KINGDOM HEARTS Unchained χ

I have played a lot of mobile games in the trademark mobile format, too many micro-transactions, pay to win, ridiculous restrictions (like a pain-in-the-butt energy system)... and I played the crap out of them. For a week. Then realized how bad the game I was playing actually was. Kingdom Hearts Unchained χ was the first mobile game that I have played using that format, that truly did it right. It has restrictions, but those restrictions are more like areas to grow as you play, rather than money-wasters that hold you back. I feel like I'm truly making progress every time I upgrade one of my medals (the "characters" of the game), or pump up my equipment.

For those not familiar with Kingdom Hearts, it is a series put out by Square Enix, the developing powerhouse behind Final Fantasy, Hitman, Deus Ex, and much much more. In the simplest sense, the series is an action RPG crossover between Final Fantasy and Disney, with as convoluted of a story line as they could possibly muster. But it is fan-freaking-tastic. KHUχ finds its way into the series as a prequel, taking place hundreds of years before the first KH game. You play as a keyblade wielder, using medals of powerful heroes to defeat an enemy known as the heartless. The game is level-based, and the story unfolds as you play through the main levels, but a lot of the fun is found when playing events and working with other "wielders" in order to grow in strength and be able to take on stronger enemies as the story progresses. With the combination of an interesting story, simple-but-great social elements, strategy for strength, and constant updates that add even more to do, this game is an amazing addition to the series, and also works as a great introduction for players to a franchise that rarely seems to let players down.

What's even better, spending money isn't required. Yes, you may use energy (called AP) to play levels, but the amount of "0 AP" events, and the simplicity of upgrading the stat itself makes it a minimal worry. That minimal worry attitude correlates to the other typical mobile-game restrictions as well. Upgrading feels like leveling up in Final Fantasy, not like a forced money-waster. And if you do decide to thin your wallet a bit, the game doesn't give you an unfair advantage, just a boost. It allows you to get some more medals right away, or play an extra event or two. Nothing that encourages whaling, but instead seems like a treat for supporting the developers.

If you are looking for a great pastime, fun adventure, or a new series to delve into, Kingdom Hearts Unchained χ is a great option. Just be warned, it may be easy to pick up, but it is infinitely harder to put down.
The game can be found for Android devices here (as of 8/27/16): https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.square_enix.android_googleplay.khuxww&hl=en
The game can be found for Apple devices here (as of 8/27/16): https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/kingdom-hearts-unchained-ch/id1086859120?mt=8

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