Ever since Konami debuted the original Castlevania back in 1986, they’ve produced more than 30 games within this beloved franchise. As time has passed, Castlevania has adapted to the modern era, moving from classic 2D side-scrolling action to the immersive 3D hack-and-slash gameplay seen in Lords of Shadow. The series even played a significant role in establishing the Metroidvania genre, now widely embraced by contemporary indie developers. However, with so many games available, which ones truly stand out as the best? Let’s delve into the top ten Castlevania games throughout history.
10) Castlevania
Acknowledging the original installment as the pioneer of the series is essential. Subsequent games surpassed their predecessor in many aspects, yet the initial release of Castlevania remained an enormous success and continues to be enjoyable in contemporary times.
In this action-packed platformer, players get acquainted with Simon Belmont and his renowned whip. They engage in battles against timeless terrors such as Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster, and the Grim Reaper. Although it may not offer the intricacy of games like “Symphony of the Night”, the original “Castlevania” retains the endearing gameplay that contributed significantly to the series’ fame.
9) Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reminisce about my journey with “Dawn of Sorrow” on the Nintendo DS, a game that undeniably set the stage for the Castlevania series to thrive on this innovative platform. It wasn’t entirely unexpected, given the exceptional quality of the Game Boy Advance games, but what truly stood out was how skillfully it utilized the second screen, providing us with a permanent map. While other games had ventured down this path before, any Castlevania player will attest to the indispensable nature of that gameplay enhancement.
Additionally, following directly from Aria of Sorrow, Dawn of Sorrow is a near-perfect sequel that shines in its gameplay, graphics, and music.
8) Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse
To put it simply, it’s fair to say that Castlevania 2: Simon’s Quest was quite an unusual game in its time. While it paved the way for games like Symphony of the Night, the gaming environment and technology weren’t fully prepared for its unique mix of role-playing and action-adventure aspects. For die-hard Castlevania fans, Dracula’s Curse was a welcome reversion to the series’ original format.
This new game serves as a genuine successor to Castlevania, expanding upon it with some intriguing elements. Dracula’s Curse introduced branching paths and multiple playable characters, making the game more appealing to replay. Furthermore, it maintains the exceptional action-platforming gameplay that the series is recognized for, resulting in another top-notch Castlevania title.
7) Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia
As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but reflect on the significance of Order of Ecclesia. It wasn’t just the last game on the DS, it marked the end of an era in the world of Castlevania. More importantly, it was the final 2D masterpiece from the legendary Koji Igarashi, the man who has given us some of the most cherished Castlevania games ever made. As a fan, it felt like a poignant farewell from a true gaming legend.
In another phrasing:
Iga certainly didn’t lack flair in his final act. Ecclesia unveiled an innovative Glyph Combat System. Defeating enemies rewards you with symbols that enhance your character’s abilities. Notably, Ecclesia’s heroine, Shanoa, is the first female lead character. There are clear echoes of Ecclesia in Iga’s spiritual heir, Bloodstained. In essence, it’s a fitting culmination of all that Iga has accomplished here.
6) Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin
It’s apparent that the DS could be considered the finest Castlevania game platform globally, excluding emulation. Konami consistently delivered high-quality games on this handheld system, demonstrating that the series still had a lot of potential left in it.
Some players might have found “Portrait of Ruin” less appealing due to moments where it seems like a lesser version of other games, but I personally enjoyed it. The creative use of portraits to transport you to diverse realms was captivating, and the online cooperative mode made it even more impressive.
5) Castlevania: Rondo of Blood
As a gamer, I must admit that getting my hands on Rondo of Blood could sometimes be a bit perplexing. But with the arrival of Castlevania Requiem, it’s now a breeze to find and enjoy this timeless Castlevania title. It’s one of the best in the series, no doubt! The branching paths introduced in Dracula’s Curse have been refined and polished in Rondo of Blood, making each playthrough an exciting new adventure.
While its successor, “Symphony of the Night,” has outshone it, “Rondo of Blood” remains a game well worth experiencing in today’s gaming landscape. Don’t let it slip past you like so many others do.
4) Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow
I mentioned that we’d discuss the game Aria of Sorrow eventually. As the final Game Boy Advance title, it stands out as the best in my opinion, placing players in the role of Soma Cruz. While traditional Castlevania fans might have been taken aback by its departure from the usual series setting, it soon became clear that this was a shrewd decision.
The game “Aria of Sorrow” is frequently held in high regard alongside “Symphony of the Night,” and rightfully so. One of its unique features, the Tactical Soul system, is a notable highlight that has been expanded upon with elements like the Glyph System found in “Ecclesia.” Additionally, its futuristic narrative sets it apart from other games in the series.
3) Super Castlevania IV
Experiencing “Super Castlevania IV” in 1991 was incredibly impressive. Konami skillfully utilized the capabilities of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), offering gamers innovative and creative level designs that were unmatched at that time. This is merely a small taste of what the game had to offer.
Super Castlevania IV nearly perfectionizes the original Castlevania design with its haunting gothic organ soundtrack during boss battles and the subtle pause on enemy hits that mimics the sensation of rumble technology, even without it in the controller. Although not flawless, it’s one of the greatest games ever made.
2) Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Let me make it clear, this isn’t a jest. Bloodstained is an incredibly enjoyable gaming experience due to the fact that Igarashi and his team are not shy about allowing you to disrupt it.
Rest assured, there’s no joking intended here. Bloodstained offers one of the most delightful gaming experiences out there since Igarashi and his crew aren’t hesitant to let you mess it up.
Many aspects of Bloodstained are reminiscent of Symphony of the Night, but what sets it apart is that once Miriam reaches her full strength, you’re essentially soaring through levels. It’s rare to find games where running around feels as satisfying as it does in this one.
Apart from that, “Bloodstained” is rich with impressive boss fights, engaging settings, and an intricate plot brimming with proper nouns. To their credit, developers ArtPlay continued releasing DLC for the game as late as 2024, five years after its initial release. Although it’s not a Castlevania game, considering its high quality, it would seem inappropriate to exclude it from this list.
1) Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
This game, Symphony of the Night, is often imitated due to its exceptional quality. Many consider it not just the best in the Castlevania series, but also among the greatest video games ever made. In simpler terms, this game truly stands out.
In an extraordinary expansion, SOTN significantly amplified the exploration, unconventional layout, and RPG aspects from Simon’s Quest. As you assume the role of Alucard, you’ll amass new weapons, unlock transformations, and ultimately start conjuring familiars. Remarkably, it was launched at a time when 2D gaming appeared to be waning, yet it demonstrated that players were eager and ready to embrace exceptional games.
Today, the game continues to provide the same level of enjoyment as it did back in 1997, and its impact is still evident throughout the gaming industry. As one of the trailblazers in the Metroidvania gameplay style, Symphony of the Night remains a standout title, nearly three decades later, that could very well be considered the best within the genre.
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2025-08-03 17:44