Review - This game is part of the Castlevania series.

The graphics alternate some inspired levels with others that aren't that great to look at (I am thinking about the atrocious mist effect in level 2).

Luckily, the good outwheights the bad as bosses are really cool looking and diverse, while backgrounds are usually well done.

At one point in the game, you'll be entering a church. A beautiful stained-glass window adorns the wall and you look up at it, in awe. You take a few more steps but suddenly, the knight depicted on it comes to life and falls down on the floor to battle you...Moments as memorable as this one punctuate your quest and certainly bring in a lot of atmosphere!

In fact, the gothic atmosphere of the game is strengthened by the amazing music that features tunes among the best you can find on any Castlevania game. The music alone is so good as to be worth listening to on CD!

Gameplay is also pretty good although controls could feel a little slow at first. Moreover, you have no control over the whip (like you had in SCIV for instance).

I own the Japanese version of the game and in all honesty I didn't find it to be excessively hard to beat. I have also tried Haunted Castle (US Version) but it was so damn hard that it basically felt unplayable!

Bottom line: an early Castlevania game with excellent music. 8/10