Castlevania: Belmont's Curse is an important marker for Konami's whip-cracking series. Despite some popular animated shows and crazy crossovers with other games, this will be the first new game in over 12 years. 18 if we're not counting the three Lords of Shadow spin-offs.
Seeing a proper return now is a pipe dream come true for fans. Thankfully, the Metroidvania genre this series helped establish has also blossomed in its absence. If you've played the free Castlevania: Belmont's Curse demo and want more games that scratch the same itch, here are the best ones to check out.
Dead Cells
This first game is the only one that isn't a Metroidvania, but I have good reason for including it. While Evil Empire didn't develop the base Dead Cells game, they did work on all of the expansions. It's definitely the biggest game they've previously made content for and a great way to become familiar with their work.
You might be curious why I didn't recommend The Rogue Prince of Persia instead. Although that's also a fantastic game to check out, what pushes Dead Cells above is its Return to Castlevania expansion. Being able to play Evil Empire’s first foray into the IP through an amazing tribute expansion is worth the price of admission alone.
Castlevania Anniversary Collection
For a series as old and foundational as this, actual representation was a must. Whether you're already a fan or new to the monster-filled world, the Castlevania Anniversary Collection is well worth playing.
Super Castlevania IV will feel the most modern and similar to Castlevania: Belmont's Curse. If you don't mind some truly devious difficulty, Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse follows Trevor Belmont, who is quite important for this latest entry. No matter which you play, you'll surely encounter some fun weapons and catchy tunes. Just remember not to be ashamed if you need to use a save state for these difficult games.
Well Dweller
The Metroidvania genre has delivered a ton of wonderful games over the last decade. If you're not somebody who enjoys difficult enemies and an overwhelmingly huge map though, some fan favorites might seem intimidating to you. That's why it feels good to recommend the very recent and very great Well Dweller.
It's chock full of charm in both its visuals and characters. Combat is also plenty fun, with numerous delightfully creepy bosses that challenge you but won't result in any broken controllers. You can also complete this game in about 10 hours, with only a few extra hours to 100%. Well Dweller is a perfect first entry into the genre that can still satisfy advanced players.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is no doubt the most popular and influential game in the series. Unfortunately, the rarity of ports makes it difficult to access for anyone who isn't super dedicated. Anyone who's just a little curious can have a great time playing its spiritual successor, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night.
Developed by ArtPlay, the indie studio co-founded by longtime Castlevania producer Koji Igarashi, the game proudly wears its influences on its sleeve. Many mechanics, weapons, and even some enemies will feel familiar to those who have played many of the series' games. Outside of the upcoming Castlevania Belmont's Curse, this is the closest you can get to a modern Castlevania title.
Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown
There are a ton more Metroidvanias to check out from indies and big publishers alike. However, with only one spot left, it would feel wrong to not go with what is considered by some to be the best game in the genre to date. That would, of course, be Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown.
Both the music and visuals are fantastic at making the varied areas stand out more. The simple combat is also steadily refined as you gain access to new abilities and enemies to fight. There is even a whip-like power that can grapple onto enemies or objects, which was already one of the most amusing parts of the Castlevania: Belmont's Curse demo. You’re sure to have a lot of fun with this game, especially if you enjoy the massive puzzle-solving identity that’s woven into its design.
Every one of these offers a unique experience with related aspects to Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse. If you’re interested in hearing more about the return of this Konami series, check out our Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse review.
