Definitely 'Kingdom Hearts 1' as it starts the whole adventure. Then 'Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories' which bridges the gap between the first and second games story - wise. And of course 'Kingdom Hearts 2' to continue the main storyline. There are other games like 'Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance' that add elements to the overarching story as well, but the first few are the most essential for getting the basic plot.
Well, first off, play 'Kingdom Hearts' as it's the start of everything. It's about Sora's adventure. Then 'Chain of Memories' which is like a bridge between the first and second games story - wise. 'Kingdom Hearts II' is the next big step. The order is important because each game adds new plot points and character developments.
The Legend of Zelda series is a great example. Games like Breath of the Wild have an immersive story where you, as Link, are on a quest to save Hyrule. The open - world exploration and the way the story unfolds as you discover more about the land and its history is somewhat similar to Kingdom Hearts.
One game like Kingdom Hearts story is Final Fantasy. It has a rich and complex narrative with elements of fantasy, magic, and a battle against dark forces. The characters are well - developed, and the world - building is extensive, much like in Kingdom Hearts.
The order is: Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep, Kingdom Hearts, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, Kingdom Hearts II, Kingdom Hearts 3D: Dream Drop Distance, Kingdom Hearts III. But this can be a bit complex as there are also other titles like Kingdom Hearts: Re:coded that fit into the overall story timeline in different ways.
The order is Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep, Kingdom Hearts, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, Kingdom Hearts II, Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days, Kingdom Hearts: Coded, Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance, Kingdom Hearts III, and Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory.
It goes Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep, Kingdom Hearts, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, Kingdom Hearts II, Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days, Kingdom Hearts: Coded, Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance, Kingdom Hearts III, Kingdom Hearts: Melody of Memory.
I'd recommend starting with the original Kingdom Hearts and its sequels. They lay the foundation for the story and introduce key characters and plotlines.
Kingdom Hearts: Birth by Sleep, Kingdom Hearts, Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories, Kingdom Hearts II, Kingdom Hearts 358/2 Days (although its story is intertwined with the others), Kingdom Hearts Re:coded, Kingdom Hearts: Dream Drop Distance, Kingdom Hearts 0.2: Birth by Sleep -A Fragmentary Passage-, Kingdom Hearts III.
For me, 'Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories' has a great story. It has a unique card - based combat system that ties in with the story. The idea of exploring Sora's memories and how they can be manipulated is really interesting. It also introduces new characters and concepts that expand the Kingdom Hearts universe.
In order, we start with 'Kingdom Hearts'. The story begins in Destiny Islands, where Sora's world is shattered by the Heartless. He then travels through various Disney - themed worlds, fighting enemies and making allies. 'Kingdom Hearts: Chain of Memories' is set in Castle Oblivion and is crucial for understanding Sora's past and the concept of memories. 'Kingdom Hearts II' sees Sora's return, stronger and with more determination to save the worlds and his friends from the forces of darkness.