Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night

 PlayStation 4
User Score
8.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 514 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 421 out of 514
  2. Mixed: 43 out of 514
  3. Negative: 50 out of 514
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  1. mbestvina
    Jun 25, 2019
    7
    It took me about 10 minutes to determine that this was a vastly inferior successor to Castlevania than Hollow Knight. This feeling permeated every aspect of this game, as it regurgitated the Igavania games that came before with flaws intact and no meaningful change. ROTN tries its hardest to recreate SOTN's feel and structure, while its combat is a bloated emulation of Dawn of Sorrow's,It took me about 10 minutes to determine that this was a vastly inferior successor to Castlevania than Hollow Knight. This feeling permeated every aspect of this game, as it regurgitated the Igavania games that came before with flaws intact and no meaningful change. ROTN tries its hardest to recreate SOTN's feel and structure, while its combat is a bloated emulation of Dawn of Sorrow's, and its overly linear level design more closely resembles Portrait of Ruin and Order of Ecclesia, the weakest Igavanias in terms of level design. The only new thing this game does offer is 3D graphics and judging by the 5 year development span and buggy final product, it's safe to say that even that was a mistake.

    The key culprit here is the level design, it's just not very good. The first third of the game is a straight line to the double jump, and the entire thing feels like they built the levels separately and stapled them together, then elongated the entire thing. In my eyes, the "biggest castle yet" stretch goal has had a seriously negative impact. This level design is closer to Order of Ecclesia, Chasm, or Timespinner than SOTN. As the game progresses, it rarely loops back on itself in meaningful ways, it's so large that warping is always better than organically backtracking, and it has a few progress-halting Metroid-moments that will drive most to a guide. The library-card and holy-glasses moments from SOTN have always struck me as the weaker moments of MetroidVania level design in SOTN yet they're both recreated here and in an even more obtuse fashion. Props if you have the patience to get through this without a guide.

    As with the level design, the combat feels bloated. The soul system gives you so many worthless options across FIVE magic types (Aria/Dawn had 3) that it's paralyzing and I ultimately stopped using it. I legitimately struggled to find magic attacks that were more useful than my sword. Then, there's farming, cooking, soul enhancement, book rentals... It's overwhelming even as someone that's played all the Igavania games. The difficulty teeters between being laughably easy and demanding strict pattern memorization. Just like Ecclesia, a few of these bosses will kill you in 3 or 4 hits, rendering all the RPG complexity I just enumerated pointless. With a few of these bosses, you simply have to either memorize all their attacks or cheese them with healing items, neither of which is particularly enjoyable.

    Then, around hour 6, I got the 1.2 update and it makes a necessary key item unobtainable... I was able to continue by downgrading and playing offline but this is unacceptable. 5 years for this bug-ridden mess? At this point, I said "I regret kickstarting this game." I eventually cooled down as I finished the game but this game never dazzled me like SOTN or Aria of Sorrow. Even once they fix the bugs, this game will still live in the shadow of its 22 year old predecessor, and even that has since been bested. I'm really done with these underwhelming kickstarter spiritual sequels. Quit paying people to pander to your nostalgia and go buy something like Hollow Knight that actually pushes the genre forward.    … Expand
  2. RodVal
    Jun 24, 2019
    10
    Amazing game! All we wanted is here, another metroidvania from koji igarashi, just a masterpiece o this game type. Looks like Castlevania Sotn, great feeling you will get when playing this game.
  3. VirgoCave
    Jun 24, 2019
    9
    The same way we destroyed MIGHTY n9 for bein trash , we must give love to developers that love his baby. This is case of Iga and Bloodstained. The only problem i have with it is that is a little stiff, but the item and weapon variety and secrets it has is underwelming , ande you can tell that is game made with love and not only for the money.
  4. John_S_Jr
    Jun 24, 2019
    10
    Awesome Metroidvania, worth the wait, I was a little hesitant about the 40$ price tag but it's worth every penny!
  5. Douglas1989
    Jun 24, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Simplemente genial y maravilloso, tremendo lo hecho en este clonico de castlevania, bien logrado… Expand
  6. MEGADUDE
    Jun 23, 2019
    10
    Omg. Symphony of the night has been remade for a modern audience totally worth every penny graphics action fun factor too too amazing Igarashi has lived up to all expectations get ready for a castlevania experience that will blow your mind Maybe KONAMI will stop sitting on that gold mine and make some games again
  7. GamergodsFail
    Jun 23, 2019
    9
    iga delivers yet again. Ritual of the Night may very well be the greatest metroidvania since Symphony of the Night. Sure, it's not currently in a perfectly tuned state. There are a couple of glitches and framerate issues that I'm sure will be fixed overtime, but nothing is game-breaking as long as you play it post-patch.

    With so many different features such as shops, crafting,    iga delivers yet again. Ritual of the Night may very well be the greatest metroidvania since Symphony of the Night. Sure, it's not currently in a perfectly tuned state. There are a couple of glitches and framerate issues that I'm sure will be fixed overtime, but nothing is game-breaking as long as you play it post-patch.

    With so many different features such as shops, crafting, upgrading, loot, dozens of different magic shard powers, familiar summoning, side quests, and one hell of a story, there is more than plenty to love here from metroidvania fans to RPG vets alike. You can even change your hair and the colors of your clothes! For only $40 it would be hard to find a better 20+ hour long game this year.    … Expand
  8. Ale1991
    Jun 23, 2019
    10
    An instant classic and one of the best games of this generation. Just buy it and support this developer.
  9. Leomattoso
    Jun 22, 2019
    10
    Masterpiece. A evolução de SotN. Tudo que SotN ofereceu com gráficos atuais. Aguardo ansiosamente as DLCs. Thanks, Iga!
  10. Tonocruise
    Jun 22, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Increíble juego. Se ven las ganas de hacer un buen juego. Un solo fallo... Algunos textos en castellano no están bien… Expand
  11. Hired_Sword
    Jun 22, 2019
    10
    A resounding success in reviving the genre that Iga helped to establish. Fun, with deep mechanics and a well designed map that begs to be explored.
  12. th3w1ll
    Jun 22, 2019
    9
    A fantastic game with incredible depth and high replayability. Iga is back in action.
  13. nicksoulng
    Jun 22, 2019
    10
    I can't stop playing this! I love Metroidvania games! and this is the best for me!
  14. Asthmatic_Glock
    Jun 21, 2019
    10
    At an affordable price, bloodstained rotn contains a wealth of content. The visuals, attention to detail, the music all get a 10.

    The gameplay is fluid, and faster paced than symphony of the night. So I would give it a 9.
  15. Wrath_4givnez
    Jun 21, 2019
    9
    Woof. What do I SAY about this game!? Maybe a preface first...

    I'm not a die-hard, super purest, extra particular fan of Castlevania, nor am I a casual "I'll take anything named Castlevania" fan either. I don't have too many games in my collection under the IP, but I can safely say that Symphony of the Night is what made me fall in love. Unfortunately, it wasn't the PS1 version of the    Woof. What do I SAY about this game!? Maybe a preface first...

    I'm not a die-hard, super purest, extra particular fan of Castlevania, nor am I a casual "I'll take anything named Castlevania" fan either. I don't have too many games in my collection under the IP, but I can safely say that Symphony of the Night is what made me fall in love. Unfortunately, it wasn't the PS1 version of the game way back in the late 90s. It was the bonus unlockable updated version that was predominantly featured in the Dracula X Chronicles for the PSP. I had to earn the right to play the game, and when I did, holy hell was it one of the more satisfying games I've ever gotten into (hence the fact it made me fall in love with the series)

    Skip ahead the ups and downs (and near murder of the series at large), and in comes Igarashi being a straight up BOSS, saying he wants to bring the magic of those "IGAvania" games back to the forefront, and releasing a Kickstarter trailer to prove it. I dunk in my pledge, hoping I'd get another magical journey like Symphony, and four years later...

    This game, while not my game of the year, or my favorite of all time (both titles belong to DMC5 for me), is one HELL of a game!

    Gameplay is tight, responsive, slick, and rewarding to explore and experiment as you slide kick, jump, backdash, slash, bash, whip, inflame, freeze, electrify, and whatever else it takes to outsmart and obliterate countless Goetian demons in a haunted, messed up gothic castle filled with more than just references and callbacks to previous IGA Castlevanias. Even messing around with one of the more boring features (crafting) was slick, simple, and made me feel like I was making/improving something worthwhile. While it is a tad easier than SotN, I didn't mind as the game itself played so good that I just wanted more (leading to sinking in a fair amount of time on the first day playing)

    The story makes its mark by taking the route of "complex story told simply" with the surface, upfront story being very straightforward, while the background story, character interactions, and lore add extra spice and flavor to the world, characters and even some of the monsters. Voice acting is solid, and all of the characters (as far as I've seen, at least) were interesting and likable. I originally thought Miriam would have been kind of boring from initial impressions during the early stages of development (even though I loved the design), but she seemed to be just an absolute gem (heh, get it?) in the full game. Headstrong, kindly, and responsible, but not afraid to be just a bit childish and sassy when the moment calls for it.

    The music, while not as memorable or interesting as SotN, it comes SUPER close, and has its own flair and flavor that makes it well done and unique, and at the very least stands shoulder to shoulder with it's precursor, even if it's an inch shorter.

    The designs, from characters to monsters to the castle's bizarre interior are expertly well done. I was a little worried at first midway through development, but the updated visuals really showed off the vision that IGA wanted to capture since day one.

    The only downside are the few, small glitches in the game that can be found post patch (such as this annoying little swimming glitch I found when I slide kicked into the water to get out of a very tight crevice, only to find I couldn't jump out of the water at all. Taking enemy damage seems to get you out, but if no enemies are there, you're stuck. Or a glitch where a falling item bag gets stuck in the area geometry, and stays suspended in the air and unable to be collected. Glitches like that are peppered in random points, but don't harm the over all experience. I'd recommend you keep a few Waystones with you, though, just in case you get stuck somewhere weird. That'll get you out for free without needing to reload a save.

    What else can I say about this game, really? It's amazing, and I think this is the beginning of a beautiful new IP. If you have any love for Castlevania, or any metroidvania games, it's a must play. If you just love a fun, action platformer game, this is also a game for you! Hell, if you just love games in general, play it! Just play this game! It's amazing!    … Expand
  16. Rowdain
    Jun 21, 2019
    10
    The game exceeded all my expectations, it is the perfect transition of the Igavania style to 3D. The ambientation is sublime and Michiru Yamane's music is on point as always. There is no doubt that Bloodstained is the rightful spiritual successor of Castlevania. Cogratulations to Koji Igarashi and everyone involveld in the game.
  17. Bloodstained
    Jun 21, 2019
    10
    Other a long loading screen and some loading when transitioning areas there is little to complain about if you are a SOTN fan. The first game to dethrone the best Metrovania game ever made. Love the gameplay, graphics, and especially the soundtrack.
  18. Wimpher
    Jun 21, 2019
    10
    SotN was a true masterpiece for its time. A critically-acclaimed game and heralded as one of the greatest games ever crafted. Stunning musical composition, awesome 2D sprite-based graphics, amazing level design and addictive game mechanics. It's just one of those games that doesn't shy away from being, well...a GAME! It's basically a gamers wet dream. And people have been waiting for AGESSotN was a true masterpiece for its time. A critically-acclaimed game and heralded as one of the greatest games ever crafted. Stunning musical composition, awesome 2D sprite-based graphics, amazing level design and addictive game mechanics. It's just one of those games that doesn't shy away from being, well...a GAME! It's basically a gamers wet dream. And people have been waiting for AGES on a sequel.
    Well, here it is! In spirit. This is EVERYTHING SotN was and maybe more with some top-notch voice talent even. This is a beautiful, beautiful looking game with a gorgeously orchestrated soundtrack and stunning to look at backdrops. I don't think a 2D side-scroller has impressed me THIS much since, you got it - SotN! And dammit that says a lot for me. I was very skeptical that they were going to pull this off but it is even SUPERIOR to what I could have ever imagined. This is one of those games I enjoy so damn much that I want to take my time with it. It is seriously just that good.

    I cannot stress this enough. If you like SotN or Castlevania games in general, this is something you simply cannot miss. This is probably the best Castlevania game that isn't called "Castlevania." And I think simply for that reason people will dismiss it and reviews may not be as high as SotN's. If this had the "Castlevania" name, it would probably get like 95/100 across the boards.

    Guys, IGA did it! Castlevania has basically returned in spiritual form. I'm actually not finished with the game yet but played enough to know when I see a masterpiece. This is already one of the best gaming experiences I've had in a very, very long time.    … Expand
  19. kagekirazuul
    Jun 20, 2019
    10
    phenomenally great. IGA gives what we all wanted and hoped for. Easter eggs, secrets, and now something for the new generation of gamers, backer content. It's cool to see the portraits of people who backed. I can't wait to fight someone's pet turned into an in-game enemy. ROTN is as much a work of art as SOTN, but it has been built upon. IGA has shown his dedication to giving a qualityphenomenally great. IGA gives what we all wanted and hoped for. Easter eggs, secrets, and now something for the new generation of gamers, backer content. It's cool to see the portraits of people who backed. I can't wait to fight someone's pet turned into an in-game enemy. ROTN is as much a work of art as SOTN, but it has been built upon. IGA has shown his dedication to giving a quality experience and his listening to his fans/backers. I am so happy.… Expand
  20. hugos
    Jun 20, 2019
    10
    Grande jogo! Varias referências a sotn. Visualmente muito bonito e trilha sonora agradável. Levei design muito semelhante à qualquer metroidvania.
  21. TOKUKAN
    Jun 20, 2019
    10
    Thanks Mr. Igarashi.
    Took over 10 years to get that feeling again (Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia).
    Mr. Igarashi has done what Mr. Inafune was not able to fulfill with Mighty No.9 ;)
  22. Bon2
    Jun 20, 2019
    9
    Ele mantém toda a essência do estilo de castlevania e a trilha sonora é espetacular valeu a pena a espera
  23. Ajthesnipe
    Jun 20, 2019
    10
    This is everything I wanted for an a legit successor to the metroidvania style genre. Gameplay is spot on, artistically beautiful visuals, a pretty good story so far (got about 5 hours into it) , and phenomenal music. Aside from a few visual bugs and one game breaking bug that will be not be an issue with future plays after the update that I will not hang them over (opened treasureThis is everything I wanted for an a legit successor to the metroidvania style genre. Gameplay is spot on, artistically beautiful visuals, a pretty good story so far (got about 5 hours into it) , and phenomenal music. Aside from a few visual bugs and one game breaking bug that will be not be an issue with future plays after the update that I will not hang them over (opened treasure chests) I have not seen anything that sours me on the experience in the slightest. On top of that with new content coming out periodically for free, the replay value will be extremely high. We may not get a castlevania game like this ever again... But with bloodstained ritual of the night... We no longer need it.… Expand
  24. Escher
    Jun 20, 2019
    9
    Igavania is back! This game feels like a sequel to Symphony of the Night (Gebel may as well be Alucard!), but it comes with advanced graphics and new gameplay elements. The graphics have beautiful 3D renderings, and many of the cutscenes actually pull the camera into the scene, creating a greater sense of immersion. The gameplay took the best of Symphony of the Night and the DS and 3DsIgavania is back! This game feels like a sequel to Symphony of the Night (Gebel may as well be Alucard!), but it comes with advanced graphics and new gameplay elements. The graphics have beautiful 3D renderings, and many of the cutscenes actually pull the camera into the scene, creating a greater sense of immersion. The gameplay took the best of Symphony of the Night and the DS and 3Ds Castlevania games, while using the best of modern dual-stick controllers to add more to the gameplay. This is a side scroller that feels wholly new and modern. And within 10 minutes of playing, you forget the fact that it is a side scroller, it is that immersive and addicting. Even on normal mode the game is challenging, but in way that feels rewarding. You will find yourself experimenting with various moves in order to defeat various enemies, but it never becomes tedious. A quick button function for potion/item uses would be nice, so that may be one of the few reasons I am giving this a 9. A skill tree associated to leveling up may have also been nice, but with Castlevania games, your skill/attributes are largely determined by your equipment and level. Great voice cast, great dialogue, great story! This game definitely has dozens of hours of playtime. Looking forward to the online co-op modes and local split screen!… Expand
  25. Solaire_Drakkis
    Jun 20, 2019
    10
    Created an account just to say this is a great game.Its every bit as good as SotN if not better.Its got a good variety of equipment and alot of customization with looks and gameplay.I also have to say the pre-order theme is one of the best I've seen.I'd probably pay 60 dollars for it if I had to.
  26. Josef217
    Jun 20, 2019
    9
    This game is a love letter to Castlevania fans, especially if you love symphony of the night.
  27. mbcu
    Jun 19, 2019
    9
    I'm a negative guy so I'll start with the cons first. Background is still bland at some spots. Some bosses can use visual cues. I can't tell if a moving appendage is part of scenery or an attack. There are also some translation errors. In short the polishing needs more polishing.
    Now the pros. The core is solid. The RPG elements are meticulously done and offer a wide range of play style,    I'm a negative guy so I'll start with the cons first. Background is still bland at some spots. Some bosses can use visual cues. I can't tell if a moving appendage is part of scenery or an attack. There are also some translation errors. In short the polishing needs more polishing.
    Now the pros. The core is solid. The RPG elements are meticulously done and offer a wide range of play style, all exciting. Want to slash, grab a sword. Want to shoot grab a gun. Each weapon has its own traits and special attack. Character models are well drawn and animated. Watching a monster disintegrate always gives me a satisfaction of a job well done. The control is responsive and there's no problem executing what you want when you want it.
    Also if you're wondering whether to pick this or Hollow Knight, pick this. HK is a frustrating game with Dark Souls like element that punishes you with each death. Here everything is simpler. If you die, you reload. You don't need to do a thing to recover your stuff. You also have wide array of weapons, potions, spells, familiars, wheres in HK you fight with a single weapon. In short in HK you keep playing to not lose your progress, here you play to have fun.    … Expand
  28. Pico619
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Symphony of the night updated, and with cooler bosses. I bought the Xbox version so I didn't have to hear the ps4 fan. No bugs so far. I can't put the game down. U can play as u feel. The combat is even slicker than in the past. I am so happy to support this game. Buy it on disc so u can have it forever and send them a message u want all sequels on disc too. 10/10 masterpiece
  29. Rick66
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    El diseño artístico no es muy bueno que digamos, pero a nivel jugable recuerda mucho a Aria of sorrow y Dawn of sorrow por el sistema de habilidades enemigas que es muy entretenido. La música es excelente. Si no supiera que su título es Bloodstained pasaría fácilmente como un Castlevania de Nintendo DS. Es un videojuego altamente recomendable para los fans de la saga y quién guste de unEl diseño artístico no es muy bueno que digamos, pero a nivel jugable recuerda mucho a Aria of sorrow y Dawn of sorrow por el sistema de habilidades enemigas que es muy entretenido. La música es excelente. Si no supiera que su título es Bloodstained pasaría fácilmente como un Castlevania de Nintendo DS. Es un videojuego altamente recomendable para los fans de la saga y quién guste de un buen juego tipo metroidvania.… Expand
  30. Lazari
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Sabiamos o que Iga iria fazer com esse jogo... Sabiamos... e sim é uma grande obra. Troxe de volta a magia do que era jogar o SOTN assim como os jogos seguintes produzidos por ele (Os elementos destes também estão ai.
    Não nivelemos este jogo com outros metroidvanias que existem pois...os detalhes deste jogo (Quantidade de itens, armas, equipamentos, habilidades vindas dos mobs) são    Sabiamos o que Iga iria fazer com esse jogo... Sabiamos... e sim é uma grande obra. Troxe de volta a magia do que era jogar o SOTN assim como os jogos seguintes produzidos por ele (Os elementos destes também estão ai.
    Não nivelemos este jogo com outros metroidvanias que existem pois...os detalhes deste jogo (Quantidade de itens, armas, equipamentos, habilidades vindas dos mobs) são grandiosos...

    valeu a pena esperar sim, um dos melhores jogos do gênero.
    A tempos não tinha esta sensação de jogar um jogo que me fizesse não querer parar de jogar e explorar.
    Existem sim detalhes negativos (Não cito a qualidade grafica/animações pois isto não necessariamente é um defeito diante do geral).

    Trilha sonora impecável.

    Talvez unica continuação espiritual que cumpriu o prometido.    … Expand
  31. elitegeek79
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    A Masterpiece! Lives up to the hype and then some! Surpasses symphony of the night to my own surprise. I couldn't have asked for anything better than this. Anyone who doesn't like this game should have their gamer card revoked.
  32. mrenanpx
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    simply fantastic, SOTN's true spiritual successor, the game I always hoped for, thank you Iga..
  33. Stars_Cream
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    SotN is my favorite game of all time, and I really don't like having to say this (since I've been carrying the SotN banner for so long); but Bloodstained is the best Metroidvania game ever made. It's basically SotN with a lot more to do, and the systems more fleshed out.

    Also the voice acting is fantastic (especially the main villain).
  34. SonowRaevius
    Jun 19, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There are a few issues, like slowdown in some areas due to too many elements on screen or the sheer size of the current map segment, and the various issues that came with the fix.

    Some of the quests, besides the ones for just killing demons can be a bit tedious as well, mostly due to RNG and not knowing what drops where.

    There is also a bit of confusion near the end because they don't exactly tell you the limit of what one power can do, so if you don't try you might get stuck for a moment depending on how well your puzzle solving skills are .

    That being said the game is great overall.

    The powers and gear in the game allow you to create whatever kind of build you want, including a powerful mage build if you so wish.

    Gathering items to make new food items is worth it on two levels, not only is it improving your stats each time you initially eat an item and providing good healing items on the road ahead.

    It's a fun and challenging game still though, even on the starting difficulty, but never so much that it feels impossible, ||including fighting the secret bosses ((which are re-fightable at any time)).

    This game is pretty much if they took Order of Ecclesia, Symphony of the Night, and Dawn of Sorrow, perfected the bad elements of each game, mixed them back in with the good, and then released it to the players.

    It's not perfect, but it's pretty goddamn good and easily worth the $40.    … Expand
  35. Chris_Daniell
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    This game is fantastic! I have savored my adventure thus far and am really having to fight hard not to let my excitement spoil anything for potential players.

    Being an old skooler to video games in general (my first system was the Atari 2600), I am relieved to see Igarashi deliver such an amazing, polished product from the long road it has come from. I greatly enjoyed inti creates 8-bit    This game is fantastic! I have savored my adventure thus far and am really having to fight hard not to let my excitement spoil anything for potential players.

    Being an old skooler to video games in general (my first system was the Atari 2600), I am relieved to see Igarashi deliver such an amazing, polished product from the long road it has come from. I greatly enjoyed inti creates 8-bit (although semi non-canon), Curse of the Moon refresher that was released, as some might have forgotten or were new to the ‘IGAvania series’. I feel this was well played in generating interest to a potentially lost series within the new generation of gamers.

    Ritual of the Night, builds upon the depth of Symphony and its later, although mostly handheld, iterations. bringing an increased RPG layer on top of what we remembered. The ‘2.5’ style of graphics are top notch for this type of gamestyle platform and make creative use out of the multiple layers of depth within each stage. I will go as far as to say that the assets and effects top a similar effort from the big N, as seen in the last several Smash Bros games. The incorporation of fighting game style inputs isnt new but now more than ever, the collision and precise timing of special moves, are products of next gen hardware and software as more frames of animation are allowed for a seamless experience within a platform game. I think Koji not only wanted to bring Nostalgia but also deliver it in a way that is current. He (and not to forget WayForward by any means) put much detail in not just the minute intricacies of the mechanics and lore, but also the voice acting and character interaction as portrayed from an audio perspective.

    I could go on, but simply put — Ritual of the Night is a MASTERPIECE of its kind in the new era of gaming.

    - 5/5    … Expand
  36. Lesaoni
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Make IGAVania great again)! 11 OD's out of 10
    (This review is made by Castlevania fan, so it has biased score)
    Pros: Vast variety of items, spells, enemies (in other words great compendium) Big castle New features to beloved formula: quests, crafting Music is great It is what Castlevania fans was waiting for Cons: Graphics are little bit old Battle system could have been a    Make IGAVania great again)! 11 OD's out of 10
    (This review is made by Castlevania fan, so it has biased score)

    Pros:
    Vast variety of items, spells, enemies (in other words great compendium)
    Big castle
    New features to beloved formula: quests, crafting
    Music is great
    It is what Castlevania fans was waiting for

    Cons:
    Graphics are little bit old
    Battle system could have been a little more complex ( yet I believe that would have affected weapon and spell count, still there are combos, but they prove to be more of a style finishers, than real help in battle)
    Minor bugs    … Expand
  37. LeandroB
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Pretty amazing. It delivers what it promises. Difficult in the right amount.
    A great spiritual successor to Castlevania!
  38. sctthydn711
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    I will admit when I first seen the first pics and videos of the game I was on the fence about backing it on Kickstarter. I love Castlevania and it was one of my favorite 2D side scrolling games when I was a kid besides Contra. Symphony of the Night was my favorite out of all the Castlevaina games and I have pretty much played them all. When Koji seen all the hate the game was getting; himI will admit when I first seen the first pics and videos of the game I was on the fence about backing it on Kickstarter. I love Castlevania and it was one of my favorite 2D side scrolling games when I was a kid besides Contra. Symphony of the Night was my favorite out of all the Castlevaina games and I have pretty much played them all. When Koji seen all the hate the game was getting; him and his team took that to heart and made a lot of changes to make the game look so much better. When I found out what they did and seen the game I had to get it. One of the best choices I made and I wished I backed it. I played it last night and it was so hard to put down. I got a little emotional cause it was so great and so worth the 4 year wait. I'm not really far into it but just blown way by everything such as the look, music, playability, upgrading system and much more. I can't wait to leave work to get home and play more. All hail Koji Igarashi for knowing what fans wanted and that's a kick ass Castlevania game. Many many thanks!!!!!… Expand
  39. Orvar83
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Magnificent return to Metroidvania type games, amazing music, tight gameplay, loads of content. Koji Igarashi has delivered and amazing game, filled with care and details for the fans to enjoy.
  40. jpsnow85
    Jun 19, 2019
    9
    A spectacular game. There's so much love poured into this title that any fan of Symphony of the Night will feel like they're wandering the halls of their childhood home.

    With that being said, it's not strictly a SOTN clone either. The crafting and cooking systems are a fantastic addition that are a great example in how to encourage people to engage in these systems without making them    A spectacular game. There's so much love poured into this title that any fan of Symphony of the Night will feel like they're wandering the halls of their childhood home.

    With that being said, it's not strictly a SOTN clone either. The crafting and cooking systems are a fantastic addition that are a great example in how to encourage people to engage in these systems without making them needlessly complex.

    The visuals are fantastic, with the cel-shaded graphics really causing the colors to pop off the screen.

    The music is from the same composer who did SOTN, so you get a new iteration of the sweeping instrumentals that transport you to castle halls and underground waterways.

    Controls and combat are razor sharp, with various weapons having unique abilities that are triggered with fighting game-style inputs like quarter-circle forward + attack. Layered onto this is the shard system, which allows you to have passive magical boosts, an additional magic attack, and even summon familiars to your side. The loadout options are insane, and in time you'll unlock "shortcuts" to quickly switch between them.

    There are easter eggs and tributes to the fans throughout the game. Minor details in equipment and bestiary notes bring a smile to your face.

    So many games get caught up in wanting to be "intense", wanting to channel the difficulty of "The Game Which Shall Not Be Named". Bloodstained isn't particularly interested in that. Are there some challenging fights? Sure. Will you break a controller in the process of exploring this vast castle? Likely not.

    Now, there are still some hiccups and bugs here and there, but nothing game-breaking. Still, the blemishes are enough to mar a perfect score.

    At the end of the day - this game is fun. It's damn fun, and one of the best titles I've played in the last few years. Buy it.    … Expand
  41. nintendogeek
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    This game is everything I've wished for. Challenging, rewarding, fun. If you liked SOTN, or either of the games on the 3ds you are going to love this game. I hope this is just the first of many great games in this series.
  42. bladesworn
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Legally distinct Castlevania. Game scratches the itch for an old school Metroidvania like few other games have done for me in a while. If you like the Iga Castlevania games, you're almost guaranteed to love this.
  43. Zisis151
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    Among the constant kickstarter clusterf*cks that have been releasing in the past years, comes a game so good I'd even pay full price for it. Graphically great, fluid gameplay, AMAZING soundtrack (and by that i mean actual melodic music, not the orchestral ear r*** Westerners like to call "music") and great content (weapon variety, crafting, customization, also free DLC playable charactersAmong the constant kickstarter clusterf*cks that have been releasing in the past years, comes a game so good I'd even pay full price for it. Graphically great, fluid gameplay, AMAZING soundtrack (and by that i mean actual melodic music, not the orchestral ear r*** Westerners like to call "music") and great content (weapon variety, crafting, customization, also free DLC playable characters are on the way). All this for a 40$ indie game. Do yourself a favor and support the creators for doing such a great job and also listening to the feedback people gave them back almost a year ago.

    P.S. F*cKonami    … Expand
  44. Mokhan13
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    First time playing castlevania style game i love it. The feel and the item collecting is soo addiciting and i love the main character designs, plus the uber cool moves u can collect.
  45. Atriarch
    Jun 19, 2019
    10
    9.6/10. Excellent game. Minor bugs, but overall a must buy for anyone liking this genre.
  46. Mbuckets
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    It’s exactly what you want it to be. A great Castlevania game in the same vein as SOTN and the Gameboy renditions of SOTN style gameplay.
  47. BongoYoda
    Jun 18, 2019
    9
    I may have to bump this up to a 10 after the patch comes out but I'm very pleased with this game. I backed the kickstarter and have been following the release notes for years...Iga and his team have poured their hearts into this and after 3 hours of gameplay...it shows. Tons of secrets and SotN homages. My only complaint is that it seems a bit glitchy but I feel like the patch will fixI may have to bump this up to a 10 after the patch comes out but I'm very pleased with this game. I backed the kickstarter and have been following the release notes for years...Iga and his team have poured their hearts into this and after 3 hours of gameplay...it shows. Tons of secrets and SotN homages. My only complaint is that it seems a bit glitchy but I feel like the patch will fix the text and cutscene jumps. If Iga delivers on the largest (inverted) castle he's ever made, we're in for a wild ride. Final gripe...Gebel is a stupid name but Zangetsu totally makes up for it!! Great music, smooth gameplay, macabre Metroidvania setting...all for $35....go buying this! game!!… Expand
  48. ALPHA_PATRIOT
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    If you love Castlevania and if your here then its obvious ..... this game is amazing. Play it for yourself and you won't be disappointed because it's better than i thought it would be. Minor bugs that will be ironed out im sure. But all in all a must have. Gave ten because of ignorant reviews I've seen but a definite 9.
  49. liquidEvolution
    Jun 18, 2019
    9
    Yeah, another Kickerstart backer here, and for good reason. The game delivered on so many levels.

    Snappy input/ output, gorgeous settings, beautiful atmospheric music, player customization is spot on and not just from a visual perspective either. With a host of techniques to learn (think Street Fighter, Tekken combo inputs) but are not forced/ mandatory for success, to spells/ abilities    Yeah, another Kickerstart backer here, and for good reason. The game delivered on so many levels.

    Snappy input/ output, gorgeous settings, beautiful atmospheric music, player customization is spot on and not just from a visual perspective either. With a host of techniques to learn (think Street Fighter, Tekken combo inputs) but are not forced/ mandatory for success, to spells/ abilities (shard magic) that can be active, passive, and even passives-made-permanent (without having to equip them!), once max level’d up. Weapons, onto the host of weapons and armor that can change your stats and appearance (some can be toggled on/ off, accessories, etc.).

    Want a tank that hits hard or a glass cannon spell caster using a flaming two-handed axe? Whatever your style, chances are you’ll have it soon or not and maybe you have to find/ farm some enemies. That’s the fun though. It helps promote exploring, and explore you want to, for bonus loot and stat enhancements that are permanent.

    In he meantime, there is crafting to help fill the blanks for weapons and armor, and, yes, food! Recipes to find, farmers to give seeds to, which can then grow food for you. Quests. Yes, there are eve quests.

    All of that reads like an RPG, and rightly so. The director was responsible for changing the way 2D side-scrollers’ mechanics work.

    In short, a lot to do and see and while there is a lot of freedom to theory craft builds that suit your play-style, as well as help overcome situations, it doesn’t fall short of delivering that classic atmosphere of an A+ Igavania gem. That’s what it is, a gem.    … Expand
  50. Lordcrabfood
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    A true spiritual successor to symphony of the night. The metrovania genre is in good hands with this exceptional release. Sharp controls and a gorgeous soundtrack elevate this game into a podium that few ever reach. A must buy.
  51. Llunarlimbo
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    Beautiful art style. Enemy design is very reminiscent of castlevania games and overall is a well crafted and deep gaming experience. If you love metroidvanias or castlevania, then this is a game you'll enjoy. Growing up playing Castlevania titles has really made me want another as of late and this game is a package deal for anyone wanting a modern take on the igavania/Castlevania formulaBeautiful art style. Enemy design is very reminiscent of castlevania games and overall is a well crafted and deep gaming experience. If you love metroidvanias or castlevania, then this is a game you'll enjoy. Growing up playing Castlevania titles has really made me want another as of late and this game is a package deal for anyone wanting a modern take on the igavania/Castlevania formula most are familiar with.… Expand
  52. Sgtpoliteness
    Jun 18, 2019
    4
    It's like sotn and Aria of sorrow without the charm:
    • the 3d really feels bad and poorly done, not to mention the animations, • the room layout design is more crash bandicoot with hidden walls than Castlevania • the story is atrocious (to be fair the story to pretty much all of these games are bad, but it doesn't feel on purpose) • the music is like a great value brand version of the    It's like sotn and Aria of sorrow without the charm:
    • the 3d really feels bad and poorly done, not to mention the animations, • the room layout design is more crash bandicoot with hidden walls than Castlevania • the story is atrocious (to be fair the story to pretty much all of these games are bad, but it doesn't feel on purpose) • the music is like a great value brand version of the prior igavanias I'll likely finish it because there just aren't enough good Metroid Vania games so we kinda have to deal so I think a 4 is fair, worse than average, but not atrocious

    Get it if you, like me, are obsessed with these kinds of Metroid Vania games because it will definitely scratch the itch, but if you're not a fan of them in general I'd definitely recommend like, hollow Knight over this    … Expand
  53. Brianoforris
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    This game is an absolute masterpiece. It feels like I’m playing Symphony all over again all these years later, although it’s all new and fun. Iga has gone all out here. My wife backed the Kickstarter for $100 as a gift to me and it’s the best gift I’ve ever gotten. Play this game.
  54. lgndsgn
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    As a Kickstarter backer, I'm happy to say Iga knocked it out of the park with this one! I've played about 5 hours so far and it's pretty frickin great. It definitely brings back that same feeling I had when playing the old metroidvanias, SotN included. In just the 5 hrs I've played I've already seen so much content that's rewarding outside of the normal gameplay. Quests, crafting,As a Kickstarter backer, I'm happy to say Iga knocked it out of the park with this one! I've played about 5 hours so far and it's pretty frickin great. It definitely brings back that same feeling I had when playing the old metroidvanias, SotN included. In just the 5 hrs I've played I've already seen so much content that's rewarding outside of the normal gameplay. Quests, crafting, shards... and what really makes me happy is the difficulty on normal is just right. Not too hard, but not that easy. The second boss was somewhat challenging even on normal, so I'm excited to beat the game and then play through on hard. The music is great as they used the same composer from SotN (one of the best game soundtracks ever made btw). There are small homages to that soundtrack sprinkled in Bloodstain's soundtrack (but not overdone). The story and voice acting are great too, with some humor thrown in, which I like. Obviously I'm still early in the game, but considering how happy I am with only having explored 15% of the castle, I'm gonna go ahead and give it a 10 :-)… Expand
  55. Oinkmoo
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    Dont listen to AceAscendus, hes an idiot giving 0 / 10. He's a moron.

    If you like Metroidvania style, get this game/

    Why 10/10? This game plays like Aria of Sorrow, need to say more?
  56. hanksta13
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    Just what I was hoping for, SOTN type game updated for current Generation. Great game.
  57. magic_jon
    Jun 18, 2019
    9
    So far I am absolutely in love with this game. It's the spiritual successor to Symphony of the Night that should've been made years ago. Everything about the Igavania era Castlevania is here in spades with its own personality and very welcome additions of its own to boot. There's so much to go at and a lot of replay value thanks to the variation in builds and mechanics and differentSo far I am absolutely in love with this game. It's the spiritual successor to Symphony of the Night that should've been made years ago. Everything about the Igavania era Castlevania is here in spades with its own personality and very welcome additions of its own to boot. There's so much to go at and a lot of replay value thanks to the variation in builds and mechanics and different playable characters.

    The only minor gripes I have are that some environments would have benefited from a bigger budget but as a whole it's a stunning and atmospheric game and makes the leap to 2.5D whilst retaining the art design and sinister creature design that made the old games so memorable.

    There are some performance issues on PS4 at the moment like the occasional hitch and stutters in the frame rate but hopefully that'll get patched and isn't TOO distracting.

    Overall this is a masterwork and I can't wait to see where the franchise goes next.    … Expand
  58. WMMAMM
    Jun 18, 2019
    9
    An avid fan of SotN, RotN is exactly what I’d hoped for: Awesome design, thousands of weapons, armor, items, etc and the notorious backtracking. It draws me in just like Symphony did. Thanks IGA!
  59. bochkaRU
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    It's on par with Symphony of the Night. The music is good and the combat is fun. Pleasantly surprised.
  60. nismo10
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    The best work seen on Kickstarter, really!!!

    The game is awesome, i am a big fan of Igavania games, this is not the exception
  61. Darth_Dias007
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    A masterpiece made by a genius who practically reenlightened the style since the Castlevania SOTN, congratulations Iga-san !!! Big game!!!
  62. blitzkriegfc
    Jun 18, 2019
    9
    It's like putting the best of the past 2D Castlevanias in a cocktail mixer and shake it with a lot of energy. At the very beginning, you can be a bit stressed because nobody is talking about Dracula, but after a few minutes, you are totally in love with Miriam and forget about that bloodsuckers.
    Seeing a red moon on the background can only be accompanied by an awesome OST and the game    It's like putting the best of the past 2D Castlevanias in a cocktail mixer and shake it with a lot of energy. At the very beginning, you can be a bit stressed because nobody is talking about Dracula, but after a few minutes, you are totally in love with Miriam and forget about that bloodsuckers.
    Seeing a red moon on the background can only be accompanied by an awesome OST and the game perfectly meets expectations, making you in more needing of killing demons without caring if the shards will transform you in one.
    I'm not giving a full 10, because of glitches, there are a lot of technical glitches, maybe those are acceptable considering the fact that is not a game backgrounded by a big company, but maybe not for a game that was in development by almost 5 years.    … Expand
  63. Shadow_Lord592
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    Best metroidvania ever! It was worth 4 years waiting! It gathered all best techniques from such metroidvanias like Castlevania Aria of Sorrow, Dawn of Sorrow, Order of Ecclesia and Symphony of the Night.
  64. GenXY
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    Symphony of the Night on steroids! Fantastic presentation, smooth controls. Great old school feel with modern sensibilities. Must have for fans of the genre!
  65. JonatanPedroso
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    Um dos melhores Metroidvania e um dos melhores Castlevanias que joguei de longe. O Design é estiloso, a OST é MARAVILHOSA, a gameplay é muito gostosa e fluída, e a história é bacana de se acompanhar. Se você é um fã de Castlevania, não vai se arrepender.
  66. PissedOffWookie
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    It's very good. Igavania is back baby. Can't wait for all the ("free") DLC for this game to come out.
  67. ada7me
    Jun 18, 2019
    10
    i like it .................................................................................................................................................................................
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Awards & Rankings

21
#21 Best PS4 Game of 2019
32
#32 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2019
16
#16 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 54 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 48 out of 54
  2. Mixed: 6 out of 54
  3. Negative: 0 out of 54
  1. Games.cz
    Aug 19, 2019
    90
    An awesome spiritual successor to old Castlevanias. The story is the weakest point, true, but everything else is splendid, especially the level design and the sheer amount of creative ideas. If you want a great action RPG platformer, you’ve got one right here.
    Read full review
  2. PSX Extreme
    Aug 8, 2019
    85
    Bloodstained has a lot going for it. Satisfying gameplay, many secrets to find, and a huge castle to explore. There is a lot to discover in how you play, especially as you find more secrets and items. The shard system is an interesting way to customize your gameplay style. It is very much more of what you love from Symphony of the Night and other Castlevania games of that era. But Bloodstained doesn’t do anything new with the genre. It borrows many concepts to create a game with more of what people loved about the other games. In short, if you’re a fan then give this one a go. Minus a few iffy aspects, Bloodstained is fun experience. Whether it falls into the realm of one of the greats is unlikely but I enjoyed my time anyway.
    Read full review
  3. PLAY! Zine
    Aug 2, 2019
    85
    The king of Metroidvanias is finally here with a new title. A few bugs and weird animations will not prevent it from sitting on the throne.
    Read full review
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