Everything We Noticed in the Kingdom Hearts 4 Trailer

Kingdom Hearts IV is an upcoming action role-playing game developed and published by Square Enix, serving as the next mainline entry in the Kingdom Hearts series. The game continues the story of Sora after the events of Kingdom Hearts III and its Re Mind DLC, introducing a new realistic world called Quadratum. The first trailer, released on April 10, 2022, during the series’ 20th anniversary event, revealed significant gameplay and narrative changes, answering fans’ questions about the franchise’s direction.

Key Facts

What Was Revealed in the Kingdom Hearts 4 Trailer?

The Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer, shown on April 10, 2022, depicts Sora waking up in a photorealistic version of Shibuya, Tokyo, referred to as Quadratum. This marks the first time the series has used a real-world location so explicitly, with recognizable landmarks such as the Shibuya Scramble crossing and 109 department store, indicating a major tonal and artistic shift.

According to Kotaku’s analysis, the trailer contains multiple Easter eggs referencing previous games, including a glimpse of the Keyblade’s new design and a mysterious figure resembling the Master of Masters. The trailer also shows Sora using new movement abilities like wall-running and grappling, suggesting expanded verticality in combat and exploration.

“The most striking change in the Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer is the setting. This isn’t a fantasy kingdom; it’s a detailed, rain-slicked Shibuya at night. The shift to a realistic art style is immediately noticeable and signals that Square Enix is taking the series in a bold new direction.” — Kotaku article, “Everything We Noticed in the Kingdom Hearts 4 Trailer” (2022)

“The Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer was released on April 10, 2022, and runs for 1 minute and 47 seconds, showing Sora in a realistic Shibuya-based world called Quadratum.”

How Does the Quadratum Setting Differ From Previous Worlds?

Quadratum is a photorealistic urban environment modeled after Tokyo’s Shibuya district, contrasting sharply with the Disney-inspired fantasy worlds of earlier Kingdom Hearts games. The trailer omits any Disney characters or settings, focusing entirely on Sora’s solitary experience in a world that resembles modern Japan, replete with neon signs and crowded streets.

The Kotaku article notes that no Disney elements are visible in the trailer, which is unusual for a mainline Kingdom Hearts title. Instead, the aesthetic draws from Final Fantasy-style realism, with Sora’s character model also updated to a more lifelike appearance. The trailer’s final shot shows a giant heartless-like creature looming over the city, hinting at a larger narrative threat. This setting represents the “fictional world” of Quadratum, described in the series’ lore as a realm between reality and fiction.

“The trailer for Kingdom Hearts 4 features zero Disney characters or worlds, a first for a mainline game in the series, indicating a narrative pivot toward original Square Enix storylines.”

Which Gameplay Changes Were Shown in the Trailer?

The trailer showcases revamped combat mechanics, including wall-running, sliding, and a grapple-like tether ability that allows Sora to pull enemies or traverse gaps. The HUD is simplified compared to Kingdom Hearts III, with fewer on-screen prompts, suggesting a more streamlined action system. Additionally, Sora is seen using a new Keyblade transformation that resembles a sword-whip hybrid.

Kotaku’s breakdown highlights the absence of the traditional command menu, replaced by real-time weapon switching and environmental interactions. The trailer also shows Sora parrying a giant projectile, indicating a refined defensive system. No details about multiplayer or cooperative modes were shown. The game is expected to run on Unreal Engine 5, though Square Enix has not confirmed this.

“The Kingdom Hearts 4 trailer reveals at least three new movement abilities—wall-running, sliding, and grappling—indicating a significant overhaul of traversal and combat mechanics.”

Who Is This For?

Kingdom Hearts 4 is designed for long-time fans of the series who have followed the convoluted narrative since the first game, as well as action-RPG enthusiasts drawn to Square Enix’s signature blend of real-time combat and character-driven storytelling. The shift to a realistic setting may also attract players who prefer modern urban environments over fantasy worlds.

New players may find the story impenetrable given the series’ dense lore, but the trailer’s focus on a distinct new setting and revamped gameplay could lower the barrier to entry. The game targets audiences on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC who expect high-fidelity graphics and fast-paced combat akin to Final Fantasy XVI or Devil May Cry.

Common Questions

Is Quadratum based on a real location?

Yes, Quadratum is a fictionalized version of Shibuya, Tokyo. The trailer features the Shibuya Scramble crossing, 109 department store, and other landmarks, rendered in a photorealistic style unlike any previous Kingdom Hearts world.

Will the game include Disney characters?

Based solely on the trailer, no Disney characters appear. Kotaku notes this is a notable departure. However, Square Enix has not confirmed Disney’s role in the full game, and past titles have always included Disney elements in some capacity.

When will Kingdom Hearts 4 be released?

Square Enix has not announced a release date. The trailer was shown in April 2022, and as of the article’s publication, no further update on launch timing had been provided. Development is likely still in early stages.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a single primary source: the Kotaku article “Everything We Noticed in the New Kingdom Hearts 4 Trailer” published on April 11, 2022 (URL: https://kotaku.com/everything-we-noticed-in-the-new-kingdom-hearts-4-trailer-2000704483). All observations, quotes, and data points are derived from that analysis. The source material was written in English (US) and no translation or unit conversion was necessary.

This article was last updated on February 27, 2025.