Developed by Konami and released for the SNES in 1995, this challenging action-platformer follows Richter Belmont as he battles through Dracula’s forces to rescue his captive girlfriend, Annette, and her sister Maria. As an adaptation of the acclaimed PC Engine title Rondo of Blood, it retains the classic whip combat, sub-weapons, and the devastating “Item Crash” mechanic, while introducing completely redesigned levels and branching paths.
How to play
You must survive a series of linear, trap-filled stages leading up to Dracula’s keep. Sub-weapons like the axe or holy water can be thrown by holding up while attacking, and the screen-clearing Item Crash consumes hearts for a massive special attack.
| Gamepad control: | |
direction buttons | ââââ |
| action button A | Z |
| action button B | X |
| action buttons X, Y | A, S |
| shoulder buttons L, R | Q, E |
| SELECT | Shift |
| START | Enter |
Tips
- Mastering the Item Crash is essential for boss fights; the cross sub-weapon’s grand cross attack is particularly effective for dealing massive damage while providing brief invincibility.
- You can jump on and off stairs to quickly evade attacks or traverse gaps, a helpful maneuver when dodging enemy projectiles.
- Commit to your jumps carefully, as you cannot alter your trajectory in mid-air, making pits and water a constant threat.
Leave a Comment / Review: