Publisher: Konami
Developer: Konami
Genre: Action/Adventure
Release Date: Fall 2007
Number of Players: 1
Castlevania: Dracula X Chronicles Gallery

What can I say about Castlevania? The series started in 1986 on the Famicom, and has since developed into a dynasty of adventure gaming that has lasted for over twenty years. Americans have been able to get their hands on almost every iteration except for one of the greatest, Rondo of Blood. Rondo of Blood was only released in Japan and contributed to the success of the Famicom, leaving American fans deprived of one of the greatest of Castlevania games. Some American fans were able to import the game, or when the time came, find roms -- until now. Castlevania: Dracula X Chronicles brings Rondo of Blood to western shores 14 years after it's initial release. Rondo of Blood follows the story of Richter Belmont, one of the most gifted in the Belmont clan; his quest, along with his sister-in-law Maria Renard, is to save his fellow villagers and vanquish this reincarnation of Count Dracula. However, we will not be getting the game that was released 14 years ago, the game has been updated and revised, including new 3D models and backgrounds, cut scenes, and voice acting. Dracula X Chronicles also includes Symphony of the Night with new voice acting, as well as the original Rondo of Blood that was released in Japan.

   
Players that became fans after the release of Symphony of the Night will be slightly unfamiliar with the way that Rondo of Blood plays. While the game has familiar objects and enemies, Symphony of the Night is the first RPG style, open ended Castlevania game; Rondo of Blood is linear, Richter will not level up as the game progresses nor can he decide which boss to fight first, the game is level based with a boss at the end of each level. However, we will be able to return to stages we have already passed to find hidden items as well as unlock secrets. Because of the lack of leveling up, the real advantages the player has over enemies is sub-weapons and skill. All our favorite sub-weapons will appear in Rondo of Blood, as well as the item crush technique. One disturbing fact is that Richter won't be winning any marathons. Thats right, Richter can only walk though the entire game which will cause the game to have a slightly slower pace, especially when compared to the newer Castlevania games.
   
With both versions of Rondo of Blood as well as Symphony of the Night in one package, Dracula X Chronicles is a must have for Castlevania fans as well as PSP owners looking for amazing games.