Some years ago, I decided it was time to try a Castlevania game. After a quick Internet search, I somehow arrived at Aria of Sorrow being a good example, at least of the exploration-based “Metroidvania” style. I emulated it and was very impressed, loving the style and well-crafted gameplay, along with the addictive soul-collecting mechanic. Emulation problems meant I couldn’t actually finish it, but after briefly borrowing the DS sequel last year, I’ve been on the lookout for my own copy. And finally I procured one for myself!

I couldn’t be happier with the game. As I type this I’ve just finished my third playthrough, in the unlockable “Julius Mode” which lets you play as a team of supporting characters with different abilities that supposedly call back to earlier games. I wouldn’t know, but even without a deep knowledge of the series I found it an absolute delight. The sprites and animation are just gorgeous, and it’s a dream to play. Collecting all the items and souls is still a powerful drive, and the unlockables are satisfying.

In fact, I was so impressed that Order of Ecclesia went straight on my wish list, and I may even look into Portrait of Ruin later (the other two DS instalments, which reviewed almost as well as this one). Symphony of the Night has also, I am now aware, often been touted as the high point of the series.

My only question at this point is why has it taken me so long to get into this series of excellent 2D action-platformers, one of my favourite genres? I don’t know, but I’ll try not to play them all so quickly, as I’m afraid of burning out on the seemingly homogenised aesthetics. Despite many taking place in radically different time periods, the castle and enemies always seem to look pretty similar in screenshots.

Oh well, as I said the sprite art is amazing anyway. The plot is also not too deep or groundbreaking, but I did get attached to the characters involved, despite the slightly spotty localisation. Touch screen use is a tad gimmicky but does add, rather than detract, from the experience. So despite a few small quibbles, I loved this one. I have absolutely no complaints about the control or structure of the game itself, it’s wonderful.

I find myself running short on words for this, because it was just so good. So I’ll leave it at that. I hope other games in the series can engage me as much as this has, even if they don’t have the addictive soul-collecting mechanic.