Disney Interactive, a publishing label of Buena Vista Games, and Square Enix announced that they will once again collaborate in delivering two new sequels to the hit RPG title, Kingdom Hearts. One of them will be Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories for the GameBoy Advance, but more importantly is the other announced title: Kingdom Hearts II, a direct sequel to original Kingdom Hearts.



"We are extremely proud of the success of Kingdom Hearts and are very excited to be taking the game to the next level with these two new titles," said Tetsuya Nomura, director and main character designer, Kingdom Hearts series. "Our development team is eager to create a new chapter Kingdom Hearts history and determined to deliver an even more unique and exciting gaming experience that will appeal to the global marketplace."



Kingdom Hearts II will pick up right where its predecessor left off, which means that the "mystery" that has kept fans waiting will finally unfold in this sequel. Details are scarce as of it, but Square Enix and Disney Interactive have confirmed that the colorful cast from the first game will be returning, including Sora, Kairi and Riku along with many other Disney characters and worlds.



"Buena Vista Games is thrilled to be collaborating with Square Enix again to continue Kingdom Hearts journey," said Graham Hopper, senior vice president and general manager, Buena Vista Games. "Like Kingdom Hearts, the sequels will feature Disney's most beloved properties and give fans the chance to experience them in new ways."



Kingdom Hearts II's release date remains to be announced, yet handheld gamers will be glad to know that Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories is slated for 2004 release in Japan, followed by North America and Europe.