The Walt Disney Company has greenlit an original anime series inspired by Kingdom Hearts, news that was shared this weekend at D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event.
Developed in partnership with Kingdom Hearts series director and character designer Tetsuya Nomura and the creative team at Square Enix, the series is coming to the Disney Channel and Disney+ and will introduce “a brand-new story that will expand on the universe of Kingdom Hearts while celebrating the characters that have captured the hearts of millions of fans around the world.”
“Production of a Kingdom Hearts animated series has been confirmed. I imagine this sudden announcement came as a surprise. You are likely wondering what the series will be about,” Nomura wrote on social media after the announcement, translated through Google Translate.
“While I cannot share specific details just yet, I have been holding close consultations with the scenario team – and the art team, when necessary – and we have even created new character designs specifically for this project.
“I cannot say anything more at this moment, but the single piece of key art released serves as a hint. Please let your imagination run wild as you await further updates.”
Disney Kids & Family president Ayo Davis adds: “Kingdom Hearts has captivated gamers everywhere with its unique blend of adventure and imagination.
“There’s something really exciting about taking a world fans have spent years exploring through the games and bringing it to life in a completely new way. And with a creative team that is working closely with the legendary Tetsuya Nomura, our new series will be unmistakably Kingdom Hearts, while giving fans a whole new way to experience the world they love.”
