Critical Mode update arrives today making Kingdom Hearts 3 harder to play

A free update is available for Kingdom Hearts 3 today which doubles the damage you'll take and receive in the game.

Kingdom Hearts 3 is about to get a bit harder thanks to the new Critical Mode update.

Playing in Critical Mode is optional, and while you'll take more damage, enemy hit points will remain the same. You'll just receive more damage when hit.

You will find Hit Points and Magic Points have been reduced by half in this mode, and situational command prompts won't be as common. You will also have to contend with decreasing magic.

The update also includes new actions and critical abilities when playing in Critical Mode (thanks, Famitsu).

Below are the patch notes for update 1.04 which comes alongside the new mode. Update 1.05 is also rolling out.

Update 1.04

• "Critical mode" has been added to the game mode, and new abilities can be used.
• Adjusted the behavior of some enemy characters.
• Acquisition of mini-game "Frozen Slider" The treasure can now be checked from the results screen and the mobile portal.
• A check mark is now displayed on composited items in the item composition of Moguli shop.
• We added messages such as game help.
• Fixed various problems.
• When this version is installed, new save data is created.

Update 1.05

• When starting a new game with "New Game", it became possible to take over the key blade etc. from the clear data.
• Changed processing about photography and became able to save up to 200 pieces.
• Fixed various problems.

Speaking of Keyblades, if you’re making your way through Kingdom Hearts 3, check our guide on where to get Fluorite and Damascus for Keyblade upgrades. We also tell you where get Adamantite and Wellspring Crystal at the link.