The launch ofKingdom Hearts: Melody of Memorythis weekend will no doubt get people thinking about the franchise’s incredibly convoluted lore again, and how hard it can be to keep track of across three main entries and several spinoff titles, aproblem that persists withMelody of Memory. Luckily, a new book is coming next year that, if not clear upKingdom Hearts’ confusing plot-threads, will at least make them more accessible than before.
For years, Square Enix’sUltimaniaseries of reference books have offered more in-depth looks at the series than the typical strategy guide or “art of” book. The only problem is that these have been exclusive to Japan, leaving English speakers to rely on unofficial translations to learn the juicy secrets ofKingdom Hearts. That will soon change, though, as Dark Horse Comics has announced that it will releaseKingdom Hearts Ultimania: The Story Before Kingdom Hearts 3, the firstUltimaniato receive an official English translation.
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According to Dark Horse, the 256-page hardcover tome will provide fans with an all-in-one “grand overview” stuffed with extensive character profiles, detailed story arc summaries, and more, along with a substantial amount of concept art and storyboards. Like the name suggests, this will cover the entirety of the franchise’s story leading up to the events ofKingdom Hearts 3, summarizing everything from the original game to theongoing mobile titleKingdom Hearts Union Cross.
TheUltimaniais slated to come out on June 05, 2025, priced at $44.99, and is currently available for pre-order at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or a local comic shop. That’s quite a ways off from now, but the wait will be worth it for fans eager to get their fill of lore while they wait to seewhatKingdom Hearts 4will add to the story.
Kingdom Hearts Ultimania: The Story Before Kingdom Hearts 3will be released on June 29, 2025.
