Weapon of the Week: Keyblade

The Keyblades of Kingdom Hearts II. Can you name them all?

Franchise: Kingdom Hearts

Appearances: Every KH game

Type: Sword

Kingdom Hearts is one of my favorite franchises out there. Sure, the story is convoluted as all heck, and each installment creates more problems with the story than it solves, but it's still a very fun series. With great combat mechanics, flashy effects, and great boss fights, it remains one of the best gaming experiences I’ve had. And of course, no great action game would be complete with a great weapon, and in Kingdom Heart’s case, we have the Keyblade.

The Keyblade’s purpose and powers has expanded as the series went on. As of now, it can seal the Keyholes (which protects the worlds from being destroyed by the Heartless), can clear the paths between the worlds, can unlock or lock any seal, can enable its user to wield powerful magic, and can even restore worlds taken by the Heartless. But one thing that has remained constant is its ability to be one of the greatest blades in video games.

Keyblades come in all shapes and sizes, and each has its own special use. Some boost your aerial combat skills, some give you massive strength boosts, and some make it easier to obtain rare items. But regardless of the Keyblade, it remains the biggest tool in fighting the Heartless menace. Without the Keyblade, the hearts freed upon a Heartless’s defeat would simply find its way into a new Heartless.

The Keyblade is a creative and powerful weapon, and I can’t wait to see what Keyblades KH3 will roll out. Next time, we’ll look at a true war machine. Until then, see ya.