One of the best video game songs of all time just got radically transformed
Every Kingdom Hearts fan knows Hikaru Utada’s classic song, “Simple and Clean.” This melodramatic ballad has been enchanting players since it book-ended the original RPG in 2002. Today, a trailer for the Kingdom Hearts Steam release premiered a newly recorded and rearranged version of this iconic track.
“Simple and Clean” has appeared in several Kingdom Hearts games, often as motifs and remixes. The new arrangement, however, is a minimalist take on the beloved song. Previously, the Japanese version, “Hikari,” received a similar treatment on Utada’s greatest hits album, “Science Fiction,” released in April. Now, English-speaking fans can enjoy this fresh rendition of their favorite lyrics.
The new recording is a departure from the original’s dramatic flair, offering an ethereal vibe that tickles a different part of the brain. Despite this change, it remains one of the all-time great vocal tracks in video games. Utada’s contributions to the Kingdom Hearts series have consistently been highlights, with tracks like “Sanctuary” from Kingdom Hearts II and the Skrillex collaboration “Face My Fears” from Kingdom Hearts III being fan favorites.
Kingdom Hearts IV was announced back in 2022, though details about its release date and platforms remain scarce. Fans eagerly await more information, hoping that Square Enix and Utada’s next collaboration will be as impactful as previous ones.
For those wanting to experience the new arrangement, it’s available on streaming platforms as “Simple and Clean (Re-Recording).” This transformation of a classic song not only renews nostalgia but also showcases Utada’s enduring influence on the gaming industry.
Every Kingdom Hearts fan knows Hikaru Utada’s classic song, “Simple and Clean.” This melodramatic ballad has been enchanting players since it book-ended the original RPG in 2002. Today, a trailer for the Kingdom Hearts Steam release premiered a newly recorded and rearranged version of this iconic track.