Two new photos from "Kingdom Hearts III" have been shared by Square Enix via Twitter. Both confirm that Drive Forms will return to the game. For fans who did not play "Kingdom Hearts II," Drive Forms is a part of gameplay mechanics where Sora transforms his Keyblade to amplify a chosen ability like fighting prowess, defense, or magic.
According to IGN, the first photo showcases the Guard Form. In this photo, Sora is shown wielding a shield which is actually the Drive Form version of the Keyblade. Based on the previous game, it is likely this Drive Form will boost Sora's defense but may lower his offense or magical abilities.
The image also showcases a new location based on Disney's animated "Hercules" film. In previous games, players got to visit the Arena and the Underworld, but this image indicates players can now explore Mount Olympus, home of the Greek gods.
In the second photo, it appears as if Sora is wielding a hammer of some sort. The caption, when translated, reveals that the photo was edited as the shape and form of this weapon will spoil details that the developers at Square Enix haven't revealed yet. "This power form was edited as it is the Keyblade from a world that hasn't been released yet, so it has changed into a hammer shape," the caption reads (via IGN). According to the report, it is possible the hammer is the Mjolnir, the weapon used by Thor. This would make sense if Square Enix is going to use the Marvel Cinematic Universe in the "Kingdom Hearts" franchise, particularly now that Disney owns the Marvel brand.
Marvel is not the only Disney property that Square Enix has yet to use for "Kingdom Hearts III." It is pointed out that Disney also owns Lucasfilm, which would allow the game to also include elements from the "Indiana Jones" and "Star Wars" properties.
"Kingdom Hearts III" is currently in development, with no official release date announced as of writing.
