Disney Castle and Timeless River bring Disney wizardry to Kingdom Hearts II. The true magic of Kingdom Hearts comes in its message of friendship and the ties that bind through time, and the Disney Castle/Timeless River dichotomy exemplifies Disney's allure across its generations. One is a celebration of the House of Mouse's most iconic characters, now appearing as benevolent rulers or denizens of this magnificent castle. Timeless River harkens back to the studio's roots, the days of a more wiley Mickey, of steamboats and hilarious slide whistle sound effects. Even at its darkest moments, Kingdom Hearts wants players to remember the light in its characters, in the world, and in themselves. Disney Castle and Timeless River are a reminder of the light Disney has brought not just to the game but to so many lives. Kingdom Hearts is its best when the original ideas come together with Disney influences and create something at once full of nostalgia and memorable in its own right — exactly what Disney Castle and Timeless River accomplish.