One Sky, One Destiny: A Kingdom Hearts Concert Experience

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If you know me at all, you understand that I have a burning passion for a video game called Kingdom Hearts. While it has an engaging (and if I'm being at all honest, convoluted) storyline and extremely fun gameplay, it's also filled level to level and cutscene to cutscene with an abundance of phenomenal music. Sure, sure. You probably think, this is a video game, so all music in the game acts as rhythmic background noise, but that's simply untrue, as confirmed when I went to the Final Fantasy: A New World concert.

Kingdom Hearts is no different. Yoko Shimomura, the composer for the KH soundtrack, puts her entire being into her work, which she’s admitted countless times. What she’s done for the music of this much beloved series has continued to enchant and impress.

So, when Joey, a long-time friend of mine, and I heard that there would be a Kingdom Hearts concert called World Tour in the States (New York City, to be exact), we jumped at the opportunity. Now, in case you are unaware, this concert wasn’t originally supposed to happen. In fact, Joey and I were intending to purchase tickets for the Saturday Kingdom Hearts concert, but we still needed to talk logistics and understand exactly what we would need to save up. Thus, we waited. And waited. And waited some more. By the time we were prepared to purchase our tickets, we found that they were all sold out (cue waves of desolation). As the months passed and I continued to get notifications about the upcoming World Tour KH concert, I kept saying to myself that there would be another, I just had to be patient.

It didn't take long. I was on Reddit one day and saw that World Tour had added another showing the day before its original time and date! At that moment, I called Joey and begged him to consider going with me. He immediately demanded we snatch those tickets up.

Obviously, everything worked out, and though we had to make it through the scores of New Yorkers, the dreaded Friday night traffic, and the frustratingly extensive bag check in front of the United Palace Theatre, we finally sat down to enjoy one of the most surreal moments of my life, a Kingdom Hearts concert complete with a piano, full orchestra, and a choir.

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One of the first songs they played was "Dearly Beloved," which was an obvious choice, since it's actually the first song you hear when you play the game. Not to mention that it's absolutely gorgeous. In fact, it has a way of evoking two contradictory, yet complementary emotions. The song starts with a powerful rise of notes, backed by the gentle tangs of the piano. What’s most interesting about this song is that holds the essence of nostalgia. While one chord plunges into melancholy and gives the listener a feeling of overwhelming loss, the other ascends to a much lighter, hopeful tone. "Dearly Beloved" has and will forever be one of my favorite tracks simply because it captures the feeling of childhood, that undeniable yearning for the younger years, something that you can never gain back, yet is something that makes you feel undeniably unafraid for the future and still puts a smile on your face.

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They also included songs like "Treasured Memories," "Daybreak Town," and "Twilight Town," which are all beautiful compositions, but they also played some of the most heavily evocative songs, like "Vector to the Heavens," a song that focuses on Xion and her sacrifice. Not going to lie, I started to tear up a bit. I especially had major feels when "Hikari" and "Passion" came up! AHH! They truly were heavenly. Of course, all of the songs drew some kind of emotion from me.

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There were also songs that were downright heart-pumping, "Destati" being one of them. It's a song that calls for greatness from the player by starting with a sudden, violent rise from the choir and an intense trill! It's a song that expresses both the intrigue of adventure and the fearful expectations of destiny. Something that makes you go, “I have no choice but to fight.” Interestingly enough, it makes you feel small yet strong at the same time.

Another exciting song was "Fate of the Unknown." I may have squealed a bit too much at its inclusion. The fast-paced tempo coupled with the subtle rise of all the instruments was beyond amazing! My eardrums bled with euphoria. All the brass added to the score was an excellent touch, especially when there were moments of absolute epic Birth by Sleep cutscenes playing on the screen behind the orchestra.

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Then, they did something I hadn't anticipated. They played the newest Kingdom Hearts III trailer and a little later, "Wave of Darkness." Holy mother of hearts, that song has become one of my favorites. "Wave of Darkness" is a battle song that is used during Aqua’s boss fight in Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Birth by Sleep. It’s something that encapsulates the epic nature of KH as well as Aqua’s constant struggle in the realm of darkness. The tumbling, downward spiral of the piano in the background paired with the jazzy labyrinthine way in which the orchestra plays alongside the sound of a violin. Oh, it was gorgeous.

But it wasn't all tears and heart-stopping battle themes, there was also tons of laughter. One of the most hilarious moments happened when during the battle music compilation, in between two of the themes, there was a split second where the orchestra played "Atlantica" but then quickly transitioned to something else. If you're NOT a KH fan, know that "Atlantica" is usually the least favorite world to visit. To say the least, it caused the entire auditorium to ripple into a state of applause and laughter.

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Then, there was a moment in which the auditorium's lighting was having technical difficulties and there was an announcement that politely apologized for the inconvenience and said that the audience would have have to wait momentarily for the fix. Almost immediately after, someone shouted, “It’s okay. We’re used to waiting!”, to which the entire group erupted into hysterical laughter. We're still unsure when the Kingdom Hearts III release date will be.

However, the BEST part of the concert came near the end. The conductor took up a keyblade baton and had Yoko Shimomura come out and play the piano for the concert's encore. Her dexterous fingers played brilliantly (no surprise) and brought most of us to tears. But, it got better still. She quickly left, without so much as a bow, and came back with Tetsuya Nomura, the game's director!! I couldn't believe it. I was breathing the same air as the man who helped bring Kingdom Hearts into existence.

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Later, as Joey and I struck up conversation with a few people from the concert, one of them commented that she wasn't expecting to feel as many feels as she did. Agreed! Every single song had a different meaning for me. A different way of feeling. Kingdom Hearts is, at its core, about friendship and about emotion. It's no wonder that a concert filled with its music brings such amazing responses. It was made even more magical by the fact that everyone in that auditorium felt that same pang of nostalgia, that same childhood excitement, and that same hope for something more. Our hearts are connected, indeed.

Kingdom Hearts is not only a video game, it's a reminder to make mistakes, to listen to your heart, to build strong relationships, and to remember the past, but not so much that it hinders your future.

Have you been to or thought about going to any fandom concerts?

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What Kingdom Hearts Has Taught Me

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WARNING: This post contains spoilers for the Kingdom Hearts series
For about a week now, my mind has randomly started repeating quotes like, “There’s no way you’re taking Kairi’s heart” and “It is I, Ansem, the Seeker of Darkness” in preparation for a very special occasion. Kingdom Hearts is celebrating its 15th anniversary on March 28th, 2017, which is also the release day of Kingdom Hearts 1.5 + 2.5, a collection that includes Kingdom Hearts, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days, Kingdom Hearts 2, Kingdom Hearts: Birth By Sleep, and Kingdom Hearts Re:coded (phew, that's a lot). It's a perfect package for those who want to either relive their childhood or catch up with the series before Kingdom Hearts 3 comes out.

Of course, I'll be picking up my copy when the time comes because Kingdom Hearts is my favorite series of all time. Part of the reason why it's my favorite is that it taught me valuable life lessons, so I’m honoring it today by listing quotes accompanied by the lessons I've learned.

Sora: "Although my heart may be weak, it's not alone. It's grown with each new experience. And it's found a home with all the friends I've made. I've become a part of their heart, just as they've become a part of mine. And if they think of me now and then, if they don't forget me, then our hearts will be one. I don't need a weapon. My friends are my power!”

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Even after you move away, lose contact, or take another path in life, there is still something unexplained that connects you with the ones you care about, and that love is THE most powerful force in the universe.

Sora: "A promise I made to Naminé to keep her safe. Maybe my memories are fake. But the promise is real to me. That's why--I'll keep it."

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Sora: "Kairi, remember what you said before? I'm always with you, too! I'll come back to you. I promise!”

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Always keep your promises.

Kairi’s Grandmother: "So, listen, child. Even in the deepest darkness, there will always be a light to guide you. Believe in the light, and the darkness will never defeat you.”

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Riku: "What are you making me choose now?"
DiZ: "Between the road to light and the road to darkness."
Riku: "Neither suits me. I'm taking the middle road."
DiZ: "Do you mean the twilight road to nightfall?"
Riku: "No. It’s the road to dawn."

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No matter how many mistakes you've made, there’s always a way back from the darkness; in fact, your struggles make you stronger.

Roxas: “Sora. You're lucky. Looks like my summer vacation is... over.”

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Sometimes you must say goodbye to your “summer vacations,” your wants and needs, for the greater good. You learn in time that life isn’t always fair, and that's okay.

Sora: "I know the Keyblade didn't choose me, and I don't care. I'm proud to be a small part of something bigger..."

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You can make a difference, even if you see yourself as ordinary or unworthy.
Ansem the Wise: "So many are still waiting for their new beginning, their birth by sleep. Even me... and even you."

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You must learn to be patient and to never lose hope.

Roxas: "Xion! Who else will I have ice cream with?!"

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Axel: "What's your problem? You both... think you can do whatever you want. Well I'm sick of it. Go on, you just keep running. But I'll always be there to bring you back!"

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Nobodies can be somebodies. You may think that you're a misfit, but there are those out there who will understand you.

Sora: “Just stop it!! You treat people’s hearts like bottles on a shelf, but they’re not. Hearts are made of the people we meet and how we feel about them. They’re what ties us together even when we’re apart. They’re what...makes me strong!”

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You should never treat people like they’re objects. Rather than use them, cherish them.

Riku: “Are you what's trapping him in that nightmare? 'Cause if you are... I'm what nightmares fear!”

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You should always help out your friends and stick by them. Protect them at all cost.

The Master of Masters: “May your heart be your guiding key”

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Listen to your heart. Sometimes it may lead you astray, but if you never try, then you'll never know.

Aqua: "The battle for the realm of light... is not won. Thanks to Terra and Mickey, I know what's at stake. I'm not afraid. I will face the long darkness. The next time someone wanders into the realm of darkness, I'll be here. A light to cut through all the shadows. I will be their wayfinder. And one day, I'll return to Terra and Ven. I am Master Aqua. And that's a promise."

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Believe in yourself because persistence pays off.  

And lastly, I leave you with this last quote:

Kairi: "Thinking of you, wherever you are. We pray for our sorrows to end, and hope that our hearts will blend. Now I will step forward to realize this wish. And who knows: starting a new journey may not be so hard, or maybe it has already begun. There are many worlds, and they share the same sky - one sky, one destiny."

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Though it may sound silly to some, fandoms help shape a person. And if I had to pick one fandom that influenced me the most, it would have to be Kingdom Hearts. It taught me to be understanding and treat others with kindness. Because when we get down to it, no matter our race, religion, gender, or nationality, we're all connected and part of something greater than ourselves. 

What has Kingdom Hearts taught you?

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The Final Fantasy XV Phenomenon

It's been a long road...

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Just as Noctis has had to wait many years to reunite with Luna, we too have had to wait many years for the release of the long awaited Final Fantasy XV. Though a lot has changed (like its title, since it was previously marketed as Final Fantasy Versus XIII), I can’t say I’m disappointed. Since Tuesday, I’ve been playing the game non-stop.

Here are just a few reasons why I can’t put it down.

A Beautiful Bromance 

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I can’t help but smile every time one of these guys strikes up a casual conversation or saves each other from battle. From the start of the game, you realize that these crazy kids would die for one another (quite literally). They definitely have an unshakable bond.

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The group is well-rounded and everyone is important to Noctis in various ways: Gladio is definitely a father figure; Ignis is the mommy of the group; and Promto can't help but be the little brother. Their friendship is extremely important, and they never fail to support one another. I mean, when the game's theme song is Stand By Me, friendship HAS to an important aspect.

Look and Listen 

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*starts sobbing uncontrollably* It’s so darn beautiful, both graphically and musically. Square Enix has always excelled in aesthetically pleasing the player, but man is this game drop dead gorgeous. You can tell they put their heart and soul into every detail. When it rains, the characters' hair flattens, when they're running around all day, they get dirty and gross (and even comment on it). The transitions from cut scenes to gameplay is so seamless you'll constantly wonder if it's time to play or time to watch. 

The music is magical too. I mean, it’s Yoko Shimomura (same composer for the Kingdom Hearts soundtrack), so it's no wonder every song moves the player. Each track captures the moment you’re in and fully immerses you in the world.

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Even the first piece of music we hear during the menu screen is telling, hinting at sadness and a glimmer of hope. In game, the battle music has so much badassery to it, it should be criminal. Beyond that, themes for places and people are just as breathtaking. It's also an added bonus that the player is able to listen to the game's soundtrack (plus other Final Fantasy music) while cruising in the car. 

Attack! Attack! Attack!

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Wow. Just...wow. There's so much I want to say about the battle system. Warping alone is fantastically fun and addicting (watch your MP!), but there are countless things to say about the gameplay. I won't have room to touch on all of it, but I will mention a few things.

There is a tremendous amount of customization. You can even customize what you're wearing, which alters your HP, strength, and more. Then there is magic, of course, but the magic actually affects your surroundings! If you throw a thunder spell out and you're standing too close, expect to get electrocuted (then see burn marks on your clothes afterwards).   

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The weapons are astounding too!! Some of the most powerful ones have a catch to them and end up depleting your health but deal heavy damage to opponents. 

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You can even call your friends to aid you in a fight, and either one or all will jump in and complete a cinematic fight scene with Noctis. There's so much to the battle system and I won't get too much into it, but if you play the game, you'll find out for yourself.

Boys and Their Toys

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There are so many hobbies you can have fun with! 

Noctis loves fishing, so as the player, you're able to participate in (basically) a mini game to catch fish for either eating or rewards. 

Promoto is the photographer of the group and captures bro moments that you can post on social media. 

*drools*

Gladio sets up camp, which the party can then use to rest in order to level up and eat. 

And Ignis enjoys cooking, which gives your characters certain attributes or boosts depending on the ingredients and recipes.  

The Story 

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Final Fantasy XV follows Prince Noctis on his quest to find his fiancée Lady Lunafreya so that together they can save the kingdom from the Empire. On his journey, Noct is accompanied by his best friends and guardians Gladiolus, Promto, and Ignis. 

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The story that this Final Fantasy has to tell is extensive. In fact, besides the main game, there are a multitude of stories on various media that accompany it, from an anime to a feature length movie to even a side scrolling retro game.

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The world is lush and inviting. The developers really took time on every detail of this world. Although, I have a bad feeling (just from Kingsglaive's story alone) that the ending is going to be a real tearjerker...

Bonus: The Chocobos. Just look at 'em!!! So cute.  

The Fast and the Furious XV: Chocobo Drift

Though I still have quite a ways before I beat the game, I’m looking forward to seeing more from Noct & company and the world of Eos. Congrats, Final Fantasy, you’ve overcome the odds once again. Here's to fifteen more installments. 

Have you played Final Fantasy XV?

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My Reaction to the Kingdom Hearts 0.2 Opening

Warning: Kingdom Hearts spoilers included.

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It's been some time since we received Kingdom Hearts news, ladies and gents. But finally, Square Enix has revealed the Kingdom Hearts Final Chapter Prologue Opening. (I don't care what anyone says, I can't help but love these titles.) And it is glorious.

Here was my reaction:

First Thought: these graphics are unreal!!

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Just look at the colors, the detail!

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Second Thought: That "Simple and Clean" remix though. It's so catchy, I can't help but dance...

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...and sing.

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Third Thought: When Aqua smiles, the entire fandom sighs. It's been ten long years. SAVE HER!!

Do it for HER!

Fourth Thought: Aaaaannndd cue collective gasp. These possessed Ven and Terra scenes are brutal.

That smirk.

The closeups are absolutely chilling.

Ohmygoodness *hides*

Fifth Thought: *peeks between fingers* AHHHH!!! Wait, is that Mickey?  Well, it's about time!

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This mouse is on fiiiirreee.

Sixth Thought: Everything is so vivid!! And darn it, they are so freakin' happy. They're just a family of sugar pies who should be together forever. *starts sobbing*

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I love this series. It makes me feel things! Everything is going to be...

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Seventh Thought: No. Don't you dare do it.

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Eighth Thought: Am I going to be forced to relive Birth By Sleep's ending? Yes, yes I am.

Don't go!!

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Everything is going to be all right. *repeats several times but it still doesn't help*

Right in the feels.

Ninth Thought: Aqua is just thinking, "I did my best."

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I'm just going to cry in a corner now.

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Tenth Thought: Wait...

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What... what is that? Is that--

SORA'S HAND?!

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 *the entire fandom explodes in a fiery bout of excitement and unbridled joy*

RIP Kingdom Hearts fans.

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Eleventh Thought: All we can do now is wait for the barrage of Kingdom Hearts goodness next year.

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Kingdom Hearts 3 is on the horizon, but are you also looking forward to Kingdom Hearts 2.8? What about the re-release of Kingdom Hearts 1.5 and 2.5? 

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