The recent surprise release of the Castlevania Dominus Collection during the Nintendo Direct Partner Showcase has captured the attention of fans and gamers alike. Among the collection’s impressive lineup, the standout feature is the full remake of the obscure arcade game Haunted Castle. This addition brings a fresh perspective to the package, making it a noteworthy release in the Castlevania series.
The Dominus Collection centers around three acclaimed Nintendo DS titles: Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin, and Order of Ecclesia. These games are celebrated for representing the height of the series’ Metroidvania era following Symphony of the Night. The collection benefits from M2’s expertise in emulation, a Japanese studio renowned for its high-quality retro game ports and collections, ensuring these classics are preserved and presented with the utmost fidelity.
A particularly exciting aspect of the Dominus Collection is the inclusion of Haunted Castle Revisited, a remake of the original Haunted Castle arcade game. Unlike its predecessor, which was often seen as clunky and outdated, this new version boasts significant improvements in both graphics and gameplay. With its modern 16-bit visuals and widescreen format, Haunted Castle Revisited offers a revitalized experience that feels like a brand-new game.
This approach is reminiscent of M2’s previous work on Castlevania: The Adventure ReBirth for WiiWare, which successfully transformed an earlier, less favored entry in the series into a polished and enjoyable experience. M2’s ability to enhance and reinvent classic games while preserving their original charm continues to impress and demonstrates its skill in the retro gaming arena.
In summary, the Castlevania Dominus Collection is a noteworthy release for fans of the series, featuring not only the beloved DS classics but also a groundbreaking remake of a forgotten arcade game. M2’s continued success in revamping and reintroducing classic titles highlights their expertise and dedication to delivering high-quality retro experiences, making this collection a valuable addition to any Castlevania fan’s library.
