Castlevania Chronicles

Konami?s long-running Castlevania series is resurrected with this revival of the 1986 PC ?vania that never reached the U.S.

Konami?s long-running Castlevania series is resurrected with this revival of the 1986 PC ?vania that never reached the U.S. On the whole, Chronicles is a very brief but worthwhile addition to any Castlevania fan?s collection, but the uninitiated may find that the game?s platform-hopping techniques are behind the times.

Castlevania Redux?
Castlevania is quintessential 2D side-scrolling platform action. As famed vampire-killer Simon Belmont, you?ll venture through 24 stages of monsters, which range from skeletons to werewolves. The play mechanics are strictly old-school as you have four moves at your command: whip, jump, crouch, and special weapon. Although the play scheme is reminiscent of Symphony of the Night, it?s much more limiting because you can?t upgrade your weapons or use spells, shields, or other items.

There are two modes of play?Original and Arranged?although the only difference between the two is a different-looking Belmont. The game is exciting and entertaining?but nothing that can?t be polished off in a little over an hour.

Visually, Chronicles? decent 2D graphics come complete with colorful backgrounds and no slowdown or breakup. The audio track is in working order, too, and couples unspectacular audio effects with hit-n-miss music that varies from low-key synthesizers to awkward disco-esque techno-pop. Rock-solid controls make movement a breeze, however.

Down?But Not for the Count
Castlevania Chronicles is worth a look for ?vania vets and anyone curious to see one of the first entries in what has since become one of gaming?s most respected series. Interested parties should act fast, though: Only 25,000 copies will be available.

Comments [0]

post a comment

Post a Comment