Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse brings the series back to 2D action with a new hero, Rose Belmont, in 1499 Paris. It’s a stylish, gothic return, and it feels like the series finally has a modern identity again.

The loop is classic: explore the map, fight through enemies, find new abilities and open new paths. Rose’s whip is both a weapon and a traversal tool, so combat and movement are tied together. You can jump in fast, but the game gets demanding quickly.

What works is the level design and the sense of discovery. Reviewers praised the interconnected world, the platforming and the variety in combat. The game runs around 15 hours according to one review summary, and exploration is rewarded.

How it runs: Reports say performance is consistently stable. It’s out on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC, and Switch details vary by source, so check the platform you want.

Downsides: some reviewers found the controls a little stiff and the checkpoints punishing. The soundtrack didn’t land for everyone, and the art style is closer to Western indie than classic Castlevania, which may be a matter of taste.

But honestly, that’s not really the point.

Belmont’s Curse isn’t trying to reinvent the genre. It’s trying to be a great Castlevania, and for most reviewers it is.

Verdict: A strong pick for Metroidvania fans and Castlevania veterans. If you hate tough bosses and long stretches between saves, be ready for some frustration.