Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow
Let me just start off with this: I am not disappointed in this game, despite the anime art style they decided to use.
The battle system hasn't changed much despite the Magic Seal system, which is only relevant in boss battles, otherwise you run around destroying monsters as usual. The game is classic Castlevania, it's loaded with side-scrolling 2D action. The equipment and leveling up is set up the same as it was in Aria of Sorrow, Soma levels up through experience gained through battle, and can equip a multitude of weapons and armors.
I'm glad the Soul system is back, and it works about the same as in Aria. Soma can of course gain souls from every monster in the game, each with its own unique powers. There are four types, as there were in AoS. Ability, Bullet, Enchant, and Guardian souls are once again available to help Soma through the castle.
Game play is fun and fast-paced, and doesn't rely too much on the touch pad. The block smashing bit is pretty fun, though. Overall, the game has preserved that Castlevania feel even on the powerful DS.
The graphics are pretty much the same as in Aria, with a few enhancements. The backgrounds are gorgeous, as always, and the enemies are just as awesome. This game embodies all that we've come to expect of a 2D Castlevania game. The only think I am missing is that neat gothic art style that had been used in previous Castlevanias. In DoS, it has been replaced with the ever-present anime style, which I feel is a little detrimental. That's something I don't think Konami should have changed.
Graphics: 8 (Pretty much what you'd expect of Castlevania, which is good.)
Sound: 9 (Wonderful soundtrack, beats AoS in my opinion.)
Story: 7 (A little awkward, but not bad.)
Enemies: 8 (Kick-arse, as usual.)
Settings: 10 (Awesome! Gorgeous setting, preserves the feeling we expect in Castlevania.)
Battles: 9 (They're always fun, the game revolves around them.)
Overall Score (out of 100) for Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow: 85
Written: October 6th, 2005
Reviewer: Jay
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