Castlevania - GBA

Also known as: Akumajou Dracula: Demon Castle Dracula [JPN]

Got packs, screens, info?
Also for: Wii, NES
Viewed: 2D Side-on, Scrolling Genre:
Adventure: Role Playing
Arcade origin:No
Developer: Nintendo Soft. Co.: Konami
Publishers: Nintendo (GB)
Released: 7 Jan 2005 (GB)
Ratings: PEGI 3+, ESRB Everyone
Accessories: GameCube Game Boy Player

Summary

As part of the Classis Series onslaught, Castlevania comes as one of the few titles re-released for GBA that doesn't actually come in-house from Nintendo. This hugely successful and long-running franchise, still popular today, does in fact belong to Japanese outfit Konami, and this latest portable rehash serves as a great reminder of where it all began for hero Simon Belmont.

A lone hero ventures into a mysterious castle infested by armies of the night and, most horrifyingly of all, Count Dracula. Although protagonist Simon Belmont's only companion is a whip, on his daring journey he will find crosses, fire bombs and any other weapons necessary for subjugating the forces of the night.

Though similar in design to Nintendo's own Metroid games, Castlevania's moody and varied locales, unique enemies and combat system helps make Konami's platformer a game of its own. A direct port, Castlevania GBA plays just as it did back in 1987, and although the play mechanic may feel a little clunky to a younger generation of gamers, those familiar with the early games of the series will greatly appreciate the authenticity of this 2005 retro offering.

Despite its age, we can't find any real faults with Castlevania. It's proved a great inspiration to its successors over the years, and with good reason. See for yourself.