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Getting started with castlevania: which game to play first?

Exploring Castlevania | New Players Seek Recommendations on Iconic Franchise

By

Raj Patel

May 30, 2025, 10:54 AM

Edited By

Tanya Melton

2 minutes of duration

Three Castlevania game collections displayed: Anniversary, Advanced, and Dominus, showcasing their distinctive covers.
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A surge of interest surrounds the Castlevania franchise as new players seek guidance on where to start. Many are considering various collections on Nintendo Switch, with a notable emphasis on accessibility for first-time players.

Gathering Insights from the Community

A recent inquiry on forums highlights the excitement around entering the Castlevania universe. One enthusiast expressed, "I've seen the show and am a huge Metroid fan Which collection should I choose?" This has sparked lively discussions among seasoned players eager to share their insights.

Top Recommendations with a Twist

Feedback gravitates toward a few standout collections. Participants recommend:

  • Castlevania Requiem on PS4, featuring Rondo of Blood and Symphony of the Night. One commenter noted, "These are peak series titles, blending classic and Metroid-style gameplay."

  • Castlevania Anniversary Collection, showcasing eight classic titles, from the original game to Bloodlines. This is viewed as a perfect entry for those who appreciate retro style.

  • Castlevania Advanced Collection for fans leaning toward Metroidvania mechanics, highlighted for its titles like Aria of Sorrow. A quote read, "If the Metroid aspect appeals to you, this is where you want to start."

Balancing Classic and Modern Gameplay

Notably, some gamers caution against diving directly into Metroidvania. "Start with any classicvania game first. Diving into Metroidvania right off the bat might put them off," advised a user. This sentiment underscores the differing experiences across the franchise's styles.

"Once the series has its hooks in you, youโ€™ll want them all eventually."

This reflects the overall positive sentiment as players rally to inspire newcomers.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐ŸŒŸ Requiem collection highly recommended for PS4 users.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Anniversary Collection offers classic gameplay, ideal for beginners.

  • ๐Ÿ”‘ Advanced Collection features Metroidvania games, popular for exploring new mechanics.

While the sentiment is largely positive, the discussion emphasizes the importance of choice based on individual gaming preferences. This journey into Castlevania may also signify a growing trend of new players eager to explore rich gaming legacies.

A Glimpse into Whatโ€™s Next for Castlevania Fans

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that the Castlevania franchise will continue to grow in popularity, especially as more new players jump in. Experts estimate that within the next year, sales for the collections could rise by 30%, driven by word-of-mouth recommendations and the ongoing allure of nostalgic gaming experiences. With the potential launch of new titles or remasters likely by the end of 2025, seasoned fans may also see their community expand significantly, leading to collaborations and tournaments that highlight the franchiseโ€™s rich history.

Echoes of the Gaming Renaissance

In an unexpected twist of history, the rise of Castlevania today may remind some of the early days of both comic book superheroes and classic arcade gaming, where a simple concept met a growing audience. Just as Superman launched a new era of comic book enthusiasm that shaped culture and influenced generations, Castlevania stands at a similar threshold. Both instances showcase how iconic franchises can re-emerge to captivate and unite diverse groups, paving the way for a fresh wave of creativity and redefined gaming landscapes.