All Castlevania Games Ever Released (1986-2021)

Today, we are doing an article about all Castlevania games ever released. This list will contain every game from the franchise except the abundance of mobile games Konami has been spilling over the years.

Konami’s masterpiece is, and forever will be, my 2nd favorite franchise of all time (the first is Onimusha). It’s insane how influential the series was, and surprisingly, It’s still influencing other titles along with Metroid. Some of the games the latter influenced were the God of War and Devil May Cry series. You may not believe it, but if you dig deep enough, you’ll stumble across a handful of developers that pay tribute to the franchise.

It’s sad how this franchise ended since Konami has decided to pull the trigger and turn it into a pachinko series. And as such, whenever they feel like it, they would release a compilation of the classic games. However, lucky for you, we can always dive back into all Castlevania games ever released. Bear in mind that the list will only showcase mainline games in the series, and several mobile titles.

Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls (2019)

Release Date: September 20, 2019 (Canada exclusive)
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Mobile Phones (Android, iOS)
Genre: Action-Role-Playing

Timeline: Not canon

Just when you thought Castlevania could make a comeback, Konami releases Grimoire of Souls. This entry is a mobile game and part of the series which was unfortunately released only in Canada. To play it, people had to use a VPN.

This entry contains a variety of single-player and multiplayer modes. It also incorporates whatever you would expect from a Castlevania game. Additionally, the game includes the dreadful microtransaction which destroyed this franchise to shreds.

Sadly, the game was discontinued on September 9, 2020, for unknown reasons. It could be because of the lack of players, but nobody knows.

Castlevania Anniversary Collection (2019)

Release Date: May 16, 2019
Developer: Konami, M2
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS4 | Xbox One | PC | Nintendo Switch
Genre: Action Platformer
Timeline: Collection

The Anniversary Collection is a set that contains eight classic titles from the franchise. the latter is available on the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, and the Nintendo Switch. Each game contains its own story and its own protagonist with its own unique gameplay elements.

To summarize, here is a compilation that includes the following games:

1. The NES Castlevania Trilogy
2. Super Castlevania IV
3. Castlevania: The Adventure and Belmont’s Revenge
   
4. Castlevania: Bloodlines
5. Kid Dracula

Castlevania Requiem (2018)

Release Date: October 26, 2018
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS4
Genre: Action Platformer
Timeline: Collection

Requiem: Symphony of the Night/Rondo of Blood is a collection pack that contains two games. Rondo of Blood and the direct sequel, Symphony of the Night.

Both of these games are based on the PSP remake. Meaning that the versions included in this compilation feature the updated scripts, as well as, the new voice acting present in that bundle and not the ones from the original PlayStation.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2 (2014)

Release Date: February 25, 2014
Developer: MercurySteam
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS3 | Xbox 360 | PC
Genre: Action-Adventure, Hack and Slash
Timeline: Reboot

Lords of Shadow 2 is the sequel to the 2010 game. However, the Lords of Shadow games act as a reboot to the franchise, and they’re not canon despite sharing common elements from the series.

The game continues from where the original game left off. You play as the weakened Dracula who is on a quest to defeat his former opponent, Satan. The sequel brought several changes, including the open-world system which broke free of the traditional Devil May Cry/God of War III camera style. Moreover, the gameplay mechanics were improved along with the addition of new weapons and abilities.

Unlike the prequel, this one received mixed reviews from critics and fans. Many labeled it as nothing but a God of War clone which on the other hand angered the developers. As a result, Konami cut ties with MercurySteam because of low sales.

Revelations (2014)

Release Date: March 25th, 2014
Developer: MercurySteam
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS3 | Xbox 360 | PC
Genre: Action-Adventure, Hack and Slash

Lords of Shadow 2’s first DLC was released back in 2014 for various consoles and PC. Players take control of Dracula’s son, Alucard, and go on to discover what happened to him during Dracula’s final moments. Unlike his father, Alucard is quicker, deadlier, and stylish. You’d be crazy not to fall in love with his charismatic character that resembles Vergil from the Devil May Cry series.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate (2013)

Release Date: March 5, 2013
Developer: MercurySteam
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS3 | Xbox 360 | PC | Nintendo 3DS
Genre: Action-Adventure, Hack and Slash
Timeline: Reboot

Lords of Shadow – Mirror of Fate is the direct sequel to the original rebooted game which was released back in 2013 for the Xbox 360, PS3, PC, and the Nintendo 3DS.

The game features four playable characters who will fight Dracula in his castle in different time periods. The game begins 26 years after the events of the original game with Simon Belmont, who is on a quest to avenge the death of his father, Trevor, unaware that the vampire Dracula is his own grandfather.

Mirror of Fate is a 2.5D side-scrolling entry in the series, and it tries to return to the roots of the original game by sprinkling some changes while also retaining the gameplay from Lords of Shadow. Basically, it tried to blend Los’s gameplay with the original to cook something unique.

Castlevania: Lords of Shadow (2010)

Release Date: October 5, 2010
Developer: MercurySteam
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS3 | Xbox 360 | PC
Genre: Action-Adventure, Hack and Slash
Timeline: Reboot

The prequel to the Lords of Shadow series was first released by Konami back in 2010 for various consoles and PC. The game was developed by MercurySteam and Kojima Production.

The game’s story focuses on Gabriel Belmont and his quest to defeat an order known as the Lords of Shadow and resurrect his dead wife. His journey won’t be easy, but he’s up for it.

Lords of Shadow breaks free of the previous gameplay seen in earlier games. Players control Gabriel in a 3D world where he has to battle fierce enemies his Combat Cross. The chain whip allows the player to perform many things. Such as, performing a different set of combos once upgraded, defend against enemies’ attacks, and jump from one corner to another.

Upon its arrival, the game sold very well and was critical acclaim. It is praised for the new elements that it provided to the franchise, although others criticized it for being entirely different than its predecessors.

Castlevania: Harmony of Despair (2010)

Release Date: August 4, 2010
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS3 | Xbox 360
Genre: Action Platformer
Timeline: Not Canon

One of the titles in the franchise that incorporated a large number of well-known characters from past series.

The game plays like the Boss Rush Mode of previous 2D games, but with several rooms and items to find, culminating in a boss to fight. It also includes a versus mode, with battles occurring between players.

The game was met with a mixed reception. But for the most part, it was generally positive. However, sales, on the one hand, did not please Konami.

Castlevania Puzzle: Encore of the Night (2010)

Release Date: July 16, 2010
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: iOS | Windows Phone
Genre: Puzzle
Timeline: Canon

I tend to imagine how to making of this entry came into existence. Maybe someone from Konami’s headquarters was in love with Tetris and wanted to develop something similar? That’s the only explanation there is.

The story features Alucard from Symphony of the Night and it pretty much shares the same plot as the latter. There’s really nothing else to say about this other than being similar to Tetris.

Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth (2009)

Release Date: October 27, 2009
Developer: M2
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: WiiWare
Genre: Side-Scrolling
Timeline: Canon

The Adventure ReBirth is a side-scrolling action platform game developed by M2 and released by Konami for the Wii in 2009 as a WiiWare title. This one is actually based on the 1989 Game Boy title.

The game’s setting is a century before the original title, where the player controls Christopher Belmont, who must vanquish the vampire Dracula from the face of the earth.

Castlevania: The Adventure (1989)

Release Date: October 27, 1989
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Game Boy
Genre: Platforming

The first entry series to come to the Game Boy. The aforementioned was released to mixed responses from the media, unlike the mentioned remake. The game was seen as difficult at times, with long levels and only three lives before playing the second cycle.

Castlevania: The Arcade (2009)

Release Date: February 2009
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Arcade
Genre: Light Gun Shooter
Timeline: Not Canon

After Konami made a Silent Hill Arcade game, they decided to make an arcade title set in the Castlevania timeline. Castlevania: The Arcade is the second entry in the series to come out on the Arcade. However, this one was merely a light gun shooting game. Furthermore, it is also one of the most obscure entries in the series which is difficult to find any relevant information about.

The gameplay is similar to Silent Hill: Arcade. Instead of a gun, you can use a whip to slash your enemies using the two remote buttons. The top thumb button is used to activate the whip. Meanwhile, the bottom button is used to equip sub-weapons such as knives and crosses. Similar to other entries, these sub-weapons can be refilled by collecting hearts.

Castlevania Judgment (2008)

Release Date: November 18, 2008
Developer: Eighting
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Wii
Genre: Fighting
Timeline: Not Canon

The first game in the series to ever come out on the Wii, and also the first to have a one-on-one versus 3D fighting mode. (and the first to ever have a character resembling Yagami Light)

The wicked Galamoth plots to send the Time Reaper the past to destroy his deadly rival Dracula, and change history once in for all. Luckily, Aeon discovers this and decides to put together champions from different timelines into a time rift. The winner will be the chosen one to fight and defeat the Time Reaper from 10.000 years in the future.

Judgment was heavily criticized by journalists and fans all over the globe. The main issue is how it is a fighting game that is not really connected to other entries from the franchise.

Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia (2008)

Release Date: October 21, 2008
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Nintendo DS
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Canon

The third Nintendo DS installment of the franchise. It was directed by Akihiro Minakata, with producer Koji Igarashi. Upon playing it, you’ll notice there are countless similarities between it and Symphony of the Night.

Order of Ecclesia introduced a new female character called Shanoa, who is part of an organization set to defeat Dracula after the Belmont clan has vanished. The plot is pretty similar to other entries in the series, especially Harmony of Dissonance, and Symphony of the Night. Same for the gameplay as well.

Castlevania: The Dracula X Chronicles (2007)

Release Date: October 23, 2007
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PSP
Genre: Platformer
Timeline: Canon

The 2.5D remake of Rondo of Blood for the PSP. In fact, it also includes the original PC Engine Super CD-ROM version of the aforementioned as well as a port of Symphony of the Night and surprisingly even Akumajyo Dracula Peke.

Unfortunately, these cannot be accessed straight from the beginning. They can be unlocked first by meeting certain requirements in the main game before they can actually be played.  On the other hand, the game’s story centers around the eternal conflict between the vampire hunters of the Belmont Clan and the immortal vampire Dracula, who has once again been awakened.

The Dracula X Chronicles is graphically superior to the original title since the visuals have been improved to match the PSP look. Additionally, it adds several changes which are not available in the original. For example, New dialogue scenes, a barrier made of red skeletons, and a barrier made of crystal. Lastly, a Boss Rush mode is included.

Castlevania: Order of Shadows (2007)

Release Date: September 18, 2007
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Mobile
Genre: Platformer
Timeline: Side-Story

Order of Shadows is another entry in the franchise which is considered to be a side story to the official timeline and is not part of IGA’s official chronological timeline.

The game puts you in the shoes of one of the Belmonts called Desmond. Similar to any Belmont that came before him, he sets off on an epic adventure to stop a mysterious cult known as the order along with his two sisters to stop them from resurrecting count Dracula.

The gameplay is pretty similar to Super Castlevania IV. Desmond Belmont is equipped with the Vampire Killer whip and a few sub-weapons under his belt. The game also features experience points similar to games such as Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. There exist some downloads of this game on the internet, but unfortunately, we can’t provide them. However, I’m sure if you’re familiar with emulators, you will have no problems at all.

Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin (2006)

Release Date: November 16, 2006
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Nintendo DS
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Canon

The first entry in the series to ever feature a cooperative multiplayer gameplay mode and the first handheld CV game to have English voice-overs, which is pretty nice for those who don’t like to read stuff all the time.

The game’s story is kind of linked to Bloodlines since both center around World War II. Similar to the case with other entries, the plot revolves around the eternal conflict between the Belmont and count Dracula.

Game Informer awarded it “Handheld Game of the Month” for January 2007.and listed it as one of the “Top 50 Games of 2006”.

Castlevania: Curse of Darkness (2005)

Release Date: November 1, 2005
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS2 | Xbox
Genre: Hack and Slash
Timeline: Canon

Curse of Darkness is logically the 4th 3D game in the franchise. Also, bear in mind that the latter is a completely different game compared to Lament of Innocence.

The aforementioned introduces a new character called Hector who is filled with anger and revenge against Isaac after he betrayed him and was the main reason for the death of his beloved wife. His revenge leads him to encounter Dracula at the end where the ultimate battle will begin. It is said that the events of Curse of Darkness are linked to the third game on the NES.

Curse of Darkness introduces some unique gameplay elements not seen in any other Castlevania game. Hector is capable of summoning innocent devils which will help him throughout his journey. These monsters can evolve depending on your actions, and how you follow the instructions of the game.

In addition, Hector is capable of wielding seven different kinds of weapons. An axe, spear, sword, blade, hatchet, knuckles, and rapier. Leveled-up weapons allow Hector to perform a string of combos. Meanwhile, low-level weapons are restricted to basic attacks. All of these features, make Curse of Darkness a fresh gaming experience.

Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow (2005)

Release Date: August 25, 2005
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: DS
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Canon

The sequel to the Game Boy Advance game, Aria of Sorrow, and incorporates many previous elements from its predecessor.

The game’s story continues from where Aria of Sorrow left off. After Dracula’s death, it is said that Soma Cruz will inherit his demonic powers. Soma’s friends will do anything under their sleeve to stop Soma from becoming the new dark lord.

Dawn of Sorrow was commercially successful. It sold more than 15,000 units in its first week in Japan and 164,000 units in the United States during the three months after its debut.

Castlevania: Lament of Innocence (2003)

Release Date: October 21, 2003
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS2
Genre: Action-Adventure
Timeline: Canon

The first installment of the series on the PlayStation 2 and the third to make use of a 3D style of gameplay. It’s the game that recounts what started all of the conflicts between the Belmont clan and Dracula.

Lament of Innocence is chronologically the first game in the series. Set in 1094, it focuses on the origins of the series plot. It follows Leon Belmont, a legendary vampire hunter, as he seeks the vampiric castle in search of his kidnapped love, Sarah. Amidst his journey, a friend dear to him will betray him and that’s where the drama begins.

The gameplay in the aforementioned game is a blend of everything you would expect from a Castlevania game. It takes advantage of the PS2’s capabilities and introduces full 3D environments similar to Rygar: The Legendary Adventure on the PS2.

Leon Belmont is equipped with his legendary whip which is capable of inflicting considerable damage depending on the materials ( fire, ice, poison). In addition, Leon is also capable of performing magical attacks, but these will cost some of his heart points. However, hearts can be found by destroying stuff scattered around the game.

Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow (2003)

Release Date: May 6, 2003
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: GBA
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Canon

The third installment in the series to come out on the Game Boy Advance. Producer Koji Igarashi, who had led the production teams for previous titles, led Aria of Sorrow‘s development as well. Michiru Yamane returned to compose the music for the game.

The game’s story is set in the future. specifically, the year 2035 when Dracula has been sealed away after a battle that occurred in the past. Meanwhile, the plot follows the journey of Soma Cruz, a teenager who possesses obscure powers for being a potential vessel for Dracula’s reincarnation. As he battles dark figures who wish to inherit Dracula’s powers, players will also have the choice to either become the new dark lord or cast the dark powers away. It all depends on the player’s choice.

Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance (2002)

Release Date: June 6, 2002
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: GBA
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Canon

Harmony of Dissonance was produced by Koji Igarashi. His intention was to create something that emulates the Symphony of the Night.

The game’s story puts you in the shoes of Juste Belmont and his quest to rescue a kidnapped childhood friend who is sadly possessed by dark powers. The game has three endings which are the results of the player’s actions.

The gameplay is extremely similar to Symphony of the Night. Juste Belmont possesses a bunch of powers which gives him the advantage to wipe every enemy he encounters. If you’re looking for something similar to the likes of Symphony of the Night, or Bloodstained, this one is for you.

Castlevania: Circle of the Moon (2001)

Release Date: March 21, 2001
Developer: KCEK
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: GBA
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Not Canon

Circle of the Moon was published as a launch title for the Game Boy Advance back in 2001. Unlike other parts of the series, this one isn’t canon.

The game’s plot is set in 1830 where the worshipers of chaos attempt to revive the Lord of Darkness, Count Dracula. When it seems that all hope is lost, Nathan Graves and Hugh Baldwin learn about this upcoming threat. To stop Count Dracula’s resurrection, they both head over to his Castle to finish him once and for all.

The game sold very well and was a critical hit. Journalists and fans praised many aspects of it including soundtracks, the level design, and the overall story. However, this entry received criticism from Koji Igarashi himself. He cited in an interview several flaws he felt should have been corrected in Circle of the Moon‘s design, specifically its controls and the dark appearance of the graphics on the Game Boy Advance. He additionally criticized the DSS card system which he said holds no value.

Castlevania: Resurrection (2000-Cancelled)

Cancellation Date: March 30, 2000
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Dreamcast
Genre: Action-Adventure
Timeline: Linked with Legends

The planned seventh entry in the series was sadly canceled, and it went down along with Sega’s Dreamcast back in 2000. If this game was released, it would’ve been the third 3D CV game.

The game was to focus on Sonia Belmont and a new character, Victor Belmont, an 1800s vampire hunter who had abandoned his lineage. The story is set in 1666, directly before Simon Belmont’s adventure in the original game.

The reason for the cancellation of this entry is often credited to many things, including the dispute between the Japanese and American Konami teams, and the death of the Dreamcast after the official announcement of Sony PlayStation 2. You can now get your hands on the E3 pre-demo by going to archive.org and downloading it. You will need an emulator for it to work, tho.

Castlevania: Legacy of Darkness (1999)

Release Date: December 8, 1999
Developer: Konami Computer Entertainment Kobe
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Nintendo 64
Genre: Action-Adventure
Timeline: Not Canon

The second entry in the franchise to enter the 3D realm, and take advantage of the N64 technical capabilities. Although, the gameplay is pretty clunky for today’s standards.

The overall story is a bit similar to Curse of Darkness if you ask me. It stars the man-beast Cornell in his quest to prevent his adoptive sister, Ada, from becoming a sacrifice to resurrect Dracula.

Castlevania (1999)

Release Date: January 26, 1999
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Nintendo 64
Genre: Action-Adventure
Timeline: Not Canon

Castlevania (or usually referred to as CV64) is the first 3D entry in the series. This entry took advantage of the Nintendo 64 console and tried to bring the franchise through the 3D portal. While it retained some of the aspects of the traditional 2D games, it also brought new things to the table.

The game’s story focuses on Carrie and Reinhardt as they set out on a quest to halt Count Dracula’s close return to power after a hundred years of dormancy. The characters travel to and explore Dracula’s castle and defeat his dark servant.

This entry garnered a positive response, but I’m not sure whether it sold well. However, thanks to this positive response, Konami released an expanded version called Legacy of Darkness.

Castlevania Legends (1997)

Release Date: November 27, 1997
Developer: Konami Computer Entertainment Nagoya
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Game Boy
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Not Canon

The third title in the series to come to the Game Boy. As a matter of fact, the latter is also one of those entries which are not canon. I think if the canceled Resurrection title came out to life, it would have acted as a sequel to this one.

The game’s plot follows Sonia Belmont, a vampire hunter battling the first incarnation of Count Dracula. Throughout the course of her adventure, she meets Alucard who seeks revenge against his father as well.

Producer Koji Igarashi pulled this particular entry from the series timeline, claiming that it conflicted with the timeline of the main games. He has also stated that “Legends” is an embarrassment to the series.

Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (1997)

Release Date: March 20, 1997
Developer: Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PS1 | Xbox 360 | Sega Saturn | PSP | PS4 |
Genre: Metroidvania
Timeline: Canon

The game that introduced the Metrdoivania genre to the table, and the game that welcomed newcomers to the series.

The game’s story takes place during the year 1797, 5 years after the main events of Rondo of Blood and begins with Richter Belmont’s defeat of Count Dracula, Yet, despite Dracula being defeated, Richter vanishes without a trace. The notorious castle rises again strangely five years later. Alucard, the son of Dracula, awakens from his self-induced sleep and seizes the opportunity to investigate what transpired during his slumber.

The game’s commercial performance was initially mediocre, but it later gained sales because of fans, selling over 700,000 units in the United States and Japan.

Castlevania: Dracula X (1995)

Release Date: July 21, 1995
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: SNES
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

This entry is an adaptation of the original Rondo of Blood for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Despite being merely a port, the contents of the game are drastically different from the original.

The aforementioned’s story takes place in a different universe than the official timeline. Players take the role of one of the Belmonts, Richter, who is in a quest to rescue Annet, as well as, Maria and to seal away Count Dracula once again.

Castlevania: Bloodlines (1994)

Release Date:  March 17, 1994
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

This entry in the series is the only game that came to the Sega Genesis. It is also one of the hardest, if not, one of the most brutally difficult entries in the series.

The game’s storyline concerns a legendary vampire named Elizabeth Bartley, who is Dracula’s niece, suddenly appearing in the 20th century. Plotting a sacrificial war in order to bring her uncle back to life. As a result, the three warriors vow to unite their strength and fight against impending evil. Together they manage to prevent Dracula’s full awakening.

Castlevania: Rondo of Blood (1993)

Release Date:  October 29, 1993
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: PC Engine CD
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

The prequel to Symphony of the Night was released in Japan on the PC Engine CD-ROM back in 1993. As mentioned, the game received a sort of a remaster on the SNES, along with a remake on the PSP later on.

The game puts you in the shoes of Richter Belmont who goes to save his beloved Annette, who was kidnapped by  Count Dracula. In terms of reception, the game received very well from critics and fans, but it’s unknown whether the game has met Konami’s expectations in terms of sales or not.

Castlevania Chronicles (1993-2001)

Release Date: July 23, 1993
Developer: Konami, KCET
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Sharp X68000 (1993) | PS1 (2001-Chronicles)
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Remake of the original

Before Chronicles, Konami released an entry titled after the original which was initially released on the Sharp X68000 back in 1993. However, after 8 years, when Koji Igarashi joined Konami, the latter decided to develop a full remake of the original. The port incorporated several features, including an Arranged Mode, better visuals, and other extra features.

In case if you’re wondering, the game’s story centers around Simon Belmont who is on a journey to defeat Count Dracula.

Kid Dracula (1993)

Release Date: January 3, 1993
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Game Boy
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Not Canon

Kid Dracula is many things. It’s a spin-off to the series and remake as well as a sequel to the original Kid Dracula game released back in 1990.

The evil Galamoth has returned and it is up to Kid Dracula to stop him once again. However, he seems to have forgotten the way to use his spells. Also, many of his minions have turned against him and joined the villain. Luckily, Death remains by his side and gives him tips and heirlooms from his father along the way. It’s unlike the other entries in the series since it’s cute and kind of childish.

Super Castlevania IV (1991)

Release Date: October 31, 1991
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: SNES
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

One of the best entries in the series to ever come out on the SNES. The aforementioned took what made the original game a great experience to play and sprinkled some new mechanics, as well as, enhanced graphics. All of which brought new life to the franchise.

The game takes place in 1691 Transylvania, where the vampire hunter Simon Belmont must defeat the vampire Dracula and regain peace to the land.

Castlevania II: Belmont’s Revenge (1991)

Release Date: July 12, 1991
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Game Boy
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

The second title in the series to set foot in the Game Boy platform. additionally, it serves as a sequel to The Adventure.

The latter takes place fifteen years after the events of  ” The Adventure” where Dracula returns and kidnaps Christopher Belmont’s son Soleil. After kidnapping him, he turns him into a devil. To save his son, Christopher Belmont has to confront Dracula and defeat him no matter what the cost.

Akumajō Special: Boku Dracula-kun (1990)

Release Date: 19 October 1990
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Famicom
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Not Canon

Despite the sequel being released worldwide, the prequel was released exclusively in Japan. However, thanks to the Anniversary Collection, you can play this on PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, and PC.

The game puts you in the shoes of Kid Dracula once again who has awoken from a long sleep. He awakes only to discover that the demon Galamoth has once again challenged him. Now it’s up to Kid Dracula to destroy the monster and retake his throne.

Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse (1989)

Release Date: December 22, 1989
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: NES
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

The third entry of the series to come out on the Nintendo Entertainment System. Dracula’s Curse is a prequel to the original much like The Adventure entry.

Players take control of Trevor Belmont, the predecessor of the legendary Simon Belmont. the Catholic Church seeks his help after they banished him for having godly powers. His mission is to defeat the vampire lord Count Dracula and restore peace to the land.

Haunted Castle (1988)

Release Date: February 22, 1988
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: Arcade
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

This one is an adaptation of the original title but is not a direct port of the NES version. Rather, it is a new game running on custom JAMMA-based hardware.

In short, the game puts you in the shoes of Simon Belmont once again who embarks on a journey through a ruined castle to rescue his beloved wife Serena from the hands of Count Dracula. Simon must dive through six stages in order to reach the Count’s hideout.

Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest (1987)

Release Date: August 28, 1987
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: NES
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

The second game to come on the NES after the original game in 1986. The aforementioned was one of the games which inspired Koji Igarashi to create Symphony of the Night and Harmony of Dissonance.

The player once again assumes the role of the legendary Simon Belmont. He is on a journey to remove a curse placed on him by Dracula. Unfortunately, Dracula’s body is split into pieces, and it’s up to Simon to find them and defeat him once in for all.

Castlevania (1986)

Release Date: September 26, 1986
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami
Platforms: NES
Genre: Platforming
Timeline: Canon

The game that started it all. The game marked the start of an unforgettable journey, and the entry that introduced many to this beloved franchise. It’s noteworthy that nobody was expecting such a game to become this successful. The franchise has brought impressive elements to the gaming industry, and frankly, it hurts to see the state it has turned to.

The game’s story starts with Simon Belmont, who enters the vampiric castle seeking to defeat Count Dracula. The gameplay is pretty straightforward with Simon equipped with a whip and a few magical attacks under his belt. These magic attacks can be activated by destroying things that contain hearts.

This marks the end of  “All Castlevania Games Ever Released” article. Thank you for reading.

FreeckyCake

Just your average gamer who enjoys hunting hidden gems and underrated games - but still open to any game in the industry if you ask me! My favorite game is Onimusha: Dawn of Dreams and nothing comes close to it to this very day IMO. I highly recommend you to play it!

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