In the newest issue of V-JUMP magazine, Square Enix has released some new information on its upcoming action RPG sequel Kingdom Hearts II. The PlayStation 2 title will feature a mysterious kid living in Twilight Town, who for unknown reasons seems to know Sora. As previously reported the protagonist of Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas, Jack Skellington will return. This time however, the Pumpkin King is aiming for the title of Christmas King by trying to organize a great Christmas party. As already confirmed by previous screenshots, Kingdom Hearts II will also feature Mulan's Imperial China as a new stage. In one of the screenshots featured in the article, Sora is seen battling the dragon-like Heartless boss of this stage. While Disney Castle was off limits for players in the original game, it seems like the development team will allow them to explore King Mickey's residence thoroughly in Kingdom Hearts II.

Kingdom Hearts II will be available in Japan sometime in 2005.