LogFAQs > #950130502

#39 Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (Playstation, 1997)

So you've made it this far... Another game in a row that proved to be a huge inspiration for many games on my list. Symphony of the Night is only half of the "Metroidvania" word, but it really was the game that brought that concept along from its infancy and inspired so many others in the genre to pay Tribute?!? It's a very rough game around the edges, but that's just a testament to how strong the idea is.



If you need me to explain what SotN is, you're probably a monster and don't belong in this world! It's got a nice combination of fun platforming and 90s jank. The menus are difficult and most things in the game aren't explained at all. Random drops can be completely overpowered or worthless. Growing up playing games where this all was the norm, these things really call out to me. If I had seen this game when it was new I surely would have said, "I'm interested in this."

The inverted castle was a great idea and a surprise, but lacked a lot in execution. Moving around in the upside-down rooms is often annoying and awkward, and since you've basically been everywhere before, the sense of discovery is lost. Perhaps the same could be said of all religions. Later games in the series did this a lot better.



But that's only one small knock against an incredible game! I know it's not for everyone but I can't recommend it enough to anyone who enjoys this kind of game. It will steal your soul and make you its slave.

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At least your mother tipped well