New Kingdom Hearts III trailer details transforming 'Keyblades' and ship combat

Kingdom Hearts III is coming to Xbox One on January 29, 2019 with Xbox One X enhancements in tow. Some reviews are already out and it looks like Square Enix has another winner on its hands. Many players — especially those on Xbox One — may be unfamiliar with the combat because this is the first Kingdom Hearts game to hit the console. Luckily, the publisher released an overview video discussing elements like "Keyblades" and much more.

The new footage also gives us a taste of the "Gummi Ship" and how to increase its speed, shield, firepower, and modify its design. You have to pilot the craft through Disney-inspired mini-games.

As the Heartless invade the universe, players must prepare Sora and his friends to protect the Disney and Pixar worlds against darkness and unlock the mysterious power of the Keyblades, which only the strong of heart can wield. For the first time in the Kingdom Hearts series, the Keyblades have the ability to transform into different forms with powerful new abilities and dazzling attacks inspired by the characters and elements of each world.

That's not all though. Players can also learn how to use elemental magic for offensive and defensive purposes, such as creating ice slides and wind vortexes. Lastly, taking the form of classic Disney theme park rides, players can utilize the power of "Attractions."

Kingdom Hearts III is an action role-playing game that combines the universes of various Disney franchises and Final Fantasy. It sounds almost like it shouldn't work, but somehow, it just does, and the franchise has won itself millions of fans across the world. This is the latest entry in this long-running series which has been mostly exclusive to Nintendo and PlayStation systems up until now.

Asher Madan

Asher Madan handles gaming news for Windows Central. Before joining Windows Central in 2017, Asher worked for a number of different gaming outlets. He has a background in medical science and is passionate about all forms of entertainment, cooking, and antiquing.