Castlevania: Portrait of Ruin Impressions

Portrait of Ruin looks to be shaping up much better than its predecessors. 

Within one minute, Portrait of Ruin proved to be the nicest-looking portable Castlevania yet, adding 3D enemies and backgrounds to the 2D landscapes. The protagonists animate well and the bosses are as huge as ever, not to mention that the World War II-era locations are some of the most diverse areas the series has yet seen. The presentation is getting very close to Symphony of the Night levels; one can only hope it will meet or eclipse the widely-accepted pinnacle of the series.

Many of the Castlevania series’ detractors claim that each game is the same as the one before it; despite most sequels attempting a few changes in the formula, this remains a highly contestable subject. However, Portrait of Ruin offers the most startling addition yet: two playable characters from the outset, with players able to switch between them on the fly. Besides the simple dynamic of two characters with different abilities, with two characters players have access to a wealth of potential gameplay options.

To start off, the two characters can gain the power to team up for screen-filling super-attacks that demolish most everything in sight. Not only that, but players can call on their other character to fight alongside them in battle. Sure, this will come in handy during tough boss fights, but this also leaves open possibilities for great puzzles and exploration. For example, if a ledge is too high for even a double-jump, the second character can give them a boost by simply giving shoulders to leap from. Of course, this idea brings about the most tantalizing potential the series has seen in years.

More at: http://www.nintendojo.com/previews/NDS/view_item.php?1153864418

Around The Net: