The Best Nintendo Game Every Year 1983 - 2024

Speaking of iterative sequels, this is not a term that could be said about Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest. Applying RPG and adventure game elements to the monster-battling basics proved divisive at best and a total train wreck at worst. And so, 1989’s Castlevania III went back to formula.

That’s not to say that it hadn’t learned lessons from pushing the envelope. Whilst the classic ultra-hard platforming of the first game was once more the focus, Dracula’s Curse gave players choice and replayability by allowing multiple paths to the titular castle. It also, for the first time, offered completely different playstyles as Trevor Belmont built his team on his way to whip Dracula’s fangs down his throat.

But first, that team would need to navigate devilish enemy placements and punishing boss fights. Make no mistake, this game wasn’t the hardest NES release, but unlike a Battletoads it was satisfying enough to make you strive for greatness.

Castlevania III may not have been a sales giant for the system, especially releasing late into it’s life, but it’s fondly remembered as a connoisseur's choice.