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{{Infobox character
{{Infobox character
| name = Riku
| name = Riku
| image = RikuKingdomHeartsone.png
| image = RikuKingdomHeartsone.png
| caption = Riku as he appears in ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' wielding the Soul Eater by Tetsuya Nomura
| caption = Riku as he appears in ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'' wielding the Soul Eater
| series = [[Kingdom Hearts]]
| series = [[Kingdom Hearts]]
| creator = [[Tetsuya Nomura]]
| creator = [[Tetsuya Nomura]]
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| home = Destiny Islands
| home = Destiny Islands
| first = ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'' (2002)
| first = ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'' (2002)
| color =
| color =
}}
}}
{{Nihongo|'''Riku'''|リク|lead=yes}} is a [[fictional character]] from [[Square Enix]]'s franchise ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'', debuting in the original ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'' 2002 game. Riku is introduced as a teenager wishing to visit other worlds with his friends [[Sora (Kingdom Hearts)|Sora]] and [[Kairi (Kingdom Hearts)|Kairi]]. After the key to the other parallel worlds is opened, Riku meets the fairy [[Maleficent]] who tries to antagonize him with Sora, leading to him to be possessed by the Heartless, transforming into [[Xehanort|Ansem]]. Although Riku is freed thanks to Sora, he returns as a protagonist in following games searching for a way to cleanse the power of Ansem and becomes distant to his friends due to shame.
{{Nihongo|'''Riku'''|リク|lead=yes}} is a [[fictional character]] from [[Square Enix]]'s franchise ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'', debuting in the original 2002 ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'' game. Riku is introduced as a teenager who wishes to visit other worlds with his friends [[Sora (Kingdom Hearts)|Sora]] and [[Kairi (Kingdom Hearts)|Kairi]]. After a way to other worlds is opened, Riku meets the evil fairy [[Maleficent]] who pits him against Sora, leading to Riku falling to darkness and ultimately being possessed by [[Xehanort#Appearances|Ansem, Seeker of Darkness]]. Riku is freed thanks to Sora and returns as a protagonist in following games.


Riku was created and designed by [[Tetsuya Nomura]] who wanted him to contrast Sora's character and make his [[character arc]] represent the series' main theme of being able to choose light or darkness. His design and story were also made to parallel to fellow ''Kingdom Hearts'' character [[Terra (Kingdom Hearts)|Terra]] and how he can help others. He is voiced by [[Mamoru Miyano]] and Eiji Shima in Japanese, while [[David Gallagher]] and [[Ty Panitz]] voice him in English.
Riku was created and designed by [[Tetsuya Nomura]] who wanted him to be a foil for Sora's character and wanted his [[character arc]] represent the series' main theme of being able to choose light or darkness. His design and story are in parallel to [[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep|''Kingdom Hearts'' ''Birth By Sleep'']] character [[Terra (Kingdom Hearts)|Terra]]. He is voiced by [[Mamoru Miyano]] and Eiji Shima in Japanese, while [[David Gallagher]] and [[Ty Panitz]] voice him in English.


Critical response to Riku was generally positive, with critics pointing out his transformation into Ansem and his return in sequels as a playable character where he becomes more appealing thanks to the [[character arc]]. David Gallagher's performance of Riku was also praised by the media.
Critical response to Riku has been generally positive. David Gallagher's performance of Riku was also praised by the media.


==Creation and design==
==Creation and design==
''[[Kingdom Hearts]]'' creator [[Tetsuya Nomura]] has stated that Riku's name can be interpreted as "land", since the [[on'yomi]] pronunciation of Japanese word for "land" is {{Nihongo|''riku''|[[wiktionary:陸|陸]]}},<ref name="IGN-Riku">{{cite web |url=http://stars.ign.com/objects/142/14213997_biography.html |title=Riku Biography |publisher=IGN |access-date=January 2, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080314031944/http://stars.ign.com/objects/142/14213997_biography.html |archive-date=March 14, 2008 }}</ref><ref name="ScenarioMysteries"/> similar to how Sora's name is identical to the Japanese word for "sky", {{Nihongo|''sora''|[[wiktionary:空|空]]}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stars.ign.com/objects/965/965214_biography.html |title=Sora Biography |publisher=IGN |access-date=2008-01-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071113211632/http://stars.ign.com/objects/965/965214_biography.html |archive-date=2007-11-13 }}</ref> In the first sequel, ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'', Riku is thinking at that point will become clear later. He decides to follow the road in-between to achieve a certain goal. Riku's story was about "What is my relation with the Darkness?", with a cliffhanger centered on his path. That theme of being in-between light and dark is central to ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]''. In the previous installment, the theme was more about being of either Light or Dark, but this time they added being "in the middle". That is why there now is a Twilight Town and a Riku who follows neither Light nor Dark, but both. Twilight Town is the first world to appear in ''Kingdom Hearts II'', too. It is very different opening from the Destiny Islands you begin in the previous installment on and people who played ''Kingdom Hearts'' might say "What's this?" and get confused. However, Nomura plans to give that confusion further depth as the story goes on.<ref>{{cite book |title=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories Ultimania |date=December 2004 |isbn=978-4-7575-1344-0 |language=ja | publisher=Square-Enix }}</ref>
''Kingdom Hearts'' creator [[Tetsuya Nomura]] has stated that Riku's name can be interpreted as "land", since the [[on'yomi]] pronunciation of Japanese word for "land" is {{Nihongo|''riku''|[[wiktionary:陸|陸]]}},<ref name="IGN-Riku">{{cite web |url=http://stars.ign.com/objects/142/14213997_biography.html |title=Riku Biography |publisher=IGN |access-date=January 2, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080314031944/http://stars.ign.com/objects/142/14213997_biography.html |archive-date=March 14, 2008 }}</ref><ref name="ScenarioMysteries"/> similar to how Sora's name is identical to the Japanese word for "sky", {{Nihongo|''sora''|[[wiktionary:空|空]]}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://stars.ign.com/objects/965/965214_biography.html |title=Sora Biography |publisher=IGN |access-date=2008-01-02 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071113211632/http://stars.ign.com/objects/965/965214_biography.html |archive-date=2007-11-13 }}</ref> Riku's character represents one of the series' main themes, "the light and the dark sides of hearts," alongside Sora.<ref name="nintendopowerinter">{{cite magazine |date=March 2012 |title=Kingdom Builder |magazine=Nintendo Power |publisher=Nintendo of America |issue=276 |pages=40–41 |issn=1041-9551}}</ref>


With ''Kingdom Hearts II'' completed, Nomura managed to explained the secret ending from the first ending involving the older Riku and his encounter with Roxas although some unspecified elements were changed. The game's final scene was led ambiguous by giving Riku and Kairi having mixed reactions upon reading Mickey's letter. The secret ending of the game included Riku's Keyblade in order to expand on the lore of the franchise with Nomura specifying the phrase "Keyblade War". Riku's Keyblade is Way to the Dawn" which Nomura designed to make it look like his previous weapon, the Soul Eater. But the name of "Way to Dawn" does not have to mean that. This name came from the scene at the end of Riku's story in ''Chain of Memories'' that suggested which path he would walk on, where he said "The road to dawn."<ref name="ScenarioMysteries">{{cite book |title=キングダムハーツII FINAL MIX+ アルティマニア |year=2007 |isbn=978-4-7575-2013-4|language=ja | publisher=Square-Enix }}</ref> The fights Sora has Xemnas was meant to surprise gamers, as player loses control of Sora and has to use Riku to save him.<ref name="boss">{{cite magazine| magazine = [[Famitsu]]| publisher = [[Enterbrain]] and [[Tokuma Shoten]]| title = キングダム ハーツ II Final Mix| language = ja|date=December 2006| author = Famitsu Staff}}</ref>
In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', Riku's Keyblade is Way to the Dawn, which Nomura designed to look like his previous weapon, the Soul Eater. This name came from a scene at the end of ''Chain of Memories'' where Riku said he would walk "the road to dawn."<ref name="ScenarioMysteries">{{cite book |title=キングダムハーツII FINAL MIX+ アルティマニア |year=2007 |isbn=978-4-7575-2013-4|language=ja | publisher=Square-Enix }}</ref>

To expand the connection between Terra and Riku, scenes foreshadowing future events involving Riku from Terra's perspective were added to the game, though Nomura has stated that these scenes are not of a precognitive nature. Nomura expects that in future games, the connection between both of them would be expanded.<ref name="spec">{{cite book |script-title=ja:キングダム ハーツ バース バイ スリープ アルティマニア|trans-title=Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep Ultimania|year=2010 |isbn=978-4-7575-2788-1 |language=ja | publisher=Square Enix |page=616}}</ref>


[[File:RikuKingdomHeartsthree.jpg|thumb|left|Riku was redesigned for ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and given a new Keyblade, Braveheart, that serves as a foil to his darker persona's Way to Dawn Keyblade.]]
[[File:RikuKingdomHeartsthree.jpg|thumb|left|Riku was redesigned for ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and given a new Keyblade, Braveheart, that serves as a foil to his darker persona's Way to Dawn Keyblade.]]
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Riku's character represents one of the series' main themes, "the light and the dark sides of hearts," alongside Sora.<ref name="nintendopowerinter">{{cite magazine|magazine=Nintendo Power|publisher=Nintendo of America|date=March 2012|pages=40–41|title=Kingdom Builder|issn=1041-9551|issue=276}}</ref> On the character's role in ''Dream Drop Distance'', Nomura emphasized Riku as the game's main focus as it shows the character's growth across the series.<ref>{{cite book |title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance Ultimania |publisher=Square Enix |date=May 2012 |pages=426–430 |isbn=978-4757536159}}</ref> The switches between player characters Sora and Riku across the game are meant to contrast the style from ''Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep'', which allowed the player to use three characters in their own campaigns, as well as explain the word "Distance" in the title because the two characters never interact across their stories.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://andriasang.com/comtfs/kingdom_hearts_3ds_detailed/|title=Kingdom Hearts 3DS Named, Trailered and Discussed|author=Gantayat, Anoop|date=January 19, 2011|publisher=Andriasang|access-date=April 7, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121225035247/http://andriasang.com/comtfs/kingdom_hearts_3ds_detailed/|archive-date=December 25, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref> Nomura has stated that the themes of the game are trust and friendship, and that like ''Birth by Sleep'', the story is on par with that of a numbered title. As a result of the game's plot, both Sora and Riku appear in their younger forms from the first ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'' game. However, to avoid misconceptions that ''Dream Drop Distance'' was a remake of the original game, Nomura decided to change Sora's and Riku's outfits for most of the game.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://andriasang.com/comtqe/kh3d_sora_riku_clothes/|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Sora and Riku to See Clothing Changes|author=Gantayat, Anoop|date=January 30, 2011|publisher=Andriasang|access-date=April 12, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121225035712/http://andriasang.com/comtqe/kh3d_sora_riku_clothes/|archive-date=December 25, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref> Despite using two protagonists, the game primarily focuses on Riku's growth across the series. When starting production, the staff had decided to make the story as complex as possible, leading to the inclusion of several cutscenes which can be viewed by the player anytime they want. In order to make it more accessible, scenario writer Masaru Oka was in charge of the Chronicles feature, which explains events from previous games.<ref name="ultimania">{{cite book|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance Ultimania|publisher=Square Enix|date=May 2012|pages=426–430|isbn=978-4757536159}}</ref> When it comes to Riku's new design, Nomura altered its hair based on fan response following ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/xion-and-roxas-reappeared-in-kingdom-hearts-3-because-of-the-fans/|title=Xion and Roxas Reappeared in Kingdom Hearts 3 Because of the Fans|website=Siliconera|accessdate=April 11, 2022}}</ref>


⚫
On the character's role in ''[[Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|Dream Drop Distance]]'', Nomura emphasized Riku as the game's main focus as it shows the character's growth across the series.<ref>{{cite book |title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance Ultimania |publisher=Square Enix |date=May 2012 |pages=426–430 |isbn=978-4757536159}}</ref> Despite using two protagonists, the game primarily focuses on Riku's growth across the series. As a result of the game's plot, both Sora and Riku appear in their younger forms from the first ''Kingdom Hearts'' game. However, to avoid misconceptions that ''Dream Drop Distance'' was a remake of the original game, Nomura decided to change Sora's and Riku's outfits for most of the game.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://andriasang.com/comtqe/kh3d_sora_riku_clothes/|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Sora and Riku to See Clothing Changes|author=Gantayat, Anoop|date=January 30, 2011|publisher=Andriasang|access-date=April 12, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121225035712/http://andriasang.com/comtqe/kh3d_sora_riku_clothes/|archive-date=December 25, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref> When it comes to Riku's new design, Nomura altered its hair based on fan response following ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/xion-and-roxas-reappeared-in-kingdom-hearts-3-because-of-the-fans/|title=Xion and Roxas Reappeared in Kingdom Hearts 3 Because of the Fans|website=Siliconera|accessdate=April 11, 2022}}</ref>
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For ''Kingdom Hearts III'' Riku and Kairi's new designs were made to fit with Sora's, for example Riku having blue in contrast to Sora's red, while Kairi's main colour remains pink as usual. All of the new costumes, including Mickey's, are given to them by Yen Sid, and because of that they decided to give them something shared, which was the check pattern.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201806/21159486.html|title=『キングダム ハーツIII』最新情報＆野村哲也氏インタビュー！ E3 2018の速報も!!（2018年6月21日発売号）【今週の週刊ファミ通】|magazine=Famitsu|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> Riku's new Keyblade, the Braveheart was meant to contrast the Way to Dawn Keyblade which is destroyed early in the game.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201807/11160575.html|title=野村哲也氏を直撃！『キングダム ハーツIII』E3 2018発表内容を中心に訊くインタビュー完全版(1/3)|magazine=Famitsu|accessdate=March 9, 2022}}</ref> The bond between Riku's replica and Namine was reinforced by the original Riku during the narrative.<ref name="IIIultimania">{{cite book|title=Kingdom Hearts III Ultimania|publisher=Square Enix|year=2019}}</ref>

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For ''Kingdom Hearts III,'' Riku and Kairi's new designs were made to fit with Sora's; for example, Riku's main colour is blue in contrast to Sora's red, while Kairi's main colour remains pink as usual. All of the new costumes, including Mickey's, are given to them by Yen Sid, and because of that they share the gingham pattern.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201806/21159486.html|title=『キングダム ハーツIII』最新情報＆野村哲也氏インタビュー！ E3 2018の速報も!!（2018年6月21日発売号）【今週の週刊ファミ通】|magazine=Famitsu|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was meant to contrast the Way to Dawn Keyblade which is destroyed early in the game.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.famitsu.com/news/201807/11160575.html|title=野村哲也氏を直撃！『キングダム ハーツIII』E3 2018発表内容を中心に訊くインタビュー完全版(1/3)|magazine=Famitsu|accessdate=March 9, 2022}}</ref>


===Casting===
===Casting===
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[[Mamoru Miyano]] voices Riku in Japanese. His child persona is voiced by Eiji Shima.
[[Mamoru Miyano]] voices Riku in Japanese. Despite Miyano finding that Riku became corrupted as the narrative passed, fellow actor [[Miyu Irino]] said he still liked him. With ''Kingdom Hearts Final Mix'' adding a new scene of an older Riku, Miyano was often asked by his friends what is going on with Riku's character but he was unable to reply properly.<ref>{{cite book|title=Kingdom Hearts Ultimania|isbn=4887870426|year=2002|pages=510–514|author1=スタジオベントスタッフ }}</ref> Miyano found extremely rare to be able to do Riku's voice for twenty years. Additionally since he has been doing it since we were teens, Miyano was able to truly see the changes in the cast through the games: "the growth of our bodies, our voices, and our hearts". He was able to perform something right from myself, true to life. By the time he recorded ''Kingdom Hearts II'' in his twenties, his sense of "self" as an actor had been formed. Miyano knew what kind of performances he wanted to give—and he found myself unable to really become Riku. So Miyano did so many re-takes. Thanks to that experience, he was able to create his performance in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' by prioritizing "becoming Riku" over his own desires.<ref name="IIIultimania"/> His child persona is voiced by Eiji Shima.


In English, the character is voiced by [[David Gallagher]]. The actor said that Riku has a notable sex appeal which would make him famous within the female fans. As a result, he gives the character a deep, dark kind of sensibility to his voice similar to that of a rebellious teenager. He believes the reason for his popularity is how ''Kingdom Hearts'' uses both Disney characters and original characters as leads.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4jfY8AjZP8|title=Kingdom Hearts 2 Interview: David Gallagher|website=Youtube|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> As a child the character is voiced by [[Ty Panitz]].
In English, the character is voiced by [[David Gallagher]]. Gallagher said that Riku has a notable sex appeal which would make him famous within the female fans. As a result, he gives the character vocal quality similar to that of a rebellious teenager. As a child the character is voiced by [[Ty Panitz]].


==Appearances==
==Appearances==
Riku is a childhood friend and rival of Sora, who resides with him and Kairi on the world of Destiny Islands.<ref name="Instructions">{{cite book |author=Square Co., Ltd. |author-link=Square (video game company) |year=2002 |title=Kingdom Hearts Instruction Booklet |publisher=Square Co., Ltd.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6089696| website = [[GameSpot]]| title = Kingdom Hearts Company Line| access-date=May 13, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070518065618/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6089696|archive-date=2007-05-18}}</ref> Originally appearing as a non-playable character in the original game, where he is introduced as a 15-year-old boy, during the invasion of Heartless in ''Kingdom Hearts'', Riku immerses himself in darkness to discover new worlds beyond his home. Arriving at Hollow Bastion, Riku is manipulated by Maleficent into aiding her plans for world conquest in exchange for knowledge to restoring Kairi's missing heart. His signature weapon is the "Soul Eater" sword, a manifestation of the darkness in his heart. During the first game, Riku is revealed to be the rightful owner of Sora's Keyblade, which is bequeathed onto the five-year-old Riku by [[Terra (Kingdom Hearts)|Terra]] during the events of ''Birth by Sleep''; however, his reliance on the power of darkness causes the Keyblade to reject Riku in favor of Sora.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep|developer=Square Enix PDD 5|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date= 2010-09-07|platform=PlayStation Portable|quote='''Riku:''' Your mind's made up / '''Sora:''' Yeah. /.../ '''Sora:''' Kairi, I... it's just they really need me. I have to go. I am who I am because of them. / '''Kairi:''' See you soon.}}</ref> He is later tricked into allowing [[Xehanort]]'s Heartless, Ansem, to possess his body. Following Ansem's defeat, Riku helps Sora and King Mickey close the door to Kingdom Hearts, remaining on the other side with the king.<ref>{{cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2|quote='''Sora:''' What? You... You're not Riku. / ... / '''Sora:''' Tell me. Who are you? / '''Ansem:''' It is I, Ansem, the seeker of darkness.}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2|quote='''Mickey:''' Now, Sora! Let's close this door for good! / '''Donald:''' Close it, quick! / '''Sora:''' But... / '''Mickey:''' Don't worry. There will always be a door to the light. / '''Goofy:''' Sora, you can trust King Mickey. / '''Riku:''' Now! They're coming!}}</ref>
Riku is a childhood friend and rival of [[Sora (Kingdom Hearts)|Sora]], who resides with him and [[Kairi (Kingdom Hearts)|Kairi]] on Destiny Islands.<ref name="Instructions">{{cite book |author=Square Co., Ltd. |author-link=Square (video game company) |year=2002 |title=Kingdom Hearts Instruction Booklet |publisher=Square Co., Ltd.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| url = https://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6089696| website = [[GameSpot]]| title = Kingdom Hearts Company Line| access-date=May 13, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070518065618/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/kingdomhearts/news.html?sid=6089696|archive-date=2007-05-18}}</ref> He appears as a non-playable character in the original game, where he is introduced as a 15-year-old boy. During the invasion of Destiny Islands by the Heartless, Riku immerses himself in darkness to discover new worlds beyond his home. Arriving at Hollow Bastion, Riku is manipulated by Maleficent into aiding her plans for world conquest in exchange for knowledge to restore Kairi's missing heart. His signature weapon is the Soul Eater sword, a manifestation of the darkness in his heart. During the first game, Riku is revealed to be the rightful owner of Sora's Keyblade, which was bequeathed onto the five-year-old Riku by [[Terra (Kingdom Hearts)|Terra]] during the events of ''Birth by Sleep''; however, his reliance on the power of darkness caused the Keyblade to reject Riku in favor of Sora.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep|developer=Square Enix PDD 5|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date= 2010-09-07|platform=PlayStation Portable|quote='''Riku:''' Your mind's made up / '''Sora:''' Yeah. /.../ '''Sora:''' Kairi, I... it's just they really need me. I have to go. I am who I am because of them. / '''Kairi:''' See you soon.}}</ref> He is later tricked into allowing Xehanort's Heartless, [[Xehanort#Appearances|Ansem]], to possess his body. Following Ansem's defeat, Riku helps Sora and [[Characters of Kingdom Hearts#Mickey Mouse|King Mickey]] close the door to Kingdom Hearts, remaining on the other side with the king.<ref>{{cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2|quote='''Sora:''' What? You... You're not Riku. / ... / '''Sora:''' Tell me. Who are you? / '''Ansem:''' It is I, Ansem, the seeker of darkness.}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game| title = Kingdom Hearts| developer = Square | publisher = Square Electronic Arts | date= 2002-11-15 |platform= PlayStation 2|quote='''Mickey:''' Now, Sora! Let's close this door for good! / '''Donald:''' Close it, quick! / '''Sora:''' But... / '''Mickey:''' Don't worry. There will always be a door to the light. / '''Goofy:''' Sora, you can trust King Mickey. / '''Riku:''' Now! They're coming!}}</ref>


In ''Chain of Memories'', [[Ansem the Wise|DiZ]] helps Riku escape from the dark realm. Initially rejecting his darkness out of guilt for his betrayal, Riku resolves to wield both powers of light and darkness to battle Ansem, whose essence lingers in his heart. Vexen from Organization XIII also create a replica to have as their pawn.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories|developer=[[Square Enix]]|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A.|date=December 7, 2004|platform=Game Boy Advance|quote='''Axel:''' Marluxia plotted to use Sora against the Organization...so it's fitting Sora should be his downfall. / '''Zexion:''' Then...we won't be needing Riku anymore.}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories|developer=[[Square Enix]]|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2008-12-02 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Mickey:''' Listen, Riku. Just because darkness holds you, don't let go of who you are. You've got to fight the darkness inside you! It won't be easy to do, I know. But please don't forget. Even in the darkest darkness, there's always a little bit of light. / '''Riku:''' Light within darkness... / '''Mickey:''' You and I have seen it. The far welcoming light inside the door to darkness... The light of Kingdom Hearts---it will show you the way. Please don't give up. Believe in the light. That's a request from my heart.}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories|developer=[[Square Enix]]|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2008-12-02 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Riku Replica:''' Surprised? I guess you should be. After all, I look just like you. I'll tell you what I am. I'm an exact replica of you that Vexen made from your data..}}</ref> In ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Riku is forced to harness Ansem's power to capture Roxas in order to restore Sora's missing memories, assuming the Heartless's physical appearance as a result;<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Riku:''' Will it work? / '''DiZ:''' If we can maintain the simulated town until Naminé finishes chaining together Sora's memories. / '''Riku:''' What will happen to Roxas? / '''DiZ:''' He holds half of Sora's power within him. In the end, he'll have to give it back.|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28|platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref> after the Heartless is destroyed by DiZ's exploding heart encoder, Riku returns to his regular appearance. Riku acquires another Keyblade of his own, the "Way to the Dawn". He and Sora return to the Destiny Islands together following Xemnas's defeat.<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Xemnas:''' Heroes from the realm of light... I will not allow it to end this way---not yet. If light and darkness are eternal, then surely we nothings must be the same... Eternal! / '''Riku:''' You're right, light and darkness are eternal. Nothing probably goes on forever, too. But guess what, Xemnas? / '''Sora:''' That doesn't mean YOU'RE eternal!|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28|platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref>
In ''Chain of Memories'', [[Ansem the Wise|DiZ]] helps Riku escape from the dark realm. Initially rejecting his darkness out of guilt, Riku resolves to wield both powers of light and darkness to battle Ansem, whose essence lingers in Riku's heart.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories|developer=[[Square Enix]]|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games|date=2008-12-02|platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Mickey:''' Listen, Riku. Just because darkness holds you, don't let go of who you are. You've got to fight the darkness inside you! It won't be easy to do, I know. But please don't forget. Even in the darkest darkness, there's always a little bit of light. / '''Riku:''' Light within darkness... / '''Mickey:''' You and I have seen it. The far welcoming light inside the door to darkness... The light of Kingdom Hearts---it will show you the way. Please don't give up. Believe in the light. That's a request from my heart.}}</ref> A replica of Riku also appears in ''Chain of Memories'', having been created by Vexen from [[Organization XIII]] as a pawn.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories|developer=[[Square Enix]]|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A.|date=December 7, 2004|platform=Game Boy Advance|quote='''Axel:''' Marluxia plotted to use Sora against the Organization...so it's fitting Sora should be his downfall. / '''Zexion:''' Then...we won't be needing Riku anymore.}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories|developer=[[Square Enix]]|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2008-12-02 |platform=PlayStation 2|quote='''Riku Replica:''' Surprised? I guess you should be. After all, I look just like you. I'll tell you what I am. I'm an exact replica of you that Vexen made from your data..}}</ref>


In ''Kingdom Hearts II'', Riku is forced to harness Ansem's power to defeat Roxas in order to restore Sora's missing memories;<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Riku:''' Will it work? / '''DiZ:''' If we can maintain the simulated town until Naminé finishes chaining together Sora's memories. / '''Riku:''' What will happen to Roxas? / '''DiZ:''' He holds half of Sora's power within him. In the end, he'll have to give it back.|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28|platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref> Riku assumes Ansem's appearance as a result, only returning to his regular appearance after the explosion of DiZ's heart encoder. Riku acquires another Keyblade, the Way to the Dawn. He and Sora return to Destiny Islands together following Xemnas's defeat.<ref>{{cite video game|quote='''Xemnas:''' Heroes from the realm of light... I will not allow it to end this way---not yet. If light and darkness are eternal, then surely we nothings must be the same... Eternal! / '''Riku:''' You're right, light and darkness are eternal. Nothing probably goes on forever, too. But guess what, Xemnas? / '''Sora:''' That doesn't mean YOU'RE eternal!|title=Kingdom Hearts II|developer=Square Enix|publisher=Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games |date=2006-03-28|platform=PlayStation 2}}</ref>
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He is also present in the multiplayer mode of ''358/2 Days'' as well as the story mode of contacting Sora's replica Xion and as the final boss as he faces Roxas to use him to wake up Sora as seen in ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=2009-09-29 |platform=Nintendo DS|quote='''Riku:''' Xion...your memories...they really belong to Sora. / '''Xion:''' So you mean...I'm like a part of him? / '''Riku:''' When his memories were scattered, some of them...found their way inside you. Now, Sora has been put to sleep so that we can piece together his memory. Except... / '''Xion:''' You can't, because part of it is inside of me. That means...he can't wake up. / '''Riku:''' Yeah. You got it.}}</ref> In ''Dream Drop Distance'', he and Sora undertake a Mark of Mastery exam in preparation for Xehanort's return.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=July 31, 2012|platform=Nintendo 3DS|quote='''Yen Sid:''' Only a true master can teach you the proper way. Both of you are self-taught Keyblade wielders--an impressive feat. However, the time has come for you to let go of preconceived notions, forget what you know about the Keyblade, and begin your training again with a clean slate. Very well, then. Sora and Riku, let your examination begin.}}</ref> Riku is promoted to Keyblade Master after venturing into Sora's dreams twice in the form of a [[Universe of Kingdom Hearts#Dream Eater|Dream Eater]] to protect him from Xehanort.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=July 31, 2012|platform=Nintendo 3DS|quote='''Ansem:''' At the start of your test, when you struck out from that tiny island, you saw me there dressed in a robe. Immediately you knew something was wrong, so without even knowing it, you dove into Sora's dream. And you exactly what that sigil on your back represents--a Dream Eater to protect Sora from nightmares. / '''Riku:''' Me? I'm a Dream Eater?}}</ref> Returning to Yen Sid's tower, Riku releases his heart from Ventus's Nightmare-possessed armor, saving him. Riku then arrives in a simulation of the Destiny Islands and meets a virtual copy of Ansem the Wise, who gives him research data he had left in Sora's heart to help Sora save those connected to it. After Riku returns to the realm of light and reunites with Sora, Yen Sid commends Riku for braving the realm of sleep a second time to reawaken Sora, declaring him a Keyblade Master.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=July 31, 2012|platform=Nintendo 3DS|quote='''Yen Sid:''' Sora and Riku, you both deserve the honor. However, one of you braved the realm of sleep again to unlock the final Keyhole and save a friend. Riku, I name you our new true Keyblade Master.}}</ref>


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Riku is also present in the multiplayer mode of ''358/2 Days''. He also appears in the story mode, contacting Sora's replica Xion, and later as the final boss, where he faces Roxas as seen in ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=2009-09-29 |platform=Nintendo DS|quote='''Riku:''' Xion...your memories...they really belong to Sora. / '''Xion:''' So you mean...I'm like a part of him? / '''Riku:''' When his memories were scattered, some of them...found their way inside you. Now, Sora has been put to sleep so that we can piece together his memory. Except... / '''Xion:''' You can't, because part of it is inside of me. That means...he can't wake up. / '''Riku:''' Yeah. You got it.}}</ref> In ''Dream Drop Distance'', he and Sora undertake the Mark of Mastery exam in preparation for Xehanort's return.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=July 31, 2012|platform=Nintendo 3DS|quote='''Yen Sid:''' Only a true master can teach you the proper way. Both of you are self-taught Keyblade wielders--an impressive feat. However, the time has come for you to let go of preconceived notions, forget what you know about the Keyblade, and begin your training again with a clean slate. Very well, then. Sora and Riku, let your examination begin.}}</ref> Riku is promoted to Keyblade Master after venturing into Sora's dreams as a [[Universe of Kingdom Hearts#Dream Eater|Dream Eater]] to protect Sora from Xehanort.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=July 31, 2012|platform=Nintendo 3DS|quote='''Ansem:''' At the start of your test, when you struck out from that tiny island, you saw me there dressed in a robe. Immediately you knew something was wrong, so without even knowing it, you dove into Sora's dream. And you exactly what that sigil on your back represents--a Dream Eater to protect Sora from nightmares. / '''Riku:''' Me? I'm a Dream Eater?}}</ref><ref>{{cite video game|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance|developer=Square Enix, h.a.n.d.|publisher=Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios |date=July 31, 2012|platform=Nintendo 3DS|quote='''Yen Sid:''' Sora and Riku, you both deserve the honor. However, one of you braved the realm of sleep again to unlock the final Keyhole and save a friend. Riku, I name you our new true Keyblade Master.}}</ref>
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He subsequently embarks with Mickey in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' to rescue Aqua from the realm of darkness. Riku is also briefly playable at several points in the "Dark World" in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and is playable a few times in the ''Re Mind'' expansion of ''Kingdom Hearts III''. He obtains a new Keyblade, "Braveheart".<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vandal.elespanol.com/noticia/1350730332/kingdom-hearts-3-riku-o-aqua-seran-jugables-en-el-dlc-re-mind/|title=Kingdom Hearts 3: Riku o Aqua serán jugables en el DLC Re Mind|website=Vandal|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> During a visit to Radiant Garden, Riku analyzes digital copies of Sora and the Organization's members programmed into Cid Highwind's computer, hoping to uncover clues to Sora's whereabouts through their battles. After the analysis proves inconclusive, Riku is approached by the Fairy Godmother to meet Yen Sid, who suspects that they may find Sora through the dreams of Riku and two others. In ''Melody of Memory'' Riku explains his dream of a modern metropolis to the girl, who recognizes it as a city in her world called Quadratum, allowing Riku to open a portal to the other reality and begin his search for Sora.

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He subsequently embarks with Mickey in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' to rescue Aqua from the realm of darkness. Riku is also briefly playable at several points in the Dark World in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and is playable in the ''[[Kingdom Hearts III#Re Mind|Re Mind]]'' expansion of ''Kingdom Hearts III''. He obtains a new Keyblade, Braveheart.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://vandal.elespanol.com/noticia/1350730332/kingdom-hearts-3-riku-o-aqua-seran-jugables-en-el-dlc-re-mind/|title=Kingdom Hearts 3: Riku o Aqua serán jugables en el DLC Re Mind|website=Vandal|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> During a visit to Radiant Garden, Riku analyzes digital copies of Sora and the Organization's members, hoping to uncover clues to Sora's whereabouts. After the analysis proves inconclusive, Riku is approached by the Fairy Godmother to meet Yen Sid, who suspects that they may find Sora through the dreams of Riku and two others. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory|Melody of Memory]],'' Riku explains his dream of a modern metropolis to a girl called the Nameless Star, who recognizes it as a city called Quadratum in her world, allowing Riku to open a portal to the other reality and begin his search for Sora.


Riku also makes an appearance in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' as a spirit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-sora-kingdom-hearts-spirits/|title = Smash Bros.: Every Kingdom Hearts Spirit Being Added with Sora| website=[[Screen Rant]] |date = 6 October 2021}}</ref> In a collaboration between Square Enix and Japanese fashion brand SuperGroupies, Riku's image was used to create clothing based on his design from ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.super-groupies.com/magazine/kh3_201811|title=新進気鋭の４名のアーティストが集結|website=Super Groupies|accessdate=March 7, 2022}}</ref>
Riku also makes an appearance in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'' as a spirit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-sora-kingdom-hearts-spirits/|title = Smash Bros.: Every Kingdom Hearts Spirit Being Added with Sora| website=[[Screen Rant]] |date = 6 October 2021}}</ref> In a collaboration between Square Enix and Japanese fashion brand SuperGroupies, Riku's image was used to create clothing based on his design from ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.super-groupies.com/magazine/kh3_201811|title=新進気鋭の４名のアーティストが集結|website=Super Groupies|accessdate=March 7, 2022}}</ref>


==Reception==
==Reception==
The inclusion of Riku in ''Chain of Memories'' as a playable character was praised by GamesRadar due his enjoyable gameplay.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-re-chain-of-memories-review/|title=KINGDOM HEARTS RE: CHAIN OF MEMORIES REVIEW|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref>
For the first game, Inverse noted he liked Riku's character and wanted to know more about him.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/story/kingdom-hearts-3-review/|title=Playing Kingdom Hearts III Feels Like Coming Home|magazine=Wired|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> [[USGamer]] praised his role for giving the narrative a major impact as he takes over the role of the Disney villains in Hollow Bastion. The writer praised how strong he becomes as he defeats the Beast and takes over the Keyblade from Sora. Although Riku ends up being defeated, he being used by Ansem was noted to keep giving the narrative a darker tone.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/appreciating-hollow-bastion-where-shit-gets-real-in-kingdom-hearts|title=Hollow Bastion is Where Shit Gets Real in Kingdom Hearts|website=USGamer|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> ''[[Paste (magazine)|Paste Magazine]]'' said that a vital part in Riku's characterization in ''Kingdom Hearts'' is how he embraces darkness in contrast to Sora especially after meeting [[Maleficent]] in a similar fashion to Terra during ''Birth by Sleep''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/kingdom-hearts/kingdom-hearts-guide-part-one/#kingdom-hearts|title=Everything You Need to Know Before Playing Kingdom Hearts III (Part One)|website=PasteMagazine|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> The inclusion of Riku in ''Chain of Memories'' as a playable character was praised by GamesRadar due to how enjoyable is his gameplay.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-re-chain-of-memories-review/|title=KINGDOM HEARTS RE: CHAIN OF MEMORIES REVIEW|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> [[GamesRadar]] found Riku's fate strange as he ends sealing himself in the Door to Darkness with Mickey. The site noted Ansem still manages to further corrupt Riku, labeling his resulting personality as an "emo" who is unwilling to reunite with Sora. Meanwhile, Xemnas' handling in ''Kingdom Hearts II'' was called predictable as the now united Sora and Riku manage to destroy him alongside his lands. This led to more criticism as Ansem's and Xemnas' destructions lead to the return of the original Xehanort, making the heroes' action meaningless.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-explained/2/|title=Kingdom Hearts history - One of gaming's most complicated stories explained|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> Paste Magazine felt that Riku and Sora's fight against Xemnas felt too long even for RPG conventions and felt their happy ending lasted shortly.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/kingdom-hearts-iii/everything-you-need-to-know-before-playing-kingdom/#kingdom-hearts-ii|title=Everything You Need to Know Before Playing Kingdom Hearts III (Part two)|website=PasteMagazine|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> Although Riku and Sora are friends, GamesRadar stated that the several cutscenes they share in the first three games of the franchise often result into attracting the Yaoi fandom to the point Sora's love interest Kairi is removed from such interactions.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/top-10-square-enix-couples/4/?page=4|title=KTop 10 Square Enix Couples|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref>

[[Comic Book Resources]] listed Sora's and Riku's fight against Xemnas as one of Riku's best action sequences in the entire series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/kingdom-hearts-riku-best-fights/|title=Kingdom Hearts: Riku's 10 Best Fights|website=ComicBookResources|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref>


Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was commented by Scyfy to be one of the most interesting designs from the entire game, citing parallels with [[Cloud Strife]]'s derived Keyblade Fenrir from ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/chosen-one-of-the-day-rikus-keyblade-in-kingdom-hearts-3|title=CHOSEN ONE OF THE DAY: RIKU'S KEYBLADE IN KINGDOM HEARTS 3|website=Syfy.com|accessdate=March 9, 2022}}</ref>
In the book ''Kingdom Hearts II (Boss Fight Books Book 16)'', Alexa Ray Corriea argues that Riku is a more fitting main character of the franchise over Sora by the time the prequel ''Birth by Sleep'' was developed as how his quest for power is ignited by his foreshadowed with Terra. Although Corriea comments that while Riku's characterization earned mixed by responses due to his brooding personality, the character's arc in ''Chain of Memories'' onwards is highly notable as a result of how he seeks redemption despite no longer having the power of the Keyblade anymore and instead uses his own new strength to accomplish his quest. The arc culminates in the final stages from ''Kingdom Hearts II'' where Riku reunites with his friends and obtains a new Keyblade.<ref>{{cite book|title=Kingdom Hearts II: Boss Fight Books #16|author=Corriea, Alexa Ray|publisher=Edición Kindle|year=2017|chapter=Riku and Redemption, Or What Doesn't kill you|isbn=9781940535166 |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=tvuEDwAAQBAJ&dq=kingdom+hearts+roxas&pg=PT40}}</ref>


Hardcore Gamer liked in the inclusion of Riku as playable character in the ''Kingdom Hearts III'' DLC but lamented his few possible fights.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii-re-mind/366024/|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind|website=HardcoreGamer|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref>
[[Comic Book Resources]] still enjoyed Riku's handling of Ansem's powers as he manages to use them to overcome his inner darkness in both ''Chain of Memories'' and ''Dream Drop Distance''. The same was said with how Riku once again used Ansem's power for justice in ''Kingdom Hearts II'' and ''358/2 Days'' to defeat Roxas and help in Sora's awakening in the former game as Roxas was needed to awake the comatose teenager. The same site also listed Sora's and Riku's fight against Xemnas's as one of Riku's best action sequences in the entire series while also highlighting the multiple methods of attacks summoned by the Nobody. Comic Book Resources made an article citing his ten best fights, citing his fight against Xehanort's alter egos and he saving Aqua in ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/kingdom-hearts-riku-best-fights/|title=Kingdom Hearts: Riku's 10 Best Fights|website=ComicBookResources|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> In early trailers for the game ''Dream Drop Distance'', GamesRadar was confused with Riku's younger appearance as the game is supposed to take place after ''Kingdom Hearts II'' and compared it with ''Chain of Memories'' as such game also recycled the cast's classic designs but still felt movements might be interesting gameplay.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/e3-2010-kingdom-hearts-3d-soras-young-again/|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 3, 2022|title=E3 2010: Kingdom Hearts 3D - Sora's young again}}</ref> Both ''IGN'' and ''[[Anime News Network]]'' said Sora and Riku's stories in ''Dream Drop Distance'' were just a preparation for their growth in ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2012/07/17/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance-review|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance Review|website=IGN|accessdate=March 1, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/game/nintendo-3ds/kingdom-hearts/dream-drop-distance|title=Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance Review|website=Anime News Network|accessdate=March 1, 2022}}</ref> Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was commented by Scyfy to be one of the most interesting designs from the entire game, citing parallels with [[Cloud Strife]]'s derived Keyblade Fenrir from ''Kingdom Hearts II'' as its design also stood out within other weapons featured in the film.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/chosen-one-of-the-day-rikus-keyblade-in-kingdom-hearts-3|title=CHOSEN ONE OF THE DAY: RIKU'S KEYBLADE IN KINGDOM HEARTS 3|website=Syfy.com|accessdate=March 9, 2022}}</ref> The character's inclusion in the [[Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building]] during the ''Kingdom Hearts III'' secret ending was the subject of analysis as whether or not Riku might interact again with the cast from ''[[The World Ends With You]]'' as well as Yozora, an original character resembling him as well as ''[[Final Fantasy XV]]'' lead [[Noctis Lucis Caelum]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/1/31/18205257/kingdom-hearts-3-secret-movie-explained-how-to-watch|title=Kingdom Hearts 3's 'secret movie' is full of surprises|website=Polygon|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> USGamer shared similar comments and noted that Riku might join forces with Sora again in the future but was confused with what was the actual significance of him appearing with Yozora and whether or not he might take place of the alternate ''Final Fantasy XV'' story as Tetsuya Nomura was originally going to be its director before there was a change of staff.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/analyzing-kingdom-hearts-3-secret-ending-what-it-could-mean-for-sequel|title=Analyzing Kingdom Hearts 3's Wild Secret Ending and What it Could Mean for a Sequel|website=USGamer|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref> Hardcore Gamer liked in the inclusion of Riku as playable character in the DLC but lamented his few possible fights.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii-re-mind/366024/|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind|website=HardcoreGamer|accessdate=March 3, 2022}}</ref>


The performance of [[David Gallagher]] as Riku's English actor was praised by GamesRadar and Hardcore Gamer as one of the best ones in ''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' and ''Kingdom Hearts III'' alongside Sora's and Aqua's English actors. His inclusion as a playable character in ''3D'' was also praised due to his dynamic with fellow lead Sora.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance-review/|title=KINGDOM HEARTS 3D: DREAM DROP DISTANCE REVIEW|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii/323549/|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts III|website=HardcoreGamer|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> Koinya lamented the fact [[Mamoru Miyano]]'s work was never made available for the Western audience considering him talented alongside [[Miyu Irino]] (Sora).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.koi-nya.net/2015/01/03/review-kingdom-hearts-2-5-hd-remix/|website=Koi Nya|accessdate=February 24, 2022|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD Remix}}</ref> In a poll from ''[[Famitsu]]'', Riku was voted as the series' fourth best male character.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Famitsu|year=2017|issue=April|title=Kingdom Hearts 15th Anniversary}}</ref> A perfume based on the character was also released.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/kingdom-hearts-perfumes-inspired-by-sora-and-riku-are-available-to-pre-order/|website=Siliconera|accessdate=March 3, 2022|title=Kingdom Hearts Perfumes Inspired by Sora and Riku Are Available to Pre-Order}}</ref>
The performance of [[David Gallagher]] as Riku's English actor was praised by GamesRadar and Hardcore Gamer as one of the best performances in ''Kingdom Hearts 3D'' and ''Kingdom Hearts III'' alongside Sora's and Aqua's English actors. His inclusion as a playable character in ''3D'' was also praised due to his dynamic with fellow lead Sora.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance-review/|title=KINGDOM HEARTS 3D: DREAM DROP DISTANCE REVIEW|website=GamesRadar|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii/323549/|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts III|website=HardcoreGamer|accessdate=March 2, 2022}}</ref> Koinya lamented the fact [[Mamoru Miyano]]'s work was never made available for the Western audience considering him talented alongside [[Miyu Irino]] (Sora).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.koi-nya.net/2015/01/03/review-kingdom-hearts-2-5-hd-remix/|website=Koi Nya|accessdate=February 24, 2022|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD Remix}}</ref> In a poll from ''[[Famitsu]]'', Riku was voted as the series' fourth best male character.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Famitsu|year=2017|issue=April|title=Kingdom Hearts 15th Anniversary}}</ref> A perfume based on the character was also released.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.siliconera.com/kingdom-hearts-perfumes-inspired-by-sora-and-riku-are-available-to-pre-order/|website=Siliconera|accessdate=March 3, 2022|title=Kingdom Hearts Perfumes Inspired by Sora and Riku Are Available to Pre-Order}}</ref>


==References==
==References==

Revision as of 01:40, 4 July 2022

Riku
Kingdom Hearts character
Riku as he appears in Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories wielding the Soul Eater
First appearanceKingdom Hearts (2002)
Created byTetsuya Nomura
Designed byTetsuya Nomura
Voiced byJapanese
Mamoru Miyano
Eiji Shima (young)
English
David Gallagher
Ty Panitz (young)
In-universe information
WeaponKeyblade
HomeDestiny Islands

Riku (Japanese: リク) is a fictional character from Square Enix's franchise Kingdom Hearts, debuting in the original 2002 Kingdom Hearts game. Riku is introduced as a teenager who wishes to visit other worlds with his friends Sora and Kairi. After a way to other worlds is opened, Riku meets the evil fairy Maleficent who pits him against Sora, leading to Riku falling to darkness and ultimately being possessed by Ansem, Seeker of Darkness. Riku is freed thanks to Sora and returns as a protagonist in following games.

Riku was created and designed by Tetsuya Nomura who wanted him to be a foil for Sora's character and wanted his character arc represent the series' main theme of being able to choose light or darkness. His design and story are in parallel to Kingdom Hearts Birth By Sleep character Terra. He is voiced by Mamoru Miyano and Eiji Shima in Japanese, while David Gallagher and Ty Panitz voice him in English.

Critical response to Riku has been generally positive. David Gallagher's performance of Riku was also praised by the media.

Creation and design

Kingdom Hearts creator Tetsuya Nomura has stated that Riku's name can be interpreted as "land", since the on'yomi pronunciation of Japanese word for "land" is riku (陸),[1][2] similar to how Sora's name is identical to the Japanese word for "sky", sora (空).[3] Riku's character represents one of the series' main themes, "the light and the dark sides of hearts," alongside Sora.[4]

In Kingdom Hearts II, Riku's Keyblade is Way to the Dawn, which Nomura designed to look like his previous weapon, the Soul Eater. This name came from a scene at the end of Chain of Memories where Riku said he would walk "the road to dawn."[2]

File:RikuKingdomHeartsthree.jpg
Riku was redesigned for Kingdom Hearts III and given a new Keyblade, Braveheart, that serves as a foil to his darker persona's Way to Dawn Keyblade.

On the character's role in Dream Drop Distance, Nomura emphasized Riku as the game's main focus as it shows the character's growth across the series.[5] Despite using two protagonists, the game primarily focuses on Riku's growth across the series. As a result of the game's plot, both Sora and Riku appear in their younger forms from the first Kingdom Hearts game. However, to avoid misconceptions that Dream Drop Distance was a remake of the original game, Nomura decided to change Sora's and Riku's outfits for most of the game.[6] When it comes to Riku's new design, Nomura altered its hair based on fan response following Kingdom Hearts II.[7]

For Kingdom Hearts III, Riku and Kairi's new designs were made to fit with Sora's; for example, Riku's main colour is blue in contrast to Sora's red, while Kairi's main colour remains pink as usual. All of the new costumes, including Mickey's, are given to them by Yen Sid, and because of that they share the gingham pattern.[8] Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was meant to contrast the Way to Dawn Keyblade which is destroyed early in the game.[9]

Casting

Mamoru Miyano
David Gallagher
Mamoru Miyano (left) and David Gallagher (right) voiced Riku

Mamoru Miyano voices Riku in Japanese. His child persona is voiced by Eiji Shima.

In English, the character is voiced by David Gallagher. Gallagher said that Riku has a notable sex appeal which would make him famous within the female fans. As a result, he gives the character vocal quality similar to that of a rebellious teenager. As a child the character is voiced by Ty Panitz.

Appearances

Riku is a childhood friend and rival of Sora, who resides with him and Kairi on Destiny Islands.[10][11] He appears as a non-playable character in the original game, where he is introduced as a 15-year-old boy. During the invasion of Destiny Islands by the Heartless, Riku immerses himself in darkness to discover new worlds beyond his home. Arriving at Hollow Bastion, Riku is manipulated by Maleficent into aiding her plans for world conquest in exchange for knowledge to restore Kairi's missing heart. His signature weapon is the Soul Eater sword, a manifestation of the darkness in his heart. During the first game, Riku is revealed to be the rightful owner of Sora's Keyblade, which was bequeathed onto the five-year-old Riku by Terra during the events of Birth by Sleep; however, his reliance on the power of darkness caused the Keyblade to reject Riku in favor of Sora.[12] He is later tricked into allowing Xehanort's Heartless, Ansem, to possess his body. Following Ansem's defeat, Riku helps Sora and King Mickey close the door to Kingdom Hearts, remaining on the other side with the king.[13][14]

In Chain of Memories, DiZ helps Riku escape from the dark realm. Initially rejecting his darkness out of guilt, Riku resolves to wield both powers of light and darkness to battle Ansem, whose essence lingers in Riku's heart.[15] A replica of Riku also appears in Chain of Memories, having been created by Vexen from Organization XIII as a pawn.[16][17]

In Kingdom Hearts II, Riku is forced to harness Ansem's power to defeat Roxas in order to restore Sora's missing memories;[18] Riku assumes Ansem's appearance as a result, only returning to his regular appearance after the explosion of DiZ's heart encoder. Riku acquires another Keyblade, the Way to the Dawn. He and Sora return to Destiny Islands together following Xemnas's defeat.[19]

Riku is also present in the multiplayer mode of 358/2 Days. He also appears in the story mode, contacting Sora's replica Xion, and later as the final boss, where he faces Roxas as seen in Kingdom Hearts II.[20] In Dream Drop Distance, he and Sora undertake the Mark of Mastery exam in preparation for Xehanort's return.[21] Riku is promoted to Keyblade Master after venturing into Sora's dreams as a Dream Eater to protect Sora from Xehanort.[22][23]

He subsequently embarks with Mickey in Kingdom Hearts III to rescue Aqua from the realm of darkness. Riku is also briefly playable at several points in the Dark World in Kingdom Hearts III and is playable in the Re Mind expansion of Kingdom Hearts III. He obtains a new Keyblade, Braveheart.[24] During a visit to Radiant Garden, Riku analyzes digital copies of Sora and the Organization's members, hoping to uncover clues to Sora's whereabouts. After the analysis proves inconclusive, Riku is approached by the Fairy Godmother to meet Yen Sid, who suspects that they may find Sora through the dreams of Riku and two others. In Melody of Memory, Riku explains his dream of a modern metropolis to a girl called the Nameless Star, who recognizes it as a city called Quadratum in her world, allowing Riku to open a portal to the other reality and begin his search for Sora.

Riku also makes an appearance in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate as a spirit.[25] In a collaboration between Square Enix and Japanese fashion brand SuperGroupies, Riku's image was used to create clothing based on his design from Kingdom Hearts III.[26]

Reception

The inclusion of Riku in Chain of Memories as a playable character was praised by GamesRadar due his enjoyable gameplay.[27]

Comic Book Resources listed Sora's and Riku's fight against Xemnas as one of Riku's best action sequences in the entire series.[28]

Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was commented by Scyfy to be one of the most interesting designs from the entire game, citing parallels with Cloud Strife's derived Keyblade Fenrir from Kingdom Hearts II.[29]

Hardcore Gamer liked in the inclusion of Riku as playable character in the Kingdom Hearts III DLC but lamented his few possible fights.[30]

The performance of David Gallagher as Riku's English actor was praised by GamesRadar and Hardcore Gamer as one of the best performances in Kingdom Hearts 3D and Kingdom Hearts III alongside Sora's and Aqua's English actors. His inclusion as a playable character in 3D was also praised due to his dynamic with fellow lead Sora.[31][32] Koinya lamented the fact Mamoru Miyano's work was never made available for the Western audience considering him talented alongside Miyu Irino (Sora).[33] In a poll from Famitsu, Riku was voted as the series' fourth best male character.[34] A perfume based on the character was also released.[35]

References

  1. ^ "Riku Biography". IGN. Archived from the original on March 14, 2008. Retrieved January 2, 2008.
  2. ^ a b キングダムハーツII FINAL MIX+ アルティマニア (in Japanese). Square-Enix. 2007. ISBN 978-4-7575-2013-4.
  3. ^ "Sora Biography". IGN. Archived from the original on 2007-11-13. Retrieved 2008-01-02.
  4. ^ "Kingdom Builder". Nintendo Power. No. 276. Nintendo of America. March 2012. pp. 40–41. ISSN 1041-9551.
  5. ^ Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance Ultimania. Square Enix. May 2012. pp. 426–430. ISBN 978-4757536159.
  6. ^ Gantayat, Anoop (January 30, 2011). "Kingdom Hearts 3D: Sora and Riku to See Clothing Changes". Andriasang. Archived from the original on December 25, 2012. Retrieved April 12, 2012.
  7. ^ "Xion and Roxas Reappeared in Kingdom Hearts 3 Because of the Fans". Siliconera. Retrieved April 11, 2022.
  8. ^ "『キングダム ハーツIII』最新情報＆野村哲也氏インタビュー！ E3 2018の速報も!!（2018年6月21日発売号）【今週の週刊ファミ通】". Famitsu. Retrieved March 2, 2022.
  9. ^ "野村哲也氏を直撃！『キングダム ハーツIII』E3 2018発表内容を中心に訊くインタビュー完全版(1/3)". Famitsu. Retrieved March 9, 2022.
  10. ^ Square Co., Ltd. (2002). Kingdom Hearts Instruction Booklet. Square Co., Ltd.
  11. ^ "Kingdom Hearts Company Line". GameSpot. Archived from the original on 2007-05-18. Retrieved May 13, 2007.
  12. ^ Square Enix PDD 5 (2010-09-07). Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep (PlayStation Portable). Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios. Riku: Your mind's made up / Sora: Yeah. /.../ Sora: Kairi, I... it's just they really need me. I have to go. I am who I am because of them. / Kairi: See you soon.{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)
  13. ^ Square (2002-11-15). Kingdom Hearts (PlayStation 2). Square Electronic Arts. Sora: What? You... You're not Riku. / ... / Sora: Tell me. Who are you? / Ansem: It is I, Ansem, the seeker of darkness.
  14. ^ Square (2002-11-15). Kingdom Hearts (PlayStation 2). Square Electronic Arts. Mickey: Now, Sora! Let's close this door for good! / Donald: Close it, quick! / Sora: But... / Mickey: Don't worry. There will always be a door to the light. / Goofy: Sora, you can trust King Mickey. / Riku: Now! They're coming!
  15. ^ Square Enix (2008-12-02). Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories (PlayStation 2). Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games. Mickey: Listen, Riku. Just because darkness holds you, don't let go of who you are. You've got to fight the darkness inside you! It won't be easy to do, I know. But please don't forget. Even in the darkest darkness, there's always a little bit of light. / Riku: Light within darkness... / Mickey: You and I have seen it. The far welcoming light inside the door to darkness... The light of Kingdom Hearts---it will show you the way. Please don't give up. Believe in the light. That's a request from my heart.
  16. ^ Square Enix (December 7, 2004). Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories (Game Boy Advance). Square Enix U.S.A. Axel: Marluxia plotted to use Sora against the Organization...so it's fitting Sora should be his downfall. / Zexion: Then...we won't be needing Riku anymore.
  17. ^ Square Enix (2008-12-02). Kingdom Hearts Re:Chain of Memories (PlayStation 2). Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games. Riku Replica: Surprised? I guess you should be. After all, I look just like you. I'll tell you what I am. I'm an exact replica of you that Vexen made from your data..
  18. ^ Square Enix (2006-03-28). Kingdom Hearts II (PlayStation 2). Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games. Riku: Will it work? / DiZ: If we can maintain the simulated town until Naminé finishes chaining together Sora's memories. / Riku: What will happen to Roxas? / DiZ: He holds half of Sora's power within him. In the end, he'll have to give it back.
  19. ^ Square Enix (2006-03-28). Kingdom Hearts II (PlayStation 2). Square Enix U.S.A., Buena Vista Games. Xemnas: Heroes from the realm of light... I will not allow it to end this way---not yet. If light and darkness are eternal, then surely we nothings must be the same... Eternal! / Riku: You're right, light and darkness are eternal. Nothing probably goes on forever, too. But guess what, Xemnas? / Sora: That doesn't mean YOU'RE eternal!
  20. ^ Square Enix, h.a.n.d. (2009-09-29). Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (Nintendo DS). Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios. Riku: Xion...your memories...they really belong to Sora. / Xion: So you mean...I'm like a part of him? / Riku: When his memories were scattered, some of them...found their way inside you. Now, Sora has been put to sleep so that we can piece together his memory. Except... / Xion: You can't, because part of it is inside of me. That means...he can't wake up. / Riku: Yeah. You got it.
  21. ^ Square Enix, h.a.n.d. (July 31, 2012). Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (Nintendo 3DS). Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios. Yen Sid: Only a true master can teach you the proper way. Both of you are self-taught Keyblade wielders--an impressive feat. However, the time has come for you to let go of preconceived notions, forget what you know about the Keyblade, and begin your training again with a clean slate. Very well, then. Sora and Riku, let your examination begin.
  22. ^ Square Enix, h.a.n.d. (July 31, 2012). Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (Nintendo 3DS). Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios. Ansem: At the start of your test, when you struck out from that tiny island, you saw me there dressed in a robe. Immediately you knew something was wrong, so without even knowing it, you dove into Sora's dream. And you exactly what that sigil on your back represents--a Dream Eater to protect Sora from nightmares. / Riku: Me? I'm a Dream Eater?
  23. ^ Square Enix, h.a.n.d. (July 31, 2012). Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance (Nintendo 3DS). Square Enix, Disney Interactive Studios. Yen Sid: Sora and Riku, you both deserve the honor. However, one of you braved the realm of sleep again to unlock the final Keyhole and save a friend. Riku, I name you our new true Keyblade Master.
  24. ^ "Kingdom Hearts 3: Riku o Aqua serán jugables en el DLC Re Mind". Vandal. Retrieved March 3, 2022.
  25. ^ "Smash Bros.: Every Kingdom Hearts Spirit Being Added with Sora". Screen Rant. 6 October 2021.
  26. ^ "新進気鋭の４名のアーティストが集結". Super Groupies. Retrieved March 7, 2022.
  27. ^ "KINGDOM HEARTS RE: CHAIN OF MEMORIES REVIEW". GamesRadar. Retrieved March 2, 2022.
  28. ^ "Kingdom Hearts: Riku's 10 Best Fights". ComicBookResources. Retrieved March 2, 2022.
  29. ^ "CHOSEN ONE OF THE DAY: RIKU'S KEYBLADE IN KINGDOM HEARTS 3". Syfy.com. Retrieved March 9, 2022.
  30. ^ "Review: Kingdom Hearts III Re Mind". HardcoreGamer. Retrieved March 3, 2022.
  31. ^ "KINGDOM HEARTS 3D: DREAM DROP DISTANCE REVIEW". GamesRadar. Retrieved March 2, 2022.
  32. ^ "Review: Kingdom Hearts III". HardcoreGamer. Retrieved March 2, 2022.
  33. ^ "Review: Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD Remix". Koi Nya. Retrieved February 24, 2022.
  34. ^ "Kingdom Hearts 15th Anniversary". Famitsu. No. April. 2017.
  35. ^ "Kingdom Hearts Perfumes Inspired by Sora and Riku Are Available to Pre-Order". Siliconera. Retrieved March 3, 2022.
source: https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Riku_(Kingdom_Hearts)&diff=prev&oldid=1096367992