Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse puts Rose Belmont, the daughter of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades, at the center of a new fight against Dracula’s forces. Developed by Evil Empire and Motion Twin, the game is available for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X|S.
The review describes Belmont’s Curse as a fresh take on the series’ 2D action and Metroidvania traditions. Rose starts with limited abilities and must build her skills while facing dangerous enemies. Unlike other members of the Belmont family, she does not take damage from ordinary contact with foes, giving her more room to maneuver in close combat. Some enemies still pose a serious threat, particularly the review’s more dangerous take on the Flea Men.
A spectral whip becomes a key part of Rose’s movement and combat. She can use it to swing from grapple points, reach otherwise inaccessible routes, or pull herself toward enemies. Well-timed attacks during these moves can deal extra damage while protecting her from hits, helping offset her initially slow movement.
The game’s world also stands out for puzzles that ask players to study their surroundings rather than simply wait for a new ability to unlock a route. Clues can be built into platform arrangements and background details, making exploration more involved. However, the reviewer found the early, restricted section of the adventure slow and overlong. The game opens up considerably after this introductory stretch, but the payoff requires patience.
The review also criticizes fast travel, which is limited to nearby locations and can involve transfer points rather than direct trips across the map. Visually, the game combines vivid, cel-shaded colors with an anime-inspired style, though some areas have colors that are difficult to distinguish. Its soundtrack includes rearranged series classics, with the review singling out a slower interpretation of “Bloody Tears.”
The game received an overall grade of B+, with an A+ for graphics, a B for sound and music, a B for gameplay, and an A- for presentation. The reviewer recommends it while warning that the opening hours move slowly.
Sources: Anime News Network.