The 8 Best Castlevania Games, Ranked

Castlevania is a beloved video game franchise that has seen a resurgence in recent years, with the release of Belmont's Curse earlier this week. The series is known for its rich lore, vampire themes, and a variety of gameplay experiences. For those new to the franchise or looking to revisit it, here are the eight best Castlevania games to start with:

1. Super Castlevania 4: Released for the Super Nintendo, this game features stunning environments, whip attacks in eight directions, grappling, and a unique shield mechanic. It sets the stage for the rest of the series with its impressive visuals and innovative gameplay.

2. Castlevania: Bloodlines: A standout for its unique approach, this game introduces a spear-wielding hero who can access routes unavailable to the whip-wielding protagonist. The fast-paced gameplay, globally-inspired stages, and Michiru Yamane's beautiful score make this a standout entry in the franchise.

3. Castlevania: Chronicles: Originally developed for the Sharp X68000, this game is a remake of the 1986 debut in the series. With upgraded visuals, sound, and challenging gameplay, this is a must-play for fans of the series.

4. Castlevania: Rondo of Blood: A PC Engine CD exclusive, this game is an important part of the franchise's history. Unfortunately, it remained on the niche hardware for years, but its inclusion on the PSP's Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles collection and later on Virtual Console makes it accessible to a wider audience.

5. Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow: While its visuals may pale in comparison to later entries, this game offers a rich, mechanically complex experience. Players control Soma Cruz, who gains strength by absorbing the essence of monsters he defeats. This title pairs well with other games in the series and is available as part of the Advance Collection on modern consoles.