View source for Riku (Kingdom Hearts)

{{Infobox character
| name = Riku
| image = RikuKingdomHeartsone.png
| caption = Riku as he appears in ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories]]'', wielding the Soul Eater
| series = [[Kingdom Hearts]]
| creator = [[Tetsuya Nomura]]
| designer = Tetsuya Nomura
| voice = '''Japanese'''<br />[[Mamoru Miyano]]<br />Eiji Shima (young)<br />'''English'''<br />[[David Gallagher]]<br />[[Ty Panitz]] (young)
| weapon = Soul Eater <br />[[Keyblade]] (Way to Dawn, Braveheart)
| home = Destiny Islands
| first = ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'' (2002)
}}
{{Nihongo|'''Riku'''|リク|lead=yes}} is a fictional character in the [[Square Enix]] video game series ''[[Kingdom Hearts]]''. Debuting in the original ''[[Kingdom Hearts (video game)|Kingdom Hearts]]'', 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 their home world of Destiny Islands is destroyed, Riku meets [[Maleficent]], whose manipulation causes him to oppose Sora and fall into darkness, being possessed by [[Xehanort#Appearances|Ansem, Seeker of Darkness]]. However, he is freed by Sora and returns as a protagonist in subsequent games.

Riku was created and designed by [[Tetsuya Nomura]], who wanted him to be a foil for Sora's character and his [[character arc]] to represent the series' main theme of being able to choose between light or darkness, with his design and story paralleling [[Terra (Kingdom Hearts)|Terra]]. He is voiced by [[Mamoru Miyano]] and Eiji Shima in Japanese and [[David Gallagher]] and [[Ty Panitz]] in English.<ref name="IIIultimania">{{cite book |title=Kingdom Hearts III Ultimania |publisher=Square Enix |year=2019}}</ref>

Critical response to Riku has been widely acclaimed, particularly for his redemption arc and David Gallagher's performance.

==Creation and design==
{{multiple image
| footer            = Mamoru Miyano (left) and David Gallagher (right) voiced Riku.
| image1            = Miyano Mamoru from "Human Lost" at Opening Ceremony of the Tokyo International Film Festival 2019 (49013608721).jpg
| alt1              = Mamoru Miyano
| caption1          = 
| image2            = David Gallagher.jpg
| alt2              = David Gallagher
| align             = left
| caption2          = 
| perrow            = 2
| total_width       = 320
}}
''Kingdom Hearts'' creator [[Tetsuya Nomura]] has stated that Riku's name can be interpreted as "land", since the [[on'yomi]] pronunciation of the Japanese word for "land" is {{Nihongo|''riku''|[[wikt: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''|[[wikt: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> Along with Sora, Riku's character represents one of the series' main themes, "the light and the dark sides of hearts".<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>

In ''[[Kingdom Hearts II]]'', Riku's [[Keyblade]] is Way to the Dawn, which Nomura designed to resemble his previous weapon, the Soul Eater. Its name is derived from a scene at the end of ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories|Chain of Memories]]'', where Riku said that 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> Though Riku has a minor role in ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep|Birth by Sleep]]'', Nomura wanted to expand on his connection with Terra, who gave him the ability to wield the Keyblade and would later reunite with him.<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>

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, despite it featuring Sora and Riku as dual protagonists, it showcases his 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> As a result of the game's plot, Sora and Riku appear in their younger forms from the first ''Kingdom Hearts'' game. To avoid misconceptions that ''Dream Drop Distance'' was a remake of the original game, Nomura decided to change their 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|work=Andriasang |date=January 30, 2011|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> For Riku's new design, Nomura altered his hair based on fan response following ''Kingdom Hearts II''.<ref>{{cite web |last=Hashimoto |first=Kazuma |date=April 11, 2022 |title=Xion and Roxas Reappeared in Kingdom Hearts 3 Because of the Fans |url=https://www.siliconera.com/xion-and-roxas-reappeared-in-kingdom-hearts-3-because-of-the-fans/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220411100141/https://www.siliconera.com/xion-and-roxas-reappeared-in-kingdom-hearts-3-because-of-the-fans/ |archive-date=April 11, 2022 |accessdate=April 11, 2022 |website=Siliconera}}</ref>

For ''[[Kingdom Hearts III]],'' Riku and Kairi's new designs were made to fit with Sora's; while Kairi's main color remains pink, Riku's main color is blue in contrast to Sora's red, with their outfits sharing a [[gingham]] pattern due to being given to them by [[Yen Sid]].<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|archive-date=March 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220302234043/https://www.famitsu.com/news/201806/21159486.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was meant to contrast with the Way to Dawn Keyblade.<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>

==Appearances==

=== ''Kingdom Hearts'' ===
Riku is a childhood friend and rival of Sora, who lives with him and 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> In the original game, where he is fifteen years old, when the [[Heartless (Kingdom Hearts)|Heartless]] invade Destiny Islands, Riku immerses himself in darkness to discover new worlds beyond his home. Upon arriving at Hollow Bastion, Riku is manipulated by Maleficent into aiding in her plans for world conquest in exchange for knowledge to restore Kairi's missing heart. He comes to wield the Soul Eater, a manifestation of the darkness in his heart, and is later revealed to be the rightful owner of Sora's Keyblade, which Terra bequeathed to him during the events of ''[[Kingdom Hearts Birth by Sleep|Birth by Sleep]]'', when he was five years old; however, his reliance on the power of darkness caused the Keyblade to reject him 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 sacrifices himself to help [[Mickey Mouse]] close the door to Kingdom Hearts, stranding them on the other side.<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'', [[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 his 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 created by [[Vexen]], known as [[Riku Replica]], appears in ''Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts III''.<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 acquires a new Keyblade, the Way to the Dawn. He is forced to harness Ansem's power to defeat [[Roxas (Kingdom Hearts)|Roxas]] and 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> As a result, he assumes Ansem's appearance, returning to normal after DiZ's heart encoder explodes. He and Sora return to Destiny Islands 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>

Riku appears in the multiplayer mode of ''[[Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days|358/2 Days]]'' and in its story mode, where he contacts [[Xion (Kingdom Hearts)|Xion]] and is the final boss, facing 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'', Riku 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 [[Dream Eater (Kingdom Hearts)|Dream Eater]] to protect Sora from Xehanort, who attempts to use him as a vessel.<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>

In ''Kingdom Hearts III'', Riku and Mickey venture into the realm of darkness to rescue [[Aqua (Kingdom Hearts)|Aqua]], with him being playable in several moments throughout the realm. He is also playable in the ''[[Kingdom Hearts III#Re Mind|Re Mind]]'' expansion, where 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|date=27 December 2019|accessdate=March 3, 2022|archive-date=3 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220303124522/https://vandal.elespanol.com/noticia/1350730332/kingdom-hearts-3-riku-o-aqua-seran-jugables-en-el-dlc-re-mind/|url-status=live}}</ref> While visiting Radiant Garden, Riku analyzes digital copies of Sora and [[Organization XIII]]'s members in hopes of uncovering clues to Sora's whereabouts. After the analysis proves inconclusive, Riku is approached by the [[Fairy Godmother (Disney)|Fairy Godmother]] and taken to meet Yen Sid, who suspects that they may find Sora through the dreams of him and two others. In ''[[Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory|Melody of Memory]],'' Riku explains his dream of a modern metropolis to a girl known as the Nameless Star. She recognizes it as the city of Quadratum in her world and opens a portal for Riku to enter Quadratum and begin his search for Sora.

=== Other appearances ===
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|access-date = 7 March 2022|archive-date = 10 October 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211010001338/https://screenrant.com/super-smash-bros-ultimate-sora-kingdom-hearts-spirits/|url-status = live}}</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|archive-date=March 7, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220307204957/https://www.super-groupies.com/magazine/kh3_201811|url-status=dead}}</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|date=19 January 2022|archive-date=28 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230828193138/https://www.siliconera.com/kingdom-hearts-perfumes-inspired-by-sora-and-riku-are-available-to-pre-order/|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Reception==
[[USGamer]] praised Riku's role for giving the narrative a major impact as he takes over the role of the Disney villains in Hollow Bastion, defeating the Beast and taking the Keyblade from Sora. Though he is defeated, the reveal that he was being used by Ansem was noted as 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|archive-date=March 2, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220302155524/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/appreciating-hollow-bastion-where-shit-gets-real-in-kingdom-hearts|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[Paste (magazine)|Paste Magazine]]'' stated that a vital part in Riku's characterization in ''Kingdom Hearts'' is that he embraces darkness, similar 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|date=17 January 2019|accessdate=March 3, 2022|archive-date=3 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220303113743/https://www.pastemagazine.com/games/kingdom-hearts/kingdom-hearts-guide-part-one/#kingdom-hearts|url-status=live}}</ref> The inclusion of Riku in ''Chain of Memories'' as a playable character was praised by GamesRadar due to 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|date=10 December 2008|accessdate=March 2, 2022|archive-date=2 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220302235847/https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-re-chain-of-memories-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Comic Book Resources]] listed Sora and Riku's fight against Xemnas as one of Riku's best action sequences in the series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cbr.com/kingdom-hearts-riku-best-fights/|title=Kingdom Hearts: Riku's 10 Best Fights|website=ComicBookResources|date=29 October 2021|accessdate=March 2, 2022|archive-date=2 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220302142511/https://www.cbr.com/kingdom-hearts-riku-best-fights/|url-status=live}}</ref> 

Riku's quest to be free and the sacrifices he makes in the first game to save Sora were commented on by William Humberto Huber from [[UC San Diego]] as symbolizing he and Sora's loss of innocence. The arrival of Heartless in Destiny Islands being caused by Riku's darkness was seen as an "allusion to the arrival" of [[Matthew C. Perry]]'s ships in Tokyo Bay in 1853, which had a major impact on Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.digra.org/wp-content/uploads/digital-library/09287.47134.pdf|title=Kingdom Hearts, Territoriality and Flow|work=Digra|accessdate=June 19, 2023|archive-date=June 8, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230608010152/http://www.digra.org/wp-content/uploads/digital-library/09287.47134.pdf|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''Kingdom Hearts: A Search For Identity'', writer Michelle Pina describes Riku as a "bratty" youth who tries to act superior to Sora in early appearances in the first game. However, in later installments, he is described as a teenager who suffers from an identity crisis due to the inner conflict between him and Ansem after he gives up himself to the darkness within him.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/kingdom-hearts-a-search-for-identity|title=Kingdom Hearts: A Search For Identity|work=Game Developer|date=22 November 2016|accessdate=June 19, 2023|archive-date=20 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230620003029/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/kingdom-hearts-a-search-for-identity|url-status=live}}</ref>In the book ''Kingdom Hearts II (Boss Fight Books Book 16)'', Alexa Ray Corriea argues that Terra saw Riku's full potential when giving him the power to wield the Keyblade, claiming that, while Riku was a child when they first met, Terra saw through Riku's original intention of wanting to protect others, which may come across as a retcon when contrasting with previous installments.<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> 

In "Playing God: An Analysis of Video Game Religion", Riku's inner struggle with the darkness and his eventual sacrifice to seal himself in the Door to Darkness was seen as a reference to the gates of hell being unleashed as demons are about to take over the planet; Riku's actions make him look like [[Jesus Christ]] in his sacrifice to save the universe. Riku's constant struggles with Xenahort were as how people face the idea of Christian facing the devil's temptation and choosing the light of Christ instead. Riku was also compared with the inner struggle for [[Muslims]] to be better people, giving ''Kingdom Hearts'' multiple varieties of themes the narrative touches.<ref>{{cite web|last=Boren |first=Joshua K.|title="Playing God: An Analysis of Video Game Religion"|year=2016|publisher=CMC |url=https://scholarship.claremont.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=2372&context=cmc_theses}}</ref> Riku's new Keyblade, Braveheart, was commented on by [[Syfy]] as being one of the most interesting Keyblade designs in the game, citing parallels with the Keyblade Fenrir in ''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|date=4 March 2019|accessdate=March 9, 2022|archive-date=13 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313160916/https://www.syfy.com/syfy-wire/chosen-one-of-the-day-rikus-keyblade-in-kingdom-hearts-3|url-status=live}}</ref>

Hardcore Gamer liked the inclusion of Riku as a 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|date=28 January 2020|accessdate=March 3, 2022|archive-date=3 March 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220303124853/https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii-re-mind/366024/|url-status=live}}</ref> The character's inclusion in the [[Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building]] during the ''Kingdom Hearts III'' secret ending was the subject of analysis as to whether he could interact with the cast from ''[[The World Ends with You]]'' as well as [[Yozora]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Frank |first=Allegra |date=31 January 2019 |title=Kingdom Hearts 3's 'secret movie' is full of surprises |url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/1/31/18205257/kingdom-hearts-3-secret-movie-explained-how-to-watch |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225004004/https://www.polygon.com/2019/1/31/18205257/kingdom-hearts-3-secret-movie-explained-how-to-watch |archive-date=25 February 2022 |accessdate=March 3, 2022 |website=Polygon}}</ref><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|archive-date=March 3, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220303124853/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/analyzing-kingdom-hearts-3-secret-ending-what-it-could-mean-for-sequel|url-status=dead}}</ref> With the end of ''Re Mind'', ''[[GameInformer]]'' said that Riku came across as a more developed character than Sora, despite Sora being the protagonist.<ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/opinion/2022/05/30/i-wish-kingdom-hearts-sora-was-more-like-yakuzas-ichiban-kasuga|title=I Wish Kingdom Hearts' Sora Was More Like Yakuza's Ichiban Kasuga|date=May 30, 2022|first=Marcus|last=Stewart|magazine=Game Informer|access-date=May 30, 2022|archive-date=May 30, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220530191148/https://www.gameinformer.com/opinion/2022/05/30/i-wish-kingdom-hearts-sora-was-more-like-yakuzas-ichiban-kasuga|url-status=live}}</ref> With the ending of ''Kingdom Hearts III'' and the first trailer of ''Kingdom Hearts IV'', [[GameRant]] believed Riku should no longer appear in future games as across all games Riku has dealt with a character arc that dealed with his corruption to his redemption throughout his multiple encounters with Xehanort's alteregos. Although Riku keeps looking to the missing Sora in the end of ''Kingdom Hearts III'', GameRant said that "After everything the character has been through, he deserves a break".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://gamerant.com/kingdom-hearts-4-riku-retire-redemption-arc/|title=Kingdom Hearts 4: It May Be Time to Retire Riku|website=GameRant|access-date=November 18, 2025}}</ref> 

The performance of [[David Gallagher]] as Riku, along with [[Haley Joel Osment]] as Sora and [[Willa Holland]] as Aqua, was praised by GamesRadar and Hardcore Gamer as one of the best performances in ''Dream Drop Distance'' and ''Kingdom Hearts III''. His inclusion as a playable character in ''3D'' was also praised due to his dynamic with 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|date=31 July 2012|accessdate=March 2, 2022|archive-date=27 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027005703/https://www.gamesradar.com/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance-review/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii/323549/|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts III|website=HardcoreGamer|date=28 January 2019|accessdate=March 2, 2022|archive-date=13 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240313161010/https://hardcoregamer.com/reviews/review-kingdom-hearts-iii/323549/|url-status=live}}</ref> Koinya lamented the fact that [[Mamoru Miyano]]'s work was never made available for a Western audience, considering him talented alongside [[Miyu Irino]] as Sora.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.koi-nya.net/2015/01/03/review-kingdom-hearts-2-5-hd-remix/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404051548/http://www.koi-nya.net/2015/01/03/review-kingdom-hearts-2-5-hd-remix/|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 4, 2015|website=Koi Nya|accessdate=February 24, 2022|title=Review: Kingdom Hearts 2.5 HD Remix|date=3 January 2015}}</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>

===Relationship with Sora===
Although Riku and Sora are friends, [[GamesRadar+|GamesRadar]] stated that the several cutscenes they share in the first three games of the series often resulted in fans [[Shipping (fandom)|shipping]] them while ignoring Sora and Kairi's relationship. Additionally, Riku has [[LGBTQ|LGBT]] fans who interpret him through a [[Queer theory|queer lens]] due to parallels seen in his journey with self-acceptance and real-life experiences of accepting one's sexual identity.<ref>{{cite web |date=14 February 2008 |title=Top 10 Square Enix Couples |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/top-10-square-enix-couples/4/?page=4 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220303123229/https://www.gamesradar.com/top-10-square-enix-couples/4/?page=4 |archive-date=3 March 2022 |accessdate=March 3, 2022 |website=GamesRadar}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/riku-gay-allegory-metaphor-key-to-kingdom-hearts/|title=Riku Being Gay Is Key To Kingdom Hearts|website=TheGamer|date=15 June 2023|accessdate=November 7, 2023|archive-date=15 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230615230438/https://www.thegamer.com/riku-gay-allegory-metaphor-key-to-kingdom-hearts/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Anime Feminist'' also saw Riku and Sora as potential lovers across the story due how sensitive both are portrayed whenever a scene involves the other. This is also expanded with how Kairi does not show notable interest in the other two as lovers in the first game. While Sora and Riku act antagonistic to each other in the first game ''Chain of Memories'' and ''Kingdom Hearts II'' were analyzed by the writer to feel like the writer's attempt to fix their relationship so much that Riku's character rotates more around Sora's now that he lost his romantic interest on Kairi. The subtext is downplayed in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' as Kairi cements her feelings on Sora, making them look like a couple.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animefeminist.com/perspectives-from-rivals-to-romances-unlocking-queer-identities-in-kingdom-hearts/|title=From Rivals to Romances: Unlocking queer identities in Kingdom Hearts|website=Anime Feminist|access-date=November 17, 2025}}</ref>

In ''The Kingdom's Shōnen Heart Transcultural Character Design and the JRPG'', Rachael Hutchinson noted that the early characterization of Riku and Sora seems to be influenced by that of [[Sephiroth (Final Fantasy)|Sephiroth]] and [[Cloud Strife]], respectively, in order to portray their rivalry, with Ansem taking elements from Sephiroth's appearance. Riku and Sora being forced to oppose each being caused by Kairi's weakness was compared to the sense of loss that Cloud suffers in ''Final Fantasy VII'' following [[Aerith Gainsborough|Aerith]]'s death. Riku's fate was noted to be similar to [[Tidus]]' disappearance in the ending of ''[[Final Fantasy X]]'', with his return in latter games being compared to that of characters in [[shōnen manga]] as he becomes heroic due to friendship and perseverance, common themes in such manga.<ref>{{cite journal|title= The Kingdom's Shōnen Heart|journal= Loading|year= 2022|doi= 10.7202/1092427ar|s2cid= 252485370|last1= Hutchinson|first1= Rachael|volume= 15|issue= 25|pages= 76–93|doi-access= free}}</ref> In "Kingdom Hearts II Is Full Of Bad Romances And Rad Bromances", ''[[Kotaku]]'' noted the biggest selling point of ''Kingdom Hearts II'' is Sora's obsession of finding the missing Riku to the point of overshadowing Kairi's story. The emotional reunion Sora has with Riku is noted to have a soft soundtrack with Sora acting happy and distraught as he finally found Riku, giving a major romantic subtext. However, the writer found it nonromantic despite how sensitive is the portrayal of the two male characters. This was compared to other male characters from ''Final Fantasy'' designed by Tetsuya Nomura who share strong friendships like Cloud and [[Zack Fair]] as well as Auron and Jecht. The bond Riku and Sora share also stands out in gameplay when the two fight Xemnas in the end of ''Kingdom Hearts II'' as well as how gameplay works in ''Dream Drop Distance''. Following Xenmas' defeat, Sora and Riku have an emotional reunion as they confess how important are to each other in a nonromantic way.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://kotaku.com/kingdom-hearts-ii-is-full-of-bad-romances-and-rad-broma-1796340042|title=Kingdom Hearts II Is Full Of Bad Romances And Rad Bromances|website=Kotaku|access-date=November 18, 2025}}</ref>

In regards to Riku's characterization in ''Kingdom Hearts III'', ''TheGamer'' believed the English translation was not completely faithful to portrayal of the original Riku's feelings he has been expressing previous games; When Terra asks the infant Riku why does he want before giving him the ability to wield the Keyblade, the child replies by that he wants to learn what he wants to protect. In ''Dream Drop Distance'', Riku gains this answer when saving a comatose Sora by solving Ansem's questions, knowing the power he wants is the one used to protect Sora. This theme is explored in ''Kingdom Hearts III'' in early cutscenes where [[Hercules (Disney character)|Hercules]] tells Sora that the reason he became strong is due to finding the love he wanted. Similarly, when Riku and Mickey enter the Realm of Darkness, the latter remarks that former became stronger in this world since the last time he was. When Riku reflects on this comment, he recalls his answer from ''Dream Drop Distance''. While the writer does not claim that Riku loves Sora in a romantic fashion, he still views him as one of the most important things he wants to protect and the Japanese version was more direct and appears to reference Hercules' newfound strength.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/kingdom-hearts-3-kh3-mistranslation-taisetsu-na-hito-disservice-riku/?taid=679aba07bd13980001f8c351&utm_campaign=TrueAnthem-TG&utm_medium=Social-Distribution&utm_source=Twitter|title=Kingdom Hearts 3's Mistranslation Of "Taisetsu Na Hito" Is A Disservice To Riku|author=Philips, Rebbeca|date=29 January 2025 |access-date=January 30, 2025}}</ref>

==References==
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{{Kingdom Hearts series}}

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Riku (''Kingdom Hearts'')}}
[[Category:Characters designed by Tetsuya Nomura]]
[[Category:Fictional characters who can manipulate darkness or shadows]]
[[Category:Fictional characters who can move at superhuman speeds]]
[[Category:Fictional empaths]]
[[Category:Fictional explorers in video games]]
[[Category:Fictional knights in video games]]
[[Category:Fictional martial artists in video games]]
[[Category:Fictional swordfighters in video games]]
[[Category:Kingdom Hearts original characters]]
[[Category:Male characters in video games]]
[[Category:Video game bosses]]
[[Category:Video game characters introduced in 2002]]