When it comes to dark, action-packed games, Konami’s Castlevania series stands out as a true classic. This is why many gamers are on the hunt for games like Castlevania.
Since its launch many years ago, Castlevania has enthralled players with its rich, immersive experience, staying true to its retro charm. Its influence is so significant that it helped establish the Metroidvania subgenre.
Whether you’re looking for titles that capture the spirit of Castlevania or offer new twists on its familiar gameplay, the gaming world has plenty of inspired options.
Here are five exceptional games like Castlevania that you should check out.
Five best games like Castlevania
Hollow Knight
Hollow Knight is a prime example of a game that captures the essence of games like Castlevania.
Launched in 2017, it follows a silent knight exploring an underground realm teeming with bugs and other creatures.
With its side-scrolling 2D format and dark, atmospheric design, Hollow Knight is often labeled a Metroidvania. Its platforming and challenging combat have won over many fans, making it a highly replayable game.
If you appreciate the intricate level designs and tough adversaries of Castlevania, Hollow Knight is a must-try.
The game is playable on Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Steam.
Metroid Dread
Given that Metroid is a co-founder of the Metroidvania genre alongside Castlevania, it’s no shock that Metroid Dread makes this list.
This 2.5D Metroid game blends retro elements with modern flair, reviving a long-dormant project from an older series.
While it deviates somewhat from the classic Metroid and Castlevania formulas, Metroid Dread offers intense run-and-gun action and expansive 2D environments.
Samus Aran’s journey involves acquiring upgrades and facing new robotic enemies. The game’s atmospheric sci-fi settings and extensive exploration will be familiar to fans of Castlevania.
Metroid Dread is available on Nintendo Switch.
Ori and the Will of the Wisps
Moon Studios’ Ori and the Will of the Wisps presents a visually stunning and emotionally engaging experience.
This sequel maintains a strong retro Metroidvania vibe while offering artistic and cinematic beauty.
Despite the differences between the graceful Ori and the more rugged Simon Belmont, the essence of Castlevania is present.
The game features numerous collectibles, upgrades, and an open-world layout. Its melancholic storyline, sense of isolation, and rich, dark landscapes make it a worthy addition to the list of games like Castlevania.
The game is available on multiple platforms, including Xbox One and Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Steam.
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is often regarded as a spiritual successor to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, and for good reason. It was created by the former Konami programmer and Symphony of the Night designer Koji Igarashi.
Released in 2019 after a successful crowdfunding campaign, Bloodstained let players play as Miriam through a labyrinthine map, battling various monsters.
Revisiting previously inaccessible areas is a key feature that harkens back to classic Metroidvania games.
If you’re looking for a game that closely mirrors the Castlevania experience, Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is a perfect choice.
You can play Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night on Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Steam.
Dark Souls
FromSoftware’s Dark Souls may not resemble Castlevania visually, but it shares a similar feel.
This 2011 game requires patience and strategy as you navigate desolate landscapes filled with formidable enemies.
Like Konami’s series, Dark Souls puts a heavy emphasis on survival, with a vulnerable hero who relies on skill and resourcefulness.
The game’s intense atmosphere and challenging gameplay make it a fitting entry among games like Castlevania.
The game can be played on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and Steam.
READ MORE: Assassin’s Creed Shadows Collector’s Edition: What to expect
