Akumajou Dracula XX is a classic action-platformer released by Konami in 1995 for the SNES. Known as Castlevania: Dracula X outside of Japan, this title serves as a challenging 16-bit reimagining of the acclaimed Rondo of Blood. You take control of Richter Belmont, the latest vampire hunter in the Belmont bloodline, wielding the iconic Vampire Killer whip as he battles through Count Dracula’s dark forces to rescue his captive loved ones.
How to Play
Your objective is to traverse treacherous, linear stages, defeat powerful bosses, and survive the unforgiving challenges of Dracula’s castle. The standard SNES controls map directly to your keyboard: use the Arrow Keys to move, duck, and climb stairs. Z and X (along with A and S) act as your primary face buttons for jumping and whipping. To use your currently equipped sub-weapon, press Up + Attack. You can also unleash an “Item Crash,” a devastating screen-clearing magic attack that consumes multiple hearts, by pressing the top face buttons.
Tips
- Master the Item Crash: Each sub-weapon (such as the Axe, Cross, or Holy Water) has a unique Item Crash attack. The Cross’s crash, “Grand Cross”, grants brief invincibility and inflicts massive damage, making it invaluable for tough boss fights.
- Use the Backflip: Richter can perform a quick evasive backflip by double-tapping the jump button. This maneuver is essential for dodging fast enemy projectiles and creating space.
- Seek the Hidden Routes: The game features branching paths and hidden hostages. To face the true final boss and unlock the best ending, you must find the hidden key and rescue both Maria and Annette in the alternate stages.
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