Yasue talks HD 2.5 ReMIX additions, teasers, trophies & Kingdom Hearts III progress

[roxion 42]

Square Enix is extra secretive with its coveted Kingdom Hearts franchise, but we were able to interview co-director Tai Yasue, who's currently working on Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 Remix. The collection includes the Final Mix for Kingdom Hearts II and Birth By Sleep, on top of updated cutscenes from Re:coded. Yasue not only offered insight into Kingdom Hearts 2.5, but he also shared how development on Kingdom Hearts III is coming along.

Did you take any fan feedback from Kingdom Hearts 1.5 into account that influenced Kingdom Hearts 2.5?

Actually with 1.5, there weren't a lot of complaints. There usually is, right? But one thing there was from more of our Japanese players was for the [theater mode]; they wanted more battle scenes. They wanted to see the battle scenes. So, we put a lot of battle scenes in Re:coded  and we made them have cutscenes. They're not real-time battles, but they're actually made like an action movie, sort of. You get a whole new understanding of the story that way.

I read that with Re:coded, you added more scenes and there was one that was going to transition more into Dream Drop Distance? Is that true?

Actually, not the secret...Well, there's actually a secret event at the end, right? But that doesn't transition - well, actually - how do you know that? It sort of does connect to other Kingdom Hearts titles, so you get to know about the backstory, how they started maybe, and what happened at the other end where there wasn't really much of an explanation. You get a fuller understanding if you watch it all; it gets added at the very end so you can see that.

Westerners are going to finally get to play the Final Mix versions of Kingdom Hearts II and Birth By Sleep, but outside of that, what other additions are there?

I think the big thing is Re:coded and the Final Mix, because it was really well received in Japan. We really wanted our American and European fanbase to play that. There are a lot of boss scenes added, there are [Mushroom Heartless XIII] missions in Kingdom Hearts II, and a lot of forms added in Kingdom Hearts II that should be really enjoyable. Also, for Birth By Sleep, there's a secret episode at the very end where Aqua has an adventure in the realm of Dark and [it has] a boss and a lot of stages, so that should be enjoyable.

A lot of the things I love about Kingdom Hearts were in the Final Mix version. Right now I'm attempting to fight Roxas... He's very strong and I'm fighting him in the critical mode, which is very difficult, [but] I get a lot of satisfaction. For the hardcore gamers, I think that would be very enjoyable; you need a lot of strategy. Also, Lingering Will. Lingering Will is an armored guy who is a manifestation of Terra in Birth By Sleep. His weapons actually transform into different shapes. A lot of our Japanese players say that is one of the most intense battles in Kingdom Hearts.

The multiplayer for Birth By Sleep isn't going to be included. Why was that decision made?

That's right. We get that a lot. We didn't get that much feedback like that from our Japanese players, but I guess in the European and American market I think multiplayer is important, so we did take that into consideration. But for the Mirage Arena, we took [our] schedule into consideration. We were actually developing Kingdom Hearts III and 2.5 at the same time, and it's very difficult. There was a point where we wanted to switch our resources to Kingdom Hearts III and get that moving faster, so we didn't put the multiplayer in. But we actually left the Mirage Arena world, so you can enjoy the stage using single-player mode. We readjusted the battles and the enemies for single player. We added a game-specific rule where there's a challenge mode for each battle that wasn't in the original multiplayer mode and you get bonus medals for that. And also the A.I., we tweaked that, especially the ones at the end. The end A.I. are more complex, intelligent, and quicker. Also, there were a lot of long battles and in single-player mode that can get stressful, so we adjusted that, so it doesn't take that much time. [They're] shorter battles, but more advanced.

Have you thought of doing anything with Dream Drop Distance, like as a standalone digital HD release, or doing something for people to experience it who maybe don't own a 3DS?

We're definitely going to consider [Dream Drop Distance], but we just made it, right? Two years ago. So I don't know. One of the things that we're going to take into consideration is that a lot of the titles are now old and people are starting to forget about them. So we put out 1.5 and 2.5 before III, but [Dream Drop Distance] was actually really recent, so we didn't incorporate that into 2.5. We will consider how we're going to do Dream Drop Distance, but there are a lot of things to think about. We don't want to stop [progress on] Kingdom Hearts III. That has to move along quickly.

The controls were smoothed out pretty considerably in 1.5. What things are you doing with Birth By Sleep's PSP controls?

Yeah, we actually changed it. Camera wise you can use the right stick to move the camera, so that's been readjusted for the PS3. It will feel very natural. I think it's something that you won't feel stressed about. People won't even notice it because it's smooth.

The Kingdom Hearts games are infamous for their ending teasers. I'm guessing that 2.5 would be teasing something into Kingdom Hearts III?

I can't really say at this moment. For Kingdom Hearts 2.5, I think everything has to do with Kingdom Hearts III. It will connect. The whole experience, the theater and the story, will all connect to Kingdom Hearts III. I'm not being specific on purpose. [laughs]

In 1.5, seeing what trophies were introduced was interesting. Do you know of any from 2.5 off the top of your head?

Yeah, for 2.5, there's a lot...several actually. For example, there are a lot of easy and difficult ones that we're actually tweaking right now. One of them is Anti Form - how many times you become Dark Sora, or how many times for Kingdom Hearts II, Mickey comes along, Mickey stays with you. For Kingdom Hearts II, the gameplay is very diverse; there are a lot of things you can do, so there was a lot of room to make trophies. I think there's a lot more trophies in Kingdom Hearts 2.5 than 1.5. Kingdom Hearts II and Birth By Sleep really have a lot of gameplayHow are things going on Kingdom Hearts III?

We've been working full throttle. It's moving along. We structured our team in a way that development of 2.5 doesn't impede Kingdom Hearts III. I'm actually very excited about Kingdom Hearts III.

What are you most excited for?

The technology and creative stuff. There's a lot of stuff we have never ever done before. There's a lot that's the same, but there's a lot that's changed. We're moving from a totally different console to [a new] console. The technology has evolved; it's very new and everyone is doing a lot of research. And look-wise, it looks amazing as well. We've shown you some of the trailers and teasers. There are a lot of Disney-themed attractions, so that's exciting as well. It's very exciting for me and I want to tell you more about it, but I really can't at this moment.

I know some fans were disappointed, they were hoping for some sort of trailer or teaser for Kingdom Hearts III during E3...

I understand that, but this year, it was the year of 2.5 for us. When we were first planning out Kingdom Hearts III, we wanted 1.5 and 2.5 out in a timely fashion, so everyone would really get an understanding of the story. And so we really wanted to push 2.5. Making teasers and trailers really does require a lot of work, and we just wanted to get the development moving along quickly on Kingdom Hearts III, so this year we really focused on 2.5.

When can fans anticipate more information on Kingdom Hearts III? Are you going to wait until next E3?

We are planning. We're coming up with ideas for game shows and etc. I can't really say which ones at this moment.

The last trailer we saw showed off Disney attractions as part of Sora's special attacks. Has anything been expanded off that since then?

For the rides, we want it to be very varied. For anything in Kingdom Hearts, there's a lot. For those attractions, we want different types, many types, so we're thinking about that.

Were you paying attention to fans' feedback from that trailer, specifically about the attractions?

Yeah, we are. It was well received. The exact look is not going to be the same as that. We're really working with our engines and everything. I think people were excited, and it felt very Disney. I think that was one of the good points, like creating Disneyland gameplay-wise. I think we'll focus on making different, varied versions of that.

I know we'll be visiting new worlds, but will you still have some of the old, iconic ones in Kingdom Hearts III?

It's going to be a mix. Whenever we come up with worlds for Kingdom Hearts, we want to have them be varied. You don't want the same type of world, so we will have different categories. That will make it feel fresh, like you're having an adventure.

Disney acquired a lot of new licenses and had movies since the last Kingdom Hearts, upping the potential for new worlds, like Pixar, Marvel, Lucasfilm, etc. Are you guys looking into those?

Everyone wants to know. I can't say at this moment, but news will come out about the worlds. There's a lot of Disney content that's new and coming out and we're considering which ones to use, which would be good from a gameplay perspective. This is not an announcement or anything, but personally I enjoyed watching Frozen. It was magical: the stories, the songs, the ice expressions.

Thinking back last year, it was a big moment for Square Enix finally confirming Kingdom Hearts III. Did you watch any of the fan reaction videos?

Yeah. It's crazy! We all watch [the reaction videos]...the development team, the marketing team. That's been a huge boost for morale. Especially the American users...they don't do that in Japan. They're more quiet. We get a lot of our energy from [the fan reactions]. Watching that, I felt like I needed to make Kingdom Hearts III quickly. We were feeling all this pressure, but we're also really excited that everyone's so passionate about it. That reaction? That's why we're making Kingdom Hearts III. That's the main reason. That's most important to us.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2014/07/03/kingdom-hearts-iii-co-director-teases-whats-to-come-reveals-more-on-2-5.aspx?PostPageIndex=4

 

[DChiuch 5,773]

Game Informer have conducted an interview with the co-director of the Kingdom Hearts series, Tai Yasue, to discuss Kingdom Hearts HD 2.5 ReMIX and Kingdom Hearts III.

Here, Yasue reveals many details about the development of HD 2.5 ReMIX, teases some of the game's additions and new cutscenes, explains the team's thoughts on a possible Dream Drop Distance HD release, mentions some trophies to be included in the collection, and explains the current progress on Kingdom Hearts III. The interview is definitely worth a read, so check it out at the link below.

Kingdom Hearts III Co-Director Teases What's To Come, Reveals More On 2.5

[jadentheman 72]

With the rates he's been doing interviews you think the game was releasing this month.

 

But it's 5 months away

[Ultima Spark 753]

I just realised there's probably going to be a trophy for S-ranking all the gummi missions.

 

Shit.

[Dr. Shimo 202]

I think it's safe to say we'll see a Frozen world, unless he just loves rehashing how much he loves the world. I enjoyed the interview, but the moment it got to the questions about KHIII worlds, I felt like I knew exactly what he would say there.

 

 

I just realised there's probably going to be a trophy for S-ranking all the gummi missions.

 

Shit.

 

 

Have you ever seen any of the videos with the ultimate gummi ships? It takes a little work still, but that shouldn't be a problem as long as the mechanics still work around the same.

Edited July 3, 2014 by Dr. Shimo

[Exiblade7 1,917]

I'm glad to hear that they are working on kh3 very hard so that the fans can enjoy the game when it finally comes out.

[roxion 42]

I think it's safe to say we'll see a Frozen world, unless he just loves rehashing how much he loves the world. I enjoyed the interview, but the moment it got to the questions about KHIII worlds, I felt like I knew exactly what he would say there.

 

 

 

 

Have you ever seen any of the videos with the ultimate gummi ships? It takes a little work still, but that shouldn't be a problem as long as the mechanics still work around the same.

Right? In every interview I've read/watched with the Yasue, he always mentions Frozen.

[Hero of Winds 2,576]

I think what's most exciting here is the amount of trophies. I just hope difficulty trophies stack.

[AaySquare 445]

Did they not receive any feedback for the difficulty trophies not stacking? I really hope they would change that in 2.5.

[Moochieh32 676]

Loved this interview I just hate when they ask him if they're going to make an HD version of DDD when like few paragraphs later they ask about the development of KH3 and it not being shown at this year's E3. He must feel so pressured. The fans are real hypocrites. I don't mind what they decide to do. If they want to go with a certain thing then let them. I wouldn't mind if they made the HD version or not- all I have to say is that they are doing a fantastic job. 1.5 came out really good and I know 2.5 is going to be even greater. The KH3 trailer made me go berserk (in a positive way lol) and am happy enough for them making all the old KH games remade in HD just for Playstation 3. We don't need a PS4/Xbox/Vita re-release. What's done is done and re-releasing the games wouldn't make much of a difference. If you want to play them, get a PS3. You have plenty of time. But ya, hope they don't rush. Rushing alone could put 2.5 and 3 in a bad state D: I'm glad they made 2.5 a later date- it tells you they're doing they best they can to make the HD bundle a great experience. Same for 3. Those trophies though... Trophy for being Anti-Sora certain amount of times? AHHH

Edited July 3, 2014 by Moochieh32

[Dr. Shimo 202]

Loved this interview I just hate when they ask him if they're going to make an HD version of DDD when like few paragraphs later they ask about the development of KH3 and it not being shown at this year's E3. He must feel so pressured. The fans are real hypocrites. I don't mind what they decide to do. If they want to go with a certain thing then let them. I wouldn't mind if they made the HD version or not- all I have to say is that they are doing a fantastic job. 1.5 came out really good and I know 2.5 is going to be even greater. The KH3 trailer made me go berserk (in a positive way lol) and am happy enough for them making all the old KH games remade in HD just for Playstation 3. We don't need a PS4/Xbox/Vita re-release. What's done is done and re-releasing the games wouldn't make much of a difference. If you want to play them, get a PS3. You have plenty of time. But ya, hope they don't rush. Rushing alone could put 2.5 and 3 in a bad state D: I'm glad they made 2.5 a later date- it tells you they're doing they best they can to make the HD bundle a great experience. Same for 3. Those trophies though... Trophy for being Anti-Sora certain amount of times? AHHH

I do agree for the most part, but I will say that the reason they are on PS3 currently is that many people have one. Personally, wouldn't mind a Vita version though as it may possibly be easier than PS4 (plus portable). The biggest problem is that there are a few people such as myself who can't exactly afford to get both a PS3 and PS4, as there are other things that money could go towards. Personally, I'm in a weird transitioning point in my life. Now, I'm not upset if it never comes past PS3, but it sure would be nice! It'll just take me longer to get to KH3

[Isamu Kuno 2,512]

Hmm. Development on Kingdom Hearts III has to move quickly huh? Seems like they at least have an internal goal as to when they want it released.

[KH4Real 749]

Re:DDD is actually very possible. They need to put the mark of mastery scene in it.

I highly doubt they will leave this out. Or it could just link then to 3DS

 

I think what's most exciting here is the amount of trophies. I just hope difficulty trophies stack.

I actually don't think so even for BBS they need to change there something about difficulties.

I think Nomura want to replay us the stories after a time.

[jadentheman 72]

Loved this interview I just hate when they ask him if they're going to make an HD version of DDD when like few paragraphs later they ask about the development of KH3 and it not being shown at this year's E3. He must feel so pressured. The fans are real hypocrites. I don't mind what they decide to do. If they want to go with a certain thing then let them. I wouldn't mind if they made the HD version or not- all I have to say is that they are doing a fantastic job. 1.5 came out really good and I know 2.5 is going to be even greater. The KH3 trailer made me go berserk (in a positive way lol) and am happy enough for them making all the old KH games remade in HD just for Playstation 3. We don't need a PS4/Xbox/Vita re-release. What's done is done and re-releasing the games wouldn't make much of a difference. If you want to play them, get a PS3. You have plenty of time. But ya, hope they don't rush. Rushing alone could put 2.5 and 3 in a bad state D: I'm glad they made 2.5 a later date- it tells you they're doing they best they can to make the HD bundle a great experience. Same for 3. Those trophies though... Trophy for being Anti-Sora certain amount of times? AHHH

 

PS3 last gen entitled owner much? PS3 is nearing it's last leg of life. Square is only releasing the HD collections on there because they had planned way before Sony started sending out sdks for PS4.

 

All signs point to a DDD HD release. All signs point to PS4/Vita re-release. Maybe an Xbox/PC as well. And no PS Now is NOT a good alternative for many reasons. (That and the Utada songs restrict it from being a PSN title anyway)

Edited July 3, 2014 by jadentheman

[Ultima Spark 753]

Have you ever seen any of the videos with the ultimate gummi ships? It takes a little work still, but that shouldn't be a problem as long as the mechanics still work around the same.

 

I know how to make those; it's the EX missions (FM-exclusive) I'm talking about. Specifically the ones that force you to use one of the pre-made ships (like the one I linked to) - those took me hours to do, considering said ships generally aren't optimised for shooting the crap out of everything.

[Raphael Millon 87]

I really liked this interview. Very interesting. And... firetruck, Anti-Form trophy.

[Master Keeper 687]

Am I the only one who feels that all the latest interviews were the same?

[Dr. Shimo 202]

I know how to make those; it's the EX missions (FM-exclusive) I'm talking about. Specifically the ones that force you to use one of the pre-made ships (like the one I linked to) - those took me hours to do, considering said ships generally aren't optimised for shooting the crap out of everything.

 

Ohhh, I totally didn't realize there were FM missions that were even harder. Crap -_-

[Hero of Winds 2,576]

Re:DDD is actually very possible. They need to put the mark of mastery scene in it.

I highly doubt they will leave this out. Or it could just link then to 3DS

 

I actually don't think so even for BBS they need to change there something about difficulties.

I think Nomura want to replay us the stories after a time.

Basically, you've no doubts the difficult stack won't be there. It's a bit ridiculous if you ask me. I dun mind replaying the games, but dun force me to play every difficulty.

[KH4Real 749]

Basically, you've no doubts the difficult stack won't be there. It's a bit ridiculous if you ask me. I dun mind replaying the games, but dun force me to play every difficulty.

Yep indeed. I'm just saying that Nomura probably want us to play the games again and again after a time.

At least for KH2. it is ridiculous ye but a story isn't that long as KH2.

[Wateraptor 37]

Is he trying to say that Kh3 will not be at the TGS?

[Exiblade7 1,917]

Is he trying to say that Kh3 will not be at the TGS?

It may show there. Keep your fingers crossed if it's actually makes it in there.  :wink:

[HaneulWay 92]

:T Yasue and Nomura = A Tie Between Who is the Biggest Troll

We're definitely going to consider [Dream Drop Distance], but we just made it, right? Two years ago. So I don't know.

I can't really say at this moment. For Kingdom Hearts 2.5, I think everything has to do with Kingdom Hearts III. It will connect. The whole experience, the theater and the story, will all connect to Kingdom Hearts III. I'm not being specific on purpose. [laughs]([laughs][laughs][laughs][laughs][laughs])

Actually, not the secret...Well, there's actually a secret event at the end, right? But that doesn't transition - well, actually - how do you know that? 

*I'm sorry, couldn't hear you. Can you speak more into the mic and be less cryptic?

We are planning. We're coming up with ideas for game shows and etc. I can't really say which ones at this moment.
*I don't think he heard me.

That reaction? That's why we're making Kingdom Hearts III. That's the main reason. That's most important to us. (*Internal screaming*)

Sorry, for this semi-confusing rant, but can SE stop toying with my emotions? ;_;

 

[qwertywarrior16 47]

I'm sorry but how Square is going about 2.5 & 3 is really starting to piss me off. Now I can't play KH with my friends just because you want to rush KH3 out the door. Yes KH3 is very highly anticipated, but that doesn't mean ever single 2.5 interview has to do with KH3. Not everyone has a PS4/XB1 Square.

 

Also you claim to listen to player feedback. From what I saw here in America, we REALLY wanted Multiplayer. Oh but you never heard that from your JAPANESE fans. Well no shit Sherlock, if the Japanese community wanted Multiplayer wouldn't you think the Xbox (which btw is a heavily multiplayer based console) wouldn't sell like crap. It's sad to know all the feedback I gave for this and 1.5 was shunned because I'm not Japanese.

[sagman12PC 280]

http://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2014/07/03/kingdom-hearts-iii-co-director-teases-whats-to-come-reveals-more-on-2-5.aspx?PostPageIndex=2

 

He talks about alot of interesting stuff i suggest you guys take a look at it. I will make a video highlighting the important parts soon