/games/ps2/19829/kingdom-hearts-ii/|url-status=live}}</ref> Reaction Commands can be used to defeat regular enemies or avoid damage, and are sometimes necessary to complete a [[boss (video games)|boss]] battle.<ref name="KHII-StrategyGuide"/> In addition to the main character, two party members are usually present who also participate in combat.<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/> Although these characters are computer-controlled, the player is allowed to customize their behavior to a certain extent through the menu screen, such as attacking the same enemy Sora targets.
In response to criticism, the "Gummi Ship" feature of the first game was re-imagined to be "more enjoyable". Although retaining its basic purpose of travel, the system was completely redone to resemble a combination of [[rail shooter]] and "Disney theme park ride".<ref name="KH-NI-1UP2005"/> In the world map, the player now controls the Gummi Ship from a [[Top-down perspective|top-down view]] to fly to the world they wish to enter. Worlds are no longer open from the beginning—the player must unlock the routes to them by entering a new level, controlling the ship from a third-person point of view, and battling enemy ships.<ref name="Instructions"/> After the route is opened, travel to the world is unimpeded, unless it is blocked again due to a plot-related event. The player may also gain new Gummi Ships from completing routes, which is also a new feature.
===Drive Gauge===
One of the new features is a meter known as the "Drive Gauge". which has two functions: to transform Sora into a "Drive Form" or to summon a special character. While in a Drive Form, Sora bonds with party members to become more powerful and acquire different attributes;<ref name="IGN-KHII-VoiceCast">{{cite web|first= Stephen|last=Coleman|title=Kingdom Hearts II Gets All-Star Cast|url=http://games.ign.com/articles/686/686944p1.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060418052517/http://games.ign.com/articles/686/686944p1.html|archive-date=April 18, 2006|publisher=IGN|date=February 8, 2006 |url-status= dead|access-date=June 14, 2007}}</ref> all but two Forms also allow the use of two [[Keyblade|Keyblades]]. When a Drive is executed, Sora's combat statistics are heightened. Drive Forms also give Sora new abilities that can be used in normal form, called "Growth Abilities". Sora's first two Drive Forms only combine power with one party member; later-obtained Drive Forms require him to bond with both party members. When allies are used in a Drive, they are temporarily removed from battle for its duration. Unlike the [[Health (game mechanic)|HP]] and [[magic (gaming)|MP]] gauges, the Drive Gauge is not refilled at save points.<ref name="Instructions"/>
Like in the first game, Sora can summon a Disney character to aid him in battle.<ref name="KH2x-play"/> Summons will replace the two computer-controlled characters and fight alongside Sora for as long as the Drive Gauge allows, or until Sora's HP runs out. Instead of being limited to only one action, Summons now have a menu of their own and are capable of performing solo or cooperative actions with Sora, which are performed by pressing the triangle button. The Summon ability and each Drive Form are leveled up separately and by different criteria; obtaining higher levels allows for extended use and in the case of Drive Forms, access to new abilities.<ref name="KHII-StrategyGuide"/>
==
<!--This section is meant to be as comprehensive as possible, while only containing the details needed to understand plot at its most basic level, to comply with the featured article criteria. Please discuss any additions on the talk page first.-->
===
{{Kingdom Hearts chronology}}
''Kingdom Hearts II'' begins one year after the events of ''Kingdom Hearts'' and ''Chain of Memories''. The game's setting is a collection of various [[level (video games)|levels]] (referred to in-game as "worlds") that the player progresses through. As in the first game, the player can travel to various Disney-based locales, along with original worlds specifically created for the series. While Disney-based worlds were primarily derived from the [[List of Disney theatrical animated features|Disney animated features canon]] in the first game, ''Kingdom Hearts II'' introduces worlds that are based on live-action franchises, with Port Royal based on ''[[Pirates of the Caribbean (franchise)|Pirates of the Caribbean]]''.<ref name="liveworlds">{{cite web|date=June 8, 2005 |title=Tetsuya Nomura Dengeki Interview #3 |url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/dengeki-3 |publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |access-date=August 2, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070611213907/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Dengeki-3 |archive-date=June 11, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="KH-NI-PSE">{{cite web|url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/playstation |title=Playstation.com Europe—E3 Interview |publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |access-date=June 15, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070418212412/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Playstation |archive-date=April 18, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Each world varies in appearance and setting, depending on the Disney film on which it is based. The graphics of the world and characters are meant to resemble the artwork and style of the environments and characters from their respective Disney films. Each world is disconnected from the others and exists separately; with few exceptions, players travel from one world to another via a Gummi Ship.
Some worlds featured in the previous games reappear, but with new and expanded areas. New worlds are also introduced, with the Land of Dragons being based on ''[[Mulan (1998 film)|Mulan]]'', Beast's Castle on ''[[Beauty and the Beast (1991 film)|Beauty and the Beast]]'', Timeless River on not only ''[[Steamboat Willie]]'', but the ''[[Mickey Mouse (film series)|Mickey Mouse film series]]'', Port Royal on ''[[Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl]]'', Pride Lands on ''[[The Lion King]]'', and Space Paranoids on ''[[Tron]]''. Twilight Town, an original world first seen in ''Chain of Memories'', has a greater role as the introductory world. The World That Never Was is a new world that serves as the headquarters of Organization XIII.<ref name="KHII-StrategyGuide"/>
===
{{Further|Characters of Kingdom Hearts}}
The three [[protagonist]]s of the game are [[Sora (Kingdom Hearts)|Sora]], a 15-year-old boy chosen as a wielder of the Keyblade, a mystical key-shaped weapon that can combat darkness; [[Donald Duck]], the court magician of Disney Castle; and [[Goofy]], the captain of the Disney Castle guards.<ref name="KHII-StrategyGuide"/> Both Donald and Goofy are under orders from their missing king, [[Mickey Mouse]], to accompany Sora and his Keyblade. Other original characters include [[Riku (Kingdom Hearts)|Riku]], who is briefly playable at the game's climax, and [[Kairi (Kingdom Hearts)|Kairi]], who are Sora's friends from his home world of Destiny Islands; [[Roxas (Kingdom Hearts)|Roxas]], a boy who can also wield the Keyblade and is playable in the game's beginning sequence; [[Naminé]], a girl with the power to manipulate memories; and DiZ, a man who wears red robes and has a vendetta against [[Organization XIII]], and is later revealed to be [[Ansem the Wise]], the mentor of [[Xehanort]].
As in the previous games, characters from both Disney and Square Enix works appear. While some make a return from ''Kingdom Hearts'', new characters from Disney fiction are also introduced, such as [[Scrooge McDuck]] and several characters from [[Walt Disney Pictures|Disney]] films in their home worlds. [[Pete (Disney)|Pete]] appears as a persistent enemy who works with the resurrected [[Maleficent]]. Nearly twenty characters from ''[[Final Fantasy]]'' games appear, notably [[Auron (Final Fantasy)|Auron]] from ''[[Final Fantasy X]]'', [[Squall Leonhart]] from ''[[Final Fantasy VIII]]'', and [[Cloud Strife]], [[Sephiroth (Final Fantasy)|Sephiroth]], and [[Tifa Lockhart]] from ''[[Final Fantasy VII]]''. It was stated that although the first game strictly stuck to characters [[Tetsuya Nomura]] designed, this time they were going to "take some risks", implying that characters not directly designed by Nomura might appear.<ref>{{cite web| first = Bryan| last = Boulette| url = http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2005/112705b.html| publisher = RPGamer| title = Nomura Divulges Kingdom Hearts II Details| access-date = May 29, 2007| date = November 27, 2005| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070930030420/http://www.rpgamer.com/news/Q4-2005/112705b.html| archive-date = September 30, 2007| df = mdy-all}}</ref> Other new characters to the series are [[Vivi Ornitier]] from ''[[Final Fantasy IX]]'', [[Seifer Almasy]] from ''Final Fantasy VIII,'' and [[Setzer Gabbiani]] from ''[[Final Fantasy VI]]''.
The various worlds that Sora explores often have an optional party character from the film which the world is based on. These party members include [[Mulan (Disney character)|Fa Mulan]], a woman who passes as a man to take her ailing father's place in the army; [[Jack Sparrow]], a pirate who seeks to reclaim his ship, the ''[[Black Pearl]]''; [[Simba]], a self-exiled lion and the rightful king of the Pride Lands; and [[Tron (character)|Tron]], a security program in Hollow Bastion's computer network who seeks to end the dictatorship of the Master Control Program.<ref name="KHII-StrategyGuide"/>
Organization XIII, a group of powerful [[Nobody (Kingdom Hearts)|Nobodies]]—the "empty shells" left over when a strong-hearted person becomes a [[Heartless (Kingdom Hearts)|Heartless]]—introduced in ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories|Chain of Memories]]'', is established as the primary group of antagonists early on. Xemnas, the leader of Organization XIII, serves as the main antagonist and [[Boss (video gaming)#Final boss|final boss]] of the game. Villains unique to the worlds are prevalent, and are often presented as challenges that Sora's group must overcome.
===Story===
Sora, Donald, and Goofy have been asleep for the past year to regain their lost memories. Roxas, Sora's Nobody, is trapped in a virtual simulation of Twilight Town created by DiZ to merge him with his original self and restore Sora's power. DiZ's plans are threatened when Nobodies led by [[Axel (Kingdom Hearts)|Axel]], Roxas's former friend in Organization XIII, infiltrate the virtual town to extract Roxas. However, Roxas is able to repel the Nobodies and merge with Sora. Sora, Donald, and Goofy awaken and meet King Mickey and [[Yen Sid]], who send them on another journey to find Riku and uncover the Organization's plans. Afterward, Maleficent is resurrected and joins with Pete to continue her quest for power.
Sora travels to familiar and unfamiliar worlds and resolves problems caused by Organization XIII, the Heartless, and various local villains. During a visit to Hollow Bastion, they reunite with Mickey, who explains that the Heartless "Ansem" they defeated is an imposter named Xehanort, whose Nobody, Xemnas, is the Organization's leader. The Organization reveal that they seek to create their own version of Kingdom Hearts from the hearts Sora has released from the Heartless, believing its power will restore their lost hearts; they also reveal their captivity of Kairi to force Sora's compliance. Sora revisits the worlds to solve lingering problems while seeking a path to Organization XIII's base of operations in the World That Never Was. Throughout his endeavors, Sora is secretly aided by a hooded figure whom he believes to be Riku.
Following a lead, Sora, Donald, and Goofy enter a passageway to the World That Never Was through Twilight Town, where Axel sacrifices himself to allow them to proceed. Sora finds Kairi and Riku, with the latter's appearance having been changed to that Xehanort's Heartless after using his power to capture Roxas. Mickey encounters DiZ, who reveals himself to be the true Ansem, Xehanort's mentor. Ansem uses a device that dissipates some of Kingdom Hearts' power, but a system overload causes the device to self-destruct, engulfing Ansem and returning Riku to his original form. Atop the Castle That Never Was, Sora and company battle Xemnas, who uses what remains of Kingdom Hearts to fight them. After Sora and Riku destroy Xemnas, they become trapped in the realm of darkness. There, they discover a portal to the realm of light in a bottled letter sent by Kairi, allowing them to return to the Destiny Islands and reunite with their friends. In a [[post-credits scene]], Sora, Kairi, and Riku receive a letter from Mickey.
==Development==
Development plans for ''Kingdom Hearts II'' began around the completion of ''[[Kingdom Hearts Final Mix]]'', but specific details were undecided until July 2003.<ref name="GS-NI-Dengeki">{{cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6076646| author = GameSpot Staff| publisher = [[GameSpot]]| date = October 10, 2003| title = Kingdom Hearts II's Tetsuya Nomura Q & A| access-date = June 15, 2007| archive-date = May 25, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110525055139/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6076646| url-status = live}}</ref> Nomura noted several obstacles to clear before development could begin on a sequel. One such obstacle was the development team's desire to showcase Mickey Mouse more, which required Disney's approval.<ref name="KH-NI-KHIIU">{{cite web|title=Kingdom Hearts II Ultimania—Tetsuya Nomura Interview |url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/kh2u |publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |access-date=August 10, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070710094227/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/KH2U |archive-date=July 10, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The game was developed by Square Enix's Product Development Division 1,<ref name="PDD1">{{cite web| url = http://dol.dengeki.com/data/news/2003/9/26/7eebeedd61ad754327406658d0626da4.html| title = 【TGS】スクエニ第1開発事業部新規タイトル発表会、詳細レポート！| date = September 26, 2003| publisher = [[ASCII Media Works|Dengeki Online]]| access-date = January 31, 2010| language = ja| archive-date = March 14, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120314081225/http://dol.dengeki.com/data/news/2003/9/26/7eebeedd61ad754327406658d0626da4.html| url-status = live}}</ref> with most of the original staff from the first game.<ref name="NI-Famitsu1">{{cite web|title=1st Famitsu Nomura Interview |url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/famitsu-1 |publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |access-date=September 20, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070807043759/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Famitsu-1 |archive-date=August 7, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The game was originally supposed to have been released after ''Kingdom Hearts''. Nomura had planned for the sequel to take place a year after the first and originally intended for the events of that year to be left unexplained. To bridge the gap between the two games, ''Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories'' was developed.<ref name="KH-COMgamespy">{{cite web| url = http://gba.gamespy.com/gameboy-advance/kingdom-hearts-chain-of-memories/571890p1.html| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20041211023143/http://gba.gamespy.com/gameboy-advance/kingdom-hearts-chain-of-memories/571890p1.html| archive-date = December 11, 2004| author = Raymond Padilla| date = December 8, 2004| publisher = [[GameSpy]]| title = Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories Review |access-date=May 23, 2007}}</ref> To explain the loss of all the abilities from the first game at the beginning of ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Nomura had Sora's memories scrambled in ''Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories''.<ref name="KHCoM-NI1">{{cite web|publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/comu |title=KH: CoM Ultimania—The Nomura Interview |access-date=June 7, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061212122225/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/CoMU |archive-date=December 12, 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
[[File:Gummikh2.png|thumb|The Gummi Ship segments were redesigned for ''Kingdom Hearts II''.]]
Many aspects of the gameplay were reworked for the sequel. Some changes were made due to user feedback and others were meant to be included in previous games but were omitted either because of time or technological constraints.<ref name="KH-NI-1UP2005"/> The camera was switched to the right analog stick of the [[DualShock]] controller instead of the shoulder buttons and the Gummi Ship travel was reworked. The combat system was completely redone and did not use any animations from the first game. Because Sora had matured, Nomura wanted his fighting style to reflect that.<ref name="KH-NI-PSE"/> Other changes included more integration between exploration and battles.<ref name="KH-NI-Dengeki2">{{cite web|url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/website/interviews/dengeki-2 |publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |title=Dengeki—Kingdom Hearts 2 Progress Report |access-date=June 15, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070608020051/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Dengeki-2 |archive-date=June 8, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The variations in combat styles associated with each Drive Form and the introduction of the Reaction Command were added to give players more choices in battles.<ref name="KH-NI-1UP2005"/> The inclusion of worlds based on live-action Disney films was aided by technology that generated the character models from live-action pictures.<ref name="KH-NI-Dengeki2"/>
===
====Musical score====
{{Further|Music of Kingdom Hearts}}
Like the first game, ''Kingdom Hearts II'' features music by [[Yoko Shimomura]] and [[Hikaru Utada]]. The Original Soundtrack for ''Kingdom Hearts II'' was composed by Shimomura and released on January 25, 2006.<ref name="KH-OST">[[Kingdom Hearts II Original Soundtrack]] CD insert. Toshiba-EMI Limited. 2006.</ref> The opening orchestration and ending credits theme were arranged and orchestrated by [[Kaoru Wada]] and performed by the [[Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra]].<ref name="KH-OST"/> The main vocal theme for the original Japanese release was "[[Passion (Hikaru Utada song)|Passion]]", written and performed by Utada. The English version of "Passion", "Sanctuary", was used in the Western releases. Utada's involvement was announced on July 29, 2005.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6130068| first = Hirohiko| last = Niizumi| publisher = [[GameSpot]]| date = July 29, 2005| title = Kingdom Hearts vocalist returns for sequel| access-date = June 15, 2007| archive-date = May 23, 2009| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090523054108/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6130068| url-status = live}}</ref> According to Nomura, the vocal theme ties in even more closely with the game's story than "[[Hikari (Hikaru Utada song)|Hikari]]" ("Simple and Clean") did with ''Kingdom Hearts'' and ''Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories''.<ref name="finalmix">{{cite book| editor = Studio BentStuff| title = Kingdom Hearts II Ultimania| publisher = DigiCube/Square Enix| chapter-url = http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2006/08/11/kingdom-hearts-ii-tetsuya-nomura-interview.htm| language = ja| isbn = 4-7575-1621-5| chapter = Tetsuya Nomura interview| year = 2006| access-date = September 12, 2006| archive-date = September 14, 2012| archive-url = https://archive.today/20120914135835/http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2006/08/11/kingdom-hearts-ii-tetsuya-nomura-interview.htm| url-status = live}}</ref> The CD single for "Passion" was released on December 14, 2005,<ref>{{cite web| publisher = CD Japan| url = http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TOCT-5004| title = Hikaru Utada/Passion (CD+DVD)| access-date = June 18, 2007| archive-date = October 14, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121014041241/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=TOCT-5004| url-status = live}}</ref> and "Sanctuary" was first previewed on [[MTV]]'s official website in early 2006.<ref>{{cite magazine| title = Square Enix Reveals KH2 Main Theme In English, Plus Interview With Haley Joel| first= Bryan|last=Vore| date = February 24, 2006| url = http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200602/N06.0224.1528.07850.htm| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070413004138/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200602/N06.0224.1528.07850.htm| archive-date = April 13, 2007| magazine= [[Game Informer]] | url-status = dead|access-date=June 14, 2007}}</ref>
===
''Kingdom Hearts II'' features well-known voice actors for both the Japanese and English versions. Many of the original voice actors from the first ''Kingdom Hearts'' reprised their roles; [[Miyu Irino]] and [[Haley Joel Osment]] as Sora, [[Mamoru Miyano]] and [[David Gallagher]] as Riku, and Risa Uchida and [[Hayden Panettiere]] as Kairi. New voice actors included [[Koki Uchiyama]] and [[Jesse McCartney]] as Roxas, Iku Nakahara and [[Brittany Snow]] as Naminé, and [[Genzō Wakayama]] and [[Christopher Lee]] as DiZ.<ref name="IGN-KHII-VoiceCast"/><ref name="1upvoice">{{cite web |title=Kingdom Hearts II Voices Announced |url=http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3147824 |publisher=[[UGO Networks]] |work=[[1UP.com]] |author=Pinckard, Jane |date=February 8, 2006 |access-date=June 29, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121016050549/http://www.1up.com/news/kingdom-hearts-voices-announced |archive-date=October 16, 2012 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> A special effort was made to preserve the official voice actors from the Disney films used in ''Kingdom Hearts II''. Many actors reprised their Disney roles for the game, including [[Ming-Na Wen]] as Mulan, [[James Woods]] as [[Hades (Disney)|Hades]], [[Bruce Boxleitner]] as Tron, [[Chris Sarandon]] as [[Jack Skellington]], [[Angela Lansbury]] as [[Mrs. Potts]], [[Kenneth Mars]] as [[King Triton]], and [[Zach Braff]] as [[Chicken Little (2005 film)|Chicken Little]].<ref name="IGN-KHII-VoiceCast"/> Some voice actors from the related television series or [[direct-to-video]] sequels were chosen over original voice actors where applicable, such as [[Robert Costanzo]] as [[Philoctetes (Disney)|Philoctetes]] rather than [[Danny DeVito]] or [[Cam Clarke]] as Simba instead of [[Matthew Broderick]]. Some characters were given new voice actors in the English version; Ansem, [[Aerith Gainsborough]], [[Squall Leonhart]], Sephiroth, and [[Hercules (Disney character)|Hercules]], who were originally voiced by [[Billy Zane]], [[Mandy Moore]], [[David Boreanaz]], [[Lance Bass]], and [[Sean Astin]] respectively in the first game, were voiced by [[Richard Epcar]], [[Mena Suvari]], [[Doug Erholtz]], [[George Newbern]], and [[Tate Donovan]] (Hercules' original voice actor), and newcomer Tifa Lockhart was voiced by [[Rachael Leigh Cook]].<ref name="1upvoice"/>
===
[[File:Xigbar gun comparison.png|thumb|left|200px|Xigbar's [[telescopic sight]] view and his weapons were altered from the Japanese version (top) to the English version (bottom).]]
Besides English translation and [[language localisation|localization]], the international version of ''Kingdom Hearts II'' differs from the original Japanese version in the content of gameplay and several scenes. The [[Lernaean Hydra|Hydra]] boss in the ''[[Hercules (1997 film)|Hercules]]''-themed world Olympus Coliseum had its green blood from the original Japanese version (which was taken from the film) changed into black and purple smoke in the English version. In one cutscene, Hercules fights the Hydra and uses his sword on its head, which releases green blood from its mouth in the Japanese version; this was later changed into drool in the English version. There is also a scene in Disney Castle where, after chasing Donald around for missing a date, [[Daisy Duck]] pounds him on the backside in the Japanese version, whereas she merely tells him off inaudibly in the English version.
[[Xigbar]]'s [[telescopic sight]] was changed from a [[crosshair]] and black shading around the sides to three glowing circles.<ref name="KHII-MobyGames"/> An attack animation was also altered; in the Japanese version, Xigbar combines his two guns to create a [[sniper rifle]], which is used to shoot the player's party during the telescoping sight sequence. In the English version, Xigbar does not combine his guns, but twirls them around and shoots at Sora with a single gun. The death of Organization XIII member [[Axel (Kingdom Hearts)|Axel]] was slightly edited; in the original, he bursts into flames during his suicide attack, while in the English version he fades away after using up all of his power.
Port Royal, based on ''[[Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl]]'', contains the most content edits. Cutscenes were edited to remove some of the violence, such as [[Will Turner]] threatening to commit suicide while aiming a gun at his neck, as in the film.<ref name="KHII-MobyGames"/> Unlike the Japanese version, the undead pirates do not catch fire when affected by Fire magic, and their muskets were modified to resemble crossbows,<ref>{{cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/698/698488p1.html| title = Nomura Discusses Kingdom Hearts and Future Titles| publisher = IGN| first = Anoop| last = Gantayat| date = March 26, 2006| access-date = March 11, 2007| archive-date = June 29, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629131654/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/698/698488p1.html| url-status = live}}</ref> though the crossbows still fire with an audible musket shot sound effect.
===Promotion===
An unlockable trailer in ''Kingdom Hearts'' and ''Kingdom Hearts Final Mix'' hinted at the possibility of a sequel. Rumors for a sequel on the PlayStation 2 were spurred in Japan when the video game website Quiter stated that "an internal (and anonymous source) at Square Japan" confirmed that development of ''Kingdom Hearts II'' had begun.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/388/388537p1.html| title = Kingdom Hearts 2 on PS2?| publisher = IGN| author = IGN Staff| date = March 7, 2003| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = June 29, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629131702/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/388/388537p1.html| url-status = live}}</ref> It was not until ''Kingdom Hearts II'' was announced, along with ''Chain of Memories'', at the [[Tokyo Game Show]] in September 2003<ref name="KH-Sequels-GS">{{cite web| first = Justin| last = Calvert| publisher = [[GameSpot]]| title = TGS 2003: Kingdom Hearts sequels announced| url = http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/kingdomheartschainofmemories/news.html?sid=6075893| date = September 26, 2003| access-date = June 8, 2007| archive-date = May 18, 2009| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090518081555/http://www.gamespot.com/gba/rpg/kingdomheartschainofmemories/news.html?sid=6075893| url-status = live}}</ref> that rumors were confirmed. Initial details were that it would take place some time after ''Chain of Memories'', which takes place directly after the first game. Other details included the return of Sora, Donald, and Goofy, as well as new costumes. Information about Mickey Mouse's involvement was kept to a minimum.<ref name="GS-NI-Dengeki"/><ref>{{cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/451/451708p1.html| author = IGN Staff| publisher = IGN| date = September 26, 2003| title = TGS 2003: Kingdom Hearts II Details| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = June 29, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629131709/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/451/451708p1.html| url-status = live}}</ref>
At the 2004 Square Enix [[E3]] Press conference, producer [[Shinji Hashimoto]] said that many mysteries of the first game would be answered.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.gaming-age.com/event/2004/e3/12-60| title = Square Enix E3 Press Conference and "Dear Friends" Concert| publisher = Gaming Age| date = May 12, 2004| last= Benson|first=Mike| access-date=September 25, 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071011213338/http://gaming-age.com/event/2004/e3/12-60 <!-- Bot retrieved archive -->| archive-date = October 11, 2007}}</ref> Square Enix launched the official Japanese website in May 2005,<ref>{{cite web| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/609/609294p1.html| publisher = IGN| first = Anoop| last = Gantayat| title = Kingdom Hearts II Website| date = May 2, 2005| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = June 29, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629131713/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/609/609294p1.html| url-status = live}}</ref> followed by the English website in December 2005.<ref>{{cite magazine| first= Bryan|last=Vore| date = December 1, 2005| title = Kingdom Hearts II Official U.S. Website Launched| url = http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200512/N05.1201.1418.12472.htm| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070609073134/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200512/N05.1201.1418.12472.htm| archive-date = June 9, 2007| magazine= [[Game Informer]]| url-status= dead| access-date=June 14, 2007}}</ref> The websites featured videos and information regarding characters and worlds. Commercials were aired in Japan which highlighted the numerous Disney characters in the game.<ref>{{cite magazine| url = http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200512/N05.1202.1259.10506.htm| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20071219155105/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200512/N05.1202.1259.10506.htm| archive-date = December 19, 2007| title = New Kingdom Hearts 2 Japanese TV Ad| last= Vore|first=Bryan| date = December 2, 2005| magazine= [[Game Informer]] | url-status = dead|access-date=December 12, 2007}}</ref> Although the game was announced in September 2003, a release date for the game was not set until two years later.<ref>{{cite web| first = Anoop| last = Gantayat| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/654/654393p1.html| publisher = IGN| title = Kingdom Hearts II Dated in Japan| date = December 28, 2005| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = June 29, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629131718/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/654/654393p1.html| url-status = live}}</ref> Nomura admitted that the game was announced too early and information regarding the game was not released until a debut period was in sight.<ref name="IGN-TNonEverything">{{cite web| title = Tetsuya Nomura on Everything| first = Anoop| last = Gantayat| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/610/610042p1.html| date = May 4, 2005| publisher = IGN| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = June 29, 2011| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110629123411/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/610/610042p1.html| url-status = live}}</ref>
==Release==
Within a week of its Japanese release, ''Kingdom Hearts II'' shipped one million copies,<ref>{{cite web| first = Anoop| last = Gantayat| title = Kingdom Hearts 2 Goes Platinum| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/678/678247p1.html| date = December 27, 2005| publisher = IGN| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = November 19, 2013| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131119185430/https://www.ign.com/articles/2005/12/27/kingdom-hearts-2-goes-platinum| url-status = live}}</ref> selling almost 730,000 copies.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=5934| title = News—Japan: weekly software sales from 12/19 - 12/25| first= Richard|last=Brownell| date = December 28, 2005| publisher = GamesAreFun.com |access-date=December 15, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110611235130/http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=5934|archive-date=June 11, 2011 }}</ref> The [[NPD Group]] reported that ''Kingdom Hearts II'' was the highest-selling console game in North America during March 2006 with 614,000 copies.<ref>{{cite web| first= Tor|last=Thorsen| url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6147802.html| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070930133134/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6147802.html| archive-date = September 30, 2007| publisher = [[GameSpot]]| title = ChartSpot: March 2006 |access-date=May 15, 2007}}</ref> In the month after its release in North America, ''Kingdom Hearts II'' sold an estimated one million copies.<ref name="KH2sales">{{cite web | url = http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0502/ | title = TGS06: Kingdom Hearts II Achieves Million-Unit Sales Mark in North America in Four Weeks | publisher = [[Square Enix]] | access-date = December 15, 2006 | archive-date = April 9, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160409144043/http://www.square-enix.com/na/company/press/2006/0502/ | url-status = live }}</ref> [[GameStop]] listed the game as their best-selling title for the first quarter of 2006.<ref>{{cite web| first = Jason| last = Dobson| date = May 18, 2006| title = Industry News: GameStop's Q1 Results Up On Xbox 360, KH2| publisher = [[Gamasutra]]| url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=9368| access-date = July 5, 2007| archive-date = October 19, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121019010122/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=9368| url-status = dead}}</ref> The game was also on [[IGN]]'s "Top 10 Sellers in 2006".<ref name="KH2sales2">{{cite web| publisher = IGN| title = PS2 2006 Year in Review| url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/749/749553p2.html| access-date = December 20, 2006| archive-date = September 26, 2008| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080926001250/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/749/749553p2.html| url-status = live}}</ref> By December 2006, over 3.5 million copies of ''Kingdom Hearts II'' had been shipped worldwide with 700,000 in [[PAL region]]s, 1.1 million in Japan, and 1.7 million in North America.<ref>{{cite web |date=February 5, 2007 |title=Kingdom Hearts Series Ships over 10 Million Worldwide |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6165399&om_act=convert&om_clk=gsupdates&tag=updates;title;1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121112132015/http://www.gamespot.com/news/kingdom-hearts-series-ships-over-10-million-worldwide-6165399 |archive-date=2012-11-12 |access-date=May 13, 2007 |publisher=[[GameSpot]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| title = スクウェア・エニックス、イベントなど追加「Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+」「キングダム ハーツ」 シリーズ累計出荷本数1,000万本達成| url = http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20070105/khfm.htm| language = ja| publisher = Game Watch| access-date = March 11, 2007| archive-date = April 6, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120406201003/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20070105/khfm.htm| url-status = live}}</ref> By March 31, 2007, Square Enix had shipped over 4 million units worldwide.<ref name="square-enix.com"/>
==Reception==
{{Video game reviews
<!-- Aggregators -->
| MC = 87/100<ref name=MC>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/kingdom-hearts-ii/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100908035511/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-2/kingdom-hearts-ii |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' for PlayStation 2 Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |archive-date=September 8, 2010 |access-date=June 13, 2007 |url-status=live}}</ref>
<!-- Reviewers -->
| 1UP = 9/10<ref name="KH2-1up">{{cite web |url=http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3149052&did=1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060330124630/http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3149052&did=1 |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' Review for PS2 |last=Mielke |first=James |website=[[1UP.com]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |date=March 27, 2006 |archive-date=March 30, 2006 |access-date=December 15, 2006 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
| EGM = 28.5/30<ref name="EGMRev">{{cite magazine |url=https://archive.org/details/electronic-gaming-monthly-issue-203-may-2006/page/99/mode/2up |title=Review Crew: ''Kingdom Hearts II'' |last1=Intihar |first1=Bryan |last2=Bettenhausen |first2=Shane |last3=Mielke |first3=James "Milkman" |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]] |issue=203 |date=May 2006 |pages=100–102}}</ref>
| EuroG = 8/10<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/>
| Fam = 39/40<ref name="KH2famitsugrade"/>
| GI = 9/10<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/>
| GamePro = 4.5/5<ref name="GameProReview">{{cite magazine |url=http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/52943.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060410152145/http://www.gamepro.com/sony/ps2/games/reviews/52943.shtml |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' Review for PS2 |author=Bones |magazine=[[GamePro]] |publisher=[[IDG Entertainment]] |date=March 28, 2006 |archive-date=April 10, 2006 |access-date=September 24, 2008 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| GameRev = B+<ref name="GameRevolution">{{cite web |url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/ps2/kingdom_hearts_2 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060411034920/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/ps2/kingdom_hearts_2 |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' review for the PS2 |last=Fischer |first=Russ |website=[[GameRevolution]] |date=March 29, 2006 |archive-date=April 11, 2006 |access-date=May 29, 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| GSpot = 8.7/10<ref name="KH2gamespot">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/kingdom-hearts-ii-review/1900-6146742/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131109060602/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/kingdom-hearts-ii-review/1900-6146742/ |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' Review |first=Carrie |last=Gouskos |website=[[GameSpot]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |date=March 28, 2006 |archive-date=November 9, 2013 |access-date=December 15, 2006 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| GSpy = 4.5/5<ref name="KH2gamespy">{{cite web |url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/kingdom-hearts-ii/698896p1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060405011437/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/kingdom-hearts-ii/698896p1.html |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' Review |first=Gerald |last=Villoria |website=[[GameSpy]] |publisher=IGN Entertainment |date=March 28, 2006 |archive-date=April 5, 2006 |access-date=December 15, 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| GRadar = 4.5/5<ref name="GRadarPlus">{{cite web |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-ii-review/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161009150500/https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-ii-review/ |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' review |last=Bratcher |first=Eric |website=[[GamesRadar+]] |date=March 30, 2006 |archive-date=October 9, 2016 |access-date=May 29, 2023 |url-status=live}}</ref>
| GameZone = 9.4/10<ref name="GameZoneRev">{{cite web |url=http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r22947.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060407045901/http://ps2.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r22947.htm |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' Review |last=Bedigian |first=Louis |website=GameZone |date=March 28, 2006 |archive-date=April 7, 2006 |access-date=May 29, 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| IGN = 7.6/10<ref name="KH2ign">{{cite web |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/698/698697p1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060405014011/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/698/698697p1.html |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' Review |first=Jeff |last=Haynes |website=[[IGN]] |date=March 28, 2006 |archive-date=April 5, 2006 |access-date=December 15, 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| PALGN = 8.5/10<ref name="PALGN">{{cite web |url=http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=5375&sid=481805dc6c7f616aada97d908a77ec46 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071227085913/http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=5375&sid=481805dc6c7f616aada97d908a77ec46 |title=''Kingdom Hearts 2'' Review |last=Larsen |first=Phil |website=PALGN |date=September 29, 2006 |archive-date=December 27, 2007 |access-date=May 29, 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
| RPGFan = 93%<ref name="RPGFanRev">{{cite web |url=http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/kingdomhearts2/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060407055652/http://www.rpgfan.com/reviews/kingdomhearts2/index.html |title=''Kingdom Hearts II'' |last=Gann |first=Patrick |website=RPGFan |date=March 28, 2006 |archive-date=April 7, 2006 |access-date=May 29, 2023 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
<!-- Awards -->
| award1Pub = [[Satellite Award]]
| award1 = Outstanding Game Based on Existing Medium<ref name="satellite"/>
| award2Pub = ''[[Famitsu]]''
| award2 = Game of the Year<ref name="KH2famitsugame05"/>
| award3Pub = ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]''
| award3 = Best Sequel<ref name="egmbest"/>
| award4Pub = [[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4]]
| award4 = Best Voice Over, Best Soundtrack<ref name="gfourawards"/>
}}
''Kingdom Hearts II'' was met with "generally positive" reviews upon release according to the [[review aggregator]] website [[Metacritic]].<ref name=MC/>
Like its predecessors, the gameplay received mixed reviews. The refined combat system was praised, with the drive forms, limit breaks, and combos being said to add depth, variety, and excitement. Andrew Reiner of ''[[Game Informer]]'' called the combo potential "divine", claiming that it surpassed ''[[God of War (2005 video game)|God of War]]''{{'}}s intensity.{{efn|<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="KH2ign"/>}} Carrie Gouskos of ''[[GameSpot]]'' and Luke Albiges of ''[[Eurogamer]]'' highlighted the game's accessibility, with Gouskos saying that the ease of customization allowed for both deep and shallow gameplay experiences,<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="KH2gamespot"/> and Reiner noted the dynamic controls, which he said instilled confidence and comfort.<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/> Gouskos and ''[[IGN]]''{{'}}s Jeff Haynes criticized the combat's decreased difficulty, with Haynes remarking that the effectiveness of basic attacks sidelined offensive magic, and observed that the large amount of health orbs released by enemies during battle rendered healing items redundant. However, Gouskos regarded the approach to be an improvement upon the original game, which she felt derived difficulty from "backtracking, tediousness, and confusion".<ref name="KH2gamespot"/><ref name="KH2ign"/> Louis Bedigian of ''GameZone'' also concluded that the game would not be challenging to players experienced with action RPGs from the [[Super Nintendo Entertainment System|SNES]] and [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]] eras.<ref name="GameZoneRev"/> Patrick Gann of ''RPGFan'' deemed the partner [[Artificial intelligence in video games|artificial intelligence]] to be superior to the first game,<ref name="RPGFanRev"/> whereas Haynes denounced it as "absolutely terrible", attributing this to the omitted ability to issue AI commands.<ref name="KH2ign"/>
The quick time events were a generally welcomed addition, with Albiges regarding their quality and impact to be on par with the knife fight scene in ''[[Resident Evil 4]]''.{{efn|<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="PALGN"/>}} Bedigian declared the game to be the first instance of quick time events being successfully implemented, and admired the resulting actions as "some of the most beautiful polygon sequences seen on PlayStation 2".<ref name="GameZoneRev"/> While Russ Fischer of ''[[GameRevolution]]'' deemed their lenient mechanics compared to ''God of War'' to be a saving grace, he and Gann acknowledged that the lack of skill required for their execution may be a drawback for hardcore gamers.<ref name="GameRevolution"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Bryan Intihar and Shane Bettenhausen of ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' (''EGM'') spoke positively of the boss fights, with Bettenhausen saying that the quick time events enhanced their dynamic feeling.<ref name="EGMRev"/> Eric Bratcher of ''[[GamesRadar+]]'' was also excited by most of the boss battles, though considered a few of them "straight-up lame".<ref name="GRadarPlus"/> Gouskos described the bosses as interesting and well conceived, but observed that the strategies for defeating them hardly differed from that of regular enemies.<ref name="KH2gamespot"/>
Reviewers complimented the camera's increased responsiveness, which Haynes attributed to the altered control method from the shoulder buttons to the right thumbstick.{{efn|<ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="GameRevolution"/><ref name="GameZoneRev"/><ref name="KH2ign"/><ref name="PALGN"/>}} Contrariwise, Gerald Villoria of ''[[GameSpy]]'' and Gann did not see any improvement, with Villoria occasionally struggling with forced and awkward camera positions.<ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> James Mielke (writing for ''EGM'') and Gann dismissed the first-person mode as unhelpful, with Mielke warning that the inability to see Sora's Keyblade was disorienting.<ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>
The RPG elements were described as light, with Haynes calling them a "casualty" of the increased emphasis on combat; he remarked that items were "practically useless" due to a lack of need to use them in certain places as in the first game.<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="GameRevolution"/><ref name="KH2ign"/> Although Albiges considered the quality of the locales to be consistently high (singling out Port Royal for praise),<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/> others lamented the decreased size and increased linearity of the worlds, with Haynes particularly describing Halloween Town and Atlantica as "shadows of their former selves".<ref name="KH2gamespot"/><ref name="KH2ign"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> While the assortment of minigames in the [[Hundred Acre Wood]] was said to be improved from the first game,<ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> the transition of Atlantica from an action set-piece to a series of rhythm minigames was derided.<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="KH2ign"/> Bratcher and Gann were relieved by the absence of the scavenger hunt-type quests from the first game.<ref name="GRadarPlus"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>
The Gummi Ship segments were widely agreed to be an improvement over those of the first game.{{efn|<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="GameRevolution"/><ref name="KH2gamespot"/><ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="KH2ign"/><ref name="PALGN"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>}} Comparisons were drawn to ''[[Star Fox]]'',<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="KH2gamespy"/> ''[[Panzer Dragoon]]'',<ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="KH2ign"/> ''[[Gradius]]'',<ref name="KH2-1up"/> ''[[R-Type]]'', ''[[Einhänder]]'',<ref name="GameRevolution"/> and the recent works of [[Cave (company)|Cave]].<ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Although Gouskos and ''PALGN''{{'}}s Phil Larsen acknowledged the improved execution, they were still overall unimpressed, though Larsen singled out the battle against a giant pirate ship as a highlight.<ref name="KH2gamespot"/><ref name="PALGN"/> Villoria considered the ship-building interface to have been greatly improved,<ref name="KH2gamespy"/> whereas Fischer and Gann still found it obtuse and confusing.<ref name="GameRevolution"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>
The visuals were lauded, with Mielke and Albiges considering them among the PlayStation 2's best, and Villoria putting them on par with Square's best productions.{{efn|<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="GameProReview"/><ref name="KH2gamespot"/><ref name="KH2gamespy"/>}} The environmental renderings were praised, with special mention going to the Space Paranoids, Timeless River, and Port Royal worlds.{{efn|<ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="GameRevolution"/><ref name="GameZoneRev"/><ref name="KH2ign"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>}} The character models and animations were complimented;{{efn|<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="PALGN"/>}} Villoria and Gann singled out the ''Pirates of the Caribbean'' characters for their realistic quality, and Gann declared the facial designs to be the best he had seen on the PlayStation 2.<ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Haynes admired the main characters' changing appearance depending on the world they are visiting,<ref name="KH2ign"/> and Villoria noted that the enemies were also visually adapted to their environments, which he said granted them personality.<ref name="KH2gamespy"/> The full-motion videos were admired by Albiges, Gann, and Bedigian, and compared by Gann to those of ''[[Final Fantasy XII]]''.<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="GameZoneRev"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Gann was also impressed by the special effects applied in the dream sequences during the prologue, and claimed to be impacted by the "artistic flair that combined the binary/data/static effect with the heartfelt scenes from the first title".<ref name="RPGFanRev"/>
Reviewers praised the soundtrack, which Bedigian described as "An impeccable, unforgettable mixture of classic Disney tracks and new Square Enix themes".{{efn|<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="GameProReview"/><ref name="GameZoneRev"/><ref name="PALGN"/>}} He added that despite the limited nostalgic value of the Disney tunes, they "never get tiring, slightly repetitive, or seem out of place".<ref name="GameZoneRev"/> Gouskos remarked that the presence of some songs from ''[[The Little Mermaid (1989 film)|The Little Mermaid]]'' were the redeeming quality of the Atlantica rhythm minigames, and she considered the music's infectiousness to be "a tribute to how well the music was adapted and integrated into the gameplay".<ref name="KH2gamespot"/> Larsen only criticized some repetitiveness, but noted that the fast-paced action made this hardly noticeable.<ref name="PALGN"/> However, Villoria and Gann were less than impressed; Villoria felt that the soundtrack did not meet the high standard set by the first game, while Gann complained of the synth quality and recycled tracks from the first game. Gann considered the live orchestral and piano recordings to be the best tracks.<ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Mielke (writing for ''[[1Up.com]]'') and Larsen spoke positively of the theme song "Sanctuary", with Mielke calling it "a sublime contribution that grows with each listen" and Larsen deeming it to "have been perfectly crafted to both set and build from the atmosphere of the game".<ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="PALGN"/> Gann, however, faulted what he perceived to be a rushed localization from the equivalent Japanese track "Passion". He elaborated that "Full harmonic backup parts have been cut, and Utada's stand-alone melody sounds flat in English. She stretches syllables to make up for the bouncy melody of the very syllabic Japanese version".<ref name="RPGFanRev"/>
The voice acting was generally commended for its quality and the prestige of its cast.{{efn|<ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="GameProReview"/><ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>}} Christopher Lee's presence in particular was singled out as commanding and show-stealing.<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="KH2gamespot"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Gouskos determined the overall voice acting quality to be excellent, saying that the use of lines from the original Disney films enhanced the sense of immersion, although she identified "one or two bad apples among the bunch", describing [[Jasmine (Aladdin)|Jasmine]] as "screechy". Additionally, she noted that the Square characters were not given an equal level of treatment to the Disney characters; she deplored the "aloof" dialogue for the Square characters, singling out an instance in which ''[[Final Fantasy VIII]]'' antagonist Seifer declares "We totally owned you lamers!".<ref name="KH2gamespot"/> Larsen praised the voice actors' effort, but said that the cutscenes felt longer than they are due to the timing of the spoken dialogue.<ref name="PALGN"/> Haynes felt that many lines fell flat and the incorporation of film dialogue was awkward.<ref name="KH2ign"/> Mielke and Bratcher respectively deemed Mena Suvari's performance as Aerith "pretty dry" and "all wrong".<ref name="KH2-1up"/><ref name="GRadarPlus"/> The absence of the actors from ''Pirates of the Caribbean'' was a source of disappointment, with ''EGM'' describing the sound-alike actor for Jack Sparrow as "iffy at best".<ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="GameZoneRev"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/>
Responses to the narrative were varied, with some reviewers cautioning that the plot would be confusing to those who had not played the previous games.{{efn|<ref name="EuroGamerReview1"/><ref name="GameProReview"/><ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="KH2ign"/><ref name="PALGN"/>}} Haynes, however, assured that the Journal feature provided sufficient context, and added that it had been improved from the first game.<ref name="KH2ign"/> Proponents of the story include Intihar, Bedigian, and Gann, with Bedigian declaring that the game "should be the benchmark of RPG storytelling".<ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="GameZoneRev"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Villoria and Gann said that the frequent cameos were well-handled, and pointed out that the inclusion of Square characters not created by Nomura was an interesting risk,<ref name="KH2gamespy"/><ref name="RPGFanRev"/> though Mielke occasionally felt that the cameos were excessive.<ref name="EGMRev"/> Gann considered the plot to be more cohesive than that of the first, as the Disney worlds held more relevance to the story.<ref name="RPGFanRev"/> Reiner promised that the story would "give you shivers and make your heart leap" despite not being as powerful as the first game.<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/> Mielke complimented Nomura's "eye for epic drama" previously observed in ''[[Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children]]'', which he said "touches you where games like, say, ''God of War'' never will".<ref name="KH2-1up"/> Gouskos said that the interactions with the frequently changing cast of characters made up for the game's lack of challenge.<ref name="KH2gamespot"/> Bettenhausen faulted what he perceived to be a clumsy blend of the serious Square-style narrative and whimsical Disney worlds.<ref name="EGMRev"/> Larsen deemed several lines and scenes unnecessary, and noted a tendency of the characters' more serious speeches to take on an obscure "''[[The Matrix (franchise)|Matrix]]'' sequel-esque" quality.<ref name="PALGN"/> Fischer, likening the general plot to "a long episode of ''[[Quantum Leap (1989 TV series)|Quantum Leap]]'' with permanent guest stars Donald and Goofy", described the storyline as linear and somewhat nonsensical, but "endearing and twisty" enough to hold players' attention.<ref name="GameRevolution"/> Bettenhausen and ''[[GamePro]]''{{'}}s Bones regarded the prologue as dull and slow,<ref name="EGMRev"/><ref name="GameProReview"/> though Reiner lauded its "devilish" plot twist for potentially casting doubt on a desire for Sora's return.<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/> Reiner and Fischer were disappointed by the amount of recycled Disney content from the first game; Reiner, describing most of the Disney-based conflicts as "tacked on" diversions, suggested that Disney restricted Square Enix's ability to create new content.<ref name="KH2gameinformer"/><ref name="GameRevolution"/>
===
The game received numerous awards, including a [[Satellite Award]] in [[11th Satellite Awards|2006]] for "Outstanding Game Based on Existing Medium".<ref name="satellite">{{Cite web |url=https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390163/awards |title=Kingdom Hearts II (2005) (VG) - Awards<!-- Bot generated title --> |website=[[IMDb]] |access-date=June 29, 2018 |archive-date=July 25, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170725075722/http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0390163/awards |url-status=live }}</ref> It tied with ''[[Resident Evil 4]]'' as ''[[Famitsu]]''{{'}}s "Game of the Year" 2005.<ref name="KH2famitsugame05">{{cite magazine| url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2006/04/21/103,1145605197,52094,0,0.html| magazine = [[Famitsu]]| title = Famitsu Awards 2005"大賞は『キングダム ハーツII』と『バイオハザード4』!!| access-date = December 15, 2006| archive-date = January 30, 2017| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170130193856/https://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2006/04/21/103%2C1145605197%2C52094%2C0%2C0.html| url-status = live}}</ref> ''Famitsu''{{'}}s readers ranked the game 29th on their "All Time Top 100" feature,<ref name="KH2japtop100">{{cite magazine| url = http://www.next-gen.biz/features/japan-votes-all-time-top-100| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090730204546/http://www.next-gen.biz/features/japan-votes-all-time-top-100| archive-date = July 30, 2009| title = Japan Votes on All Time Top 100| magazine = [[Edge (magazine)|Edge]] |access-date=September 24, 2008}}</ref> ten places below ''Kingdom Hearts''. It was ranked number one on ''IGN''{{'}}s 2006 "Reader's Choice" for PlayStation 2 games.<ref name="KH2sales2"/> ''[[Eurogamer]]'' ranked it 34th on their "Top 50 Games of 2006" list.<ref>{{cite web| title = Eurogamer's Top 50 Games of 2006: 40 - 31| url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/eurogamers-top-50-games-of-2006-40-31-article| author = Eurogamer staff| publisher = [[Eurogamer]]| date = December 26, 2006| access-date = August 7, 2007| archive-date = October 7, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121007171613/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/eurogamers-top-50-games-of-2006-40-31-article| url-status = live}}</ref> Video game magazine ''[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]]'' awarded it "Best Sequel" of 2006,<ref name="egmbest">{{cite magazine|date=March 2007 |title=Best of 2006 |magazine=[[Electronic Gaming Monthly]] |issue=213 |page=81 |publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]}}</ref> and ''[[Game Informer]]'' listed it among the "Top 50 games of 2006".<ref name="GI#165">{{cite magazine|date=January 2007| title= Top 50 Games of 2006| magazine= [[Game Informer]]| publisher= GameStop| issue= 165| page= 55}}</ref> ''VideoGamer.com'' featured it 10th in their article "Top 10: Role playing games".<ref>{{cite web|first1=Josh|last1=Freund|date=December 27, 2007|url=http://www.videogamer.com/features/article/27-12-2007-232.html|title=Top 10: Role playing games|author2=Yin-Poole, Wesley|work=VideoGamer.com|access-date=March 25, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120806162802/http://www.videogamer.com/pc/wrath_of_the_lich_king/features/article/top_10_role_playing_games.html|archive-date=August 6, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref> ''[[GamePro]]'' named it the 25th best RPG title of all time.<ref>{{cite web | author=GamePro Staff | title=The 26 Best RPGs | url=http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/207777/the-26-best-rpgs/ | publisher=[[GamePro]] |date=November 5, 2008| access-date=March 26, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110205194225/http://www.gamepro.com/article/features/207777/the-26-best-rpgs |archive-date=February 5, 2011 }}</ref> ''Kingdom Hearts II'' also received a near-perfect score, 39/40, from the Japanese gaming magazine ''Famitsu''.<ref name="KH2famitsugrade">{{cite web| first= Josh|last=Freund| date = December 20, 2005| url = http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=5915| title = News — Latest Famitsu review scores — Kingdom Hearts II, Mario & Luigi 2, & more| publisher = GamesAreFun.com |access-date=October 11, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927060901/http://www.gamesarefun.com/news.php?newsid=5915|archive-date=September 27, 2011}}</ref> [[G4 (U.S. TV channel)|G4]] awarded ''Kingdom Hearts II'' "Best Voice Over" and "Best Soundtrack" in their 2006 ''[[G-Phoria]]'' awards show.<ref name="gfourawards">{{cite web| first = Tor| last = Thorsen| publisher = [[GameSpot]]| url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6155587| title = G4 announces G-phoria winners, books Jack Thompson| date = August 10, 2006| access-date = June 15, 2007| archive-date = September 29, 2007| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070929145408/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/rpg/kingdomhearts2/news.html?sid=6155587| url-status = live}}</ref>
The game was ranked the 16th greatest console video game of all time in a 2021 Japanese poll conducted by [[TV Asahi]] which surveyed over 50,000 respondents.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Romano |first=Sal |date=27 December 2021 |title=Over 50,000 Japanese users vote for their favorite console games in TV Asahi poll - Top 100 announced |url=https://www.gematsu.com/2021/12/over-50000-japanese-users-vote-for-their-favorite-console-games-in-tv-asahi-poll-top-100-announced |access-date=27 December 2021 |work=Gematsu}}</ref>
==Versions and merchandise==
{{Further|List of Kingdom Hearts media}}
''Kingdom Hearts II'' has been released in four different versions. The first three are the normal regional releases in Japan, North America, and [[PAL region]]s, which only differ nominally in content editing and localization. The European and Australian PAL releases were reformatted to run at 50 [[Hertz|Hz]] to fit the definition size of [[PAL|PAL encoding systems]].<ref>{{cite web| first = Tom| last = Bramwell| date = November 9, 2006| publisher = [[Eurogamer]]| url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news110906kingdomhearts2| title = Kingdom Hearts 2 borderless| access-date = June 14, 2007| archive-date = January 25, 2009| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20090125135721/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news110906kingdomhearts2| url-status = live}}</ref> The fourth version has additional content and was released under the title ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix''. Like the previous titles, both Square and Disney released numerous types of merchandise before and after the game came out. Merchandise ranged from toys and figurines to clothing items and books. The game has also been adapted into both [[manga]] and novel series. Prior to the game's release, an ''[[Ultimania]]'' book titled ''Kingdom Hearts Series Ultimania α ~Introduction of Kingdom Hearts II~'' came out. It provides extended information on the first two ''Kingdom Hearts'' games, as well as information on the unreleased ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref name="KHS-UltimaniaAlpha">{{cite book| year = 2005| title = Kingdom Hearts Series Ultimania α ~Introduction of Kingdom Hearts II~| publisher = [[Square Enix]]| language = ja| isbn= 4-7575-1597-9| author = Sutajio bento sutaffu.}}</ref> After the release of the game, ''Kingdom Hearts II Ultimania'', which focuses on the game itself, came out. Another book, titled ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+ Ultimania'', was released after the ''Final Mix'' version came out. Released along with ''Final Mix'', ''Kingdom Hearts -Another Report-'' was a hardback book which includes game information, visuals by [[Shiro Amano]], and a director interview.<ref name="Famitsu-AnotherReport">{{cite magazine| magazine = [[Famitsu]]| title = ビジュアルブック『キングダム ハーツ -Another Report-』が予約特典！| url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/01/25/103,1169704450,66102,0,0.html| date = January 25, 2007| language = ja| access-date = July 6, 2007| archive-date = March 23, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120323110542/http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/01/25/103,1169704450,66102,0,0.html| url-status = live}}</ref> In North America, [[BradyGames]] published two strategy guides—a standard guide and a limited edition version. The latter version was available in four different covers and included a copy of Jiminy's Journal along with 400 stickers.<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20060407005665/en/Key-Unlimited-Adventures-Lies-BradyGames-Latest-Collectible| title = The Key to Unlimited Adventures Lies Within Bradygames' Latest Collectible Kingdom Hearts II Strategy Guide Products| date = April 6, 2006| publisher = [[BradyGames]]| access-date = July 6, 2007| archive-date = December 22, 2015| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20151222105148/http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20060407005665/en/Key-Unlimited-Adventures-Lies-BradyGames-Latest-Collectible| url-status = live}}</ref>
===''Final Mix''===
Because the first game was re-released, there was speculation whether [[Tetsuya Nomura]] would do the same with ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref name="KH-NI-Famitsu2">{{cite web|publisher=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania |url=http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Famitsu-2 |title=Nomura Interview Famitsu 2 |access-date=June 19, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070608071333/http://www.kh2.co.uk/?page=NI/Famitsu-2 |archive-date=June 8, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> In a ''[[Weekly Shōnen Jump]]'' interview with Nomura, he expressed interest in a possible [[Video game localization|international version]] of ''Kingdom Hearts II'', although there were no definite plans. He said that should a "Final Mix" version arise, he had a "trump card" in mind, with such features as the Mushroom Heartless found in the first ''Kingdom Hearts'' game.<ref name="finalmix"/> In September 2006, Square Enix announced ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'', featuring new scenes and gameplay elements. Like the first re-release, this version would combine English audio with Japanese text and also use the "Sanctuary" theme song instead of "Passion". New cutscenes, however, used Japanese voice acting, as they mostly featured Organization XIII members from ''Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories'' who did not yet have English voice actors; these scenes were later re-dubbed into English for the ''HD 2.5 Remix'' release.
''Kingdom Hearts II'' was re-released in Japan on March 29, 2007<ref>{{cite web| title = 『キングダム ハーツII ファイナル ミックス＋』が3月29日に発売！| url = http://dol.dengeki.com/data/news/2006/12/28/b347257ab8fed8b41cc749267ca81a6a.html| publisher = Dengeki Online| access-date = September 24, 2008| archive-date = February 29, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120229193801/http://dol.dengeki.com/data/news/2006/12/28/b347257ab8fed8b41cc749267ca81a6a.html| url-status = live}}</ref> as a 2-disc set titled ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+''. The first disc contains ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'' with a new secret movie and additional battles and items.<ref>{{cite magazine| language = ja| title = 『キングダム ハーツII ファイナル ミックス』に新要素が!!| url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/2007/03/23/104,1174620771,68873,0,0.html| magazine = [[Famitsu]]| date = March 24, 2007| access-date = July 6, 2007| archive-date = October 22, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121022125327/http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/2007/03/23/104,1174620771,68873,0,0.html| url-status = live}}</ref> The second disc contains ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'', a 3D PlayStation 2 remake of ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' with extra scenes and voice acting. The battle system maintains the card gameplay, with the addition of Reaction Commands from ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref name="KH2diskset">{{cite magazine| url = http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/51ae7e30-ccfe-4dc2-9a46-47b0e7fd29b0.htm| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070101085842/http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/51ae7e30-ccfe-4dc2-9a46-47b0e7fd29b0.htm| archive-date = January 1, 2007| title = TGS06: Dissecting The Square Enix Trailer| magazine= [[Game Informer]]| url-status = dead| access-date=December 29, 2006}}</ref> Like the first game's Final Mix, the two games serve as a [[canon (fiction)|canonical]] update to the series. The book ''Kingdom Hearts -Another Report-'' was included along with the game for those who reserved a copy.<ref name="Famitsu-AnotherReport"/> Based on [[Amazon.com]] figures, ''Final Mix+'' was the number one PlayStation 2 game in sales during the week of its release in Japan.<ref>{{cite web| first = David| last = Jenkins| date = March 30, 2007| title = Industry News: Puzzle Quest, C&C 3 Jump High In Amazon Charts| publisher = [[Gamasutra]]| url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=13306| access-date = July 6, 2007| archive-date = October 19, 2012| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121019010135/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=13306| url-status = dead}}</ref> Nomura cited the presence of ''Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories'' to explain why ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix+'' was so popular.<ref name="bbs">{{cite book |script-title=ja:キングダム ハーツ バース バイ スリープ アルティマニア|year=2010 |isbn=978-4-7575-2788-1 |language=ja | publisher=Square-Enix }}</ref> Nevertheless, in a ''Famitsu'' poll in July 2011, ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'' was voted the most popular entry so far.<ref name="famitsupoll">{{cite web |title=Famitsu's Readers Want Kingdom Hearts on PS3 |url=http://andriasang.com/comwze/kingdom_hearts_survey// |author=Gantayat, Anoop |work=Andriasang |date=July 13, 2011 |access-date=July 13, 2011 |archive-date=September 30, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120930235152/http://andriasang.com/comwze/kingdom_hearts_survey/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
It was released for the first time outside Japan as part of ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix]]''.<ref name="HD 2.5 Remix">{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/14/kingdom-hearts-hd-25-remix-coming-to-ps3-in-2014|title=Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix coming to PS3 in 2014|last=Karmali|first=Luke|publisher=IGN|date=October 14, 2013|access-date=October 14, 2013|archive-date=October 14, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131014105959/http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/10/14/kingdom-hearts-hd-25-remix-coming-to-ps3-in-2014|url-status=live}}</ref>
===Printed adaptations===
A manga series based on the game started its serialization in the June 2006 issue of the magazine ''[[Monthly Shōnen Gangan]]'', published by Square Enix. The artist is Shiro Amano, who also did the ''Kingdom Hearts'' and ''Chain of Memories'' manga series. The first volume was released in Japan in December 2006.<ref>{{cite book| language = ja| title = キングダムハーツ2 1 (1) (コミック)| id = {{ASIN|4757518323|country=jp}} {{ASIN|4757518323|country=jp}}}}</ref> As a result of Amano working in the ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days]]'' manga, the series has been on hiatus and resumed publication in October 2012.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-08-11/kingdom-hearts-ii-manga-to-return-in-japan|title=Kingdom Hearts II Manga to Return in Japan|publisher=Anime News Network|date=August 11, 2012|access-date=August 12, 2012|archive-date=August 13, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120813174612/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2012-08-11/kingdom-hearts-ii-manga-to-return-in-japan|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Tokyopop]] licensed the manga and released volume one in North America on July 3, 2007.<ref name="KH2-1-Manga">{{cite book| title = Kingdom Hearts II Volume 1 (Kingdom Hearts (Graphic Novels)) (Paperback)| date = July 10, 2007| publisher = [[Amazon.com]]| isbn = 978-1427800589| url-access = registration| url = https://archive.org/details/isbn_9781427807816}}</ref> The second volume was released the following year.
The game has also been novelized by Tomoco Kanemaki and illustrated by Shiro Amano. The first volume, titled "Roxas—Seven Days", was released on April 22, 2006<ref>{{cite book| title = Game Novels キングダム ハーツII Vol.1 Roxas-Sevendays (単行本)| year = 2006| publisher = [[Amazon.com]]| language = ja|isbn=4757516797 }}</ref> and covers Roxas' story to when Sora wakes up and leaves Twilight Town. The novel depicts extra scenes that were added in the ''Final Mix'' version, such as interaction between Organization XIII members and between Axel, Naminé, and Riku. The second book, "The Destruction of Hollow Bastion", was released on July 16, 2006,<ref>{{cite book| title = Game Novels キングダム ハーツII Vol.2 The Destruction of Hollow Bastion (新書)| date = July 2006| publisher = [[Amazon.com]]| language = ja|isbn=4757517157 }}</ref> the third book, "Tears of Nobody", revolving around Roxas' past, was released on September 29, 2006,<ref>{{cite book| title = Game Novels キングダム ハーツII Vol.3 Tears of Nobody (新書)| date = September 2006| publisher = [[Amazon.com]]| language = ja|isbn=4757517920 }}</ref> and the fourth book, "Anthem—Meet Again/Axel Last Stand", came out in February 2007.<ref>{{cite book| title = Game Novels キングダム ハーツII Vol.4 Anthem-Meet Again/Axel Last Stand (単行本)| date = February 2007| publisher = [[Amazon.com]]| language = ja|isbn=978-4757519640 }}</ref>
===''HD 2.5 Remix''===
{{Main|Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix}}
In the credits of ''HD 1.5 Remix'', clips of ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'' were shown, hinting at its inclusion in another collection.<ref name="HD 2.5 Remix" /> On October 14, 2013, Square Enix announced ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix]]'', a second compilation exclusively for the PlayStation 3 after ''[[Kingdom Hearts HD 1.5 Remix|HD 1.5 Remix]]'', that includes both ''Kingdom Hearts II Final Mix'' and ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep Final Mix]]'' in HD and trophy support. Additionally, the collection includes HD cinematic scenes from ''[[Kingdom Hearts coded#Kingdom Hearts Re:coded|Kingdom Hearts Re:coded]]'' and was released in Japan on October 2, 2014,<ref name="HD 2.5 Remix" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.siliconera.com/2014/06/06/kingdom-hearts-2-5-hd-remix-arrives-japan-october-collectors-pack/|title=Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix Heads To Japan In October With A Collector's Pack|author=Spencer|publisher=Siliconera|date=June 6, 2014|access-date=June 6, 2014|archive-date=June 8, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140608004022/http://www.siliconera.com/2014/06/06/kingdom-hearts-2-5-hd-remix-arrives-japan-october-collectors-pack/|url-status=live}}</ref> North America on December 2, 2014, Australia on December 4, 2014, and Europe on December 5, 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/06/06/ps3as-kingdom-hearts-hd-25-remix-gets-a-release-date|title=PS3'S Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX Gets A Release Date|last=Moriarty|first=Colin|publisher=IGN|date=June 5, 2014|access-date=June 5, 2014|archive-date=June 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140606220155/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/06/06/ps3as-kingdom-hearts-hd-25-remix-gets-a-release-date|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.hardcoregamer.com/2014/11/26/kingdom-hearts-hd-2-5-remix-gets-two-new-trailers/119351/ |title=Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX Gets Two New Trailers |first=James |last=Kozanitis |date=November 26, 2014 |website=Hardcore Gamer |access-date=July 15, 2019 |archive-date=July 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190715143513/https://www.hardcoregamer.com/2014/11/26/kingdom-hearts-hd-2-5-remix-gets-two-new-trailers/119351/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
==See also==
* [[List of Disney video games]]
==
{{Notelist}}
==References==
{{Reflist}}
==External links==
{{Wikiquote|Kingdom Hearts II}}
* [
* [http://www.
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070323000613/http://
* {{IMDb title|0390163}}
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