1. Sora
Obvious answer lol. He’s the most developed and likeable character in the series by far. Of all the “chosen one / hero” archetypes, Sora is the most unique because they don’t waste time showing how he has to “grow up” and “accept his responsibilities”, his childlike innocence is always maintained and he’s kinda already accepted his responsibilities at the beginning of the journey. He is just fun incarnate, and happy to be going along with the ride — which is very fitting for a Disney protagonist.
My favourite moment in the entire series will always be when he lost the keyblade in Hollow Bastion (KH1) and Donald & Goofy leave him. He was all alone in the world with no hope left, but what was the first thing he did? Think about someone else’s problems: Beast. The fact that he no longer had any purpose in life and STILL chose to help someone else is why he is the best character to me.
2. King Mickey
Mickey’s portrayal in Kingdom Hearts might legitimately be the only time a classic cartoon character has ever been given serious character development and moral dilemmas!
His constant struggle with having to protect his friends, his family, his own world and the worlds of others, having to live up to Master Yensid etc, is all very engaging and well thought out.
The Aqua situation provided some great dilemmas and insight into the character. He already disobeyed his Master once in BBS, so being forbidden to save Aqua really took a toll on him and you can tell he was internally conflicted. He didn’t want to abandon his friend, but he also didn’t want to disobey and disappoint his Master again either. You can see in his reaction to
Riku going missing in Melody of Memories
how much he doesn’t want to go through losing another friend (Not to mention there’s this gradual fear building in Mickey of becoming more and more alone as the series progresses; Donald & Goofy actively disobey him in KH2 preferring to be with Sora, Aqua already has her own group of friends as the Wayfinder Trio, same with the Days trio etc, so Mickey’s always the odd one out). All of this culminating in what is by far the most epic and heroic moment in the entire series when he singlehandedly took down 13 Xehanorts to save ALL his friends and finally live up to his title as King!
You go Mickey! 🙌
3. Roxas
Roxas perfectly represents the theme of existential crisis in the series. His role as an organisation member actively clashes with his innocent personality, which is what makes him a very engaging character. There’s a real sense of melancholy to his journey and his relationship with Axel, Xion. Even his Twilight Town buddies like Pence and Olette, all of this makes that wonderful moment “Looks like my summer vacation...is over” the most emotionally resonant moment in the series for me. 😢😭
Not to mention he’s just a complete badass! Being the first character we saw in the series who could wield TWO keyblades will forever cement him as one of the coolest characters in the series.
4. Goofy
How can anyone not love Goofy? He’s the best possible friend anyone could ever have: fiercely loyal, kind, funny and a perfect shield.
F***ing love Goofy! ❤
5. Donald
Donald can be annoying sometimes, but he is also extremely funny. His hotheaded outbursts are very enjoyable and I love his chemistry with Sora and Goofy.
6. Riku
Riku’s journey from darkness to light is one of the most interesting in the series. I love the sheer evolution the character had, and his relationship with Mickey is just the best thing ever!
7. Kairi
Kairi is basically the Disney princess of the series, but she can actually kick some ass if needed. Her willingness to be part of the action and her love/sacrifice for Sora make her one of the most likeable characters in my opinion.
8. Hades / Axel
Hades’ laidback personality, his witty remarks and sheer frustration whenever things don’t go his way makes him absolutely hilarious and one of the standouts for sure!
Axel I like for a lot of the same reasons but he has gotten kinda tiring over the course of the series..
9. Pete
I just the love the bumbling buffoon side villain archetype and Pete is basically the best version of that!
He always makes for a fun boss fight too.
10. Sephiroth / Leon / Winnie The Pooh
It just wouldn’t feel like a proper Kingdom Hearts game without 3 things: either a Sephiroth super boss, Final Fantasy cameo or a Winnie the Pooh world.
KH Leon >>> FF Leon. I really do prefer his stoic badass mentor persona in KH to his normal FF version. Plus, he was one of the very first characters to jumpstart Sora’s journey so there’s always a sense of nostalgia whenever you get to see him. ☺
Spoiler