Castlevania: Curse of Darkness - PS2 & xBox

THE second 3d Castlevania of this generation continues on the solid foundation laid by Castlevania: Lament of Innocence.

With an improved, solid and enjoyable battle system that works on the old Castlevania idea that you will only get hurt if you make a mistake. Curse Of Darkness also has a less irritating camera that allows for manual control.

The story is based around a former employee of Dracula who has the power to forge devils. You follow him as he tries to exact his revenge on the murderer of his wife and fellow devil forge master meeting old and new Castlevania characters in a captivating tale.

The levelling up of your Devils and ability to create your own weapons and armour makes the game much more fun as you can play it the way you want to play - be it slow and powerful or quick and weak. Summoning the correct devils adds a tactical element to the game. Picking the fighting devil will help you to destroy an enemy, whereas a support devil will heal you. You can also cast support spells.

The downfall of this game is that you find yourself fighting the same enemies over and over along corridors that all look alike. Fortunately the enjoyable battle system and great story are what keep you playing and that what saves the game from mediocrity.

8/10

REVIEW by ALAN BURKE, WARRINGTON