Castlevania: Bloodlines

From thecrankyhermit

Castlevania: Bloodlines
Companies Konami
First release date Mar 17, 1994
Original platform(s) Genesis

Sidescrolling platformer

Castlevania: Bloodlines
The oddball Castlevania, with hardcore attitude, speed, and upbeat style befitting Sega's console. Swarms of enemies, huge and complex bosses, fast and fluid character control, and an industrial, dieselpunk setting make it feel like a Contra game at times. Chock full of set pieces and mindblowing visual tricks, and great use of the Genesis' sound chip give its music a distinct flavor unlike any Castlevania before or since. Two playable characters play very differently from each other, and the stages are well designed to exploit both of their abilities. The stages are tightly paced, though they lack the sense of cohesive setting and logical progression in the NES titles, and branching paths are pretty minimal. Ultimately, Bloodlines is unlike any other Castlevania, with a focus on action over platforming and style over substance.
Key people Michiru Yamane