The 1986 classic video game Castlevania on the Nintendo Entertainment System was well-known for its monster battles, challenging gameplay, and catchy music. Despite its popularity, the series seemed to have been dormant since 2014 until the recent release of Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse.
The new game aims to attract both old fans and newcomers by drawing inspiration from various elements of the franchise’s history and indie games influenced by it. It combines traditional 2D exploration with stunning visuals, offering a blend of old and new experiences.
In Belmont’s Curse, players take on the role of Rose Belmont, the daughter of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades from the 1989 title Castlevania 3: Dracula’s Curse. The game unfolds in 1499 Paris, where Rose faces a mysterious monster invasion while dealing with a curse inherited from her mother.
The gameplay, reminiscent of the beloved Symphony of the Night from 1997, features non-linear exploration of Paris and Dracula’s castle, requiring players to revisit areas with newfound abilities to progress. Rose’s combat skills, including a whip for traversal and various weapons, add depth to the challenging encounters with faster and tougher enemies.
While the game’s difficulty may prove daunting, especially with intricate trap rooms and demanding combat scenarios, its striking visuals and dynamic soundtrack elevate the overall experience. The intricate level design and engaging combat mechanics pay homage to the series’ roots while introducing modern elements.
Despite some setbacks on the Nintendo Switch version, including performance issues and input lag, a Day 1 update has addressed many of these concerns across all platforms. The game’s art direction, music, and voice acting contribute to its immersive atmosphere, making it a compelling addition to the Castlevania series for both long-time fans and newcomers.