Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse review: a classic platformer given fresh new blood
While not near its glory days, Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse is a promising and well-crafted return to form.
Castlevania: Belmont's Curse is a delightful 2D action-adventure and exploration game that pays tribute to the series' past titles while offering a fresh experience. The game, released by Evil Empire and Konami, is available on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC, with a release date of October 15, 2026. This is the first new 2D Castlevania game in over a decade and was developed by the team behind the popular Metroidvania, Dead Cells.
The game follows Rose Belmont, the daughter of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades, as she navigates the dangers of Paris and uncovers the truth behind her cursed arm. Despite being rooted in the beloved Belmont lineage, Belmont's Curse doesn't stray too far from the formula, but it delivers a love letter to the series' classics. The narrative is engaging, with twists and turns that keep players engaged, though it can feel sparse at times.
Nonetheless, the core gameplay remains a blast, as players whip, slash, and dash their way through Paris.
Fans of the series will appreciate the return of classic gameplay mechanics, such as using various weapons, including the iconic whip and flashy gauntlets. The level design is fantastic, with trap-filled chasms and beautiful vistas that encourage exploration and backtracking. The game's 2D-to-3D hybrid approach is visually impressive, although it does miss the pixelated depth of past titles.
While the game can be challenging, with a high difficulty level and occasional glitches, it offers a rewarding experience for dedicated players.
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