Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse review - inspired by great ideas, but doomed by questionable execution

Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse has launched to mixed-positive critical reception, with reviewers praising its ambitious design, visual style, and combat mechanics while noting technical concerns. The Metroidvania features protagonist Trevor Belmont alongside his daughter Rose, whose opening sequence takes them to Paris.

GameSpot praised the game strongly, calling it “one of the year’s best games” with “remarkable visual style, impactful combat, and balletic traversal mechanics.” The outlet also highlighted the game’s stylish character designs, comparing its visual approach to acclaimed titles like Hades and its sequel.

Eurogamer offered a more cautious assessment, describing the game as “ambitious, aggressive, and accomplished,” capable of delivering “some of the best Castlevania highs you can experience.” However, the review flagged technical issues and awkward controls as potential problems that could undermine the gameplay experience.

The game features voice acting by Abby Trott, who voices Rose and has gained recognition in gaming and animation circles since 2015, including previous work on the Super Smash Bros. theme. Trott described the role as “one of the most special jobs that I’ve ever done.”

Following Metroidvania conventions, the game features a fast travel system that unlocks relatively late in the experience, after meeting the Boatman character in the Catacombs section.

Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse review - inspired by great ideas, but doomed by questionable execution

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