Wow. Like seriously. The release of the opening sequence for Aqua’s story in 2.8 got me in my feels for real. I haven’t even played as Aqua since 2011 when her game was released — she hasn’t reappeared since, either. But the music, along with the stunning visuals, really gave me a flash of nostalgia, and the moderate/mild care I had for her grew as if I were 17 again, sneaking my friend’s PSP to play Birth By Sleep in my history classroom.
I don’t think that would have happened with a different singer. Utada is too iconic in the KH franchise. She’s basically her own character in the KH world. I find myself agreeing with fans who worry that we won’t get new music from her for the last game. What is it about music?
Why is it that the games wouldn’t feel the same with a different artist? Is it just nostalgia.. or that fans don’t like change..? I like to think not. Utada’s music just works so well for everything KH seems to represent. And there have only been 2 songs! Remixes, yeah. But the idea is the same. With just two songs, Utada has been able to encapsulate a decades worth of stories and experiences. I don’t really know how to wrap my head around the importance of her music, but I know the feeling wouldn’t be the same with someone else.
On the subject of the release of the half-titled games to the PS4, I know it’s a smart business move disguised as a ~look at how convenient we’re making it for you to catch up for KHIII~ but ohh my god am I excited. I’m already starting to pre-plan for getting around student teaching and playing hours upon hours and reliving my childhood. The feeling is definitely not exclusive to me… millions of people my age are going to be charging credit cards and cancelling plans once these games drop. I can’t imagine what it would look like once KHIII finally drops.