While the eagerly awaitedKingdom Hearts 4is still probably years away, many fans anticipate the fate of familiar characters and the evolution of their story arcs alongside Sora and his companions. TheKingdom Heartsfranchise has consistently enchanted gamers with its unique blend ofDisneyandFinal Fantasycharacterswithin its grandiose world. But Riku’s lore especially holds some curiosity as he has been involved in the series from the beginning, engaging in dangerous battles against the dark force and overcoming numerous challenges. Looking at everything he has accomplished, it may be time for Square Enix to consider retiring Riku from the central storyline.
Riku has played the role of one ofKingdom Hearts' most intricate characters, right from his debut inKingdom Hearts 1, which marked the start of a tumultuous journey filled with personal growth. As a curious teenager, he dreamed of embarking on adventures with his friends, eagerly venturing into uncharted territories. To accomplish this, he even letsKingdom Hearts' Heartless in and is, basically, responsible for the destruction of Destiny Island.KH1tells the story of his fall to the dark side and the initiation of his redemption arc.
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Riku’s Completed Redemption Arc Should Put Him on the Sidelines
Despite it being a result of his turn to the dark side, Riku’s unwavering determination eventually turned into jealousy, believing that Sora had moved on from him with new friends in Donald and Goofy. Maleficent added fuel to the fire by feeding Riku lies, driving a wedge between him and Sora, which escalated when Maleficent told him he was destined to hold the Keyblade. This bitterness was only exacerbated by Riku’s relationship withAnsem, Seeker of Darkness.
Upon witnessing the harm caused to his friends due to his involvement with the dark realm, Riku searched for redemption.KH2sees his penance paid as he remains in Ansem form for the duration of the game, while inKH3he plays a big role in defeating Xehanort and supporting Sora. The end ofKH3sees Riku brought back to Destiny Islands, now with the many friends he has made across the way, but at the same time, Sora fades away into nothing. The events ofKH3’s Re Mind DLC and the events ofMelody of Memorymake it clear that Riku is searching for Sora, tying him into the events ofKingdom Hearts 4in some way. However, at the same time, discovering and saving Sora might just be the last thing Riku needs to do. After everything the character has been through, he deserves a break.
Riku’s redemption arc and transformation from a villain to a reluctant hero to Keyblade Master has been part of theKingdom Heartsmagic that fans have enjoyed over the years. With his story culminating in his wisdom as a Keyblade Master and unwavering loyalty as a friend after a stint on the dark side, Riku’s character has earned the right to rest, his journey ending in peace. WhileKingdom Hearts 4’s character rosterstill remains to be filled out, Square Enix could do Riku a solid service by bidding him farewell in the upcoming installment.
