Castlevania: Thread of Darkness [Archive]

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FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 11:38

You know, I wasn't going to start this thread as I think the only people on it will be me and Gentlegamer. I have to do it, though. I love this series too damn much.

Honestly, its an obsession. I have the Lament of Innocence soundtrack in my car and listen to it repeatedly. I've got emulations of almost every Castlevania on my computer, hard copies of Symphony of the Night and Lament, and I check the major game sites every day for news on Curse of Darkness, the new Castlevania due out for PS2 this year.

So, consider this thread bait to see who on the Realms also loves this series.

Gentlegamer

06/16/2005, 11:49

You know what's great about emulators? You can save your game even when the game originally wouldn't allow you to. It is so awesome being able to cue up my battle with Dracula at the end of the first NES Castlevania . . . and Dracula only has 1 hit left!

FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 11:56

...and he's still impossible to beat.

My emulation list:

Castlevania
Castlevania II
Castlevania III

Castlevania IV

Castlevania 64

Circle of the Moon
Harmony of Dissonance
Aria of Sorrow

One of these days I'll get Bloodlines and Rondo. :)

Gentlegamer

06/16/2005, 12:00

Oh, I beat him! And thanks to emulation, I can beat him any time I want!

I have
Castlevania (arcade)
Castlevania - NES
Castlevania II - NES
Castlevania III - NES (my favorite)
Castlevania: Bloodlines (MegaDrive)

I think that's all I have on emulation right now. What emulator do you use for Castlevania 64 and the others?

icymatt

06/16/2005, 12:01

FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 12:02

FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 12:05

Castlevania is one of the best game series ever. Symphony can proudly proclaim itself in the top 10 games ever made.

HOWEVER, Lament, while a good game, didn't feel like Castlevania. It felt like a DMC rip-off disguised as a Castlevania. And i don't have monstrously-high hopes for Legacy. However, Dawn of Sorrow for the DS should be amazing.

Lament is my favorite thus far. While the levels did get repetitive, I'm thrilled to see it FINALLY getting away from the 2D, jump-and-whip mentality that the series has been stuck in since SotN.

Yes, Symphony was cool. That doesn't mean that every other Castlevania needs to follow the EXACT SAME FORMULA. Dawn of Sorrow is just another in the long line of Super Metroid Castlevania rip-offs.

Now, I did enjoy playing all those games, but I beat each of them once and that was that. Lament, however, I'm playing through for the second time with Joachim, and I play on playing it a third time with Pumpkin head.

FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 12:09

BTW, the new Castlevania for PS2 is CURSE of Darkness. Legacy of Darkness was the so-so 'directors cut' version of the awful Castlevania 64.

icymatt

06/16/2005, 12:32

I noticed that. The lack of an edit button will surely be the death of me.

FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 13:09

I noticed that. The lack of an edit button will surely be the death of me.

No kidding. There are several posts floating around out there that make me look like a stuttering hobo. :ermm:

Froggore

06/16/2005, 14:10

icymatt

06/16/2005, 14:39

To my knowledge, only Symphony is considered a 'Super Metroid rip-off'. And if you play both games, it's pretty easy to see that Symphony was in fact, very much inspired by Super Metroid (even it's creator said so.) Both feature the same basic atmosphere, and the same kind of 'hidden room you didn't know was there' gameplay.

FoxInStocks

06/16/2005, 15:35

I, for one, really enjoy the so-called "Super-Metroid Castlevania rip-offs", and I enjoy them way more than the few 3-D versions. Aria of Sorrow is one of my favorite games and the new DS game is going to be awesome. I don't really see how these games rip-off Super Metroid. Is it because of the 2-D and Super NES type graphics? Because I don't see that as a rip-off since about 80% of all GBA games are like that. And didn't Super Castlevania come out before Super Metroid?

No no. Research the history of Castlevania a little. SUPER Castlevania wasn't a Super Metroid wannabe, Symphony and the GBA titles are. Like Icy says above, Symphony was modeled heavily after Super Metroid, and the GBA titles are just one attempt after another at reproducing Symphony.

Don't get me wrong, I love the GBA games and if I had a DS, I'm sure I'd love Dawn of Sorrow, too. But I've had more than enough of that style. It's time to move on and try new things with the material and characters.

Froggore

06/17/2005, 11:03

I suppose I agree. Sorry my Castlevania knowledge wasn't up to par, but I've only really gotten in to the Castlevania series in recent years. I would like to see a new direction for the series, and the first PS2 game wasn't a bad start. But I hope they keep making the excellent portable games. I just successively had more fun with each GBA game, and the souls system in Aria of Sorrow was too excellent. I played the #### out of that game to get all of the souls. And the story was even good with it's weird futuristic setting, metrosexual hero, and awesome surprise ending.

FoxInStocks

06/17/2005, 11:10

Aria was defintely the best of the GBA titles, but the Soul System didn't work for me. I found a few souls early on that worked well, and I rarely changed them unless I had to.

Personally, I'm looking foward to Curse of Darkness a lot. I really think it's going to improve a lot of LoI's flaws, such as the structure of the Castle (we already know that using the new graphics engine, there will be outdoor areas). Plus it's a sequel of sorts to Castlevania III, so that's an extra bonus!

FoxInStocks

06/17/2005, 11:11

Sorry my Castlevania knowledge wasn't up to par...

Go here to edu-mah-cate yourself:
Castlevania Dungeon (http://www.classicgaming.com/castlevania)

If you like the series, you'll love this site. Tons of info, more than you'll need. :)

Dark Flash2099

06/17/2005, 11:12

Let's see, do I like Castlevania? Well, I own two copies of SOTN. I have owned, at one point or another, every CV game short of the arcade version of CV1 and Dracula X from Japan. I used to be able to beat the first game without being hit once. Plus, I bought a PS2 just for LOI. So yeah, am I Castlevania fan?

FoxInStocks

06/17/2005, 11:16

Dark Flash2099

06/17/2005, 11:19

Good. Now if you excuse me, I have to beat Symphony of the Night without getting hit once. Now, which copy should I play? The original version of the Greatest Hits version?

Dark Flash2099

06/17/2005, 11:19

or, not of

FoxInStocks

06/17/2005, 11:34

I only have the Greatest Hits version, but my PS2 recently decided that it no longer wants to play PS1 games, or any of the Star Wars movies. :p

Mr. Gone

06/29/2005, 15:12

I've only seen a copy of SoTN once in the last like 4 years and they wanted $50 (canadian) for it. I never bought it because i couldn't justify spending that much for a ps1 greatest hits title and now it's GONE!!
*weeps softly in corner

Yeah, i'm a pretty big Castlevania fan played the games since i was a youngin and plan to continue for quite a while.

if anyone here is a fan of anime give Vampire Hunter D a try. it's the closest thing to a Castlevania movie you're likely to get.

FoxInStocks

06/29/2005, 15:50

Prof. Aragorn

06/30/2005, 01:45

I loved Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. I haven't really played any others (other than the one which is supposed to be the first event that happened, but I think its a pretty lame storyline-where's Drac?).

I have played some of the Castlevania 64, but only the part where you battle that giant skeleton-thing.

I had a chance of picking up Bloodlines or something, but I'm not a big fan of playing a Belmont-Alucard was awesome since he was that flawed Vampire Hunter D-like-character who was skilled with any weapon. The Belmonts all seem to have almost no character.

But hey, any game that depicts Drac as an all powerful character gets props in my book. :)

Mr. Gone

07/03/2005, 15:39

Try EBgames or Ebay. I got my copy for pretty cheap just a year or two ago.

GOOD CALL. I just looked there and someone has a BiN price of $349.99 god i hope that's a typo on his part. now for the difficult question. should i get a used original or a new unrapped "greatest hits" version? I REALLY hate the green they used so it's a matter of taste i guess. ah well

Dark Flash2099

07/04/2005, 00:01

It doesn't matter. It's a great game either way. I want to get a Saturn and play the Saturn version, though.

FoxInStocks

07/05/2005, 11:12

I loved Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. I haven't really played any others (other than the one which is supposed to be the first event that happened, but I think its a pretty lame storyline-where's Drac?).

*fwaps the Professor with a newspaper*

BAD. No treats for you. The game you're talking about is Castlevania: Lament of Innocence. Drac IS in it...if you pay attention to the story. The character at the end is Drac BEFORE he becomes Drac. They don't say it outright, but it should be pretty obvious.

IMHO, Lament would have been the perfect Castlevania game...had they designed a castle with more 'flow' to it. Personally, I think that if they truly intend to stick to 3D as the new CV format (and I hope they do, as I'm sick of the 2D Castletroids), they should hire an actual architect to design a castle. Then have the game designers translate that into a castle for the game. Aside from the rather repetitive nature of Lament's areas, it was kind of a bummer to beat a section and then get transported back to the start of the castle to choose a new area. It would have been a lot cooler if, after beating the House of Sacred Remains, you delved deeper into the bowels of the castle to find the Dark Palace of Waterfalls. Or perhaps wander out of the Garden Forgotten by Time and into the Ghostly Theater...

FoxInStocks

07/05/2005, 11:13

GOOD CALL. I just looked there and someone has a BiN price of $349.99 god i hope that's a typo on his part. now for the difficult question. should i get a used original or a new unrapped "greatest hits" version? I REALLY hate the green they used so it's a matter of taste i guess. ah well

I got the Greatest Hits version because it was cheap, and it was all they had. I don't like the Snot Green either, but it's still the same game.

Prof. Aragorn

07/05/2005, 17:39

*fwaps the Professor with a newspaper*

BAD. No treats for you. The game you're talking about is Castlevania: Lament of Innocence. Drac IS in it...if you pay attention to the story. The character at the end is Drac BEFORE he becomes Drac. They don't say it outright, but it should be pretty obvious.

You mean Mathias Conquist or whatever is Drac? It makes sense since he becomes all powerful and wasn't his wife named Lisa sort of implying that she was Alucard's mother?

But I agree with making a scale castle, then make a 3d map out of it. Heck, just use graph paper and do an ariel view of certain areas.

Cell

07/06/2005, 03:40

Hate the 3D titles, and have Castlevania DS on preorder. Nuff said really

FoxInStocks

07/06/2005, 16:43

You mean Mathias Conquist or whatever is Drac? It makes sense since he becomes all powerful and wasn't his wife named Lisa sort of implying that she was Alucard's mother?

So much for avoiding any spoilers. :cheeky:

Yes, Mathias = Dracula. It sort of redeems the fact that you spend most of the game hunting down the evil Master of the Castle, vile vampire...Walter.

Prof. Aragorn

07/07/2005, 03:50

So much for avoiding any spoilers. :cheeky:

The games been out for about a year and a half, right? But then again, I never really drew the conclusion that a Belmont's best friend would become the prince of darkness. But then again I gave up because the game became too repetitive-another ####ing hallway with Fleamen . . . dammit.

FoxInStocks

07/07/2005, 10:21

The games been out for about a year and a half, right? But then again, I never really drew the conclusion that a Belmont's best friend would become the prince of darkness. But then again I gave up because the game became too repetitive-another ####ing hallway with Fleamen . . . dammit.

There was only one hallway (maybe two) with Fleamen. The rest of the Fleamen were in various rooms. ;)

But, see, that's what confuses me about the 2D vs 3D debate. All of the 2D Castlevanias are nothing more than one long hallway. EVERY AREA IS A HALLWAY. The only real 'rooms' are where you fight the bosses. So when people play Lament and comment on the repetitive hallways...what do you call the Marble Hall in Symphony?

Froggore

07/07/2005, 10:48

But in the 2-D games, there are a lot of decent size rooms. Granted, the majority of the castle is hallways, but there are lots of good big rooms with many platforms to traverse and many Fleamen or flying Medusa heads to block your way. Now I didn't play much of the PS2 castlevania, so I can't really comment on that. But the common complaint I heard about that game was the repetitive backgrounds, and that is harder to accept in a 3-D game than in a 2-D game.

Prof. Aragorn

07/07/2005, 21:56

There was only one hallway (maybe two) with Fleamen. The rest of the Fleamen were in various rooms. ;)

But, see, that's what confuses me about the 2D vs 3D debate. All of the 2D Castlevanias are nothing more than one long hallway. EVERY AREA IS A HALLWAY. The only real 'rooms' are where you fight the bosses. So when people play Lament and comment on the repetitive hallways...what do you call the Marble Hall in Symphony?

The most despised area/hallway in the game. No bosses (unless you count inverse, and even then, they are easy to beat compared to Galamoth).

I don't mind 2D, I would have preferred 3D, but Sotn didn't really need it (for the most part). I wouldn't be surprised if come PS3 Konami tries to redo Symphony for the 3d-in fact, I'd love it.

FoxInStocks

07/11/2005, 09:35

The most despised area/hallway in the game. No bosses (unless you count inverse, and even then, they are easy to beat compared to Galamoth).

I don't mind 2D, I would have preferred 3D, but Sotn didn't really need it (for the most part). I wouldn't be surprised if come PS3 Konami tries to redo Symphony for the 3d-in fact, I'd love it.

Galamoth? Which boss was that?

Prof. Aragorn

07/11/2005, 20:57

In the reverse catacombs, he guards the relic that allows you to turn into a poison cloud.

Prof. Aragorn

07/11/2005, 21:02

FoxInStocks

07/12/2005, 10:03

Also, I've gone back and replayed Lament of Innocence and I take back just about everything negative about it. Sure the areas are a tad repetitive but the extra dimensional, the combat system, and the challenging boss battles (Walter is tough to beat and I still haven't beaten Death yet) really make it shine. However, the platform jumping SUCKS! Don't people realize I have little to no depth perception?

The repetitiveness of the levels is the only real complaint I had. EVERY level looked gorgeous, atmospheric, and detailed for the first 20 minutes you're there. After that, it gets old but...hey, nothing is perfect.

Walter is actually very easy if you get the Black Orb from The Forgotten One. Death is hard, but if you buy one of those dolls that resurrect you from the dead, he's beatable.

The toughest boss is the Forgotten One. It took me several days and an insane amount of sheer luck to beat him.

Dark Flash2099

07/12/2005, 12:49

I still haven't beaten him. He's the first boss in a long time to make my throw the controler in frustration. (The last one? Dr. Wily from Mega Man 7)

FoxInStocks

07/12/2005, 18:03

I still haven't beaten him. He's the first boss in a long time to make my throw the controler in frustration. (The last one? Dr. Wily from Mega Man 7)

Who, Death or the Forgotten One?

Dark Flash2099

07/12/2005, 19:17

Forgotten One. Death is a cakewalk compared to Forgotten One.

FoxInStocks

07/12/2005, 19:31

Forgotten One. Death is a cakewalk compared to Forgotten One.

Go in with a decent amount of potions, and try to make him the last boss you deal with before Walter.

Equip the Axe, and the orb that makes it fly out and spin in place (Red?). Use that when you can, and whip the #### out of him until you get him to just his head. That should be (fairly) easy. Once it's just his head, he'll make rocks fall from the ceiling. GET BEHIND THEM IMMEDIATELY. He follows them up with some sort of fire breath; this is practically a one-shot kill. I forget the pattern exactly. When the rocks crack, pray and run to an un-cracked one.

The main thing here is patience. If you try and rush the battle, you'll get caught. Hide when you need to, use potions, and just keep the pressure on him.

If I remember right, I was one hit (like, 3HP) away from death when I made a mad kamikaze rush at him and hoped an axe would be enough to finish him off. It was. :)

Prof. Aragorn

07/14/2005, 05:32

Walter is actually very easy if you get the Black Orb from The Forgotten One. Death is hard, but if you buy one of those dolls that resurrect you from the dead, he's beatable.

The toughest boss is the Forgotten One. It took me several days and an insane amount of sheer luck to beat him.

Yeah, Walter is easy to beat. But not when you have no armor, 3 potions and a doll. Does anyone know how to dodge the attack he does when he's reduced to half health (turns into giant bat and unleashes a huge ball of something that you apparantly can't block?)

I've come close to beating Death, I just got to pace myself with Walter and he should be pretty easy to beat.

As for the Forgotten One-how do you get the crest to enter in his/its area?

FoxInStocks

07/14/2005, 10:06

Yeah, Walter is easy to beat. But not when you have no armor, 3 potions and a doll. Does anyone know how to dodge the attack he does when he's reduced to half health (turns into giant bat and unleashes a huge ball of something that you apparantly can't block?)

I've come close to beating Death, I just got to pace myself with Walter and he should be pretty easy to beat.

As for the Forgotten One-how do you get the crest to enter in his/its area?

Walter does something very specific before he unleashes that shockwave...but I foget what it is. Anyhow, when he does it, that's your cue to run back to the door. The shockwave can't get you there. That's about the only way to dodge it, otherwise you're screwed.

Now, to get to the Forgotten One, you need the Crest. To get the crest, go back to the Ghostly Theater. Remember those dark rooms (on the second floor, I think)? Check your map; in one of them is a hidden room off in the corner where the crest is. It's hard to get what with all the blind jumping, but it's worth it.

Once you get it, go back to the teleport room in the Courtyard/Prelude to the Abyss, and go down the long spiral staircase there. At the bottom, where there's all the blood and growling, open that door. Then, pray. Hard. :ermm:

Prof. Aragorn

07/14/2005, 17:53

FoxInStocks

07/15/2005, 09:15

Thanks for the tip on Walter.

I've been in that room, I've been in both rooms, in one was the bell to summon the succubus and the other was that thing that prolongs relics, I believe.

There's another room in there . . . ? :confused:

Yup. Check Gamefaqs.com or The Castlevania Dungeon for the exact location. It's been awhile since I did it.

FoxInStocks

07/15/2005, 09:26

No, wait, I'm telling you wrong. The Unlock Jewel is in the Pagoda of the Misty Moon, 2nd floor, in a dark room similar to the ones in the Ghostly Theater. Whoops!

Prof. Aragorn

07/15/2005, 19:30

Ah, probably behind that door in the room where walking on the floor causes those things to rise up and hit you unless you're on the posts or the stairs-right before the hallway with the ogres.

FoxInStocks

07/16/2005, 16:59

Ah, probably behind that door in the room where walking on the floor causes those things to rise up and hit you unless you're on the posts or the stairs-right before the hallway with the ogres.

I don't remember. I'm going through the game with Joachim right now, and I just go to the Pagoda, so I'll check.

Gacy's Clown

07/16/2005, 17:20

I've got friend who gets off on this series as well. He's bought and beat every single version of the game on every platform out there (has bought some systems JUST to play these games). He even listens to the music and everything when painting his mods and whatnot. You guys could all have a little get together or three way or something! :laugh:

Prof. Aragorn

07/18/2005, 00:41

I don't remember. I'm going through the game with Joachim right now, and I just go to the Pagoda, so I'll check.

Yeah, figured out how to get there. The columns in the room are lights you have to hit and you have 17 seconds to hit them all to unlock the door and enter it before it closes.

Managed to beat the Forgotten One, too. He was tough, but I'm still going with Death being the tougher of the two. At least the secondary weapons work against the Forgotten One.

Is it possible to get back to the lower floor in the Cavern level after you've reversed the water pressure?

FoxInStocks

07/18/2005, 10:04

Is it possible to get back to the lower floor in the Cavern level after you've reversed the water pressure?

I think so, but don't ask me how. Both times through that level was pure luck for me.
:confused:

Mr. Gone

07/24/2005, 22:18

well, my local game store just got a used copy of SOTN in and they're asking $30 (canadian) for it. They can't sell it to me until Thursday due to the fact that they hold used games for a week if the person who brought it in asked for cash instead of trade. I got them to hold it for me until then though so I should be demon whipping in no time. :)

FoxInStocks

07/25/2005, 14:13

Mr. Gone

07/25/2005, 23:42

I wish I could play my copy, but my PS2 still refuses to deal with PS1 games. I had just gotten to the Inverse Castle, too. :(
And i'm sure you gave away your old ps1 with some games to some younger relative who doesn't appreciate them (oh wait that's MY life) so you can't play it on your old system.

FoxInStocks

07/26/2005, 11:47

Nope, never had a PS1. I actually skipped that generation of consoles. My friend had both a N64 and a PS1, so I didn't bother buying anything more than a controller for each. :)

Mr. Gone

07/29/2005, 23:58

Well I got SOTN today. Man is that game good. It's still incredibly fun to play, the graphics have held up really well. I played it for 3 hours straight! This game came out on 1997 and it's still one of the top ten games imo.
Money well spent!

FoxInStocks

08/01/2005, 11:16

One of my favorite parts about SotN is the Chapel. Aside from the awesome music in there, I love to jump on the bells and harass the ghosts in the confessional...until they stab me.

Mr. Gone

08/01/2005, 11:33

One of my favorite parts about SotN is the Chapel. Aside from the awesome music in there, I love to jump on the bells and harass the ghosts in the confessional...until they stab me.

I love that part of the game. I made it to the inverted castle yesterday, it's too cool. It almost made me feel nauseous, I keep expecting to fall in the other direction.

FoxInStocks

08/03/2005, 10:50

In a moment of sheer boredom, I beat Castlevania III again yesterday. God bless emulators.

Has anyone seen some of the new screenshots from Curse of Darkness? It's looking NICE. Specifically, there's a shot from the Xbox version of Hector standing outside the castle in what looks to be a garden or gated area. Off in the distance, through extreme fog, you can see the lights of the castle glowing through the windows. It's gorgeous. I'll go get a link to it.

FoxInStocks

08/03/2005, 10:52

http://media.xbox.ign.com/media/748/748591/img_2793059.html

Mr. Gone

08/03/2005, 21:45

Man! Look at the detail in his clothing and hair. This game's gonna kick!

FoxInStocks

08/04/2005, 09:32

Mr. Gone

08/10/2005, 10:44

One thing I'm a little hesitant about with Curse is that Michiru Yamane, the music composer for Symphony and Lament (and some others) is going back to a more rock-oriented score over Lament's incredible classical style. Le sigh.
I have to agree. I'm not too concerned about the actual quality of the soundtrack but i am worried about it dampening the Horror atmosphere of the game.

FoxInStocks

08/10/2005, 14:29

Here's another thing I hope that 'Curse' gives us: "Freelook". It was a sin in Lament to have all those beautiful enviroments and yet no way to really look around and examine them.

FoxInStocks

08/18/2005, 09:58

There's a hands-on preview of 'Curse' on gamespot.com, in the PS2 section. Lookin' good so far!

FoxInStocks

08/31/2005, 10:17

Where are the Castlevania legions!? Have you not seen the new stuff from Curse? This game is, to use the vonacular of the day, going to 'own your ###'. Well, it's definitely going to improve Lament's flaws, and be a better game to boot. I also think it'll be better than Dawn of Sorrow, but I'm also incredibly tired of 2D Symphony-clone Castlevanias...

JGonspy

09/22/2005, 16:22

How can you be tired of follow ups to Symphony of the Night? Especially when Dawn of Sorrow...well, I won't spoil it. Castlevania has always worked better in 2D for me.

Unless Curse of Darkness fixes some major problems with exploring the castle, namely having to walk through an entire area to get to one place (instead of using teleport rooms), then I'll wait till it's a little cheaper to get it. I liked Lament of Innocence just fine, but I enjoyed the 2D Castlevanias a whole lot more.

Prof. Aragorn

12/27/2005, 04:11

So now that curse of darkness has been out for a while and I've come back-any takers on the game.

I think it's pretty good-though definately slight improvements of Lament-its more of a combination between Lament of Innocence and Symphony.

I'm ashamed there's no free-look, but the teleportation, various weapons, fight with Trevor, and extension beyond the castle kind of make up for it.

Dark Flash2099

12/27/2005, 10:31

I bought Dawn of Sorrow for the DS. Great game. If this doesn't make you get a DS, nothing will.

FoxInStocks

12/27/2005, 23:32

I bought Dawn of Sorrow for the DS. Great game. If this doesn't make you get a DS, nothing will.

It actually is what made me get a DS. Long story short, I really ragged on the DS for awhile...then I saw that it really was almost on par with the N64 hardware.

Then I found out it had free Wi-Fi games on the way.

Then came Castlevania, and I gave in. I LOVE the DS now, and Dawn of Sorrow rocks four kinds of hard.

I'm stuck at Abbadon now, though. Pain in the keister... >.>

Prof. Aragorn

12/28/2005, 04:59

sounds interesting-thats the sequel with Soma Cruz, correct?

FoxInStocks

12/28/2005, 09:29

Yeppers. Storyline is nothing special, until the end. There's three different endings, and the second ending sets up an ACTUAL STORYLINE for Julius Mode. Go figure.

Basically, they took Aria of Sorrow, polished it up so the gameplay, Soul System, and machanics worked better, and then gave it near-Symphony level graphics. If you have a DS, you should get this game.

Prof. Aragorn

12/29/2005, 03:46

I'd love to, but I'm addicted to Curse of Darkness. :)

FoxInStocks

12/29/2005, 09:26

I paused on Curse. I'm up to one of the last few boss fights, and I think I need to level up a bit more.

How far are you in Curse?

Prof. Aragorn

12/30/2005, 03:58

90 some percent. I'm about to fight Isaac in Drac's Castle. What can I say, I like the game-plus I hear if you beat it you get to play as Trevor so that'll be fun.

Who's the boss-is it the legion granfalloon thing-man I hate the last part where you fight the nucleus dude.

Though I did level up about 20 levels since.

FoxInStocks

12/30/2005, 09:28

Okay, you're farther than me. I'm at the 2nd Trevor battle, and I haven't beaten Legion yet. I started going back to fill in some missing areas on my map to level up a bit.

I ended up putting the game on the shelf while I played Dawn, but when I left off I was working on the Tower of Evermore. That Tower is TOUGH.

And yes, if you beat the game, you can play through as Trevor. The game has a LOT of hidden content, like:

If you start a new game on a PS2 memory card with a Lament of Innocence save file on it, near the beginning of the Abandoned Castle you'll find the Moai Statue, which is a one-time super healing item

There's a hidden Innocent Devil that's insanely hard to get. You have to get a Miracle Egg, for starters...

Prof. Aragorn

12/31/2005, 02:56

####. I used the egg already . . .

and the devil is the pumpkin head guy-dammit. I made a sucky sword with that egg.

Yeah, Trevor is a tough fight. All my familiars died before I beat him. I think I used a punching weapon either the shellfists or bangankhas or whatever. I believe there's a combo with them where you can do an attack that does 100 damage. Either way, the fists do fast attacks that keep Trevor from doing some nasty damage.

Prof. Aragorn

12/31/2005, 02:59

Tower of Evermore-thats the 50 level tower with all the baddies, right?

The one in the forest or the chapel area?

FoxInStocks

12/31/2005, 12:50

You got a Miracle Egg? Good grief. Those are INSANELY rare. Well, sort of. Anyhow, you use that to make the Pumpkin Mace, and the mace somehow lets you get the Pumpkin ID, which from what I hear is more of a gag thing.

Tower of Eternity is the hidden tower, BEHIND the Tower of Evermore. You need a bird ID with Long Glide to get to it. It's insanely hard, because it's all like Level 72 enemies, plus some only found in there. However, at the end are Golden Bones, and that's the only place to find them for sure (technically they can appear wherever Skeletons appear, but it's incredibly rare), and I believe Golden Bones ALWAYS drop Miracle Eggs. The only other thing that drops them are Evil Cores, but that's their Rare Drop.

FoxInStocks

12/31/2005, 12:53

Prof. Aragorn

01/01/2006, 00:41

My biggest complaint about Curse (and it's a big one for me) is that so little of it takes place in Castlevania. You have the Giribaldi Temple, which LOOKS like a Castlevania area, and then you have the final area, but that's it. The other levels were cool and all, but they just didn't feel like Castlevania areas. I think they were trying to give it a Castlevania II/III feel, but I didn't care for it. Plus, the soundtrack paled in comparison to Lament of Innocence, though it was good. The theme for the Town of Cordova was awesome.

I kind of liked the expansion beyond just castlevania, but if they made castlevania Castlevania rather than just running around outside and then a couple of rooms indoors (granted it extends to seven or eight levels, but it's a simple layout of follow the map). let the castle be an entire hug itself as well as part of a larger hub

That and all the indoor areas were really repetitive. I can handle symmetry and similar decor in rooms, but when you've got an entire castle that doesn't change in room design . . .

Prof. Aragorn

01/01/2006, 00:45

And I agree, Cordova music was great-so is the tower music. Abandoned Castle isn't bad.

Though Lament's music was kind of the same-only about 3-6 good songs, the rest weren't so great.

Now symphony had a ton of good ones-Tragic Prince, Dracula's Castle, Moonlight Nocturne, etc.

Sad to say, I still haven't played a Castlevania with Bloody Tears or Vampire killer-I'm not worthy, I know.

FoxInStocks

01/01/2006, 01:56

Yeah, you have played a Castlevania with Vampire Killer: Lament. The song 'Admiration for a Clan' has Vampire Killer in it, around the middle. XD

The best CV song is Requiem for the Gods, the theme you hear in the Chapel in Symphony.

Prof. Aragorn

01/01/2006, 04:06

Well, its in the ending credits-not in a level.

Eh, I guess it counts.

Personally my favorite is Moonlight Nocturne, but Vampire Killer, Bloody Tears, Tragic Prince (and there's another I'm forgetting . . .) that are really good, too.

Requieum of the Gods has that classic sound-what with the harmonious singing of chapel hymns and such.

FoxInStocks

01/04/2006, 11:58

Also, for those who don't know, there's a new Castlevania in the works for the DS. It's tentatively titled Dracula Castlevania, and is rumored to support wi-fi online play in some form. Woo!

Rokk_Krinn

01/04/2006, 22:23

Hmm...one of these days I'll remember to check on this forum more as I would've jumped in a lot sooner had I seen this thread. :) Been a _huge_ fan of the Castlevania series since the original Nintendo days - yes, I know the Japanese game was very different (in part because I bought it when they released it for the Playstation :) ) - and it's actually a large part of why I even bought a Nintendo in the first place. Great series (and I really wish I knew more about emulators so I could go back and play some of the old games easier).

I'm enjoying Curse but I'm always notoriously slow at these type of games because I'm always paranoid of missing a secret or screwing up and making the wrong item (see: the Miracle Egg/Pumpkin situation) so I end up never doing anything. Pathetic, I know...

FoxInStocks

01/04/2006, 22:44

I can email you an NES emulator and CV 1-3 for it. There's nothing to it at all. You can even save anywhere you want. :D

I have other...goods, but I dare not name them in a public forum. :>

Have you played Lament of Innocence?

Gentlegamer

01/05/2006, 03:04

I have other...goods, but I dare not name them in a public forum. :>Hook. Me. Up.

JGonspy

01/05/2006, 04:19

Other goods? Now I'm only curious.

And where did you hear about the new DS Castlevania? If history has taught me anything, it'll be awesome x 1000. I do hope it tries something different this time, although I am scared of losing the classic 2D goodness. Talk about torn.

FoxInStocks

01/05/2006, 09:37

The new DS Castlevania is offical, but that's all we know. Check the DS section of Gamespot or IGN. I believe both have a placeholder up for it.

On the subject of different Castlevania, I recently saw a game called Valkyrie Profile which is a 3D sidescroller. That's right, everything is in 3D, but the camera is always at your side. The game happens to take place in a castle too, so looking at it was just making me drool to see Castlevania in that format.

If you guys want some good Castlevania info, check out www.classicgaming.com/castlevania. They have a good forum there too (I post as Nocturnefoxx), but it's not modded that well. That is, the mods keep things civil, but profanity and name calling abounds. :ermm:

FoxInStocks

01/05/2006, 09:38

Also, anyone who wants to know 'what I got', PM me.

FoxInStocks

01/25/2006, 11:35

Beat Dawn of Sorrow last night. Did you know that in Julius mode (which I then started playing, after beating the regular quest) is something of a CVIII clone? That is, you start with Julius, and later pick up Yoko, who you can change to at anytime a' la' CVIII, and she plays just like her ancestor Sypha from CVIII...staff, magic, and all. I hear a certain emo-vampire is available later in the game too...

Dark Flash2099

01/25/2006, 12:56

JGonspy

01/25/2006, 14:11

FoxInStocks

01/25/2006, 14:27

I don't know if I'd call Alucard an emo...more in the bad ### category I think. Though it's been forever since I played Castlevania 3 so I forget what he was like in that. He's definitely a lot of fun to play with though.

I heard the next DS one is going to have more multiplayer components and possible wi-fi compatibility. I guess that's a good thing, though I still wonder why there's so much effort to make an obviously one player game a multiplayer one. Hopefully we'll get a new cast this time around too. Nothing against Soma, just think his story is over.

From what I understand, Dracula Castlevania (as it's being called) is definitely going to have wi-fi capabilities. I think IGA realizes that it's time to grow Castlevania out a bit, as the Castletroid formula on the handheld entries is getting old and the two 3D games have gotten lukewarm receptions at best. Online content is the thing these days, so I guess he sees that as the way to go.

As for the story, I don't know WHAT they're doing. IGA has said that all of the handheld CV titles would take place AFTER the Battle of 1999, when Dracula dies for good. That said, if Dracula Castlevania is in any was offical or relating to the story, it seems Dracula is back in some form, so I don't know where that puts the story.

Personally, I'd like to see a balls-to-the-wall game, handheld or on a home console, that focued on Julius Belmont and the Battle of '99. Soma is getting old, but Juilius still owns.

Prof. Aragorn

01/26/2006, 19:35

3d remake of Castlevania III!

Have it more of a Lord of the Ring's playstyle (where you can still level up, but you can replay levels and level up as well-additionally being able to choose your own character).

So long as they don't screw up on the level design (like in Curse or Lament where it's repetitive hallway, battle room, repetitive hallway) and Castlevania is twice as big as the town, clocktower, forest, caverns, mountain, temple, aqueduct, and graveyard combined and Dracula is unbeatable.

JGonspy

01/26/2006, 19:59

Don't forget a super hard Death. Personally I usually found Death to be the tougher of the two in most games, though Dracula has had his moments.

Prof. Aragorn

01/26/2006, 20:34

Death would have to be the second-to last boss, and take just about as many hits to kill as Drac.

But Drac should do tons more damage-like at the start he turns into a giant wolf beast and charges you. Then he turns into a giant bat. If you try and strike him, he'll either dodge, turn into an etheral body ala Vision or Martian Manhunter, disperse into bats or rats that claw and bite you, or just slap you with his cape.

Then when you survive long enough he tears off the ceiling of the thrown room and stands on a large pedastal channelling lightning, hail, snow, rain, sleet, heavy winds and various undead to try and stop you.

If that is surpassed, then he uses this bigass sword.

Death should be almost completely etheral and only hittable when he's about to attack with his scythe. He should be able to raise the dead, and channel life force stealing, poison, and curse energies via his scythe.

FoxInStocks

01/27/2006, 13:57

Here's my dream Castlevania 3D game:

You Play: Sonia Belmont (to bring her back into the timeline).
You Weild: A variety of swords, and later you get the Vampire Killer AND swords.
Special Attack System: Something involving the classic sub-weapons (axe, crucifix, knife).

Plot: After his encounter with Leon Belmont, Mathias (now known as Dracula) goes into hiding, building up his forces and planning his vengence against God and the church. In that time (timeframe to be determined, but it has to be before Trevor/CVIII), the Belmont clan has trained each generation in vampire hunting, though most of the hunters see little action, only having to defeat small packs of monsters here and there. Sonia becomes the first Belmont to actually have to face Dracula's hordes, as the Count resurrects the first true Castlevania, appoints a General to control it, and to begin an assault on the countryside (Dracula would be off attending to other matters, as the timeline states that Trevor is the first Belmont to actually face and defeat Drac). Sonia, still a student in the ways of vampire hunting, heads out towards Castlevania to detroy it, and Dracula's General.

Levels and Progression:

Town/Countryside: Sonia starts off at Level 1, armed only with a short sword. First area would be a town or countryside, where Sonia must make her way through. It would be mostly a 'learning' level, with low-level monsters for you to learn the controls. Control system would work something like a hybrid of Lament and Curse, with different weapons providing different combos, but the combos would be customizable, not just Curse's attack + finisher.

Forest: First real level. At the end, you find the traditional family home of the Belmonts, where you get the Vampire Killer, though the whip 'sleeps', it's true power not unlocked yet. Once you get it, you can weild it WITH a sword, allowing stronger, longer combos.

Devil's Bog: A swamp-like level. Fishmen and Mudmen abound.

Gateway to the Demon Castle: A platforming-heavy level where you scale the cliff up to Castlevania, and then fight your way across the drawbridge and through the gates, leading into...

Demon Castle Courtyard: Skeletons, Armor Knights, and BATS. Small level, mostly a prelude to...

Infinite Hedgemaze: An actual maze you have to figure out. Puzzles, dead ends, and lots of Bone Pillars.

Marble Hallway: Traditional Castlevania entrance. Zombies, more Bats, and Peeping Eyes.

Arcane Library: Quija Tables, the magic books from Symphony, and Flame Demons abound. There would be lots of platforming here, with the high bookshelves and many floors. Long level.

Astrological Mysteries Tower: First 'tower' level, so even more platforming. Low-level Meduesa heads, and a chance to use the whip to swing around. At the top would be a puzzle involving a telescope and constellations to open the next level, OR open a secret area depending on how you solve the puzzle.

*Alchemy Lab*: Hidden level. Frankenstein's Monsters, flea men, and succubuses all over, while there's lots of death-traps involving the alchemy experiments.

Dead Gardens: The normal area after the Astrological Tower. A garden level similar to the Garden Forgotten by Time in Lament. Very 'organic' level.

Corrupted Chapel: Typical CV chapel level, with lots of platforming and highly-detailed backrounds. Spectral Swords, Killer Dolls, and other nasties.

Machina Clock Tower: You know how a clock tower should be in CV. Meduesa heads, winding platforming towers, and *gasp!* spike pits at the bottom.

Prelude to the Dark Chamber: Another filler level, with a 'trophy room' theme, to kick you around a bit before...

Dark Prince's Throne Room: Dracula's throne room, where you fight the General, and the final level.

BOSSES:

Zombie Lord (Town/Countryside): High level zombie, just to give the player a little challenge.

Ancient Tree (Forest): Guardian of the forest, he'd be a challenge for you. HAving just got the Vampire Killer, you'd need it to whip up into his branches and attack weak points.

Abyssian Monster (Bog): A swamp monster. Think the dragons from CVIII, or the lake monster from Legacy of Darkness. It'd be in and out of the water, making you rely on what little footing you have to keep him in range.

Ape Skeleton (Gateway): A giant skeleton who throws boulders at you. Typical big boss; easy to hit and quite slow, but does a LOT of damage should he hit you.

Stalker (Hedgemaze): At the end of the maze, this maniacal, knife-weilding beast would stalk (get it? HAHA!) you through the last part, attacking you from the walls of the maze. Should definitely be hard.

Giant Bat (Hallway): Yeah, it's obvious, but I love me my traditional CV elements.

Librarian's Ghost (Library): A ghostly keeper uses books, spells, and other specters to KICK YOUR ###.

Moon Demon (Astrological ToweR): After you solve the Tower's puzzle, you face this nasty. A flying boss, he'd be fast and annoying.

Gaibon and Slogra (Alchemy Lab): Throwback to Symphony, these two would be the game's 'hidden' boss, and third in difficulty, after the General and Death.

Meduesa (Garden): Another traditional CV boss. Full-bodied Meduesa, not just the head; she'd be able to summon Meduesa heads, as well as turn you to stone herself.

Dark Spectral Priest (Chapel): You'd fight in in a giant auditorium-like room, and he'd rely on summoning dead saints by praying (when he prays, you'd have to attack).

Clock Tower Mistress (Clock Tower): Controls time. A 'cheap' boss, she could freeze time to get a few hits in on you. I imagine her as a succubus-like beauty, but clearly not human nor friendly.

Death (Prelude): You know him, you love him. He'd be HARD. If you didn't beat him in a certain amount of time, you die. I mean, he is Death.

Dracula's General: Not sure about him, but he'd probably be a powerful vampire. Whatever the specifics about the character are, he'd be the toughest boss in the game.

SO! That's the basic elements of the game. Naturally, you'd have hidden rooms, lots of weapons both obvious and secret, and even a secret character if you beat the game. Crazy Mode would be playable from the start for the lovers of insane difficulty; the soundtrack would be all classical and orchestrated, with none of the guitar stuff from Curse or Symphony.

If they did a game like this, you would never see me again. Well you would, but it'd be on Ripley's Believe It or Not, with bleeding eyes and hands deformed like a PS2 controller.

Prof. Aragorn

01/28/2006, 01:23

Alright! My turn: Castlevania3d: Dracula's Curse

You Play: Choice between Trevor, Grant, Sypha, and Alucard (with Hidden Character Pumpkin)

Weapons:

Trevor merely starts with the vampire killer with its power not yet unlocked (since it wasn't used since Sonia wielded it so long ago) its your basic leather whip. After gaining enough experience he can upgrade to rose whip, chain whip, flame whip, wind whip, ice whip, lightning whip, dark whip, holy whip, and lastly the vampire killer with unlocked potential.

He can use the axe, dagger, crucifix ala boomerang, and holy water.

Grant wields a variety of swords and gets to do double damage with the axe and dagger. upgrading allows him to do more special attacks with the axe and dagger or buy the more powerful swords. He also gets some kung fu moves.

Sypha starts out with a simple staff and the holy book, but by upgrades gets to do just about every spell the mage type innocent devils can do she can wield the holy water, holy book, rebound stone, ashes, dagger, crucifix (both item crash and boomerang) and stops time.

Alucard uses his mother's family heirloom sword, gets some spells, and can upgrade to more devastating spells, shape changes, and staffs. Alucard can wield the axe, dagger, and rebound stone.

Plot: After Lament, Mathias went into hiding, took the name Vlad Dracula, ruled Walachia for a bit, got dethroned, and met Lisa, the spitting image of his true love. Together they sired a son-Adrian. Soon after Lisa was executed for being a witch-Adrian witnessed this act and when Dracula learned of it, he cursed the land by raising the Demon Castle once ruled by Walter. He vows to rule humanity and raises and army. He has his son Adrian rule by his side, but his conscious refuses. Alucard rebelled, but was cast out and disowned. Dracula chose his other son from his political marriage-Minhea. Adrian fled and renounced his name (to Alucard where he would be the inverse of his father since he still plotted to defeat him). He later met Sonia Belmont the last of her name. Her father died early and never sired a son. It was expected that Sonia would either marry or die a maiden and the Belmont legacy would fade into oblivion. She, like Alucard, was disowned by her family. The two met and fell in love. But the happy times were not to last long, Dracula's legion spread across the land. Alucard vowed to stop him, but he secretly knew he could never fulfill the deed. Sonia offered her assistance, and so Alucard trained her. The day she set off the day he set himself into a vampiric sleep so that his bloodline would end. Sonia took up the vampire killer whip and defeated Dracula who vowed he would return in a century's time. However, the people of the land felt afraid of Sonia's power-someone to rival the dark prince could not be trusted. She was run out of town, but gave birth to a child-the son of Alucard.
100 years have passed and Dracula has returned raising the demon castle with him. However ruling humanity has become trite to the likes of him. Instead Dracula has decided that in order to truly curse God for taking the love of his life, he shall become a God himself and dethrone God and end this planet in the forge of chaos. War has arrived to the people of Transylvania and a hero is needed. Trevor Belmont, a confused outsider begs his Great grandmother (Sonia) at her deathbed that he do something. She knows he is the one to save mankind and passes down the Vampire Killer. Trevor must set off to save the world from Darkness.

While IGA says that Sonia did not slay Dracula, I say different. But Trevor's the one who gave the Belmonts their name how's that.

Levels and Progression:

Footpath to the town: Trevor races to the town of Cordova that is under siege. Here he practices with the leather whip and gains the dagger at the end of the level. Enemies: Skeleton level 1, Zombie level 2, wolf level 2, vampire bat level 1, Lizard level 3. Boss: Ogre level 3

A Town Called Cordova: Trevor must hurry throughout the town being attacked by monsters. He must rescue civillians combat trained monsters, and make his way to the town center where the boss awaits him. At the end of the level, the town people praise him for his help and give him the axe to aid him in his quest. Enemies: Skeleton level 1 and 2, Zombie level 2, armored knight level 3, axe knight level 4, skeleton knight level 2, ghoul level 3, fleaman level 1 and 2, lizard warrior level 4. Boss: Pestilence level 5-the first of the four horsemen of the apocalypse. His defeat reveals Trevor must go to the Clock Tower (this is a ruse, since Famine and Nasty Grant await him)

The Eneamos Machine Tower: Trevor races up the steps to the clock tower and fights his way through the gears, spike pits, and platform jumping to the top of the clock tower where Nasty Grant wishes to meet you. At the end of the level, Grant and Trevor decide to join forces and the two are attacked by famine (another horseman) and fall off the clocktower into the nearby sea. which washes them into a river that enters the forest of Jigramunt. Enemies: Skeleton level 1, 2, and 3 Zombie Level 2, and 3, medusa head level 3, and 4, Harpy level 3, armored knight level 3, and 4, axe knight level 4, and 5, skeleton knight level 2, 3, and 4, fleaman level 1, 2, and 3, Necromancer level 3, and 4. Boss: Nasty Grant level 7 who after defeat restores to Grant Dynastie who was cursed by Dracula back when he was Vlad. Grant offers to join you. Trevor is given the crucifix that he can propel via boomerang.

Forest of Jigramunt: As either Grant or Trevor, fight your way through the dense forest battling the followers of Dracula who have set up camp. The bosses level-Medusa has imprisoned Sypha and after freeing her she joins you and advises you that if you wish to infiltrate Dracula's castle without dying effortlessly, you should sneak through the caves of Jigramunt. Oddly enough you take his advice (at this point, Sypha has told you her name is Syphe and she seems like a man . . .). She also gives Trevor access to the holy water. Enemies: Skeleton level 1, 2, 3, and 4. Zombie level 2, and 3. Ghoul level 3, and 4, Wolf level 2, 3, and 4, Armored Knight Level 4, 5, and 6, Ogre level 4, and 5, Cyclops level 3, and 4 Medusa Head level 3, 4, 5, and 6, Killer plant level 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 Axe Knights level 5, 6, and 7, Knight Rider level 5, and 6, Skeleton Knight level 3, 4, and 5 Skeleton Rider level 5, and 6, Fleaman level 2, 3, and 4, Necromancer level 4, 5, and 6, Lizard level 3, 4, and 5 Lizard warrior level 4, and 5. Boss: Medusa level 9

Cave of Jigramunt: As Trevor, Grant, or Sypha you must discern the maze like caverns that will lead you closer to Castlevania. At the end of the level, you awaken Alucard and in a Lazarus Pit resurrection attacks you in beserker fashion. have him come to his senses and he'll offer his assistance in knowledge of Castlevania-plus he saves your life in a cutscene so yeah. Enemies: various skeletons, lizards ,wolves, zombies, fleamen, knights, fishmen, mermen and mudmen. Boss: Alucard level 11

Aiolon seaside: The caves exit out to sea near the ruins of an unholy land that is cursed with monsters. The band of heroes must enter the ruins where the collapsed temple will lead them to where Trevor can gain access to the Vampire Killer's untapped potential. Enemies: The usual suspects no new villains. Boss: Slogra and Gaibon both level 13

Aiolon dilapidated temple: The cavernous ruins are just as mazelike but with even deadlier opponents. The Vampire Killer is guarded by Trevor's doppleganger. Enemies: Usual suspects plus Ghost level 8, and 9. Boss: Doppleganger Level 15.

The Abandoned Castle-courtyard and main hall: The caves hid a secret entrance to an abandoned Castle. The doppleganger escaped with the Vampire Killer here and so you must defeat the monsters ahead which include Famine. Enemies: No one new. Boss: Famine level 17

Abandoned Castle-Outer Wall and caverns: From the castle's main hall, the band of heroes battle their way to the first defense the outer wall, but before the doppleganger can be pursued, the four are tricked into a trap that leads them into the caverns below the castle. Enemies: More of the same, plus some cave trolls. Boss: The Sea Creature level 19

Abandoned Castle-Dungeon and Lift: Lots of traps and fleamen. four bosses in this level. The elevator to the upper levels of the castle is guarded by Igor and the Creature. After their defeat the heroes take the lift to the Castle Keep battling skeletons and zombies. Before the group can enter the castle, they are accosted by the Mummy brothers. Enemies: All of the above with lower level Mummies. Boss: Igor and the Creature both at 21, with the Mummy brothers both at 23.

Abandoned Castle-Castle Keep: The heroes spiral upwards to regain the Vampire Killer Whip, however, the Doppleganger flees via birdcage and leaves the group to combat the Third Horseman-War. War's defeat allows access to the birdcage elevator which depending on how well the heroes are doing (if they are finding secrets that is) they can gain access to the bonus level. Enemies: Various forms of previous faced enemies but with the addition of Armor Lords at levels 19, 20, and 21. Boss: War Level 25.

Bonus Level-Aviary: Similar to the last half of the dungeon level, the heroes must fight a plethora of villains while riding a giant birdcage elevator. One catch is all the enemies are bird enemies or flying enemies. No boss here, but this is easily the hardest level so you'll be happy there isn't. Enemies: ??? Boss: None

Baljhet Mountains: Battle your way through the grand peaks of Walachia as you pass collapsing bridges and fight uphill battles against bow and arrowed ogres and angry cyclopses. Climbing to the mountain top just to face the boss is considered lucky. Enemies: More of the same, thow an Ogre at level 36 (highest level non boss enemy) is around. Boss: Rock Golem Level 27

Borgo Pass: The Doppleganger can only elude you for so long. Give chase to him through the thick fog of the trail to Dracula's Castle. The pass ends at the graveyard where the boss will be happy to serve as a distraction. Enemies: No one new. Boss: Phantom Bat Level 29

Dracula's Castle-Entrance: The endless hallway of the demon castle. chase after the vile Doppleganger, just be careful of the behemoth chasing after you. Enemies: None. Boss: Behemoth level 31

Dracula's Castle-Caverns: As the behemoth fell so do our heroes since the floor beneath gives way to the monster's large mass. More underwater subterranean creatures must be fought before Scylla can be encountered. Enemies: Nothing new here. Boss: Scylla level 33

Dracula's Castle-Alchemy Laboratory: Various spells to be learned by Sypha here! After you fight your way through the deathtraps and high level axe lords, you will do battle with the most twisted experiment in science yet-the Legion and Granfaloon. Enemies: Nameless ones level 22. Boss: Legion/Granfaloon level 35

Dracula's Castle-Conservatory: Lots of plant creatures here, fight your way through the enchanted gardens of the demon castle-might want to have Grant go through with his axe. Enemies: Dodo bird level 23. Boss: Monstrous Plant level 37

Dracula's Castle-Inner Halls: The living quarters of Castlevania-quick levels, lots of ghosts and phantoms-quija tables and all that sort of stuff. Enemies: Phantasm level 22, 23, and 24, Quija Table level 13, 14, and 15. Boss: Spectral Sword level 38

Dracula's Castle-Olrox Quarters: Dracula has a helper with him this time, another vampire that is high ranking in magic. He knows something you don't know-what Dracula plans to do. Enemies: Malachai level 25, and 26 and Cthulu level 27, and 29. Boss: Olrox level 39

Dracula's Castle-Marble Gallery: This is a major hub of the upper level of the castle. Battle molten lava men, bug eyed faries, magic using creatures, demonic little imps, various birds, gargoyles, and dragons where you will fight an innocent devil creator-Hector. Though he gives up near the end of the battle and resigns his aid to Dracula. Enemies: Infant Fairy level 1, Magmard level 2, Crow level 3, wood rod caster level 4, fledgling level 5, leaffle level 6, speed mail level 7 phoenix level 8, goat rod caster level 9, imp level 10, probiscus level 11, corpsey level 12, Khaos level 13, crystal rod caster level 14, tiramasu level 15, juggernaut level 16, gargoyle level 17, dragon scale rod caster level 18, Iytei level 19, ice dragon level 20, Ytarish devil level 21, Crystal fighter level 22, red dragon level 23. Boss: Hector level 40.

Dracula's Castle-Long Library: Defeat the various enchanted books so that you may find the master librarian. There's nothing in this castle he doesn't know about. However, you'll have to get through the admodacius unicorn creature first. Enemies: A buncha repeats, spell book level 21 and 22, magic tome level 23 and 24, unicorn level 25, lesser demon level 27 and 29, and those giant spherical monsters that curse you whenever you touch them. Boss: Admodacius level 41

Dracula's Castle-Colliseum: Of course, to prove to the librarian that you can help him, you have to slay the Minitoar and Werewolf first. Enemies: None Boss: Mnitorus and Wolf-Man both level 42.

Dracula's Castle-Outer Wall: The Librarian gave you the information you wanted. The Doppleganger is headed toward the Castle Keep. Why not, you were headed there anyway. Defeat the bloody skeletons, bone pillars, and various armored knights that guard every part of this castle. At the top of the tower before the entrance to the Clock tower, you will combat the Doppleganger one final time. His defeat grants you the Vampire Killer to be unlocked. Enemies: No one new. Boss: Doppleganger level 43

Dracula's Castle-Clocktower: Hurry, Dracula's plan is about to unfold and now its a race to beat the clock. Fight your way up the stairless clock tower battling some of the toughest monsters ever-some that were even monsters-Medusa, Minitorus and his buddy the werewolf, slogra and gaibon, Igor and his creation, the mummy brothers, etc. Enemies: Just about every boss ever battled. Boss: Death-of course it makes sense since he can raise the dead . . . He's level 44.

Dracula's Castle-Castle Keep: Jumping out of the clocktower you realize you've got a lot further to go before you can reach Drac. Climb the stairs and run as fast as you can from the collapsing stairs that lead to Dracula's private chamber. Rest easy-there's no boss. Though no time to tary since you're still timed. Enemies: Everything you've fought before. Boss: None

Dracula's Castle-Dracula's Throne room: sorry pals no secret treasury here. Enter the cursed hall where Dracula sits in his throne sipping some nice cool blood. Exchange some words like Die monster you don't belong in this world or Have at you and then fight the most difficult Dracula yet faced. Enemies: None. Boss: Dracula-level 45

First Drac turns into a wolf monster and just launches himself at you aiming for the jugular. If you're lucky you'll manage to hit him. If not, he'll just phase through the attack and continue going. Piss him off enough he'll transform into a giant bat that just tears you up. If you get him past that he'll use his remaining strength to open up his ceiling. His ascension to God-hood is at hand so he cannot fight you indirectly, instead he stand atop a giant pedastal channeling the life force of the universe in him. He'll launch various forms of weather at you and some magic. Mostly distraction and hurdle stuff like raising the dead. Manage to get to the top of his pedastal your nose will start bleeding. Couple of hits drains him and his ascension will be halted. But he's had enough of the band of heroes. Now he draws out his sword-the one he used to command Walachia and war against the Turks. One attack from him will kill you instantly so watch out. Also, if he doesn't shield himself with his cape from your attacks, turn into a group of bats or rats and attack you momentarily, phase through the attack, you might just hurt him. Eventually the Vampire Killer whip does its job and Dracula is defeated. The heroes flee and the world is safe for a while. Trevor restores the legacy of the Belmont name and marries Sypha who as it turns out is a woman. Grant and Trevor rebuild the town. Alucard leaves to sleep eternally ending his cursed bloodline.

Though Drac does cast a curse before his death which is the whole reason for Curse of Darkness . . .

Gentlegamer

03/18/2006, 16:52

I did it.

I finally did it.

I found and got working Dracula X: Rondo of Blood!

So far, it is as awesome as I've heard . . .

Dark Flash2099

03/27/2006, 01:25

I did it.

I finally did it.

I found and got working Dracula X: Rondo of Blood!

So far, it is as awesome as I've heard . . .

Now, the question is, ROM or are you actually playing it on the TG-16?

FoxInStocks

03/27/2006, 10:50

So I was reading some rumor stuff on the next Castlevania for the DS (Dracula Castlevania). The one thing we know is that it will utilize the DS' wi-fi capabilites for online play of some sort. Anyone care to speculate on how Castlevania could be sucessfully brought online?

Gentlegamer

03/27/2006, 12:06

Now, the question is, ROM or are you actually playing it on the TG-16?Neither. I'm playing the ISO on an emulator (CDs don't have ROMs). And it would be the Turbo Duo, if it was a CD. :)

JGonspy

03/27/2006, 12:24

Well here's a bit of interesting news, the Revolution will now also be backwards compatible with Sega Genesis games as well as the TG-16, so this might just mean we'll be able to finally play Rondo of Blood on the big screen! I did recently find it online and played it on an emulator, but it was too much of a headache to go through it more then once. Not that I'm expecting a translation or anything that cool, but it'd be nice to play it on something bigger then 20 inches and from a sitting place that's a bit more comfy.

Gentlegamer

03/27/2006, 17:17

Yeah, I'm hearing cool things about Revolution regarding the ability to play old games.

What I don't like is that funky controller. :(

JGonspy

03/27/2006, 21:45

Ah, well I actually like the controller in the sense that it could bring some new ideas for games, but as for the old games that already exist or those being developed in the more classic style, it may not work so well. Of course, Nintendo is making a shell for the controller that snaps on to work like a standard controller, I'm guessing with a layout and shape similar to either the Gamecube's or PS2's.

And here's some awesome potentially Castlvania news, I was reading the preview for the next issue of Nintendo Power and it's touting a world exclusive with the revelation of a new DS game. The preview reads: "As mysterious as a new moon, the follow-up to one of 2005's best DS titles is a whip-smart adventure that you won't want to miss". Now if you ask me, that sure sounds like it's a vague hint about the next DS Castlevania game.

Makes me glad I got that dirt cheap subscription to that surprisingly useful magazine.

Gentlegamer

03/27/2006, 22:09

I agree, the "remote control" controller could be cool for new game types, but for classic games, it looks pretty bad.

Nintendo Power is useful? Times change I guess. Long ago, I had a subscription (I was an original subscriber . . . had Issue #1 with SMB 2) but I discovered for real game news and tips, other magazines were much better (at the time, Gamepro and EGM).

JGonspy

03/28/2006, 01:53

Yeah, the redesign has gone a long way in making it a decent magazine. I still probably wouldn't have gotten it if it hadn't only been about 15 bucks for a whole year, but that's only because I haven't seen much need for print magazines for video game news lately. Not that they aren't fun to read, it's just that money could be going somewhere a little more useful.

Gentlegamer

03/28/2006, 14:18

My current Castlevania emulation list:

Vampire Killer (MSX)
Castlevania (NES)
Castlevania (C64)
VS Castlevania (Arcade)
Castlevania II (NES)
Haunted Castle (Arcade)
Castlevania III (NES)
Super Castlevania IV (SNES)
Dracula X - Circle of Blood [Akumajo Dracula X - Chi no Rondo] (PCE CD)
Castlevania - Bloodlines (Genesis)
Castlevania - Dracula X (SNES)
Castlevania - Aria of Sorrow (GBA)
Castlevania - Circle of the Moon (GBA)
Castlevania - Harmony of Dissonance (GBA)

As you can see, I'm trying to emulate every version of Castlevania. I'm putting off the Gameboy titles because of their quality, and the advanced versions due to system limitation.

Gentlegamer

03/28/2006, 14:19

Edit above post:

Add
Akumajo Dracula (X68000)

FoxInStocks

05/22/2006, 12:30

http://www.gamespot.com/ds/action/castlevaniaportraitofruin/index.html

The next Castlevania game we have to look forward to. Looks awesome, of course. Nice to see IGA stretching out of his comfort zone a bit.

FoxInStocks

06/07/2006, 12:06

I just started playing the Julius quest in Dawn of Sorrow again for the first time in quite awhile. I did not realize that in Julius mode, the Dark Chapel theme is replaced with a kickin' rendition of Bloody Tears. THAT IS MOST AWESOME.

FoxInStocks

07/17/2006, 10:03

THREAD RESURRECTION.

Just like Dracula.

Okay, so we know that the next Castlevania game will be Portrait of Ruin for the DS. We also know that IGA is (so far) not interested in developing a Castlevania for the Wii. At the same time, he hasn't mentioned working on anything for the PS3/360 either.

This is most dissapointing. Despite Curse of Darkness being a bit of a letdown, I really want to see new 3D Castlevanias coming out. I was even hoping for a polished, fixed port of Castlevania 64 on the DS (though I know it'll never happen while IGA is in charge).

Prof. Aragorn

06/18/2007, 02:05

FoxInStocks

06/18/2007, 10:11

Anyone geared and geeked out for the next Castlevania system coming out?

It's Rondo with better graphics for the PSP and the original Rondo and Symphony attached.

Coming in Fall 2007!
Every 100 years this thread shall be resurrected!

I'd be excited for it...if I had a PSP. Actually I'm excited anyhow, because it's breaking the CV team away from the Castletroid formula AND letting them work in 3D a bit. God knows, they need the practice.

I'm still crossing my fingers that Konami either gives a new development team a crack at a next-gen 3D Castlevania that could compete with Devil May Cry or God of War, or that Konami ports Castlevania 64 to the DS with tightened controls.

Prof. Aragorn

07/03/2007, 03:28

FoxInStocks

07/03/2007, 09:41

Well, I managed to locate a used NES and the three Castlevania Games for it. So now I'm rockin' it old school!

Yeah, they are a challege and piss me off a lot, but dammit if it ain't addicting!

And did anyone else hear about the Castlevania movie?
Here's a wikipedia article for it (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castlevania_(film))

And IMDb. (http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0488982/)

Yes, the Castlevania movie will be masterminded by P.W. "I Can Even Screw Up an ALIEN VS PREDATOR Movie" Anderson. I weep when I think of the things he'll do with the Belmonts. Bullet time whips?

Prof. Aragorn

07/04/2007, 14:53

Allegedly, The Belmont in this film is Simon.

Personally, I'd prefer a movie version of Lament of Innocence and sequels with Legends, Dracula's Curse, maybe a funny version with Simon and Christopher as brothers doing the quest stuff, Rondo, and Symphony.

Meh, it should be okay, he's no longer directing, Sylvian White is, however considering Stomp the Yard is the only movie I know of that he directed, I'm kinda worried . . .

FoxInStocks

07/27/2007, 10:32

Okay, so I finally finished Portrait of Ruin this week. I'd gotten up to the final boss fight and got my butt kicked repeatedly, and so I had put the game away for awhile.

Having beat it, I can tell you this: If you want to have an easy fight with the last boss, go do the Nest of Evil side-quest and dungeon. The Dual Crush move you get at the end of it is stupid-powerful.

Prof. Aragorn

07/30/2007, 01:34

How would you rate Portrait of Ruin?

Is it a Castletroid?

I didn't hear much about it and frankly I didn't find it too interesting since it was the direct sequel to Bloodlines which screwed up the actual continuity of the novel (Quincy Morris is a bachelor from Texas - no way should he have ever sired a son with his name)

FoxInStocks

07/30/2007, 10:03

Yeah, I never got the Morris connection, but Bloodlines was fun.

Portrait is your typical Castleroid for the most part, but it varies in two ways:

1. You control two characters. It works just like Julius mode worked in Dawn of Sorrow, except that you can equip, customize, and level up each character, or have both on-screen at once. It's a very engaging mechanic.

2. A lot of the game happens outside of the castle. There is a castle to explore, and it's about the size of the castle from Symphony, but hidden throughout the castle are portraits that take you to other areas. Like, one portrait takes you to a really well-done, fog-enshrouded London, and another portrait takes you to a creepy abandoned school.

I think I liked Dawn better in the end, but Portrait is absolutley worth it if you're a 'Vania fan. Plus, it's got wi-fi play. You can buy and sell items from friends online, or you can do the Boss Rush mode in online co-op.

Prof. Aragorn

07/30/2007, 15:27

FoxInStocks

07/30/2007, 17:03

I think it would be cool for wi-fi if people could make their own castles and have others play them online - something of a mmorpg - especially if everyone can style and create their own vampire hunter or whatever.

I think you could do that in Dawn of Sorrow, just not online. You could create your own level and let someone else run through it.

Gentlegamer

07/30/2007, 19:03

I am so behind on my Castlevania playin' :( . . .

FoxInStocks

07/31/2007, 09:36

I am so behind on my Castlevania playin' :( . . .

Plus, there's another Castlevania coming to the PSP in a few months. Which sucks, really, 'cause I don't have nor want a PSP.

Parallax_LE9

07/31/2007, 11:07

I've always liked the first, second and fourth Castlevanias (all the Simons) and I would be quite happy with Simon in the movie.
My only real wish would be to get a Castletroid type remake of the first few games, I've been going back and replaying them on the VC, but I miss some of the functionality you get in DoS and PoR...

FoxInStocks

03/03/2008, 11:00

Thread Resurrection is very appropriate here, methinks.

So I actually bought a PSP for reasons I won't go into here. Naturally, I picked up Castlevania: Dracula X Chronicles.

I have to say, this is a fantastic game. First of all, for $30 you get the Rondo remake, the ORIGINAL Rondo, and SotN, all in a portable package. Good deal.

What really stands out however is the Rondo remake. It's 2.5D; 3D models and backgrounds in a sidescrolling enviroment. The controls and gamplay remain the same as in the 1st-gen Castlevanias. It's tough and it's level-based. The 2.5D sidescroll formula, however, is the way this series should go. If you took the Metroidvania formula and mixed it with the 2.5D visuals and put it on either the PSP or a home console, man...that'd be something to see.

Dark Flash2099

05/30/2008, 11:29

I am bringing this thread back from the grave yet again so bring you all a new Castlevania game for the DS.

http://ds.ign.com/articles/874/874263p1.html

As per usual, I'm going to buy it the day it comes out.

JGonspy

05/30/2008, 22:03

Here's a trailer for it (http://gamevideos.com/video/id/19109).

I expect to experience some serious cognitive dissonance for this one. I always complain about how some franchise games rarely do anything new or innovative, yet I'll probably get this within a week or so of it coming out and have to make up some excuse why.

FoxInStocks

06/02/2008, 12:49

I'm done with the Metroidvania titles until they do one in 2.5D. The formula and constant recycling of sprites is beyond old. Something needs to change.

Prof. Aragorn

06/16/2008, 00:40

Eh . . . when they release a 3-d game I'll be interested. This Castlevania doesn't seem cool enough.

JGonspy

06/26/2008, 19:04

Well, the first next gen Castlevania has been confirmed. It's going to be a fighter for the Wii. You can read more about it in the new Nintendo Power. Here's a link (http://gonintendo.com/?p=47669).

It's, uh, not what I was expecting, that's for sure. I suppose a new direction might have been helpful considering how the series fared in 3D, but fighter? Hopefully it won't suck, but this is not what I was hoping for.

FoxInStocks

06/27/2008, 09:34

JGonspy

07/01/2008, 13:12

Well, the new DS Castlevania got a limited preview where some big things were revealed. Apparently the character in this one will be using magic and souls for everything, including weapons. It's an attempt to move away from picking up items as usual in the series. More shocking though is that this one isn't going to have an open ended castle and instead is going back to the stage based structure of old games in the series. This could be a nice change of pace, but we'll have to wait till E3 for more news.

Prof. Aragorn

07/02/2008, 00:22

I kinda like the concept of a Castlevania Fighter . . .

However, I just don't want all the Belmonts to have the same lame moves.

And Dracula needs to be a playable character - granted after beating him in story mode or something.

And the backgrounds could be pretty cool: start out in a village, then move to forests and graveyards, then to the castle hallway, underground caves, clocktower, and the final throne room.

Just need a good amount of diverse characters: Simon is almost definite as are Alucard and Soma. Trevor and Richter would be nice, along with Maria, Sypha, and Grant. For baddies you have Dracula, Frankie and Mummy (little Castlevania RPG webcomic love), Igor/fleaman, Death, Minotaur and Werewolf, zombies/skeletons, and Shaft's been in like 3 games hasn't he? That's like 15-16 characters that could potentially have different moves and bear some resemblance to a rushed Castlevania story.

But yeah . . . kinda not the greatest idea is to make Castlevania a weak Soul Caliber.

FoxInStocks

07/02/2008, 10:31

I've said it before and I'll say it again:

Next gen console + Metroidvania castle + 3D models + Sidescrolling = PROFIT

I've had my fill of SotN clones, I have no faith in Iga's team to do a true 3D title, and I don't want to see Castlevania just try to emulate Soul Calibur or DMC.

Prof. Aragorn

03/23/2009, 12:04

So has anybody played Castlevania Judgement?

It seems promising for a fighter . . .

JGonspy

03/23/2009, 13:23

I have, and...no. It's not.

Prof. Aragorn

03/23/2009, 16:40

A shame, really. I almost considered purchasing a Wii.

Granted, Timesplitters 4 will be out soon . . .

FoxInStocks

03/23/2009, 16:47

Granted, Timesplitters 4 will be out soon . . .

No, it won't. Free Radical went bankrupt and closed shop several months ago. Sorry. :ermm:

Prof. Aragorn

03/24/2009, 04:21

Ouch . . . though I heard Crytek or whatever picked them up . . . or something along those lines . . .

Prof. Aragorn

12/30/2010, 03:18

So . . . thread resurrection seems highly appropriate given the Castlevania-y nature.

Anyone try Lords of Shadow?

I like it . . . I kinda dig the reboot angle. I like the upgrade from the whip. I was never a fan of the great hero using a whip to fight evil. Now he gets a flail-shaped cross.

Combat is also impressive - I'm a little spoiled by Batman Arkham Asylum, but this works even if it is kinda God of War-like. Really, isn't God of War just like any other action/adventure game though? Give or take a few improvements.

I love the graphics. The setting is beautiful and breath-taking. Even though very little takes place in "Castlevania" many settings provide that gothic castle atmosphere that's perfect.

However, I feel like this is just a generic action-adventure game with the Castlevania title attached to it in order to get it to sell. Maybe if Dracula was a known threat right away or the vampires showed up sooner instead of fighting Titans right away.

Also, while the music is inspiring and epic, it lacks the gothic feel that Michiru Yamane achieved while working on IGA's team.

Anyway . . . anybody else still fighting the creatures of the night?

JGonspy

12/31/2010, 01:32

I just got the new one, but have yet to try it. I guess I just haven't found the time yet, but it's sitting next to my 360. I am looking forward to it as what little I've seen looked pretty good, but I know what you mean about it not really looking like a Castlevania game. I guess I'm so used to the 2D ones at this point that a sharp departure like this might take some getting used to. I hope it works out though.

At the very least, Igarashi teased that a 3Ds Castlevania is in the works, so maybe we can rely on getting something in that department. I still think Order of Ecclesia was wildly underrated, so I hope it can keep moving in that direction.

DarqFeonix

01/01/2011, 01:06

New to the 360 world, but the wife loved Castlevania so we got this game... I'm liking it a lot, but it's hard as hell! Way too much rolling and dodging for my tastes... But I guess I'll get used to it.

My only complaint is the camera angle is pretty unhelpful at times, and no map is a bit frustrating.

Currently getting my buTt handed to me by large spiders :(

Prof. Aragorn

01/01/2011, 02:48

Spiders are difficult for me, only because I generally get the willies from fighting large furry 8-legged critters.

I will say that the second third of the game is entirely Castlevania - from entering the village with the giant hulking castle in the background to ascending the steps to fight the vampire lord (granted its a half-naked chick) it's all Castlevania.

And now I'm near the end with the land of the dead and baba yaga or whatever . . . back to Lord of the Rings with Patrick Stewart.