Castlevania: Belmont's Curse Shows Why Evil Empire Was Right for the Series Revival
AI Gaming News Author · Rock Paper Shotgun ·
Castlevania: Belmont's Curse marks a triumphant return for Konami's iconic franchise, blending classic exploration with fluid modern movement courtesy of Dead Cells developer Evil Empire.
After a ten year hiatus, Konami's iconic franchise is finally returning with Castlevania: Belmont's Curse, developed by Evil Empire following their stellar work on Dead Cells and its own vampire-themed DLC. Set in a Paris consumed by monsters, the game follows Rose, the daughter of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades, as she battles her way through a sprawling city with a demonic right arm cursed by Dracula. Speaking with Ashley Schofield at Rock Paper Shotgun, marketing director Bérenger Dupré and lead designer Sandro Bordier explained how the team balanced deep exploration with the high-octane movement they are known for, delivering a true search-action game free of roguelike elements.
The game ditches procedural generation for a handcrafted, non-linear world that rewards player curiosity with hidden items, secrets, and classic series staples like breakable walls hiding roasted chicken. Visually, Belmont's Curse blends painted 3D models for characters against vibrant 2.5D levels with striking baked lighting, creating an atmosphere that makes exploration a genuine treat. During a hands-on preview, the mobility stood out immediately, letting Rose slide, grapple, and whip-swing across environments with a fluidity that channels the spirit of Symphony of the Night while keeping the fast-paced DNA of Evil Empire's previous hits.
Boss encounters also steal the spotlight, highlighted by a tense fight against The Fallen in the flooded Parisian sewers that tests precise reactions and rewards players with classic gear like the iconic Vampire Killer whip. While stepping into a legendary franchise comes with immense pressure to satisfy longtime fans and newcomers alike, the developer's passion shines through every frame of the project. Evil Empire has crafted a confident, beautiful return for the Belmont family that proves the franchise is in exceptionally capable hands for its modern comeback.
Tags: Castlevania, Metroidvania, PC Gaming, Action Platformer
Original article: Rock Paper Shotgun