Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep is the sixth title in the Kingdom Hearts series, but is a prequel to the first game. Though it contains elements from previous games, main characters Sora, Riku and Kairi are nowhere to be found. Instead, Birth by Sleep’s plot focuses on a new set of Keyblade-wielders, Terra, Ventus and Aqua. All three are on a quest to find their master, Eraqus, and prove their worth as Keyblade Masters, though each will follow a different path on their quest. Though you’ll need to play through each character’s quest to get the full picture, all three stories stand as their own individual narratives.

Every new Kingdom Hearts brings the possibility of new Disney worlds. Though this hasn’t seemed like the case in recent releases, Birth by Sleep introduces a number of new worlds to explore. These include both Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty’s castles, as well as Snow White’s woodlands, and Stitch’s deep space home. A few iconic worlds also make reappearances, like Hercules’ Olympus Coliseum, Neverland and the 100 Acre Wood.

Combat is revamped in Birth by Sleep and combines elements reminiscent of both Chain of Memories and Crisis Core: FF VII. All three characters have a “deck” of skills and abilities players can customize between battles. Though the concept of combat decks will probably make a few players wince from recollections of Chain of Memory’s clunky system, it’s a smoother experience. Combat is action-oriented; all normal attacks are independent of the deck. By chaining together basic attacks, a gauge fills, allowing players to tap into their combat deck abilities.

Characters are also able to tap into other characters' abilities by using the “D-Link” mechanic. In each world, you’ll pick up companions who will lend aide in battle once summoned. Depending on the strength of your D-Link with a character, you’ll be able to access more powerful abilities, including finishing moves.

Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep is scheduled for a September 7th release.