In 1986, the Nintendo Entertainment System introduced gamers to the iconic title, “Castlevania,” known for its monster-fighting action, challenging gameplay, and catchy soundtrack. Over the past four decades, the series has expanded with numerous sequels, spinoffs, and related media. However, the franchise seemed dormant since its last release in 2014, until the arrival of “Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse,” aiming to captivate both new and existing fans by drawing inspiration from various chapters of the series’ legacy and indie games it has influenced.
“Belmont’s Curse” transports players into the shoes of Rose Belmont, a monster hunter and the offspring of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades from the classic “Castlevania 3: Dracula’s Curse.” Set in 1499 amidst a besieged Paris under a mysterious monster attack, Rose embarks on a quest to uncover the truth while grappling with a hereditary curse slowly consuming her. As the narrative unfolds, players encounter a blend of familiar lore and unexpected twists from the rich history of the series.
The gameplay of “Belmont’s Curse” mirrors the beloved 1997 title “Symphony of the Night,” adopting elements from Nintendo’s Metroid and Zelda series. Players guide Rose through intricate environments like the eerie cemetery and the perilous Dracula’s castle, navigating through interconnected locations and discovering new abilities to progress. The game’s “Metroidvania” style pays homage to the genre’s roots while offering a fresh experience for players, reminiscent of indie hits such as “Hollow Knight: Silksong.”
While the title boasts striking visuals and a captivating soundtrack, its challenging difficulty may pose a hurdle for newcomers. Combat encounters are intense, requiring precise timing and strategic thinking to overcome formidable foes. Trap rooms present additional obstacles that demand quick reflexes and patience, adding layers of complexity to the gameplay experience.
Exploration in “Belmont’s Curse” often necessitates backtracking through previously explored areas, which can be somewhat tedious due to limited save points and a lack of convenient shortcuts. Despite offering difficulty settings to adjust combat parameters, the game’s core challenges remain intact, challenging players to adapt and persevere through each trial.
Notably, the Nintendo Switch version of the game faced performance issues during the review period, with lower resolution visuals, extended load times, and input lag affecting gameplay. However, the Xbox Series X version showcased improved performance and responsiveness, indicating potential improvements with future updates across all platforms.
“Belmont’s Curse” weaves a compelling narrative intertwined with engaging gameplay mechanics and a visually stunning world, inviting players to immerse themselves in the legacy of the Castlevania franchise while facing the trials of Rose Belmont’s perilous journey.
