A
Audo
Guest
[size=+6]EVERYTHING WE KNOW ABOUT
358/2 DAYS[/size]
[size=+3]-SO FAR-[/size]
[size=+2]-INTRODUCTION-[/size]
Hello, My name is R-K. I am making this thread because, quite frankly, it annoys me how so many people are clueless about this game. So, I'm making this thread in a hopes of increasing everyone's intelligence on the title, so there won't be such a need of having to correct people on the forums. And as much as I know a lot of you like to do that, possibly for the post count, it would be a lot better on the forums if we didn't need to. If people find this thread useful, and a great tool that increased their knowledge on the title, I may even make threads for Coded and Birth By Sleep. So, I hope you enjoy. ^______^358/2 DAYS[/size]
[size=+3]-SO FAR-[/size]
[size=+2]-INTRODUCTION-[/size]
DISCLAIMER: Please note, the content and writing of this thread technically belongs to me. I put in a lot of work on these pages and they are not allowed to be copied, distributed or posted, in part or of its entirety, on any site other than KHInsider. Thank you, and I hope you can understand why.
[size=+2]-GENERAL INFORMATION-[/size]
Director: Tetsuya Nomura Co-director: Tomohiro Hasegawa
Producer: Patrick Chen
Executive Producer: Shinji Hashimoto
Scenario Writers: Tetsuya Nomura (base story), Daisuke Watanabe (lead writer)
Official Website: KINGDOM HEARTS 358/2 Days
Platform: Nintendo Dual Screen (NDS)
[size=+2]-THE TITLE-[/size]
One of the mysteries of the game is the title. Nomura has described the title of a sort of "code" that many won't be able to fully understand until they have finished the game, but also added that the word "Days" in the title was to symbolize the daily life of the Organization. He has also expressed that the title is pronounced "358 Days Over Two" (358 Days/2), which opens up many possibilities as to what the title could mean.[size=+2]-PRESS RELEASE-[/size]
The untold story of another hero. Organization XIII, Number 13, Roxas-Twilight Town-
Roxas and Axel were watching the sunset from their usual spot on the station's clock tower after a long day of collecting "hearts" from the Heartless, as ordered by their organization. When their daily work ended, they often spent their evenings there. They talked about the day's work and other things over ice cream.
"Do you know why the sun looks red as it sinks below the horizon? It's because among the countless colors comprising light, red travels the greatest distance."
"You're just trying to show off, Axel!"
It was idle chatter between two boys without hearts.
This is the untold story of Organization XIII's Roxas.
[size=+2]-STORY-[/size]
Kingdom Hearts: 358/2 Days focuses on Roxas' time in Organization XIII. The game will begin briefly from Roxas' birth near the end of the first Kingdom Hearts game, until he is put into Ansem the Wise's Data Twilight Town before Kingdom Hearts II begins. Nomura has said that while the game will focus briefly on Roxas' birth and his joining of the Organization, the central story will take place during the time Sora will be sleeping. He has also added that when Roxas first joins the Organization, he does not understand a lot about them and as the story progresses he starts questioning them and will eventually leave them, resulting in what we see in Kingdom Hearts II and that the reason for his falling out is one of the main topics of the story.The game starts with the prologue of Roxas being born in Twilight Town and being found by Xemnas. Xemnas tells him he feels nothing, that he can feel nothing, and asks if he wants to have meaning. Roxas nods and Xemnas gives Roxas his new name, telling him it's the "new" him.
The game really starts when Roxas joins the Organization and becomes their Number 13. The game will primarily focus on the time that Sora was asleep after Chain of Memories concluded and we will see the daily life of the Organization.The game also introduces a brand new Organization Member currently known only as the XIVth Member.
The game will most likely conclude with Roxas' battle with Riku in The World That Never Was which results in Roxas being sent into Ansem the Wise's Data Twilight Town. Nomura has commented that the game will be very much like Crisis Core, where you may know how the game will end, but you don't know what happened to get to that point.
King Mickey, Riku, DiZ and Naminé are also confirmed to make appearances in the title, though the extent of their importance on the plot is yet to be revealed. They have also commented that it would be hard for Sora to appear in the game since he was sleeping to restore his memories but they are thinking about considering a system that would show every important point of his memory. They expressed that this idea is still in an idea phase but they want a system to emphasize the surface connection of Roxas and Sora.
Nomura has said that the KH series consistently revolved around the theme of the "heart", but now Roxas is the main character and he has joined up with the Organization, who are said not to have hearts. Since the original KH, heart and memory are closely linked (in regards to the connection between someone's heart and their memories, it is intimate) , therefore the theme drawn in the game is that of "memories". Though it isn't mentioned much, the memory is very important to the members of Organization XIII, since they don't have hearts. the story draws upon that, since it is similar to the heart. This is why the catch-copy of the game is the line "I can't remember, something important" and is intended to be a central theme throughout the game.
[size=+2]-THE XIVTH MEMBER-[/size]
[size=+1]-GENERAL-[/size]
At some point during the story of the game, Xemnas announces to the Organization that they have a new member - a fourteenth member. Not much is known about the XIVth Member at this point, other than that she is a female character and that she isn't Naminé. When asked if the XIVth member was a character we have seen before, Nomura answered, smiling, that it was a secret and that, while the XIVth Member does appear in this game, she is not the reason for the game, but that her "point" was that she was a key character.[size=+1]-GENERAL-[/size]
Nomura has also expressively stated that the Organization was still called Organization XIII even when the XIVth member was a part of it and that the reason for this would be explained during the course of the game. He also went onto to say that the reason why she has no pillar and why she didn't appear in Kingdom Hearts II will all be explained. It has also been stated that the XIVth Member has had great influence on Roxas' future actions.
In the trailer, there is a scene where Axel is confronting Xion in front of the mansion and he says "I'll bring you back no matter how many times it takes", but in Japanese, the you is plural. When asked about it, Nomura said that it was a secret as to why that was, but that Axel's determination in that line is linked to when he said he would bring Roxas back in Kingdom Hearts II.
Also, when asked about the scene where Riku lifts his blindfold to look at Xion (see "Trailer Impressions" section below), Nomura was particularly dodgy. When he was asked if Riku had recognized Xion, Nomura replied by saying "Seems so, doesn't it?" before immediately switching to a topic that had no relation at all towards the question. Does this mean Riku knows Xion or not?
[size=+1]-NAME-[/size]
At the DKΣ3713 Party, there was a brand new trailer for 358/2 Days which focused primarily on the XIVth member. At the end of this trailer, the XIVth member is seen meeting with Naminé in the White Room at the Old Mansion in Twilight Town. Naminé then goes on to say "I wanted to meet you, Xion". The XIVth Member's name had finally been revealed, but just who is this mysterious character, and, why does Naminé want to meet her?[size=+1]-VOICE-[/size]
It was also in this trailer that we first hear Xion speak. Nomura has expressed that revealing her voice was a mistake, for her voice becomes a hint. He went on to say that they had originally planned on her voice being revealed at the next event, being the Tokyo Game Show 2008. He commented that it was a curious thing, as now everyone is wondering which character her voice connects to. Already people are guessing she is the Nobody of some character, but then Nomura teases "but then who is Xion really? What became of her heart?" He ended by saying that it would be explored more at the Tokyo Game Show.
[size=+1]-WEAPON-[/size]
Ever since the XIVth Member was first revealed a year ago at tGS 07, many speculated what her weapon would be. Well, at the DKΣ3713 Party, that was revealed to us as well. Xion wields a Keyblade, but not just any Keyblade, the Kingdom Key. In the trailer, there is a scene where Xion and Riku had fought and Riku picked up the Keyblade and stared at it, before telling her that she couldn't beat him with "a fake".But the question remained, is her Keyblade really a fake? Just how did Xion obtain this mysterious blade after all, especially since it is Roxas and Sora who should be wielding it.
[size=+2]-WORLDS-[/size]
Worlds make a return in 358/2 Days, though the system with the worlds has been changed a bit. Appearing worlds will be one of the things said to remain, but not all of these worlds will be available to be played for fun and may only be visited at certain times, or during the missions. Not only that, but the relationships between people in the worlds will be different this time around as you go through the worlds, but many Disney characters are set to make a return. The story is also said not to progress by going to Disney worlds, but that stories will be progressing. It has also been said that Roxas will have different forms, like Sora, when he enters certain Disney Worlds.The developers have said that, with the circumstance with Roxas, if he were to associate with too many people than it would become inconsistent with KH2 which is why they are thinking of putting in a different play dynamic into each world. They have also said that the appearing worlds will be primarily from previous games, but they will be choosing ones that are best suited for the game.
In October 2007, Nomura had an interview with Gemanga Magazine where he elaborated a bit more on the Disney worlds in 358/2 Days saying that since Roxas' personality is such that he doesn't actively attempt to contact other characters, and that's why the relation with Disney characters will be different from before.
Since Roxas is the hero this time, Sora doesn't have any interaction with any of the Disney characters. But, for example, if you were to look at Beast and Belle , they're interested in discovering what love is and the players will learn about the character's hearts. Roxas learns various things from the Disney characters and before long, he becomes doubtful of the Organization.
Nomura has said that the main concern is the sticky situation with the worlds Sora has been since it can't contradict with the story of KHII. This time the objective of the events happening in the Disney worlds is to influence Roxas, gradually producing some sort of change in him. For instance, using the example of the Beauty and the Beast world again, when Roxas sees the Beast and Belle, will he be able to recognize love?
Confirmed worlds so far include:
-The World That Never Was
-Twilight Town
-Wonderland
-Agrabah
-Olympus Coliseum
-Beast's Castle
[size=+2]-GAMEPLAY-[/size]
[size=-2](The video above contains some small clips of 358/2 Days in Action)[/size]
[size=-2](The video above contains some small clips of 358/2 Days in Action)[/size]
The gameplay of 358/2 Days is based on a system of "Go to mission, Clear Mission, Return to HQ, Prepare for next mission, go to next mission", though there will be small mini events that you can do such as joining Axel for ice-cream. The game focuses mainly on the life of an organization which is why the title includes the word "Days" as it focuses on a day of the Organization.
So far, the missions seem to be Roxas being sent to various worlds and being ordered to kill the Heartless that reside there, though they are set to include some variety (See Multiplayer for more information).
During the single-story mode, you play as Roxas and it is believed you play the majority of the game alone, except for special missions when you may be joined by another member. The top screen of the DS is used for the core gameplay and holds the command menu and the Character status icon which showcase your HP, MP and the new Limit Gauge. The bottom screen showcases information such as the mission you are on, the world you are in, and a map.
A new feature to the gameplay is a Limit Gauge which hasn't been seen in the series so far. This gauge (which is a yellow colour in-game), is used for co-op attacks as well as powerful limit abilities in single player. The stylus will not be used during actual gameplay.
DK∑7313 brought on many surprises, one of which was that the player-status icons had gone through yet another change (click Here to see a comparison shot). This change however, was the sudden removal of both the MP bar and the Limit Gauge! Now, only your HP bar was visible.
These changes have not yet been explained by Nomura and co, nor have they even addressed what has happened to the Limit Gauge. What has happened with MP, however, has been explained. Basically, each spell has a set limit of number of times you can use it before it needs to recharge again. For example, say someone could use Fire 8 times before they had to wait a while before using it again. This means that spells are no longer at a semi-unlimited basis, offering a bit of a challenge for the player.
Also among the changes is a new "Chains!" counter up in the top-left hand corner of the top screen. The exact details of what this does is unknown, but it seems to go up each time you lay an attack on an enemy consecutively (based on the gameplay video above).
Also, Camera control has been assigned to the touch screen. By running your finger across the touch screen, one can change the camera from left to right. Though, this feature was designed with the idea of one using their finger to control the camera, since they got reports from fellow staff that it wasn't ideal when using the stylus. Therefore, the stylus is optional.
In the current version you could only change the survey left to right, though the opinion of the staff was that it would be inconvenient unless the player could also look up. Nomura teased, saying that the current version shown to the public (the demo) was only one part of the game and that at this time there are more cool things to do and to look forward to it.
(For more details on how Gameplay works, be sure to check out the "Demo Impressions" and the "Multiplayer" sections below.)
[size=+2]-MULTIPLAYER-[/size]
One of 358/2 Days most appealing features is the new Multiplayer mode. The Multiplayer mode in 358/2 Days promises all of the members of Organization XIII available as playable characters, and may even include the new XIVth member. Although, it should be noted that all players will have to play as a unique character, meaning there can't be two Axels or two Xigbars playing at one time.The Multiplayer mode takes place in a separate universe from the Single Player mode and isn't considered to be part of the games story and is only there for fun. Up to four people can play together as any Organization Member they choose as they work together to complete various missions, with some asking you to kill heartless, fight each-other, or even search for items.
The missions in Multiplayer are unlocked by beating the missions in Single Mode. Every time you complete a mission in Single Mode it is unlocked for playing in Multiplayer mode. These missions include things such as defeating Heartless, and escaping from Areas via teamwork. They are also set to include a lot of gimmicks and puzzles and that the map will be used to keep track of things as well. Many of the missions are designed for short play throughs in Multiplayer and they can be played multiple times. They also mentioned that Scores will be kept on various things during Multiplayer, such as "attack". But they also stress that working together is not the only thing you can do and that there is great potential for waging a competition or contest.
Also, when you complete missions in Multiplayer, the experience you gain from completing those tasks are given to Roxas in Single Mode. For example, if you were to play as Axel and do a few missions in Multiplayer mode, the experience you gained from doing that would affect your Single Mode file. They have also said that they are thinking of an item system that works in a similar fashion.
Also in Multiplayer Mode, the bottom screen is being revamped from Single Mode to offer the ability to chat to other players by use of the Nintendo DS Stylus. This chatting system will differ from PictoChat in that all of the players will write on the same screen. Nomura and co are also considering adding a few action buttons to the screen, but noted that these would be for actions that didn't affect gameplay. Nomura has also added that they are thinking of missions that will implement this chat feature.
Also, the Limit Gauge from Single Mode will make a reappearance, allowing for co-op techniques to be used. Originally the chairs of the Organization Members would move up or down based on succeeding or failing a mission, but they may change that feature for the final product release.
DK∑7313 brought on many surprises, one of which was that the player-status icons had gone through yet another change (click Here to see a comparison shot). This change however, was the sudden removal of both the MP bar and the Limit Gauge! Now, only your HP bar was visible.
These changes have not yet been explained by Nomura and co, nor have they even addressed what has happened to the Limit Gauge. What has happened with MP, however, has been explained. Basically, each spell has a set limit of number of times you can use it before it needs to recharge again. For example, say someone could use Fire 8 times before they had to wait a while before using it again. This means that spells are no longer at a semi-unlimited basis, offering a bit of a challenge for the player.
Also among the changes is a new "Chains!" counter up in the top-left hand corner of the top screen. The exact details of what this does is unknown, but it seems to go up each time you lay an attack on an enemy consecutively (based on the gameplay video above).
Also, Camera control has been assigned to the touch screen. By running your finger across the touch screen, one can change the camera from left to right. Though, this feature was designed with the idea of one using their finger to control the camera, since they got reports from fellow staff that it wasn't ideal when using the stylus. Therefore, the stylus is optional.
In the current version you could only change the survey left to right, though the opinion of the staff was that it would be inconvenient unless the player could also look up. Nomura teased, saying that the current version shown to the public (the demo) was only one part of the game and that at this time there are more cool things to do and to look forward to it.
(For more details on how Multiplayer works, be sure to check out the "Demo Impressions" section below.)
Speaking on the concept of multiplayer, Nomura has said that they wanted to the multiplayer mode to be enjoyable for many people and not simply become something like a bonus feature, therefore it is something that everyone can play together. And that even at the party, the majority of the people's opinions was that the multiplayer was very popular.
He said that they wanted to create something that four players could communicate and enjoy together, but not be something that would just steal the game's attention. The experience made in the main story can be utilized in the multplayer mode, likewise the experience made in multiplayer can be used in the main story. This system reflects them mutually.
Nomura said that while the player can choose from any of the members of the Organization, growth among them would be a common element and that the characters can be customized based on the progress of Roxas in the main story. That growth is based on parts of data being transferred which Nomura believes is a fairly bold thing to do.
In Nintendo Dream Magazine, 358/2 Days was listed as having Download Play and Wi-Fi as "TBA". Also, due to the touch screen now being utilized for camera control, it is unknown if that means that the Chat function intended for the touch screen has been removed or not.
[size=+2]-TECHNICAL INFORMATION-[/size]
[size=+1]-GRAPHICS-[/size]
The Graphics in 358/2 Days had a fine-tuning from the first time we saw them. In the scans from TGS, the characters seemed to look every pixelly and the character icons were also very pixelly. This changed by Jump Festa where the graphics had a smoother look and feel and held impressive detail compared to the last time we saw them. Click Here for a Comparison.[size=+1]-GRAPHICS-[/size]
One of the main problems with the graphics of the 358/2 Days was that the polygon count of the characters had dropped, and they are currently working hard so that the graphics during gameplay look as smooth as possible.
[size=+1]-VOICE ACTING-[/size]
Kingdom Hearts: 358/2 Days is set to include Voice Acting during it's cutscenes like the other Kingdom Hearts titles. Though they have commented that due to capacity issues with the game, there may not be voice acting throughout the game, but they are trying to work around that and find a way of compressing it within the game.[size=+1]-CUTSCENES-[/size]
The cutscenes in 358/2 Days look very close to their PS2 counterparts, supporting stunning detail and clips. During event scenes, there may be a cutscene or two. During the attempts to compress and fix the Voice Acting capacity issues, they are also re-doing the cutscenes that appear in 358/2 days because every time there is a hardware update, they try and push the game to its limits. Nomura says he plans on keeping the cutscenes as close as possible to the feel of the KH series and has commented that there may even be an opening cinematic to start the game.At the DK∑7313 Party event, more details on the cutscenes were revealed. When not utilizing the FMV Cutscenes, the game will use in-game NDS Graphics with CoM-like character-face sprites for dialogue. You can see an example of this type of cutscene Here, Here, Here, and Here.
[size=+2]-TRAILER IMPRESSIONS-[/size]
[size=+1]-TOKYO GAME SHOW-[/size]
[size=+1]-TOKYO GAME SHOW-[/size]
-The ending scene of KH Re:CoM is shown. Sora is seen sleeping in order to regain his memory.
-Words appear:
"The other side is returning to Sora to sleep."
"Whenever crossing, the mind comes back."
-A scene with Roxas and Axel sitting on the clock tower of Twilight Town is shown.
-(Tomo's note: Taking this from Game Watch's post because it's the exact same thing here.) Roxas and Axel are watching the evening sun from the clock tower at the station as usual. The duty of the two people, who belong to the Organization, is to deal with the Heartless and to collect "Hearts". They always meet in the clock tower at this station at the end of each duty. They talk about their duties, while eating [sea-salt] ice cream together.
Axel: "The sunset, do we know why it's to be red?"
Axel: "It is anything because it reaches until there are some colors in its light, and especially red which is the furthest color."
Roxas: "Why is Axel in a good mood?"
-The scene changes to inside the white room where Roxas is with the other Org. XIII members being introduced.
-It seems, this is the scene where Roxas enters the Organization.
-Axel and Saix are talking about Castle Oblivion.
Saix: "There is a member in Castle Oblivion who is a betrayer."
Saix: "Erase him as soon as we find him."
Axel: "Is this really an instruction from Xemnas?"
Does Saix's expression deepen?
-The King meets a man with a black hood in the forest.
-The King looks mysterious himself. (He is wearing his black hood appearance.)
-The King is surprised and pulls out his keyblade momentarily, at the same time, pulls down his hood.
-~Battle Scene~
-Roxas is manipulated, and the Heartless are being knocked down. The operation to glide in the air is possible..
-In addition, the scene that have the members of the Org. XIII members struggling in a joint battle seems to be the first multiplayer battle in the KH series.
-The screen appears to be divided into four, and the players are able to control: Roxas, Xigbar, Saix, and Axel.
-Xemans is talking in the white room where the Organization XIII are gathered.
-The Org. members are all with deep expressions.
-Xemans: "A new companion came to join us. ....... It is the the 14th."
-The pereson who is called the 14th in appearance is a girl who is wearing a black hood. Her face isn't able to be seen.
-Axel and Roxas are flying/hopping on the roofs of houses of Twilight Town.
-Roxas: "...Ahead of me, I see Xemnas...." (FF&KH user notes that his/her memory is vague about this part.)
-Roxas looks at the sunset on the clock tower again: "I will disappear from this world in 151 days."
[size=+1]-JUMP FESTA-[/size]
Several Organization XIII members walk in front of RoxasXigbar: "Whoops."
Saix stands before Roxas.
In front, you can see a corridor of darkness.
Saix: "Be careful."
Stepping into the corridor, Roxas seemingly warps to Twilight Town.
The mission "Defeat Clock Tower's Darkside!" starts.
A mission is given to defeat 4 bodies of Heartless on the way.
Roxas & Co. defeat the Dark Side
Axel: "Roxas, go on."
Roxas: "Axel..."
Suddenly Heartless attack Roxas from behind.
The 14th member of the Organization attacks the Heartless and wipes them out. The 14th member smiles.
Axel and Roxas both look perplexed.
The 14th member begins to take off their hood..
[size=+1]-DK∑7313 PARTY-[/size]
BG MUSIC: The Other Promise The trailer begins with these lines:
"I can't remember, something important."
Axel: "Do you know why the setting sun is red?"
Twilight Town's clock tower.
Two finished sea salt ice cream sticks are placed.
Axel: "It's because among the countless colors comprising light, red travels the greatest distance."
Roxas: "You're just showing off, Axel!"
In front of Sora's pod in room inside the Twilight Town mansion
Namine: "Regardless of how I assemble the memories, they begin to flow out... If another memory is connected, it can't return to it's original source.
The white room where Organization members gather.
Xemnas: "Ladies and gentleman, today is a day that should be commemorated."
Xemnas: "A new member has joined us."
Xemnas: "...It is the 14th."
The 14th member moves to the center and smiles.
She wears a black hood, but from what can be seen. her face is that of a girl.
In a forest.
The King meets a black hooded man in the forest.
He looks mysterious, he's also wearing a black hood.
For a moment the man removes his hood, the King looks surprised and takes out his keyblade.
Gameplay scene.
Battle scenes from singleplay mode and multiplay mode are shown.
The multiplay result scene is shown where the players (2~4) are shown in Organization XIII chairs.
In front of Sora's pod in room inside the Twilight Town mansion
Diz: "If he is lacking a few memories, will he have a problem waking?
Namine: "In his case, it is an important key if he's going to wake up."
Diz: "Namine, what do you foresee?"
Namine: "If its connected to another memory, surely she can't endure it."
Diz: "She...?"
Front Gate of the Beast's Castle
(This might be after Riku and the 14th fight.)
The 14th collapses in pain, she is holding the Kingdom Key.
Riku closes in on her and lifts her hood, she resists.
He lifts one eye of the blindfold to see her face.
Riku's expression changes to surprise.
Riku: "Who are you? Why do you have the keyblade?"
14th: "Why are you dressed like a member of the Organization?"
Riku walks away from her, towards the castle.
Riku: "So no one interferes with Sora's sleep."
Her keyblade is sticking out of the ground.
Riku picks it up and hurls it toward her.
Riku: "What you have... That keyblade must be a fake."
14th: "Don't tell me that! You're deceiving too!"
Riku: "Indeed, maybe I'm the one who doesn't exist."
Xion flees. Riku does not look like Ansem yet.
In front of the Twilight Town mansion.
The 14th member's keyblade is shown for a second.
Her hood is obstructed, and her face flashes for a moment.
Her hair color is dark blue.
It looks like the hair of Aqua.
Axel: "You're gotta be kidding! Don't make a fool out of me."
The 14th member turns to yell at Axel.
Appearing in his hands are his chakrams covered in fire.
Axel and the 14th are confronting one another.
Axel: "I've decided. No matter how many times you escape, I will bring you back."
In Twilight Town mansion's white room
The 14th comes to Namine's side.
Namine: "I wanted to meet you, Xion."
The trailer ends as the 14th is about to remove her hood.
[size=+2]-DEMO IMPRESSIONS-[/size]
[size=+1]-JUMP FESTA-[/size]
Multiplayer Demo[size=+1]-JUMP FESTA-[/size]
· Choose Roxas, Axel, Xigbar or Saix.
· Character Selection screen shows Organization members sitting in their chairs.
· Roxas - 3 hit combo.
· Axel has a different feel then Roxas, and the demo player was relieved when he/she was able to use his fire attacks.
· Demo takes place in Twilight Town
· 4x small wizards, 1x Fat Body and 4x Shadows, a boss (Dark Side)
· Once mission is cleared, you get the record screen.
· 358/2 Days is set for a Summer 2008 release.
Single Player Demo
Roxas walking towards the Organization chair. Xigbar: “Woops!”
Roxas ignores Xigbar, and moves to Saix.
Saix: “We suggest you take Axel for this mission.”
Roxas then moves to the corridor and is teleported to Twilight Town.
Two missions: defeat Dark Side, defeat four heartless.
(after Axel and Roxas defeat Dark Side)
Axel: “Roxas, what are you doing here?”
Roxas: “Axel…”
the heartless then come in, but the pair is saved by the 14th member
The 14th member smiles at both Axel and Roxas. The pair show mixed feelings towards this new member. Her face is not revealed.
[size=+1]-DK∑7313 PARTY-[/size]
This time both single mode and multiplay mode are playable.Single Player Mode
This time, you can choose between teaming up with Axel in Twilight Town, or teaming up with Xaldin in the Beast's Castle.
First off, in the last demo the Beast's Castle was not playable. Xaldin feels like dealing with Roxas is a nuisance, so they seem little frustrated in the story.
Two people stand in front of the Beast's Castle.
Xaldin: "I feel many heartless inside the castle."
Roxas: "You understand it?"
Xaldin: "You don't understand it to some degree? Don't drag me down."
The right route to follow goes like this: Bridge > Garden > Entrance Hall > West Wing (Boss Fight). The East Wing contains numerous treasure chests. There aren't any particular events or puzzles, the battle is the main focus. The boss is a Darkside, only it's arm and chest can be attacked. It seems that this is the first time the double jump ability is available. Even with a double jump, it's still hard to reach. Xaldin stabs the spears recklessly, sometimes it even appears to look like he aims for Roxas. After the boss fight, an event scene occurs and the Beast's roaring can he heard.
Roxas: "What was that?!"
Xaldin: "Sounds like the master of this castle."
Roxas: "Let's get out of here!"
The two of them stand in front of the Beast's room.
Beast: "I remain this in this form, even though almost all the rose petals have fallen!"
Xaldin: "The relationship between his form and the rose is interesting."
The background music playing in the Beast's Castle is: "Waltz of the Damned", "Dance of the Daring", and "Destiny's Force".
In the other mission you meet Axel in Twilight Town, starting in front of the clock tower at the station.
Axel: "Well... Looks like today's mission is defeat a specific heartless."
Axel: "Let's get this over with quickly."
Axel: "Alright, let's go."
The route goes: Station Square > Underground Passageway > Back Alley > Vacant lot (Boss Fight). The underground passageway has several corridors, but it is necessary to find a switch in order to open the shutter exit.
The boss is a Guard Armor, the head is can't be locked on to. You can attack the arms and feet, sometimes when it hits back you can use the break ability. (Aerial recovery?) Once it becomes only the body, it repels hits with a spinning attack and reflection guard. Your chance to attack it is when it leaves an opening. After defeating the boss, an event scene takes place. Roxas is looking downward, he seems out of it.
Axel: "Since the job's done, let's go to that place for a reward."
Roxas: "That place?"
Axel: "You're still not used to the Organization, huh?"
Roxas: "Everyday is the same. Go on a mission and then return to the castle."
Axel: "Alright then, we'll come here again, to break the monotony of traveling between missions and the castle."
Roxas eats the sea salt ice cream.
Roxas: "It's salty, but sweet."
Axel: "We talked about the same thing last time."
Roxas: "Oh, we did?"
Axel: "This place and this ice cream, commit it to memory."
The background music for Twilight Town is: "Lazy Afternoons", "Sinister Sundown", and "Destiny's Force".
Multiplay Mode
This time you were able to select from: Xigbar, Xaldin, Saix, Axel, Roxas, Lexaeus, and Luxord.
Another blogger says the playable characters were: Xigbar, Xaldin, Saix, Axel, Roxas, and Larxene.
Larxene was definitely playable since the blogger played as her, but I'm not sure about Lexaeus and Luxord.
From the Light in Chaos:
I'm playing as Roxas. The mission is in Twilight Town, but the content is different from before. The route goes: The Forest > Tram (Boss Fight). The boss is shown on the map, but before you fight it, you must defeat the heartless in the area.
A new type of weak heartless appears called a Mega Shadow. Roxas's body is bigger than the Mega Shadow's. Also, taking down it's HP is easy enough by attacking.
The boss is also a new heartless called the Vanishing Lizard. While attacking it, sometimes it will vanish and move to another location on the map. It seems there are several points it chooses from to appear randomly.
In the end, everyone rushes toward a corridor (of darkness?) to find out the results. The chairs revolve downward, I came in last! I did not seem to score any points from the boss fight. By the way, the characters respond to the other peoples results. For example, if Roxas gets first place, Axel will praise him a little on the screen.
Things in Common from the Last Demo
In the key placement from last time, you locked on by pushing the R button twice and L was used exclusively for shortcuts. You can set up to four short cuts. There were treasure boxes scattered about everywhere, but you could only hold the item inside if you had room. It was also necessary to use the drawing function of the lower screen. I didn't recognize this and dropped a few potions. Also, when you pick up items that were not identified in a mission, they appear as "??????????". The commands are what we're used to, "Attack" and so on. Before you examine something like a treasure box, be sure to check for enemies first.
Additionally, as Xaldin explained in the single play mode, when you have a partner you may attack each other. However no damage is taken, only the character's reaction is shown. It's unconfirmed if it happens in multiplay mode as well.
At the time of this event, the characters did not have voice acting beyond the likes of Chain of Memories style, so it was a little lonely.
[size=+2]-ADDITIONAL INFORMATION-[/size]
[size=+1]-SCANS-[/size]
Scan Collection
[size=+1]-IMAGES-[/size]
Image Collection
[size=+1]-TRANSLATIONS-[/size]
Naminé: Surely she can't endure it
Axel: How many times must I accompany them?
Roxas: The former me, I have seen...
Xemnas: The Keyblade's chosen one---
Roxas: You're just trying to show off, Axel!
Xemnas: A new member has joined us...
Xemnas: It is the 14th.
Saïx: There is a traitor among the members in Castle Oblivion
Axel: Is that really from Xemnas?
[size=+1]-INTERVIEWS-[/size]
Famitsu - September 2007
(2ch) - October 2007
Famitsu - October 2007
Famitsu PS3 - August 2008
Dengeki PS - August 2008
Degeki Wii + DS - September 2008
[size=+1]-RELEASE DATE-[/size]
There is currently no set release date for 358/2 Days, although, at Jump Festa a tentative release of Summer 2008 for Japan was announced. As of July, there has been no more information on the release date and it has been believed to have been pushed back. However, in Dragon Quest V, there was apparently a small slip that had an advertisement for 358/2 Days with the tagline 'Coming 2008' so it seems as if S-E is still set on releasing 358/2 Days this year in Japan.[size=+1]-SCANS-[/size]
Scan Collection
[size=+1]-IMAGES-[/size]
Image Collection
[size=+1]-TRANSLATIONS-[/size]
Naminé: Surely she can't endure it
Axel: How many times must I accompany them?
Roxas: The former me, I have seen...
Xemnas: The Keyblade's chosen one---
Roxas: You're just trying to show off, Axel!
Xemnas: A new member has joined us...
Xemnas: It is the 14th.
Saïx: There is a traitor among the members in Castle Oblivion
Axel: Is that really from Xemnas?
[size=+1]-INTERVIEWS-[/size]
Famitsu - September 2007
(2ch) - October 2007
Famitsu - October 2007
Famitsu PS3 - August 2008
Dengeki PS - August 2008
Degeki Wii + DS - September 2008
[size=+1]-RELEASE DATE-[/size]
At the DK∑7313 Party, Square-Enix announced that 358/2 Days would be released in Japan this winter (2008). A more specific release date is expected to be released in the near future.
[size=+1]-DEVELOPMENT STATUS-[/size]
As of July 2008, Nomura has claimed that the content of 358/2 Days was finished, and that they would be releasing a demo at the DK∑7313 Party in August, where they hope to get some feedback on the battle system. After that, it would be just a matter of fine tuning before 358/2 Days was finished.[size=+2]-SOURCES-[/size]
Developer Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - InformationTitle Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Developer Interview
Title Info - Nomura Talks More Kingdom Hearts
Title Info - KHInsider Special - Pre DKΣ3713 Update
TGS Press Release - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Information
KH:358/2 Days Logo - Provided by GTX
Story Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Nomura Interview
Story Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Developer Interview
Story Info - KH-Vids - New 358/2 Days Info
Story Info - KHInsider - New Scan Features BBS, Days, Coded
Story Info - KHInsider Special - Pre DKΣ3713 Update
XIVth Member Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Nomura Interview
XIVth Member Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Developer Interview
XIVth Member Info - KH-Vids - Even More New 358/2 Days Info
XIVth Member Info - KHInsider Special - Pre DKΣ3713 Update
World Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - Image Viewer
World Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - Image Viewer
World Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - Image Viewer
World Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - Image Viewer
World Info - KHInsider - Nomura Talks More Kingdom Hearts!
World Info - KHInsider - New Scan Features BBS, Days, Coded
World Info - KHInsider Special - Pre DKΣ3713 Update
Gameplay Info - YouTube Video - 358/2 Days Gameplay
Gameplay Info - KH-Vids - Even More 358/2 Days Info
Gameplay Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Developer Interview
Gameplay Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - Image Viewer
Gameplay Info - KHInsider - New Scan Features BBS, Days, Coded
Gameplay Info - KHInsider Special - Pre DKΣ3713 Update
Multiplayer Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Nomura Interview
Multiplayer Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - KH 358/2 Days - Developer Interview
Multiplayer Info - KH-Vids - Even More 358/2 Days Info
Multiplayer Info - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - Image Viewer
Multiplayer Info - KHInsider - Nomura Talks More Kingdom Hearts!
Multiplayer Info - KHInsider - New Scan Features BBS, Days, Coded
Multiplayer Info - KHInsider Special - Pre DKΣ3713 Update
Graphics Info - Graphic Comparison
Graphics Info - KH-Vids - Even More 358/2 Days Info
Graphics Info - KHInsider - New Scan Features BBS, Days, Coded
Voice Acting Info - KH-Vids - Even More 358/2 Days Info
Cutscene Info - KH-Vids - Even More 358/2 Days Info
Trailer Impressions - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - TGS Trailer Summary
Trailer Impressions - Kingdom Hearts Ultimania - JF Trailer Summary
Trailer Impressions - KHInsider - DK∑7313 Wrap-Up!
Demo Impressions - KHInsider - DK∑7313 Wrap-Up!
Demo Impressions - GoNintendo - JF Demo Impressions
Scans - Additional Scans courtesy of KHI
Images - Images courtesy of KHI
Translations - All Translations courtesy of bittermeat.
Release Date - GoNintendo Demo/Trailer Impressions + Release Date
Development Status - KH-Vids - New DK∑7313 + Nomura Interview
Well there you go. I know most of this is probably just recap for a lot of people, but the point of this was to catch up the members that may not be up to date on 358/2 Days info and I would love it if no one would make posts such as "tl;dr" or anything like that. This is to be used as a reference and I don't want to hear how you guys know it already.
But I hope you guys can see how much work I put into this and what not, and any rep is appreciated for the effort I took ^___^
So, I hope you guys find this useful and if you have any comments/concerns/things you think I should add in or what not, please, feel free to post! Thanks.
UPDATE (10-04-08) [NOTE: All Updates are in BOLD]:
-Added 'Interview' sub-section to 'Additional Information' Section
-Updated 'Interview Section'
-Updated 'Trailer Impressions' with a more detailed version of the TGS 07 Impressions.
-Updated General Info Section
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