Kingdom Hearts is a vast series that mixes Disney characters with Final Fantasy to create something that stands on its own. However, the games have had some noticeable changes since the original release over two decades ago. With the release of Kingdom Hearts 1.5+2.5 Remix, you can jump right into the series with the first six titles all bundled together.

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The differences between the original games and their Final Mix versions vary, but overall the games are a complete experience no matter what version you play. Here's what to keep in mind when playing Kingdom Hearts vs Kingdom Hearts Final Mix.

Kingdom Hearts Final Mix Differences

The Final Mix version of the original Kingdom Hearts is different from the start, as the artwork on the title screen features a hooded version of Sora with a flag while the original release showed Sora standing in the waves holding a stick while eating a fish.

There are three difficulties for Final Mix: Beginner, Standard, and Proud. Each is more difficult than the last, with Proud thoroughly testing your skills as the Keyblade wielder. Battles in the Gummi Ship are harder in the Final Mix versions, and there are more missions to complete as you play.

Additionally, many Heartless have been recolored with new, vibrant palettes. There are also new Heartless introduced, including the Chimera, Gigas Shadow, and Pot Scorpion. A boss called the Unknown appears in Hollow Bastion despite not being included in the original release.

New abilities and accessories were added as well to help combat these powerful foes.

Sora, Donald, and Goofy each gain two new weapons.

The story is also fleshed out more through newly added cutscenes, though not all of these are voiced, and Ansem Reports. They fill in the gaps between moments in the original release where details were left to the imagination.

The secret ending movie (Another Side, Another Story [deep dive]) was expanded as well for the final mix release, hinting at the future of the series.

Unlocking it requires you to either complete the game on Final Mix: Proud difficulty or complete several objectives in the standard difficulty.

Best of all, the Final Mix version allows you to skip cutscenes. No more will you have to watch the boss's monologue every time you go to challenge them!

Kingdom Hearts 2 Final Mix Differences

Kingdom Hearts 2 Final Mix introduces Critical Mode, the most intense and punishing difficulty in the game. Many of the Heartless have been recolored as well, mirroring their Kingdom Hearts Final Mix appearances.

New boss fights are added, including transforming a cutscene towards the end of the game into a fully-playable boss battle. A majority of these new fights are found in the Cavern of Remembrance in Radiant Garden, though you'll have to fight your way there first.

Additionally, the Lingering Will can be challenged in Disney Castle, and it's considered to be the most challenging fight in the game.

Additional cutscenes clear up a few story details surrounding Organization XIII, Naminé, and and Riku with redefined textures that improve the quality overall. The Final Mix release also features a puzzle mini-game where you can assemble works of art and unlock new items.

Finally, Sora unlocks a new Drive Form called Limit Form, which resembles his attire from the original game and allows him to use similar abilities.

Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Final Mix Differences

Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep Final Remix added Critical Mode as a difficulty for those who wanted a greater challenge, as well as several new bosses in the Mirage Arena. The Unversed received a palette swap as well, where the signature Flood is purple instead of blue.

Mechanics such as the Sticker Album were added, and other mini-games received additional content such a new Rumble Racing Track and Command Board.

Pete was added as a Dimension Link.

New commands and command styles were added to spice up combat and a secret scene was added at the end of the game. As opposed to watching cutscenes of the event, players can experience the lost chapter on their own.

Is There A Kingdom Hearts 3 Final Mix?

Technically, no. Kingdom Hearts 3 did not receive the Final Mix treatment due to its global release. However, it did receive DLC in the form of Re:Mind that added a secret chapter at the end of the game.

This chapter includes several new boss fights and a preview into the direction the series will go.

Additionally, you can replay sections of the game as characters other than Sora and explore another side of the story post-game. This doesn't count as being a Final Mix release, but it does feel similar.

A free update released around the same time added new features like EZ Codes and Pro Codes that impact gameplay.

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