10 Horror TV Shows That Had No Right To Be This Good

It’s rare that a video game adaptation is even decent, let alone turning out legitimately awesome. Thankfully, Castlevania beat the stacked odds.

Based on the video game series of the same name, the property was originally slated to be turned into a movie all the way back in 2007. However, production fell into development hell around a year later, and stagnated there despite other directors being approached to helm the project until a deal was reached with Netflix in 2015.

Despite the dark, adult subject matter of the narrative, which follows monster hunter Trevor Belmont’s fight against the demonic armies of Dracula, Castlevania was developed as an animation. Various members of the production team previously worked in the anime industry, and the show echoes the Japanese visual style set out by the games upon which it is based, successfully crafting its horror through atmosphere and beautiful art direction rather than CGI.

Despite the production struggles and general apprehension surrounding game adaptations, Castlevania debuted its four episode first outing to rave critical and fan reception, with immense praise for its visuals, characterisation, and writing. The series was renewed for a further three seasons, all of which received strong reviews, and though the original show has now concluded, Netflix has promised that various other Castlevania properties and tie-in universes are in the works.