Expectations are undoubtedly high for Kingdom Hearts 4, because as the start of a new saga, it’s poised to be a healthy jumping-on point for fans and a chance to tell a less convoluted story. The realistic, more mature setting of Quadratum not only represents Sora’s aging, but opens the door to more Final Fantasy representation and less cartoony Disney worlds like Marvel and Star Wars. Still, with the June 2026 trailer lacking even a release window — and showing no Disney locations whatsoever — it feels like the game is still several months away from release. And if that’s the case, Kingdom Hearts fans may want to consider exploring Steam for some alternatives, as there’s only so many times one can replay older KH titles before wanting something new.
One upcoming Steam game that should look incredibly appealing to fans of the Kingdom Hearts franchise is Luminous Nights. While its name forms a connection to one of its key inspirations — the fairytale 1001 Arabian Nights — its mechanics are undoubtedly inspired by Square Enix and Disney’s beloved collaboration. And given how crucial fairytales like Arabian Nights have been to establishing the Disney brand, the similar vibe goes beyond just gameplay. From the HUD to the character models, Luminous Nights is unashamedly a Kingdom Hearts-like, but that’s exactly what many players likely need right now.
Luminous Nights Features at a Glance
- ATTACK with swords and magic through an action RPG gameplay system.
- EXPLORE a handcrafted 3D environment and use platforming abilities to reach hidden loot.
- LEVEL UP the more you play, expanding the ability pool of protagonist Faris.
- MEET a range of memorable characters, from a sneaky figure in a basket to genie-like guards.
Master fast-paced melee combat and powerful magic, unlock new abilities and weapons, explore the mystical city of Noor through 3D platforming, and rally memorable allies against the Masked King.
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Luminous Nights is Basically a Super Fleshed Out Version of Kingdom Hearts’ Agrabah
If one were to imagine an entire Kingdom Hearts game set within Aladdin’s world, the result would likely look a whole lot like Luminous Nights. In this game, players take control of a boy named Faris as he strives to free his home from an endless night. On his journey to defeat a corrupt masked tyrant, Faris will encounter evil jinn, but also helpful NPCs that will require assistance. While these characters may not be instantly recognizable like Jasmine, Iago, and so on, they do have distinct designs and personalities, which should make completing their quests entertaining.
Fit the 9 games into the grid.
Much like Kingdom Hearts, though, Luminous Nights looks like it will be incredibly fun even if players aren’t taking in the story. This is largely because of its fast-paced action combat, which sees players slicing through enemies with melee weapons while also mixing in a bit of magic whenever they see fit. Just like Kingdom Hearts, while players will spend a good deal of time dodging, parrying, and doing aerial combos, they’ll also be able to mix in lightning, ice, and so on. Classic healing spells and deflect are available, too, as is a flare option, allowing players to string together impressive combos and make Faris look like a Keyblade wielder.
However, though the combat and progression are a key part of the game’s DNA — like all true RPGs, players level up to acquire new abilities for their character — the world is similarly important. Developer Yahya Danboos has put great care into capturing Middle Eastern architecture and folklore within the game’s setting. Players can expect to platform across markets and palaces, clear dungeons, and so on. And as they do, they should keep their eyes peeled for chests with useful gear items for Faris, from weaponry to outfits. For fans of the long-running Kingdom Hearts series, it’s hard to imagine a better alternative than this 2027 release.
