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What do you get?
Apart from the pride of having your very own articles published on a website receiving in excess of 10,000 unique visitors every day, you will be able to earn your way up the Thekingdomhearts.com staff ladder; posters having many articles approved by the TKH administration will be promoted to higher and higher positions, and you could potentially gain the prestige of become an administrator of the site or forums. You will also be able to use your experience for future jobs; the owner of this website, Alex, gained admittance to university in part by referencing his knowledge of the internet and experience in managing web sites.

If you are interested contact me on the forums(Username is Kaito) or email me at Dakota@Thekingdomhearts.com

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New scans from the French Magazine, Role Playing Game No.7 have been made available. Scroll down below the images for the Translation of the Scans.

Thanks to KHIsland.info , KH-Network and to Riku for translating the Scans!

Riku Edit: Very well, here we go with the translation. There is some new stuff in here so do read it. Only took 7 hours:

Page 10”
Kingdom Hearts quickly became a top franchise of Square Enix; it was therefore logical that this series would arrive on the two main portable consoles of the market. The DS will follow the short life of Roxas in 358/2 Days, while the PSP will be entitled to the prequel Birth by Sleep. Which, of the small nomad of the double screen of Nintendo or of the technological animal of Sony, will hold the most responsive reception with this mixture, which was still unlikely a few years ago, of Disney films and Final Fantasy?”
—————————BIRTH BY SLEEP

Realisation
“Birth by Sleep, co-realised by Tai Yasue, is developed by the same team that was in charge of Re: Chain of Memories; although its production had begun first, it will be the last of the three new projects to be released. Technically, the name Birth by Sleep is therefore a bluff, and the graphics should appear as beautiful and animated as well as Kingdom Hearts II! Aspects dedicated to the PSP will include new Disney worlds, such as those of Sleeping Beauty, Snow-White and Cinderella (the remaining Princesses of Heart it seems), as well as surprising training courses… Birth by Sleep being held a few years before the first adventures of Sora, certain worlds will take this into account; for example, one can expect to see an adolescent Hercules in Olympus Coliseum.”

Gameplay
“Following the example scenario, the gameplay will differ according to the character: Terra will impress us with his power; Ven will be the most agile, while Aqua undoubtedly proves the specialist of forces/magic. The combat menu conceals a new gauge, Command, which fills up by attacking and is executed by pressing Circle or Triangle (the actions associated with this button are modifiable) and gives access to additional techniques; for example, Terra will be able to enter into Fatal Mode to carry out combos and then finish with devastating move. Another change, the MP disappears; certain magic will require a time of loading and can be launched only when their gauge is full. The progression system (which is still quite mysterious) and some of the enemies will also be new…”

Music
“Once more, Yoko Shimomura will compose her memorable, melancholic music to accompany the journeys of Terra, Ven (which has been said to be an abbreviation of the name of this character, who is undoubtedly called Ventus) and Aqua. As new software for creating the music is a priority, including only a few elements of the previous software, the majority of the pieces should be new. It would be logical that the theme of the secret ending of Kingdom Hearts II: Final Mix+, precisely entitled Birth by Sleep(Riku: Or Fate of the Unknown I think they’ll find), would be the primary theme of the new soundtrack… Moreover, one will discover doubtless arrangements of the melodies representative of each new Disney world - unless, as for The Lion King in Kingdom Hearts II, the artists (Riku: Disney composers) offer compositions of their own.”

Scenario
“This dark and complex adventure will be divided into three scenarios which you will be able to make in the order of your choice. You will therefore follow the destinies of the three main friends, each able to wield a Keyblade: the warrior Terra, Ven, the double of Roxas (this mystery will be explained in the game), and Aqua, the young girl with the blue hair. The epic story will proceed well before the events of Kingdom Hearts I, when Sora, Riku and Kairi, were still children. Terra is seen overseeing them with Ven, and in the company of Yen Sid, Donald and Pluto. This chapter will raise the subject of the War of Keyblades, the capacities of their owners and, undoubtedly, the origins of the amnesic disciple of Ansem the Wise…”

Page 11358/2 DAYS

Realisation
“Conceived by the studio h.a.n.d. Inc. (Chocobo Tales) and co-directed by Tomohiro Hasegawa (Final Fantasy VIII, Kingdom Hearts), Nomura obviously heading all the projects related to its series, 358/2 Days profits from a fine and detailed realisation all in 3D, with fluid animation. As for the cut-scenes, they do not diminish in comparison with those of the second episode. Definitely, the DS will not finish astonishing us… The keys L and R will make it possible to direct the camera in order to better locate enemies and to explore the locations; the latter accurately take on the environments of the preceding worlds, such as the World That Never Was, Twilight Town, Agrabah, Olympus Coliseum or Wonderland - As a priority, the title will not accomodate a new universe.”

Gameplay
“As a great innovation, the DS will comprise a multiplayer mode where one can direct the members of Organisation XIII! These missions with the varied objectives will be independent of the scenario, and each character will possess their own forces and weaknesses. The lower screen will post the chart, but a chat system may also be included; on the other hand, the tactile functionalities of the console do not appear to be exploited. In solo mode, Roxas will have as a daily task to fight the Heartless in various worlds and then to return to the World That Never Was. The combat menu and the actions are the same as the previous games, like jumping and gliding, blocking, etc… Lastly, Nomura promises that the systems of level-up and personalisation will allow great freedom.”

Music
“Like the other epic chapters of the Kingdom Hearts saga, the music of 358/2 Days will most likely be written by talented Yoko Shimomura which, definitely, often works with Tetsuya Nomura - moreover, the great woman also occupies the position of composer for much-awaited Final Fantasy Versus XIII. On the other hand, even because of the scenario, there will be few new pieces, while it will often be more likely to hear the themes of the Organization and Roxas… which won’t displease us! New worlds are also quite unlikely with the program as it is, so there are strong chances that the music of the Disney worlds visited in Kingdom Hearts I and II will be brought back, as that had been the case in Chain of Memories.”

Scenario
“Imagined by Daisuke Watanabe, like that of PSP games, the history of 358/2 Days reveals a year in the life of Roxas, his establishment in Organization XIII, his escape and his fateful duel against Riku. These events remained covered with mysteries or were only seen briefly; the fans waited impatiently for more on Roxas and his relations with his former colleagues. The plots of the charismatic members of Organization will therefore be presented in more detail. We will also discover what makes the Organization change the name of the group… (Riku: Referring to the mysterious 14th member) The story will therefore show many revelations on some of the most important characters of the series.”

—————————”

You have to like these two episodes of a series which doesn’t cease growing : an enthralling scenario, promising gameplay, a technical realisation of impressive actions and attractive characters. However, the DS game of Kingdom Hearts will not really quench the thirst for innovations of some players, as its worlds, its music and undoubtedly the majority of its characters are already known. On the contrary, the PSP game brings on the innovation and will finally clarify some of the enigmas which have puzzled us since the first chapter; for this reason, it is even more awaited than the adventure of Roxas.”

Page 14

KINGDOM HEARTS: CODED
“Fans of the lovable trio made up of the brown-dishevelled-haired Sora, Donald Duck and Goofy should be delighted, as episodes of Kingdom Hearts go portable and the series attacks mobile phones (Riku: I’m still fairly sure this will only be available in Japan). A digitised version of Sora will be thrown into a virtual world to eliminate all the bugs which cover its memory like dust; the game will include a mixture of 2D and 3D and may support vibrating when performing certain actions, following examples of other mobile phone games. Kingdom Hearts: Coded should logically be released this year, and there’s a rumour of there being a new world; we’ll see…”

Credit goes to Riku from KingdomHearts3.net

In preparation for this years Jump Festa event in a couple of days, Square-Enix has updated 358/2 Days’ official website. Not long ago, it was confirmed that 358/2 Days will be playable, (in single AND multiplayer mode), and for the lucky people attending, Square-Enix has issued instructions on how to play the game, and the various controls. The site also explains that units are set up for two to four people to experience the game. If you are interested, see for yourself at this link:

http://www.square-enix.co.jp/kingdom/days/

Translations from the website:

Single Player: Control Roxas
Multi-Player: Control Roxas, Axel, Saix, and Xigbar.
L: Move camera left.
R: Move camera right.
L or R Twice: Camera resets behind player.
L+R: Lock-On.
D-Pad: Control Character.
X: Scroll Through Command List (Attack, Magic, Item).
A: Perform Command.
B: Jump. Double tap for Double Jump. Press with direction after jumping once to Air Slide.
Y: Reflect Guard. Press with direction for Dodge Roll. After jumping press with direction to glide.
Start: Pause

Also, there has been another scan released following the two posted up yesterday. The third can be seen by clicking this link. Expect the latest information from Jump Festa very soon.

After a long, long time, something new has finally cropped up. This weekend is the Jump Festa event, and here are two new teaser screenshots; one even containing the cabin as featured in ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’? The scans are being translated as I type this, so expect the translations and even more news from the Jump Festa very soon…

http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m274/bekkiglittz/61161020071219_180549_0_big.jpg

 http://i106.photobucket.com/albums/m274/bekkiglittz/61171120071219_181227_0_big.jpg

In other (not as important) news, I thought I would mention that KH2FM+ has been nominated for Famitsu’s ‘Game of the Year’ - in competition with over 300 over titles. Last year, ‘Final Fantasy 12′ won the honour, so could another Square-Enix game win this year? It was well-received in Japan, so there’s a chance, but if you can understand Japanese, then click the link below to cast your vote if you’d like.

 http://www.famitsu.com/sp/071214_awards2007/

Well guys, the long awaited extended trailer of Versus 13 has been launched, and as well, the net will be uploading as well the trailers for Birth By Sleep, 362/52 days and Coded for sometime before Christmas, so be sure to check us.

Final Fantasy Versus 13 Video 

Download!

Eh?

In an interview with CNET Japan, Square Enix president Youichi Wada talked about his company’s future strategy and the state of the overall game industry. Wada apparently is content with the industry’s current state, saying all segments (software, hardware as well as the arcade business) are performing very well. Asked about the three next-generation consoles, Wada explained the Wii was so successful, because it was different from PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Wada considers the Xbox 360 exactly the opposite of the Wii, namely a game machine targeting the hardcore audience. As for PlayStation 3, the Square Enix president said he still wasn’t sure yet where Sony Computer Entertainment wants to position the system. Therefore, he wants Sony to clearly define, whether PlayStation 3 is marketed as a game machine or a high-powered consumer electronics product.

Asked about downloadable content, Wada argued that it would become a standard feature in the future, as a shift from purchasing content in a real store to buying it online is occurring. While he views this shift as irreversible, he seems convinced that it won’t be the end of the retail business. While Wada apparently believes it would be difficult to offer downloadable content for the DS, given the handheld’s current lack of storage space, he apparently has high hopes for the future of downloadable content on PlayStation Portable.

Wada disputed his interview partner’s suggestion that Square Enix had recently released a lot of sequels and remakes, by saying both sequels to existing IPs and original games were necessary to grow the business. He explained 60% of Square Enix’s profits came from existing IPs, whereas 40% were generated by original titles. He also refuted the common held perception that Square Enix was overly dependent on its flagship Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest series, saying they accounted for less than 50% of the profit. And while the company was trying to further reduce its dependence on these franchises, he remarked people kept asking about new installments of either series.

He was also bullish about Square Enix’s position in the game center business. Through its ownership of struggling Taito, the company has gained a strong foothold in this sector and after some initial restructuring, the future apparently looks bright, as Wada sees a widening gap between Taito and its competitors.

Looking ahead, Square Enix’s top executive wants to establish Square Enix as the top company in the game business. While he admitted it would be difficult to achieve this goal within a five year time period, he was confident that the company will belong to the top 3 in five years.

Let’s hope Sony responds.

Source: Kingdomhearts3.net

Hello everyone, it seems that today the offical website for 358/2 days has been updated. The news is that they will be some kind of a demo of 358/2 days.

The demo will not only let you be in single player but, multi player mode too!

358/2 days Translation:

“Corner Installation of Jump Festa 2008 is now decided. There will be an demo corner for Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days on December 22nd and December 23rd by the Square-Enix Booth. The two modes set up will be a Multiplayer mode for 2-4 people, and a Single Player mode. Also a present is prepared for those who stop by, so come by all means!”

Just minutes after confirming the existence of a Dissidia: Final Fantasy demo at Jump Festa 2008, Square Enix have now announced that a demo of Kingdom Hearts: 358/2 Days will be available during the upcoming event.

Good news: Square-Enix will be showing the trailers at this years Jump Festa.

Bad news: They will be screened in a closed theatre.

Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (NDS): New trailer in Closed Mega Theater

Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep (PSP): New trailer in Closed Mega Theater

Kingdom Hearts Coded (Mobile): New trailer in Closed Mega Theater

http://www.square-enix.co.jp/jf08/titles/khbbs/index.html

Translation: (With a few tweaks) BIRTH BY SLEEP~

“The magnificent story of the beginning of KINGDOM HEARTS, that leads to a story of awakening.”

The graphics representation of the PlayStation Portable is that of high strength and capacity, which will maximise the use of a new three-person protagonist system as shown in the three scenarios to pick from. This system is operational, and the graphics now adhere to the series, while further use with the new sensory system will keep a mix of a new and old feel!

http://www.square-enix.co.jp/jf08/titles/khdays/index.html

Translation: (With a few tweaks) 358/2 DAYS~

“XIIIth Order No. 13 Roxas. Another story of a Hero fully revealed.”

Organisation XIII institutes a new thirteenth member—Roxas; another hero of the story which will appear on the Nintendo DS. This game’s latest developments is scheduled to be shown at Jump Festa. For additional information, please wait for the next update.

http://www.square-enix.co.jp/jf08/titles/khcoded/

Translation: (With a few tweaks) CODED~

“In an infinite Disney world, the mobile phone will deliver its own format! Adventure in the miniature Garden, and more rich in variety!”

This game is expressed with High-End visuals for the Mobile Phone, and the graphics are to the point where it is not inferior to a gaming system. The latest image is disclosed, but expect it by all means.

Other Kingdom Hearts goods to feature at the Jump Festa are: KINGDOM HEARTS KEY BLADE KEY HOLDERS, but I think the majority have already seen them. If anybody wants to know what else Square-Enix will be unveiling at Jump Festa then go here: http://www.square-enix.co.jp/jf08/

Hey guys!

Well, I thought it would be pretty fun to have a little Video Contest. All you have to do is create a Trailer or an AMV, and like any contest there are certain rules you must abide:

•  It has to be either a trailer or AMV
•  The video clips have to be of Kingdom Hearts.
•  I’m sure you’ve got a creative imagination, use it, and don’t steal other people’s works!
•  I will start accepting submissions on December 1st.
•  I would like the music to be appropriate, not obscene, or anything of the such.
•  You can upload in anyway (i.e. Youtube.) but please provide a download incase your video is chosen.
•  Lastly, have fun!

When you submit your video, make sure to e-mail to me at: khfreak7@gmail.com be sure to make the subject/title of the e-mail “TKH video contest submission”. Point out wether it’s a trailer or an AMV, and also (of course) please provide a link.