Unveiling the Ultimate Castlevania Clone: Unprecedented Ranking Revealed!

Few video game franchises have managed to create an entire genre around the concepts introduced in their original games. However, Castlevania stands out from the rest. Despite the simplistic 2D style of most of its games, the franchise has become increasingly popular and accessible in recent times, inspiring countless indie developers to create their own unique interpretations.

Having originated in 1986, Castlevania is one of the oldest and most enduring franchises in gaming history. Initially characterized by its straightforward 2D side-scrolling action, the franchise evolved significantly with the release of Symphony of the Night. This game introduced exploration and RPG elements that laid the foundation for the now prominent genre known as Metroidvania.

6 Master of Darkness

Released in 1992, Master of Darkness is a classic game that shares a similar style with the original Castlevania games. However, what sets it apart is its unique approach of emulating the earlier entries, rather than following the more popular Symphony of the Night and onwards.

The game follows the story of Dr. Ferdinand Social, a psychologist who embarks on a pursuit of Count Dracula. The vampire has been committing murders in London, cleverly shifting the blame onto Jack the Ripper. This intricate plot was remarkably deep for a video game released in 1992.

In terms of gameplay, Master of Darkness offers a simplistic yet enjoyable 2D action platformer experience, reminiscent of the side-scrolling style found in many Castlevania installments. Although it didn't achieve enough success to establish its own franchise, there is potential for a remake of Master of Darkness in the future.

5 Record of Lodoss War: Deedlit In Wonder Labyrinth

Released in 2021, Deedlit in Wonder Labyrinth serves as a more recent homage to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. This game, which follows the adventures of Deedlit, the High Elf, finds her navigating a mysterious labyrinth filled with both familiar faces and new encounters from the Record of Lodoss War franchise.

With this installment, the series takes a new direction, receiving positive feedback. The original Record of Lodoss War book series is showcased through compelling characters and narrative elements, while the gameplay itself is a meticulously-crafted Metroidvania experience. Players can expect to engage in the classic elements of the genre, such as item searching, revisiting locations with newfound abilities, and facing challenging bosses and mini-bosses throughout their journey.

4 Shovel Knight

Shovel Knight has evolved into a successful franchise, expanding its campaigns from its Kickstarter beginnings to a total of four unique and fully realized adventures. Each campaign offers a compelling story, an abundance of imaginative characters, a touch of darkness within its world, and draws inspiration from the beloved style of classic platformers and side-scrolling games. Shovel Knight truly encompasses all the elements that make a game truly exceptional.

The gameplay boasts an array of features, including challenging boss battles, nostalgic 8-bit graphics, and various metroidvania tropes such as collecting treasure to purchase items. For those seeking an increased level of difficulty, New Game Plus offers an option to ramp up the challenges even further. While the combat style receives a modern update, many other aspects resonate with the classic gameplay found in beloved titles like Castlevania and Metroid. Fans of these games and their distinct style are bound to find immense joy in Shovel Knight.

3 Blasphemous

Blasphemous offers a fresh take on the beloved Castlevania series, drawing heavy inspiration while adding innovative elements. Set in a dark world rooted in Spanish Roman Catholic culture, Cvstodia provides the ideal backdrop for this game that seamlessly blends classic and modern elements.

Follow the journey of the Penitent One, a knight armed with a formidable sword, as they traverse the land, unlocking powerful spells to overcome their enemies. Blasphemous masterfully intertwines its captivating story and unique art style, reminiscent of Symphony of the Night, with classic Metroidvania gameplay. Its success is evident with the recent release of a highly anticipated sequel.

2 Bloodstained: Ritual Of The Night

Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night is an excellent game that bears a striking resemblance to Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Released in 2019, it has garnered glowing reviews and is regarded as one of the finest examples of the Metroidvania genre in recent years. Developed by Koji Igarashi, it is often seen as a spiritual successor to the beloved Castlevania franchise.

Taking place in 18th century England, Bloodstained follows the journey of Miriam, a shardbinder; individuals who gain enhanced abilities through the infusion of demonically charged crystals. Miriam must confront demons summoned by Gebel, another shardbinder, across various maps. The gameplay of Bloodstained closely mirrors that of the Castlevania games that came after Symphony of the Night, and there are already plans to expand the Bloodstained franchise with more captivating side-scrolling RPGs.

1 Hollow Knight

Hollow Knight stands out as one of the few original games that fans believe rivals the top-notch Castlevania titles. Within the Metroidvania genre, Hollow Knight is an unparalleled gem that has no equal, especially among releases of the 21st century. Since its debut in 2017, Hollow Knight has achieved instant classic status, captivating the hearts of every Castlevania enthusiast who has had the pleasure of playing it. Undoubtedly, it ranks among the greatest indie games ever created.

Taking place in the haunting realm of Hallownest, Hollow Knight follows the journey of an anonymous warrior as they explore the land and investigate the rampant infection that plagues it. Renowned for its challenging gameplay, gripping story, immersive world-building, and mesmerizing soundtrack, Hollow Knight transcends being a mere replica of Castlevania. Instead, it represents the next evolution in the beloved gaming style adored by Castlevania aficionados.