![]() However, time has been kind to this game, becoming one of the best-aged titles during its generation. ![]() As many games experimented with 3D graphics, Symphony of the Night felt stuck in the past. At the time, this choice was criticized by certain outlets, especially when given the time period the game released in. Presentation (Graphics and Sound)Ĭastlevania – Symphony of the Night utilizes a 2D graphical style in addition to 3D models. However, these blemishes are inconsequential in the grander scheme of Symphony of the Night. A first-time player may be compelled to look up a guide to find out where to go next. Additionally, it can be difficult to determine where to go next, especially as more of the castle is explored. Dracula’s castle is huge, perhaps to its detriment at times, which can make backtracking frustrating. Symphony of the Night is a treasure from a gameplay standpoint, but if there’s one criticism that can be drawn, it’s that navigation can become confusing at times. That said, the castle is so big that it doesn’t matter too much. Longtime fans may be saddened to know they won’t travel through forests and other locations. Second, Symphony of the Night primarily takes place within Dracula’s castle, and to say that it’s expansive would be an understatement. This makes Symphony of the Night feel like a platformer-roleplaying game hybrid, which was a unique turn for the series at the time. The more experience he acquires, the stronger he becomes. First, the game features a progression system, allowing Alucard to level up as he gains more experience. Where Symphony of the Night stands out is two-fold. As fresh as Symphony of the Night is, these little touches make it feel familiar as well. Alucard will also find himself using multiple subweapons that have become Castlevania staples, including holy water and the cross. In a 2D environment, Alucard will battle his way throughout multiple rooms, taking on such monsters as Zombies, Axe Knights, Mermen, and other creatures one may associate with a gothic video game. GameplayĪt its core, Symphony of the Night features Castlevania gameplay at its best. Furthermore, with multiple endings, which we will discuss in detail later, Symphony of the Night’s story may have players coming back time and time again. ![]() Each section has a purpose and every battle is integral to Alucard’s growth. In fact, the story in question is told as Alucard explores Dracula’s castle. Symphony of the Night features multiple cutscenes, some of which are stronger than others, but they never take away from the story. Given the fact that Alucard once fought alongside Richter’s ancestor, Trevor Belmont, his investment in this quest became that much stronger. As Alucard explores the castle, he will encounter a woman named Maria Renard, who once battled alongside Richter. Alucard’s goal was simple: to explore the castle and put an end to what he believed to be his father’s evil ways. This prompted the intervention of Alucard, the half-human half-vampire son of Dracula. Castlevania – Symphony of the Night was developed and published by Konami. What makes Symphony of the Night as legendary as it is? Let’s take a deeper dive into this title that, over two decades later, many consider the best in its unique genre. Ori and the Blind Forest, Axiom Verge, Hollow Knight – these are just a few examples of titles at least somewhat inspired by Symphony of the Night.įurthermore, this Castlevania title made its way onto many platforms over the years, both standalone and via compilations. Not only has it become one of the best-reviewed games on the PS1, holding up better than most titles on the system, but it helped spawn a genre known by many as “Metroidvania,” which Super Metroid also had a hand at bringing to life. However, time has been kind to Symphony of the Night. At the time of its release, its success could be described as modest at best. This is where Castlevania – Symphony of the Night comes into play. Meanwhile, the entries on the original PlayStation evolved the established 2D formula. ![]() The Castlevania games on the Nintendo 64 attempted to move the series into 3D, not unlike the titles in the Super Mario or Legend of Zelda series. However, with the advent of 3D gaming, it was apparent that the series needed a change in direction. It was a series of 2D platformers that made its way on to virtually every home and portable system in existence. Up until this point, the Castlevania series had a specific formula. Castlevania – Symphony of the Night is one of the most important video games of the 1990s.
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