Castlevania Belmonts Curse Revives Vampire Hunting Series

Castlevania Belmonts Curse launched as a new chapter in Konami's vampire hunting series on October 13, 2026, bringing players back to the world of the Belmont family with a new hero, Rose Belmont, in a gothic action adventure developed by Evil Empire.

According to CBC News, the game follows Rose, daughter of Trevor Belmont and Sypha Belnades, as she investigates a monster invasion in Paris in 1499 after Dracula's castle rises from the city.

The title continues the exploration-based formula associated with earlier Castlevania games, combining interconnected areas, platforming challenges and combat upgrades. CBC News reported that the main campaign takes roughly 15 to 20 hours.

Polygon described the game as a major return for the franchise after years without a mainline installment, highlighting its combination of classic design ideas and modern action systems influenced by Evil Empire's previous work.

The game introduces Rose's Arcana Cards, magical abilities tied to defeated enemies and discoveries. Polygon reported that these powers can change combat approaches by adding effects such as elemental attacks, time manipulation and health recovery.

Combat is a central focus of Belmonts Curse. IGN reported that the game emphasizes fast-paced action while adding modern conveniences, including map markers and tracking features to help players navigate its large interconnected zones.

Several reviews praised the game's presentation, with The Guardian noting its gothic Paris setting, vivid visuals and strong atmosphere. The review also said the experience becomes more rewarding after the story expands beyond the opening areas.

Difficulty remains a major point of discussion among reviewers. CBC News reported that enemies, bosses and trap areas can demand precise timing, while Kotaku highlighted particularly challenging platforming sections that affected progression.

The game stars Rose Belmont as she battles Dracula's forces while confronting a curse connected to her family legacy. Reviews noted that the story explores themes tied to her identity and the history of the Belmont bloodline.

Belmonts Curse is the first mainline 2D Castlevania release in more than a decade, following Konami's long pause on new entries after the previous installment arrived in 2014.