Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

 PlayStation
  • Publisher: Konami
  • Release Date: Oct 2, 1997
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 877 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 804 out of 877
  2. Mixed: 27 out of 877
  3. Negative: 46 out of 877
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  1. wasabi867
    Dec 10, 2012
    10
    ZzzZZzzZz *Oh, another CoD, thanks is pass* ZzzzzzZZzzzz *Oh what we got here ? MoH Warfighter* ZZzzzzzZZZ Oh, Another CoD Game ? ZzZZzzzZ *Opens old PS1 Book, what have we got here ? Castlevania Symphonie of the Night... Pops the Game in... BAM! ............ It blows you away and shows you even to this Date what a real "Magical" Game does .. It is EPIC and holds up better then the RestZzzZZzzZz *Oh, another CoD, thanks is pass* ZzzzzzZZzzzz *Oh what we got here ? MoH Warfighter* ZZzzzzzZZZ Oh, Another CoD Game ? ZzZZzzzZ *Opens old PS1 Book, what have we got here ? Castlevania Symphonie of the Night... Pops the Game in... BAM! ............ It blows you away and shows you even to this Date what a real "Magical" Game does .. It is EPIC and holds up better then the Rest of the Sh** that gets shi* out nowadays!!!! Pick it up!… Expand
  2. Awordley
    Oct 9, 2018
    10
    Released in 1997, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is widely regarded as one of the best games released for the Playstation. For a console strongly forging a path into the 3D era of gaming with titles such as Crash Bandicoot and Final Fantasy VII, how was a traditional 2D side-scroller able to compete with these games?
    Symphony of the Night’s story focuses on Alucard, the rebellious son    Released in 1997, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is widely regarded as one of the best games released for the Playstation. For a console strongly forging a path into the 3D era of gaming with titles such as Crash Bandicoot and Final Fantasy VII, how was a traditional 2D side-scroller able to compete with these games?
    Symphony of the Night’s story focuses on Alucard, the rebellious son of Dracula, rather than the usual Belmont family that have been the series’ protagonists since Castlevania’s debut in 1986. Alucard is unnaturally awakened from long slumber to find that Dracula’s Castle has once again returned, and strangely there isn’t a Belmont to put a stop to it, leaving it up to Alucard to investigate what’s going on.
    Unlike previous Castlevania games that came before it, Symphony of the Night takes the archaic design of the classic games and gives it a new coat of paint. Gone are the linear stages, now replaced with a sprawling, open-ended map of Dracula’s Castle granting the player the freedom of exploration and the ability to choose their own path. While the classic vampire-killing action remains it has been refined with exceptionally smooth control that still holds up well even today, and a heavy emphasis on character customisation. A huge variety of equipment (such as weapons, armour and accessories) can be found scattered throughout Dracula’s Castle for the player to find and use, enabling them to grow stronger through exploration and allowing them to customise Alucard to their liking.
    This style of gameplay, having the player grow in strength through exploration, is comparable to the likes of the Metroid series, and along with the game Super Metroid, pioneered the genre ‘Metroidvania’. However, unique to Symphony of the Night is the addition of RPG mechanics. Enemies that would usually only serve as obstacles now allow the player to gain EXP, making every encounter an opportunity to grow in strength, keeping the game’s combat fresh.
    Konami’s decision to stick to a 2D style for Symphony of the Night was definitely worth it; the Playstation’s hardware is used to produce stunning 32-bit sprites that are full of detail, making this the best looking 2D Castlevania game to date. The sprite quality is gorgeous and certainly still holds up today, contrary to a lot of the early 3D titles on the Playstation that are riddled with polygons and have not aged well. Accompanying the masterful sprite-work is an excellent score composed by Michiru Yamane that sets the tone of the game perfectly. With action packed, exhilarating melodies that Castlevania is known for, and expertly crafted tracks that cause areas to ooze with atmosphere, it’s easy to say that Symphony of the Night has one of the best soundtracks in gaming.
    Overall Symphony of the Night is a Playstation classic that shouldn’t be missed. The only downside is that as with most Castlevania games, it can be difficult to pick up for beginners to the series, as some of its designs (such as the UI) can be unintuitive and the gameplay can be unforgiving. Yet with its tight controls, gorgeous sprite-work, brilliant music and addictive Metroidvania gameplay, Symphony of the Night is a gaming classic for the Playstation and is worth anyone’s time to experience until the end.    … Expand
  3. RichterB.
    Dec 7, 2006
    10
    This game was a break through when it was created not just because the soundtrack was incredible, the visuals were stunning, the variety of characters you could play with, the multitude of weapons and items, infinite combinations of the former and secret powers, but because it offered what a lot of games did not at the time and that was freedom of environment in a 2-D. Super metroid was This game was a break through when it was created not just because the soundtrack was incredible, the visuals were stunning, the variety of characters you could play with, the multitude of weapons and items, infinite combinations of the former and secret powers, but because it offered what a lot of games did not at the time and that was freedom of environment in a 2-D. Super metroid was one of the predecessors to this type of gameplay and it holds its crown for its ability on the Super NES. Castlevania was the definitive for PS because it took that powefully free and entertaining gameplay with a classic story and game to more depth and adventure than ever before. It was similar to Fable on X box or Lament on PS2 but it still out classes both with its sheer amount of charater and playable variability. If only we could have more games with such fun, simplicity and depth that keeps you asking for more.… Expand
  4. steven14329
    Jun 12, 2011
    10
    The very best Castlevania, and my favorite Playstation title. The music and gameplay are like crack to gamers.
  5. dani666
    Nov 15, 2014
    10
    A Masterpiece!!! without doubts the best game on psx and created by konami
    I missed this kind of games in the new consoles, now the people just want stupids FPS
  6. Alex_Pilgrim008
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    "Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" is the franchise's best installment. This PS1 classic is a masterpiece in the tradition of "Metroid". It is an evolved version of the original Nintendo game. Featuring fantastic level design, stellar graphics, a terrific music score and multiple endings, it's a must play for fans. Konami has made several Castlevania titles since its release. But none of"Castlevania: Symphony of the Night" is the franchise's best installment. This PS1 classic is a masterpiece in the tradition of "Metroid". It is an evolved version of the original Nintendo game. Featuring fantastic level design, stellar graphics, a terrific music score and multiple endings, it's a must play for fans. Konami has made several Castlevania titles since its release. But none of them have lived up to the greatness of "Symphony". I would rate it with a 9.3 out of 10.… Expand
  7. PeterG.
    Jun 26, 2003
    10
    Castlevania SOTN is one of those games: easy to pick up, impossible to put down. This game has established itself in many peoples opinion as the best platformer of all time, it oozes quality and longevity. The graphics being although 2d have a feel all of their own!! Unmissable!!!!
  8. Alucard
    Dec 16, 2003
    10
    If I could I would rate this a 912390132098. It is an AMAZING game. Go get it now and play it if you haven't already.
  9. duckypwns
    Dec 9, 2011
    9
    Great game, one of my all time favorites. In 2011 there's really not much to say about this game that hasn't already been said. If you like 2D exploration, you will love this game.
  10. Morbideathrash
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    Castlevania: SoTN is the first castlevania to introduce a non-linear gameplay, but a RPG similar gameplay style with a lot of RPG elements and focusing on exploration and character levelling. Back in the time (1997) most of castlevania fans were confused because of the drastic gameplay change that SoTN has brought to the series, but it succeded to conquer new and even the purist old fansCastlevania: SoTN is the first castlevania to introduce a non-linear gameplay, but a RPG similar gameplay style with a lot of RPG elements and focusing on exploration and character levelling. Back in the time (1997) most of castlevania fans were confused because of the drastic gameplay change that SoTN has brought to the series, but it succeded to conquer new and even the purist old fans (With only few exceptions) of this amazing series thanks to it perfect formula. A lot of the classic elements of the older games can be found in SoTN which proves that even being a renewal of the series, SoTN remains a Castlevania game and not a Reboot like "Lords of Shadows" which seems to have nothing to do with the series. SoTN in longer than any other game in the series and the most complete. None of others castlevania games you will find such amount of weapons, items, armors (Even the post SoTN games which followed the SoTN RPG style formula/Gameplay) bosses, scenarios, dialogues, places to explore and etc.. When SoTN was launched a lot of reviewers called it "Metroidvania" Because it's gameplay style resemble a lot the metroid exploring gameplay, even the character movements and animations, some even called it a ripp-off, of the Metroid series. Well, we don't care if it is or it is not a Ripp-off (It is NOT!) the fact is that SoTN kicks ass! It is undoubtely the best Castlevania ever (Universally acclaimed by Official critics, not only my personal opinion) the is a lot of things to do, a lot of items to find, special bosses to beat, secret areas to discover.. Everything! It has the best protagonist of the castlevania series ever, Alucard! You play with Dracula's son in this game which is awesome. Like in Castlevania III Alucard can transform itself in another beasts, like the wolf, the bat or the mist, which are important to end the game. The graphics like the other games are 2D based, and they're not bad at all, the colors and scenarios are very beatifull. Nothing awesome, but it does not matter that much at all, we are talking about a castlevania/2D game. The musics and soundtracks are STUNNING! The first soundtrack when you play with richter belmont in the prologue (A very special surprise awaits you when you end the game for the first time..) gives you chills.. Some tracks are very epic, others are very deep and dark which combines perfectly with the game atmosphere. You will hear a lot of classical music in the game too, in other word, SoTN sound track is perfect, and not only perfect but even complete, the tracks do not sound all the same, they are sundry. Unlike the other series, in SoTN you will have a lot of RPG elements and attributes like Strenght, Armor, Intelligence and others. To beat the most powerfull bosses you will have to beat many enemies as you can and increase your statistics and character level, so it will be not wise to avoid enemies, in order to advance the game main story you will have to get stronger as you can. The game as two castles, the normal one and the inverted one, and it is up to you to discover how to get to the inverted one and unlock the good ending (SoTN has about three endings). All this things combined proves that SoTN is a very long game (probably the longer one). SoTN set new standards for the series, all the newer games were "SoTN" based, most of them very good titles but none reached SoTN perfection and epicness. After SoTN release the castlevania series has changed and it remains the best castlevania ever.… Expand
  11. Aeon
    Mar 7, 2013
    10
    SotN was the best Castlevania in that time. Don't get me wrong, but i think AoS has the better Story and OoE has the better gameplay, but i won't go deeper. SotN let's you play the son of Dracula who wants to stop his own father from taking revenge for his mother. Well the story is nothing important, but it's cool to play the son of Dracula, who can use alot of weapons and spells, insteadSotN was the best Castlevania in that time. Don't get me wrong, but i think AoS has the better Story and OoE has the better gameplay, but i won't go deeper. SotN let's you play the son of Dracula who wants to stop his own father from taking revenge for his mother. Well the story is nothing important, but it's cool to play the son of Dracula, who can use alot of weapons and spells, instead of those 1-weapon-only-Belmonts, isn't it? The RPG feature made this game what it is: the very best PS1 game. You also have some really nice and dark atmosphere in that game. The sound is also very good mixing up some old Castlevania soundtracks and adding a few new, which really fit for this game. I recommend this game for everyone who likes 2D Sidescroller games, Metroid and Castlevania games.… Expand
  12. Evangellist
    Jul 27, 2013
    10
    Hoaky voice acting aside, what lies in this PS1 title (Calling it PSX always sounded stupid to me...) is one of my favorite, and in my opinion, best games ever made.

    When the console generation of the PS1 and N64 surfaced, it seemed that everyone was utilizing the new technology known as Polygons, so they focused more on the new 3D, where as, Castlevania, made a game with the newfound    Hoaky voice acting aside, what lies in this PS1 title (Calling it PSX always sounded stupid to me...) is one of my favorite, and in my opinion, best games ever made.

    When the console generation of the PS1 and N64 surfaced, it seemed that everyone was utilizing the new technology known as Polygons, so they focused more on the new 3D, where as, Castlevania, made a game with the newfound technology but with pixels, so it looks like a Super Nintendo game on steroids, a look the compliments the game very well.

    I must applaud the developers for their achievement in in-game architecture with Dracula's Castle this time around, it looks beautiful. Not only that but it flows so nicely with this game's sublime platforming, exploring this monstrous place is wonderful and exciting. The atmosphere is very heavy and engrossing, and its one of the few games I can truly call 'immersive'. It's RPG elements fit in perfectly, not taking precedent on the flow of the game and the traditional placement of enemies or grinding, but weaving all of its mechanics together like this is crazy, especially considering this was the first of its kind. The music and sound design is God-tier, spoting many classical tunes that add to the thick atmosphere of this gothic horror setting. Buy the game on Xbox 360 or any Playstation device, it is COMPLETELY worth it.    … Expand
  13. pirralho3
    Jul 4, 2013
    10
    Epic, in all different levels. The only way to make this game better is by making an HD version, with HQ music and with new areas. It's perfection itself.
  14. Plasmaneedle
    Mar 17, 2014
    10
    A classic. Although not quite as good as Super Metroid this game is one of the best 2D games there are. It evolved the Metroidvania formula and added always welcome RPG elements. Carries on the atmosphere and exploration of the classic Metroidvania games. Definitely worth it.
  15. Kai82
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    A classic of its time, my favorite game in the franchise and probably the poster child for the Metroidvania genre. In Metroidvania games you explore vast levels and find new equipment, skills and abilities that unlock new parts that were non accessible before. Many have RPG mechanics and these combination of exploration, puzzle solving and character improvements is quote addicting. TheA classic of its time, my favorite game in the franchise and probably the poster child for the Metroidvania genre. In Metroidvania games you explore vast levels and find new equipment, skills and abilities that unlock new parts that were non accessible before. Many have RPG mechanics and these combination of exploration, puzzle solving and character improvements is quote addicting. The stories starts with the final battle of the former game “Castlevania Rondo of Blood” where Richter Belmont fights Dracula. Four years have passed since then when Dracula's’ son Alucard arrives at Dracula’s castle to destroy it while Richter Belmont has been missing. What he finds is however different than he has imagined. The story is solid and has an interesting plot idea. However the focus is on the gameplay and so it is not a huge plot or hours of sequences as this is a genre standard. Depending what you do or found out there will be multiple endings and even one where the world is set upside down before it ends (pun intended ;-). The gameplay is excellent. Alucard has awoken from a long slumber and is not at his full strength. You gain experience by defeating enemies, level up and become stronger and stronger. Of cause there are countless weapons, equipment, familiars, (vampiric) powers, spells and secrets to discover. The other part is exploring Dracula’s castle. It is huge and has so many hidden and seemingly non accessible areas. There is so much to explore and find. This is what made me keep going. Also a lot of effort is put into the level design and I think this works as well today as back then. As example for the logical set up just use the clock item in the clock room. The controls work very well and I had never problems in this regard. The difficulty is O.K. for me but can be challenging if you do not level up enough or get better equipment. Visually the game looked really good back then and the art style was a favorite of mine for that time. Today I say it aged well enough that it is not outdated. The soundtrack was truly great and the name “Symphony of the Night” is valid. It is composed by Michiru Yamane and uses a lot of genres to create an awesome soundtrack. For the negatives I would say the loading times are a bit to long for today especially when you died and want to continue. Other than that I think the game holds up well. Overall this became my favorite game in the franchise together with Super Castlevania. It is still really good and worth playing. I view it as a classic of its time and franchise. While the Castlevania franchise is long dormant I would recommend the excellent spiritual successor “Bloodstaines Ritual of the Night”. A truly good successor and a Kickstarter success-story unlike many others.… Expand
  16. Sephiroth_X
    Oct 25, 2014
    9
    Wow, if the ps1 was a 3D gaming platform im glad they released some 2D games because those are the only ones i still can play on that console, the 3d ones look ugly as hell.
    Making the next castlevania in 2D was the best choice for konami, and thanks to that (and ultra amazing gameplay) I can recommend this game for generations to come.
    The gameplay changed a lot since super castlevania    Wow, if the ps1 was a 3D gaming platform im glad they released some 2D games because those are the only ones i still can play on that console, the 3d ones look ugly as hell.
    Making the next castlevania in 2D was the best choice for konami, and thanks to that (and ultra amazing gameplay) I can recommend this game for generations to come.
    The gameplay changed a lot since super castlevania IV on the snes, they took out the "short" stages and made it a single BIG stage and added lots of rpg elements, also took heavy inspiration from super metroid, both games are very similar but great in their own way.

    Now you use Alucard the son of Dracula and thats also a improvement, he's the best character in a castlevania game, has something about him and the developers know thats why he keeps reappearing in their games. The soundtrack is one of the best as well. The game is lengthy with a secret that lets you go into a big world that can be missed if you dont do the right things.

    100% recommended.    … Expand
  17. ItsAllOgre5
    Sep 23, 2017
    10
    This is easily one of the best games ever created. I first played this last year and was enraptured from beginning to end. The music is memorable, the graphics are gorgeous, the challenge level is just right, and the replayability is high with the options to go for 200% completion and a Richter playthrough. Timeless.
  18. UncleEd
    Oct 12, 2021
    10
    A phenomenal game that deserves all the praise. This is the game that co-invented the metroidvania genre together with Metroid. You are Alucard, Count Dracula’s half human son and you have to explore Dracula’s castle. You gain access to different parts of the castle by unlocking some skills, weapons, solving puzzles, killing enemies, typical to metroidvania games.

    First thing you notice    A phenomenal game that deserves all the praise. This is the game that co-invented the metroidvania genre together with Metroid. You are Alucard, Count Dracula’s half human son and you have to explore Dracula’s castle. You gain access to different parts of the castle by unlocking some skills, weapons, solving puzzles, killing enemies, typical to metroidvania games.

    First thing you notice when you start the game is its unique visual style. It definitely holds up and looks absolutely beautiful today, better than most other PS1 titles. Music is also spectacular (especially in the first half of the game), fitting to the vampire theme nicely and changing based on your location within the castle. Once you explore the castle, you gain access to the inverted castle (a top-down version of the same castle), with new puzzles, enemies and bosses.

    One of the things I enjoyed the most about the game is the cohesive game design with the vampire mythology. Different parts of the castle introduce different enemies but they are all connected to the vampire mythology one way or another. Nothing feels out of place.

    There are some flaws. The infamous cheesy dialogue written with poor English which may now belong to “so bad that it’s good” category. Also, the game has a difficulty problem in the sense that it starts a bit too difficult. And depending on your weapons and skills, it may become way too easy before you are half way through. Finally, there are some areas which would be very hard to figure out without a guide.

    Despite all these flaws though, Symphony of the Night’s main strength is something lacking in most games. It has character and you feel strongly connected to it despite the many games you may have played in the past which Castlevania: SoTN has strongly influenced.

    9.5/10    … Expand
  19. Burayan
    Jul 21, 2018
    10
    This game is truly a masterpiece that defined the "Metroidvania" genre as we know it, but remember, a masterpiece can have it"s flaws, like the difficulty being really unbalanced, useless items and powers, bad plot and voice acting, the second part of the game being a little copypaste from the first part, but, what makes this game a masterpiece is it"s gameplay, music and environment,This game is truly a masterpiece that defined the "Metroidvania" genre as we know it, but remember, a masterpiece can have it"s flaws, like the difficulty being really unbalanced, useless items and powers, bad plot and voice acting, the second part of the game being a little copypaste from the first part, but, what makes this game a masterpiece is it"s gameplay, music and environment, first the gameplay, this gameplay is so good man, combining rpg with aspects from old castlevanias and inspiration from metroid, being really satisfying to play and to get power-ups and even addicting to just explore and kill enemies with the tight controls, then, the music... this is truly a symphony, every track of this game is good and mixes perfectly with the atmosphere, and then, the environment, all of the game happens in dracula"s castle, castlevania, and man, there are a lot of unique places that blend perfectly toguether with the enemies and music. For being a 1997 game, this game is truly special.… Expand
  20. Gaisericus
    Feb 14, 2020
    10
    hey, look buddy, do you have any idea who you're dealing with? this is one of the best games of all time
  21. danilogan7
    Jun 23, 2022
    10
    Provavelmente o melhor jogo já lançado no playstation 1.
    Trilha sonora absurdamente boa, traz algumas músicas de rock e outras com uma pegada clássica gótica.
    Representação muito bonita do castelo do Drácula, pra época, tanto seu level design que funciona muito bem no castelo normal e traz desafios no invertido. As mecânicas são bem simples, funcionam muito bem e a progressão das    Provavelmente o melhor jogo já lançado no playstation 1.
    Trilha sonora absurdamente boa, traz algumas músicas de rock e outras com uma pegada clássica gótica.
    Representação muito bonita do castelo do Drácula, pra época, tanto seu level design que funciona muito bem no castelo normal e traz desafios no invertido.
    As mecânicas são bem simples, funcionam muito bem e a progressão das habilidades é dada na medida certa. Apesar da maioria das armas serem espadas, havia algumas outras opções para variar a gameplay, além das magias que Alucard podia executar.
    Os diálogos originais são bem melhores em comparação ao refeitos, mas ainda sim não é o ponto forte do game.
    Outra questão é a narrativa que é bem simples e não saiu da zona de conforto em comparação aos jogos anteriores, porém a ramificação trazida pelos finais alternativos é bem legal.    … Expand
  22. kailip
    Apr 10, 2012
    10
    This game is the best game of all times. PERIOD. There's nothing else to say.
  23. FelipeSabba
    Apr 3, 2015
    10
    This game was the best game i've played on my entire life. The soundtrack is absolutely amazing, the customization, the amount of items, the bestiary, the bosses, everything in this game is fantastic. I recommend it to everyone!
  24. Firemam
    Jun 27, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Excellent well, fantastic plot, amazing gameplay, awesome soundtrack (especially the monster sometime can even outsmart the player) but the way they make the game more longer by invert the castle is just somekind of lazy but lucky for them by changing colour scheme, sound and monster makes it acceptable
    For someone who just wants to complete this game fast may only play 50% of the game like me until i watching it on yt and gg
    With me, this one is the best part of all castlevania series (the reason i rate it 9 because at the beginning of the game is really hard that makes me want to give up but the more you play, its get simply easier so i think you should have enough patient to past the beginning...)    … Expand
  25. YorkMan
    Nov 24, 2015
    7
    SOTN is a great game, but it's far from perfect. I never understand review scores of 8+ for games which are great.... But clearly not worth such high ratings.
    Why is SOTN 'only' worth a 7? I'll explain.
    The game is a follow up to a Japanese only release on the PC-Engine CD format, a game that it borrows from extensively (right down to a great deal of enemy sprites which are just ported    SOTN is a great game, but it's far from perfect. I never understand review scores of 8+ for games which are great.... But clearly not worth such high ratings.
    Why is SOTN 'only' worth a 7? I'll explain.

    The game is a follow up to a Japanese only release on the PC-Engine CD format, a game that it borrows from extensively (right down to a great deal of enemy sprites which are just ported over intact), but changes from a defined 'level' system (a-b-c), to a more open world system. It's reminiscent of the Metroid games in that respect, which again, it borrows wholeheartedly from in gameplay terms.
    So essentially is a game with (slightly better than 16-bit) graphics, that rips off game structure, and whose designers couldn't be bothered to develop a new set of characters for.
    Now I know that some character designs do inhabit the 'world' of Castlevania (God damn Medusa Heads!!!) but to simply cut and paste from an older game is just lazy. It could have been so much more diverse and interesting.
    However, there are two MAJOR problems with the game that knock its rating down severely.
    The first is that the game is incredibly easy to 'break'. It's not as if the game is that difficult anyway, but certain combinations of the equipment you collect make the protagonist, Alucard, practically invincible. And I'm not talking about right at the end of the game, I'm talking about not that far in.
    The second is the utterly horrible American 'dub'. The graphical style of the game is clearly Japanese, from the in-game graphics as you play, to the static images/portraits in the menus, to the box art itself... But rather than release the game with a dual language/subtitles option, we had to endure some of the most cringe-worthy spoken dialogue ever put into a video game. It's almost if someone directing the 'rent a voice' actors was saying to them 'no, that's far to enigmatic and resonant, do it again and this time make yourself sound whiny and pathetic'. I never could understand that, but a Japanese language version has never been made 'officially' available in the West... For shame!    … Expand
  26. Alucart
    Jan 21, 2006
    5
    Played, finished it with the 197% completion rate, but never found it being an exciting game. Maybe it's because of the reason that I finished Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow and Dawn of Sorrow not so long ago and they make this one to feel somewhat lacky, messy and boring. That, or this game is just over-rated. One thing is for sure (okay, two things): The voice acting is indeed Played, finished it with the 197% completion rate, but never found it being an exciting game. Maybe it's because of the reason that I finished Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow and Dawn of Sorrow not so long ago and they make this one to feel somewhat lacky, messy and boring. That, or this game is just over-rated. One thing is for sure (okay, two things): The voice acting is indeed _horrible_ (it's a common fact) and the game's plot was really uninteresting (or badly attached in the game).… Expand
  27. Iluvatar21
    May 3, 2014
    7
    HOW I RATE: 10-9 score: perfect or near-perfect don't exist; 8 score: one of the best games ever. Top score; 7-6 score: great but not one of the best; 5-below score: serious flaws.
    ===========
    An incredible adventure. Very engaging and fun.
  28. moricetimeofwar
    Oct 25, 2014
    9
    A good game with a good ambiance but not a castlevania. In fact, I don't consider metroidvania as TRUE castlevania mainly because they are too similar to Metroid and especially super metroid. Symphony of the night is in my opinion a sub-super metroid, but it is still very good insofar as it is a very good exploration game with excellent music. However, it is not a masterpiece just a veryA good game with a good ambiance but not a castlevania. In fact, I don't consider metroidvania as TRUE castlevania mainly because they are too similar to Metroid and especially super metroid. Symphony of the night is in my opinion a sub-super metroid, but it is still very good insofar as it is a very good exploration game with excellent music. However, it is not a masterpiece just a very good game. A few irritating flaws are also noted, such as the fact that we have no frame of invincibility, enemies that pushes you outside the screen is annoying at times, but the worst is the selection of items in the inventory that is really the WORST in all the games I played. Finally, good game but should not be considered as a castlevania, moreover the more manga style of the game is the proof, we are far from a Gothic style to Castlevania 4.… Expand
  29. camptownrangers
    May 30, 2015
    6
    It's a good game, just incredibly overrated. Aria/Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin, and Order of Ecclesia are far better games and honestly make Symphony of the Night feel quite boring. At the end of the day there's nothing that SotN does that you won't find much better in the newer entries.

    That being said though, Richter mode in SotN is still loads of fun.
  30. LuigiCuau
    Oct 25, 2018
    9
    Es un gran juego con gran banda sonora y buenos jefes, lo malo es que a batalla final contra Dracula es muy fácil y es padre lo del castillo que se pone de cabeza pero al final aquí es donde falla un poco por que cuando esta normal el castillo cada lugar tiene ese toque especial, esos cuartos únicos pero con el castillo al revés todo es igual
  31. cancali
    Mar 28, 2020
    1
    Un juego sobrevalorado. Jugabilidad simplísima, en 2D, nada original. Además tiene una historia mala, llena de clichés. Posee elementos RPG pero no tiene mayor complejidad que poner el item de mayor valor de defensa o ataque que tengas disponible.

    Overrated game. Very simple gameplay, another copy of old 2D games. Bad story and scripts. The RPG elements aren't a real challenge.
  32. logan1087
    Mar 21, 2017
    10
    Sin duda uno los mejores videojuegos de todos los tiempos si no es que el mejor, tiene una cantidad de elementos de jugabilidad, detalles artísticos, un gran diseño de escenarios y personajes, y se nota un gran trabajo en cada uno de los enemigos, items, armaduras (cada objeto incluso tiene su descripción) etc, solo tiene algunos detalles y relentizaciones pero que afectan en muy poco elSin duda uno los mejores videojuegos de todos los tiempos si no es que el mejor, tiene una cantidad de elementos de jugabilidad, detalles artísticos, un gran diseño de escenarios y personajes, y se nota un gran trabajo en cada uno de los enemigos, items, armaduras (cada objeto incluso tiene su descripción) etc, solo tiene algunos detalles y relentizaciones pero que afectan en muy poco el desarrollo y la experiencia del videojuego un 10 de calificación… Expand
  33. hauwhian
    Jul 14, 2020
    10
    Very good game, but easier than Bloodstained: Ritual Of The Night. Both IGAVANIA games are made by Koji Igarashi. Alucard vs Miriam: Alucard has stronger punch, and more durable body which can withstand all Bosses attack (Alucard is almost invincible!), and the best weapon : Crissaegrim is easier to obtain than any rare items in Bloodstained ROTN.

    Overall Castlevania SOTN is an    Very good game, but easier than Bloodstained: Ritual Of The Night. Both IGAVANIA games are made by Koji Igarashi. Alucard vs Miriam: Alucard has stronger punch, and more durable body which can withstand all Bosses attack (Alucard is almost invincible!), and the best weapon : Crissaegrim is easier to obtain than any rare items in Bloodstained ROTN.

    Overall Castlevania SOTN is an easier game, but has more beautiful BGM MUSIC than Bloodstained ROTN. I recommend you to play Bloodstained Ritual Of The Night for better challenge and game experience but similar playstyle.    … Expand
  34. neomoonsevin
    Jan 22, 2023
    0
    This is on Xbox aswell why isn't it labelled under Xbox aswell is this metacritic or old archives that don't get updated anyway I played this on PlayStation didn't like it then I purchased this on Xbox 360 and it's still shert
  35. JonR.
    Feb 3, 2005
    10
    One of the absolute best games ever in my opinion. One of the few games I've played through more than 5 times and I've been gaming since '84!
  36. JasonH.
    Jul 21, 2002
    10
    If i could i would rate this a possible 3000 ----- 1-10.
  37. JoeG.
    Oct 20, 2003
    10
    One of the best castlevanias ever! I feel that with this, people should play all three for gameboy. Alucard can't be topped. Hopefully the PS2 Castlevania Lament Of Innocence will be up to par with this one. SOTN is the best game ever.
  38. DogelopiM.
    May 13, 2003
    10
    This game is one of Konami's greatest hits by far. Best Castelvania ever made. I say we kick out 3d and go back to 2d as Marco F. said!
  39. RavenW.
    Jul 26, 2004
    10
    Best CastleVania game ever, best music, Alucard is the coolest character ever, its awesome!!
  40. SeanM.
    Feb 27, 2005
    10
    Even though some of the newer GBA Castlevania games are very good, none have ever approached the mood, majesty, and brilliance of this incarnation of the classic series. This is without a doubt the most lovingly crafted and polished of all Castlevania games, and it is the best. It is in my top three console games ever. Masterpiece would not be too strong a word to use when referring to this game.
  41. ManuelM.
    Apr 28, 2005
    10
    Bad ass.
  42. KingKnop
    Oct 19, 2002
    10
    One of the best games ever made.
  43. [Anonymous]
    Dec 10, 2002
    10
    The best Castlevania ever and one of the greatest games of all time on any platform.
  44. AlyshaM.
    Oct 2, 2002
    10
    On a scale from one to ten this game is an eleven.
  45. SimonB.
    Mar 9, 2002
    10
    Best damn game ever for the PSX!!!
  46. AdrainH.
    May 26, 2002
    10
    This is the best game ever!
  47. FranF.
    Jan 9, 2003
    10
    Best game ever made in the history of the industry! The ONLY thing bad I can say about the game is it ended! Definitely could be outlawed by the government for it's pure addiction. Never mind online gaming, play SotN!
  48. ThorntonG.
    Feb 15, 2003
    10
    This is the best game I have ever played. I going on my seventh year of plaing it because I want to see if you can really turn into a DRAGON not just in stone.
  49. MarcoF.
    Feb 7, 2003
    10
    Castlevania: Symphony of The Night proves that graphics arent everything in a video game. Still holding its original 2-D graphics, this game has to be , hands down , the best video game ever made. I only wish more games would be like it. Now that the new generation of video games are trying to push on perfecting 3D graphics , i say get rid of 3D , lets go back to the old school 2D Castlevania: Symphony of The Night proves that graphics arent everything in a video game. Still holding its original 2-D graphics, this game has to be , hands down , the best video game ever made. I only wish more games would be like it. Now that the new generation of video games are trying to push on perfecting 3D graphics , i say get rid of 3D , lets go back to the old school 2D graphics. Can't wait for Konami's next Castlevania series !! … Expand
  50. Death
    Nov 19, 2004
    10
    Play this game with all your life!!the best castlevania ever!!
  51. killer_ejv
    Jan 2, 2004
    10
    BEST MUSIC!!!!!
  52. EetuS.
    Jan 22, 2004
    10
    Great game with awesome music (by Michiru Yamane) and graphics.
  53. Bunny
    Jun 8, 2004
    10
    Best Castlevania Game EVER Incredible Music. If you think it has a bad plot, you just dont play Castlevania much. The game Is really long because you have to do the entire castle twice except the socond time its all upside down and the monsters are much more difficult. Even though the final boss was too easy, theres alot more bosses that make up for that fact. I recommend anyone that Best Castlevania Game EVER Incredible Music. If you think it has a bad plot, you just dont play Castlevania much. The game Is really long because you have to do the entire castle twice except the socond time its all upside down and the monsters are much more difficult. Even though the final boss was too easy, theres alot more bosses that make up for that fact. I recommend anyone that wants to try a good game should get this!… Expand
  54. AaronC.
    Oct 11, 2005
    10
    Not only is it one of the best contructed and enjoyable games I've ever played, but it also has a soundtrack that will absolutely blow you away!
  55. Yomamma
    Mar 5, 2005
    10
    F YEAH! castlevania SOTN is the most Kick ass game ever and the music rocks!
  56. BeccaV.
    Aug 9, 2005
    10
    Castlevania: SotN is one of the best games I've ever played. I play it over and over again and never get sick of it. With alternate endings, ultimate weapons, and dares from my brother, it just gets more and more interesting as I play it. ^_^ Yeah. Totally kick ass. I dunno how someone could not love this game.
  57. AdamRW
    Jun 20, 2007
    9
    The gameplay is a benchmark for all (hopefully, possibly, someday, maybe not) future 2D sidescrolling adventure games. Much like Super Metroid, but quite innnovative none the less. 2D pixel gaming heaven.
  58. TitoH
    May 1, 2009
    10
    The best side-scroller, the best Castlevania, the best PSOne game, and one of the best of all time.Beautiful graphics, unforgettable soundtrack, dozens of enemies, hundreds of itens and even cool bugs!Before this game i hated Castlevania, now it's easily one of my favorite series.
  59. RogerS.
    Dec 16, 2001
    10
    Aside from the bad voice overs, this game is one that every true Castlevaina fan should own, than again... if you are a Castlevania fan you already know that! KONAMI, PLEASE RELEASE MORE OF THE JAPANESE ONLY TITLES HERE IN THE U.S!
  60. K
    Dec 7, 2002
    10
    This is the best castlevania ever.
  61. JasonG.
    Aug 17, 2002
    10
    Best action/RPG game for PS1 I ever played!
  62. Fighter17
    Dec 25, 2004
    10
    Who could hate this game?
  63. JoshB.
    Jan 18, 2005
    10
    One of the best games ever in top 10 for sure.
  64. PedroD.
    Aug 22, 2005
    10
    Many hours have been spent on this game and every couples years i break it out to play again.
  65. CodyK.
    Aug 27, 2005
    10
    This game is easily the most fun I
  66. Samusaran43
    Oct 19, 2006
    10
    Great Castlevania game. This is one of my most liked game in the series. I just bought it and started playing it even though I've played the newer ones. One thing I love about SOTN is it seems to be a combination of Circle of the Moon, Harmony of Dissonance, Aria of Sorrow, and Dawn of Sorrow all of which I loved. To me, this is the best game in the series. Sure the voice acting and Great Castlevania game. This is one of my most liked game in the series. I just bought it and started playing it even though I've played the newer ones. One thing I love about SOTN is it seems to be a combination of Circle of the Moon, Harmony of Dissonance, Aria of Sorrow, and Dawn of Sorrow all of which I loved. To me, this is the best game in the series. Sure the voice acting and storyline might need work, but those are small sacrifices of the sheer genus that Konami did when they made this game in 1997. I hope that they will make another one that surpasses this game, DOS comes close but almost passes.… Expand
  67. Max
    May 31, 2009
    10
    I would have given it a 100 if I could. This game is nothing less than a spiritual journey, almost holy and god like. Music was awesome, Gameplay was perfect which sets a new standard for all 2d games to come and the Graphics were exceptionally good specially for it being a Ps one game and being 2d at the same time.
  68. ChrisP.
    Nov 11, 2005
    10
    I'll keep this short. Symphony of the Night was the best game on the Playstation. Hundreds of weapons to collect throughout the castle, along with some of the most enjoyable sidescrolling action since Super Metroid is why this game is lauded as being one of the best. Ever. Period.
  69. spi280
    Dec 9, 2013
    9
    one of my favourite games. I love the cheesy voice acting, exploring the castle to find the fun to use upgrades and transformations, the inverted castle and how hard it is, being able to play as richter, the great sprite art and the atmospheric music
  70. JHango
    Aug 16, 2011
    10
    This game is complete! Great graphics, great soundtrack, great history, great gameplay. The best Castlevania ever!!
  71. Phantom-Tommy
    May 12, 2011
    9
    Even better than Super Metroid, yeah, it's that good, no hand holding, no checkpoints every two minutes, just good old fashioned action goodness! One of the best games ever.
  72. Matseb2611
    May 24, 2011
    9
    A Castlevania game that revolutionised the series. This is the first Castlevania to be made in a metroid style, i.e. one huge castle to explore with certain areas only becoming available once a certain skill or item are achieved. Symphony of the Night is a really solid addition to the series, though there are a few issues, which is why I am not giving it a perfect score. I would give itA Castlevania game that revolutionised the series. This is the first Castlevania to be made in a metroid style, i.e. one huge castle to explore with certain areas only becoming available once a certain skill or item are achieved. Symphony of the Night is a really solid addition to the series, though there are a few issues, which is why I am not giving it a perfect score. I would give it 9.5 if that was possible though. First the good bits. Alucard as playable character, and if I am not mistaken, the first time the player gets to use more than 1 weapon throughout the entire Castlevania game. There are tonnes of various weapons and armor to find in the game, which makes it fun to explore. The dialogue is although cheesy is very memorable. Seriously, the first lines of the game are almost definitely engraved in every veteran Castlevania fan's mind, and not just the first lines. The areas are very beautiful, well designed and polished. The background music is pretty great too, with tunes having a somewhat classic and gothic feel. Enemies and bosses are unique and interesting. In addition all the little bits, like Alucard's capes actually changing colour depending on one you equip, is just awesome and shows that a lot of effort was put into the game. Now the few minor drawbacks in my opinion are mostly to do with control of the character. It seems as though Alucard moves and especially jumps in slow motion. At times when you need to backtrack or get somewhere through an entire stage it can get really annoying. In addition to that, every time you get hit (even if it's a weak enemy that does 1 pt of dmg) Alucard sort of freezes in places for a second. In rooms where you're surrounded by enemies that is a nightmare. Nevertheless Symphony of the Night is epic and atmospheric, and I think scales rather well with difficulty (apart from some bits, like boss battle against Death being too easy by the time you reach him). I still prefer Aria of Sorrow more in terms of gameplay, character control and soundtrack, but Symphony has better graphics.… Expand
  73. hellkt
    Nov 5, 2011
    10
    Castlevania: Symphony of the Night is definitelyone of the best Playstation games. The music, the ambient and also the history and main character were amazing. The only weak point was the graphics, that weren't really up to day. But it wasn't a problem for me.
  74. Teru_XD
    Sep 10, 2012
    9
    An amazing game. Sure, it doesn't hold up against more recent releases (Aria of Sorrow comes to mind), but the fun factor is indeed present. The Metroidvania formula is indeed the recipe for success. The music is so good, any person with a sense of hearing will appreciate it (proven fact). The graphics were good for its time, but on this day and age, don't look as good as they should.An amazing game. Sure, it doesn't hold up against more recent releases (Aria of Sorrow comes to mind), but the fun factor is indeed present. The Metroidvania formula is indeed the recipe for success. The music is so good, any person with a sense of hearing will appreciate it (proven fact). The graphics were good for its time, but on this day and age, don't look as good as they should. Overall, great game with a high replay value, high difficulty and memorable music. If you love games from the past and can overlook outdated graphics, you owe it to yourself to play this game.… Expand
  75. Fahseel
    Jun 1, 2012
    10
    Ok so I was WAYYYYY late playing this game. I remember seeing it back when it first came out and for reasons unbeknownst to me, I never picked it up even though I had played previous Castlevania's. Even playing it over 10 years after it was originally released, this was a great game. It made me wish for another 2-D Castlevania game (not a big fan of Lords of Shadow.....although IOk so I was WAYYYYY late playing this game. I remember seeing it back when it first came out and for reasons unbeknownst to me, I never picked it up even though I had played previous Castlevania's. Even playing it over 10 years after it was originally released, this was a great game. It made me wish for another 2-D Castlevania game (not a big fan of Lords of Shadow.....although I tried). Although it would probably never happen, I would love an HD remake of this game. It also had a great soundtrack!… Expand
  76. badron11
    Jun 3, 2023
    10
    Link to my full review, please refer to that for my thoughts on this classic masterpiece:
    https://www.gamespot.com/castlevania-symphony-of-the-night/user-reviews/2200-284204/
    This site has a 5000 character limit. I will simply say that there isn't another game that deserves a legit 10/10 score than this game. Castlevania: SotN is one of the greatest games of all time, and is the    Link to my full review, please refer to that for my thoughts on this classic masterpiece:
    https://www.gamespot.com/castlevania-symphony-of-the-night/user-reviews/2200-284204/

    This site has a 5000 character limit. I will simply say that there isn't another game that deserves a legit 10/10 score than this game. Castlevania: SotN is one of the greatest games of all time, and is the greatest game of it's kind for sure. If you've never played this game, you need to find a way to do so right now.    … Expand
  77. GordonVanDyke
    Oct 5, 2012
    10
    I play this game at least once a year since it originally released. Though not a perfect game, there's just something about it that will never stop me from playing it again and again.
  78. alex007
    Oct 18, 2012
    9
    "Symphony of the Night" is one of the very best action games on the PS1. It's a 2D side-scroller that plays just like "Metroid" but within the "Castlevania" universe. The game begins with the final segment of "Castlevania: Bloodlines" (Sega Genesis) as a setup for its own story. Unlike previous entries, the protagonist isn't a member of the Belmont clan, but a son of Dracula named Alucard."Symphony of the Night" is one of the very best action games on the PS1. It's a 2D side-scroller that plays just like "Metroid" but within the "Castlevania" universe. The game begins with the final segment of "Castlevania: Bloodlines" (Sega Genesis) as a setup for its own story. Unlike previous entries, the protagonist isn't a member of the Belmont clan, but a son of Dracula named Alucard. Players can equip weapons, armor and special-powered amulets to defeat the unholy creatures of Dracula's castle. Like "Metroid", "Night" is an RPG/adventure game that is filled with hidden rooms and areas that can only be explored by using special equipment. Like any RPG, you level up as you defeat enemies, pick up loot and can buy or sell items and weapons. The musical soundtrack is ever bit as phenomenal as critics say it is. And the graphics are truly impressive for a PS1 title. This is a game that fans of "Castlevania" and RPGs will find plenty of enjoyment in. It has plenty of depth due to its expansive adventure and numerous endings. It's also the series' best entry.… Expand
  79. TallSaint
    Aug 27, 2016
    10
    This is one of those games that comes along once in a decade. Truly one of the greatest video games of all time. The music, the gameplay, the secrets, the replayability, even the name of the game itself...

    This is a beautiful, perfected adventure.
  80. CannonBlaster
    Nov 23, 2013
    8
    The first Metroidvania castlevania holds up surprising well. If you can swallow flutuating difficulty, and a really annoying death sequence, then you'll love the fast pace action that is Symphony of the Night.
  81. Mason1969
    Aug 6, 2020
    10
    Even after 20+ years, this is just a superb game. Enjoyed the non-linear map and exciting gameplay, items and level-ups. Simply magical and fun!
  82. css101
    Nov 23, 2014
    10
    One of my favorites from ps1. Style, music, gameplay - they all perfect. Although there are some confusing moments in a game (like the one with rings in Clock tower) and bad voice acting it still a very VERY good game.
    Never finished for 200.6% though.
  83. NyanKo
    Feb 7, 2014
    10
    I remembered playing this game when I was 14... yes, 14... because my senior brothers played it again and again and I watched it again and again... never got bored. To tell the truth, I'm now 25 and still playing it again.
  84. abraham_b
    May 4, 2015
    9
    Absolutely brilliant game and definitely lives up to the original games. In fact it does them proud and I'm pretty happy to acknowledge that, being a fan of the series since NES times. Only probably is it costs a fortune, at least here in the UK for the PAL version. So lucky I'd held onto it since my PS1 years.
  85. Ramiro1992
    Jun 4, 2014
    9
    Probably the best Castlevania game ever made, but for me, it's the second, awesome graphics, the music is beautiful, this game is almost perfect, It deserves every one of the points, today is hard to find this incredibly awesome games, the gameplay is very confortable, one thing i don't like is his lack of clues, sometimes i don't know where to go next, the map does not help too much.
  86. death12123
    May 27, 2019
    10
    What is a masterpiece? A Castlevania game like this no secret. Cheesy but lovable early voice acting, soundtrack that you can listen to any and all days, gameplay that'll never get old, RPG system that's overall fascinating from 100's of options to choose from, lovable characters and great story, etc.
    This aged well and is still one of the few games today that people should always replay or try.
  87. Drakion23
    Dec 31, 2017
    10
    Castlevania Symphony of the Night.

    My review Your Alucuard a half vampire half human he gave up his powers to save Maria and Ricthcer sorry Im not spelling that correctly anways. this only 30 hour plus game but other hidden stuff more then the 30 horus you get 60 hours plus doing everything don't rush this game I did that years ago when I first rented guy said ray your not done    Castlevania Symphony of the Night.

    My review

    Your Alucuard a half vampire half human he gave up his powers to save Maria and Ricthcer sorry Im not spelling that correctly anways.

    this only 30 hour plus game but other hidden stuff more then the 30 horus you get 60 hours plus doing everything don't rush this game I did that years ago when I first rented guy said ray your not done you have other castle its inverted I was like what to him.

    Stop found the game beat it took awhile but I got it done so yeah dont beat ricthcer you not done with this game you have shaft the dark priest death many Dracula bosses to fight in the inverted castle Im gald to know that many years ago.

    That what happens my friends blaze through rpgs look damn side quests I dont stress that enough they boring you to me that how finally beat not Im done main story is nothing you got more get done tequesta only other female make sure that any game fininshed the right way.

    She done with dark souls series and Cathrine game so yeah I take example from her.

    She likes to finish a game she only female gamer I know doesn't half ass game she likes beat 100 percent a lot people just beat she likes trophies

    Its bragging rights she beat the game didnt rush through it.

    Im going back old games finishing them.

    The right way im not listening old friend who cares that gone those people outta my life.

    anways the rating of this game.

    since 7 rating people stupid fan boys on here cant rate something they like no wonder why a lot people dont like this stie.

    I understand anways.

    9 graphics
    9 story
    controls 9
    camera 9
    overall rating 9.8

    This game has all for me no one knew about it

    expect me and my brother and friend name Chris at least knew about it.

    I make iga knows the tequesta learn this game.

    Not hard knowing her she will be the first castle and the second one fast    … Expand
  88. powermad80
    Mar 9, 2015
    8
    It's quite a good and absorbing game, it pioneered the Metroidvania style for Castlevania and therefore paved the way for the masterpieces to come after it. I don't think this is a perfect game or a 10/10, but it's certainly an easy recommendation. Later games in the series like Portrait of Ruin and Aria of Sorrow were better than SOTN, but that doesn't make this any less of a must-play.
  89. Mik87
    Jun 2, 2014
    10
    L'ho giocato solo di recente e ne sono rimasto entusiasta. E' un titolo bellissimo da giocare, vedere e sentire ancora oggi. Il miglior Metroidvania e il miglior Castlevania della serie insieme a Super Castlevania IV.
  90. Schrottplatz00
    Jul 23, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. MY SCORE: 9.3/10 (I round it in Metacritic)

    A magical experience in the field of the 2D platforming games.
    The game has a good overall story, although the voice acting is kinda **** (and fun, which I judge good) but its shine is on the gameplay. And what a brightly shine.
    The game give you so much freedom and options that it's kinda impossible to get bored of it, and also, it's not easy, expect at least a good challenge. Tons of equipments and weapons and ways to "build" your character, awesome boss design and fights and having in mind that this game was made back in 1997 makes you think where the hell are other games like this. With its 2D art and no-less-than-outstanding soundtrack the is a piece of art itself, the developers really knew what they were doing back in those times. The soundtrack completely takes you into the mood of the place you are, like daunting songs that makes you wanna rush the place in fear or exciting songs that makes you wanna grab your sword and take the whole challenge.
    When I first played it, the game hit me two times with a hammer of amazingness. When you think that you're coming to an end (which in this game is very sad, it could last forever) the game gives you an outstanding new castle all for exploration, with new monsters and bosses, items, nice stuff and so on.
    But again, when you think the new castle is over and you cry as the credits roll on, you discover that creating a save game with another ~specific~ name for playing it again *cough*cough* changes EVERYTHING. How amazing can that be?

    A piece of art. PLAY IT!    … Expand
  91. chesaro
    Dec 28, 2017
    10
    Perfect, just perfect, the music, the bosses, the almost infinite weapons/armors/food, it is just a great game, if you can get the digital version or the one included on the dracula x chronicles, you should just do it, no other castlevania has achieved whant this one did when there was just a basic template for a "metroidvania" game (i do realise this was one of the ones that made it, i'mPerfect, just perfect, the music, the bosses, the almost infinite weapons/armors/food, it is just a great game, if you can get the digital version or the one included on the dracula x chronicles, you should just do it, no other castlevania has achieved whant this one did when there was just a basic template for a "metroidvania" game (i do realise this was one of the ones that made it, i'm just saying)… Expand
  92. Bitrip
    Jan 19, 2016
    10
    Few games have managed to stand the test of time as well as Castlevania: SotN. It is a game I will continue to play so long as Sony continues re-releasing it on newer consoles. The soundtrack and atmosphere are my two favorite things about the game. You can tell the composer poured his black little heart into each and every track. If you aren't a believer, embrace SotN with an open heartFew games have managed to stand the test of time as well as Castlevania: SotN. It is a game I will continue to play so long as Sony continues re-releasing it on newer consoles. The soundtrack and atmosphere are my two favorite things about the game. You can tell the composer poured his black little heart into each and every track. If you aren't a believer, embrace SotN with an open heart and I promise you it will not disappoint. It's good to the very last drop....of blood.… Expand
  93. br_1245
    Sep 14, 2014
    10
    Um jogo que o obriga a jogar mais e mais a cada dela. Dificilmente existirá um jogo com tanto apelo como este. Aqui os games em 2D conheceram seu suprassumo.
  94. Arc_Inochi
    Dec 6, 2014
    10
    Whew.... Castlevania. before this game came out when I thought about Castlevania, I remembered all the frustrating jumping and whipping and the bursting blood vessels that the old games were notorious for. Then I played this game, my first impressions flew out of my foaming mouth when I found out you used swords. The more I played, the more hooked I got. The castle is huge, there's tons ofWhew.... Castlevania. before this game came out when I thought about Castlevania, I remembered all the frustrating jumping and whipping and the bursting blood vessels that the old games were notorious for. Then I played this game, my first impressions flew out of my foaming mouth when I found out you used swords. The more I played, the more hooked I got. The castle is huge, there's tons of secrets and so.... many... weapons, spells and destruction. This Castlevania was the first of all the newer style action-rpg castlevanias that have been hitting the market. Play this game if you haven't, you will not regret it.… Expand
  95. EduardoMeurer
    Mar 16, 2022
    10
    Meu top 2 jogos favoritos, simplesmente o melhor jogo 2d já feito, trilha sonora espetacular e muito divertido.
  96. nervioso2009
    Jul 8, 2019
    9
    Una obra maestra impepinable. Gran música, gameplay, ambientación y gráficos. El doblaje inglés es lamentable pero gracias a él tenemos el meme de "What is a man!".

    9.5/10
  97. Evengar
    Feb 22, 2015
    10
    This game introduced to me classic metroidovania at its best. Great graphics, great animations, great everything. Addictive gameplay just holds on to you and releases only when you've finished the game. Simply brilliant. A masterpiece.
  98. neopolx
    Jul 10, 2016
    10
    The best plataform game EVER,Castlevania is great but Symphony of the night take itto another level, Full of movements, magic powers, great story, Two castles an allies. and secrets.
  99. Termin8ter
    Feb 3, 2016
    9
    Castlevania: Symphony Of The Night is hands down the greatest Castlevania game of all time, and its among the very best GAMES of all time. The gameplay is fast, and action-packed. The story is spectacular and leaves you wanting more. The story follows Simon Belmont, who is trying to kill his grandfather, Dracula, who lives in a castle.(hence the name Castlevania) so you fight your wayCastlevania: Symphony Of The Night is hands down the greatest Castlevania game of all time, and its among the very best GAMES of all time. The gameplay is fast, and action-packed. The story is spectacular and leaves you wanting more. The story follows Simon Belmont, who is trying to kill his grandfather, Dracula, who lives in a castle.(hence the name Castlevania) so you fight your way through the castle, slicing and dicing your way through any werewolf stupid enough to get in your way. My only problem with this game is that the graphics haven't aged that well compared to 2016. Apart from that, Castlevania Symphony Of the Night is one of the best games on PS1, along with MGS1. You can buy an HD Remaster on the PlayStation store.… Expand
  100. BariscanBozkurt
    Jun 1, 2016
    10
    Günümüzde bile keyifle oynanabilecek bir metroidvania başyapıtı.
    Oyunu yakın bir zamanda bitirdim ve şunu kesinlikle söyleyebilirim ki hayatımda gördüğüm en zekice tasarlanmış oyun haritalarından birine sahip bu oyun. Bunun yanı sıra zekice de hazırlanmış puzzlara sahip. Oyunu seri şekilde bitiren bir kişinin bu oyunun önemini anlamasının mümkünatı yok. Ancak yavaş yavaş sindiren birisi    Günümüzde bile keyifle oynanabilecek bir metroidvania başyapıtı.
    Oyunu yakın bir zamanda bitirdim ve şunu kesinlikle söyleyebilirim ki hayatımda gördüğüm en zekice tasarlanmış oyun haritalarından birine sahip bu oyun. Bunun yanı sıra zekice de hazırlanmış puzzlara sahip. Oyunu seri şekilde bitiren bir kişinin bu oyunun önemini anlamasının mümkünatı yok. Ancak yavaş yavaş sindiren birisi görecektir ki oyundaki her şey özenle yapılmış. Hayatımda ilk defa bir oyunda bütün itemların infolarını okumak zorunda kaldım ve okumamın karşılığında da güzel bir şey keşfettim.
    Oyunun zekice ilerleyiş mantığını bir kenara bırakırsam oyun içerik açısından da yılına göre çok iyi durumda. Keşfedilebilecek skiller, upgradeler, çok fazla sayıda item ve pet. Bunları keşfetme duygusuda oyuna çok iyi yedirilmiş.
    Oyunun müziklerine gelirsem söyleyebileceğim tek şey "enfes" olur.
    Oyunu 5-6 saatte bitiren çok şey kaçırmıştır. Mutlaka haritanın tepesine çıkmadan önce her şeyi yaptığınıza emin olun. Aksi taktirde yavan bir son göreceksiniz.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best PS1 Game of 1997
2
#2 Most Discussed PS1 Game of 1997
1
#1 Most Shared PS1 Game of 1997

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 12 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 12
  3. Negative: 0 out of 12
  1. GMR Magazine
    90
    A certifiable classic. [Feb 2003, p.97]
  2. PSX Nation
    96
    Not to be missed.
    Read full review
  3. netjak
    95
    With at least four known endings, Symphony's already astounding replay value is entirely phenomenal.
See all critic reviews »