I'd like to suggest some good ways to level up, stuff I would've liked to know when I first started playing. First, you might want to start with the Dream Rod, which gives you an extra magic block (easier healing for you and your 2 buddies, plus more magic). In the dream where you talk to the 3 kids, select friendship, to be strong, and being different (I think that makes the game more fun, not too easy but not too hard). In the Destiny Islands, fight and beat all 3 kids, including Riku. Also beat Riku in a few races, until you have at least 2 more points than him. Then ask the boy on Riku's little island to go against all 3. In Traverse Town, beat Leon and in the Coliseum, beat Cloud. Hope you enjoy the game as much as I did! :fencing: