Castlevania Dracula X is amazing

soop · 05/14/2017, 11:00 AM

Most of you already know that, but I've never played it before today. I didn't play it much either (or tried not to), I just wanted to make sure it worked.

I recently got Super Castlevania IV, and I thought that was pretty good. A lot of people like it and I can see why. But X is better in every concievable area by some distance. I've heard it said that Super has the best music on the SNES, but damn. I would actually listen to the soundtrack to X aside from the game. It's incredible.

The cut scenes, the voice acting, the prologue section, and the tight controls, huge sprites... This is working out in my eyes to be one of the greatest games of the era. This is a masterpiece.

Possibly the best game on the Engine?

LowRes · 05/14/2017, 11:33 AM

I finally started playing it last night. By far the best Castlevania game ever. I refused all this time to play it with an emulator and glad I did. I finally own the game and have a working PC Engine Duo to play it on. For me it doesn't get much better than that.

I've played the remake on PSP which I like, but the original is so much better.

I'm off to find the other 3 maidens now and alternate routes

gotta 100% this game!

soop · 05/14/2017, 11:46 AM

Oh wow, both of us are finally getting to it after all these years! I'm trying not to play it yet as it's a birthday gift to myself and it arrived almost a month ahead of schedule, but when I do I'm going to need to find out more about it, I don't know about the maidens or routes yet!

Ido feel very lucky that I'm able to buy such an expensive game, even if it did take me years. Now I just need to buy 1942...

GohanX · 05/14/2017, 12:06 PM

Quote from: soop on 05/14/2017, 11:00 AMPossibly the best game on the Engine?

Best game on any system imo.

LowRes · 05/14/2017, 02:08 PM

Quote from: soop on 05/14/2017, 11:46 AMOh wow, both of us are finally getting to it after all these years! I'm trying not to play it yet as it's a birthday gift to myself and it arrived almost a month ahead of schedule, but when I do I'm going to need to find out more about it, I don't know about the maidens or routes yet!

Ido feel very lucky that I'm able to buy such an expensive game, even if it did take me years. Now I just need to buy 1942...

There are 4 maidens held prisoner to find, one of them is Maria a playable character once you find her. There are alternate stages for 2,,4, and 5 to find aswell. There may be more alternate exits to stages I'm not too sure, I plan to research all that once I beat the game. I think some areas can't be reached without using Maria.

The hardest part for me is fighting Death at the end of stage 5, it took me many attempts, the good news is the stage 5 music is calming and most upbeat music in the game lmao so even though you're pissed from losing to death and have to replay the stage, you can't help but enjoy the stage over and over again.

Love the music in this game, I have the Soundtrack in my car, normal people think I'm crazy, including my kids Roadtrips are Akumajo Dracula X soundtrack on repeat, and some Snatcher once in a while

ToyMachine78 · 05/14/2017, 03:16 PM

A lot of people, most prominent James Rolfe, rave about how great Super Castlevania IV is, and how it's the superior 2D Castlevania hands down.

I couldn't disagree more. I believe IV has one edge over PCE X and that's the controls. Simons control, especially the whip, is perfection.

Graphics, music, mood, levels and design.... PCE X hands down. It may just be me, but I think IV looks kinda ass in the graphics dept. I think bloodlines looks better.

SignOfZeta · 05/14/2017, 03:36 PM

I think IV sucks, personally.

I would say that Dracula X is the overall best game on PCE, yes, for predominantly English speakers anyway. I got it more than 20 years ago and I still beat it about once a year at least. Ys I&II and Ys IV are close, as is Gate of Thunder.

If you read Japanese really well I could see a number of RPGs beating it out, so when some brave souls finally take on and complete a translation of Tengai II or Anearth Fantasy Stories maybe I'll give the "greatest" spot to one of them.

Michirin9801 · 05/14/2017, 05:29 PM

When you say "Dracula X" I always think of the SNES version, if you said "Rondo of Blood" then it would probably be obvious to everyone that you're talking about the PCE version...

Other than that, yeah, this is pretty much the best Castlevania game, one of the best on the PC engine without a doubt (although, as a fan of Fighting games, I like Asuka 120% and Street Fighter II more)
I used to like Super Castlevania IV better, but after re-playing Rondo of Blood I just couldn't lie to myself anymore, it's the best bar-none, the level design is just perfect, the branching paths add loads of replay-value and the graphics and sound are just amazing!
Personally though, I like the background art and the music better in the SNES version (Yes, I like SNES sound better than CD sound), but the PCE still has better animation and an overall better presentation with the cutscenes and all, so I could give the edge to either one...

Yeah, I know the SNES version is overall the inferior version, I won't argue with that, but that one was my first Castlevania game, I'm very nostalgic towards it, and even though Rondo wipes the floor with it I still love it a lot!

soop · 05/14/2017, 05:36 PM

Ohh, I think it was called Vampire's Kiss over here. I think the SNES "other" castlevania had three different names for JP, US and PAL

Dicer · 05/14/2017, 05:38 PM

Rondo is easily top 5 of all 16 bit games, and def tops of the "classic" style vanias.

It's a masterfully crafted game and it's a shame more people didn't get exposed to it when it was originally released, but i am glad people get to experience it now.

I worked at GameFan at that time so I got it fresh of the presses, and boy you think it's mind blowing now, well shit, it was a whole nother level back then.

Enjoy it and complete it, then use the second save slot and go again, then the third, then erase your saves and go again, lol.

Michirin9801 · 05/14/2017, 06:27 PM

Quote from: soop on 05/14/2017, 05:36 PMOhh, I think it was called Vampire's Kiss over here. I think the SNES "other" castlevania had three different names for JP, US and PAL

Yeah, it was called Dracula X in the US, Dracula XX in Japan and Vampire's Kiss in PAL regions...

Quote from: Dicer on 05/14/2017, 05:38 PMRondo is easily top 5 of all 16 bit games, and def tops of the "classic" style vanias.

I'd say it tops the whole rest of the series, including the Metroidvanias, but that's another conversation entirely...

CrackTiger · 05/14/2017, 06:40 PM

Dracula X was so well known worldwide as "Dracula X" long before the SNES offshoot was even announced, that they used the name and cover art to try to pass off the SNES version as a port and even mention the "PC Engine" version on the SNES box.

It's neat that the SNES has a "me too!" bastardization, but the PCE game will always be the true Dracula X and there's a good reason that the SNES version is missing from the "Dracula X Chronicles".

Winniez · 05/14/2017, 06:55 PM

The Rondo feels like a true follow up for the NES games, just improved in every way. I usually prefer Hucard game sountracks since PCE soundchip is amazing but the Rondo just sounds so good.
Castlevania 4 is good but feels different and easier. I also think that more limited control scheme is a part of the early Castlevania style of play, and the games have been designed around that limitation. In Super Castlevania it feels almost like you have too much control if that makes any sense.

I don't have the CD-unit/Duo or any CD-games so I have only played this emulated but would sure love to have it someday. I wonder why its so expensive, wasn't it like one of the best selling 3rd party CD-games. Westeners bought Japan dry of Rondos?

GohanX · 05/14/2017, 07:09 PM

This thread inspired me to play completely through the game in one sitting. I was wearing some new headphones, the sound on this game is so badass. I managed to beat it while only losing one life.

Gypsy · 05/14/2017, 07:16 PM

Quote from: SignOfZeta on 05/14/2017, 03:36 PMI think IV sucks, personally.

I would say that Dracula X is the overall best game on PCE, yes, for predominantly English speakers anyway. I got it more than 20 years ago and I still beat it about once a year at least. Ys I&II and Ys IV are close, as is Gate of Thunder.

If you read Japanese really well I could see a number of RPGs beating it out, so when some brave souls finally take on and complete a translation of Tengai II or Anearth Fantasy Stories maybe I'll give the "greatest" spot to one of them.

Yearly playthroughs might be an interesting topic. Shenmue used to be on that list for me but eventually I quit doing it. I would always start around December too. Maybe I'll do that again this year.

LowRes · 05/14/2017, 07:29 PM

Quote from: GohanX on 05/14/2017, 07:09 PMThis thread inspired me to play completely through the game in one sitting. I was wearing some new headphones, the sound on this game is so badass. I managed to beat it while only losing one life.

lol I don't know how you do it. I'm stuck on stage 6. Gotta beat 5 bosses in a row. My goal tomorrow is to beat stage 6.

soop · 05/14/2017, 07:37 PM

That is very impressive! I'm still playing Destiny right now, which I love, but after that I have.. oh wow, I have a lot to get through. Megamans, castlevanias and I want to get a Switch

. It's a good time for video games!

GohanX · 05/14/2017, 07:58 PM

Quote from: LowRes on 05/14/2017, 07:29 PM
Quote from: GohanX on 05/14/2017, 07:09 PMThis thread inspired me to play completely through the game in one sitting. I was wearing some new headphones, the sound on this game is so badass. I managed to beat it while only losing one life.
lol I don't know how you do it. I'm stuck on stage 6. Gotta beat 5 bosses in a row. My goal tomorrow is to beat stage 6.

I've been playing it for over 15 Years and it's my favorite game.

Stage 6 is ridiculously easy if you use Maria and her special moves. This can be handy if you just want to get past it for now to see the end.

Otherwise, my strategy is to go in with the axe equipped. Actually, I use the axe whenever I can. It's ridiculously useful and the item crash doesn't used that many hearts and gives you temporary invincibility.

First fight against the bad. Use the whip only. It's not that hard on its own but you can't get hit since you need that life. Use the whip and save your hearts, only use the axe if the flame is about to hit you and you can't use your whip.

Medusa is fairly easy. Duck so she can't hit you with the eye beam, whip the shit out of her. Be careful when she stands still, you need to move back since she's gonna whip you. When she shoots out those circular things I just item crash since they are difficult to avoid.

The mummy is the hardest boss imo. Whip like a mofo, climb the square stones and jump over them. By the time you land he shoots a lot of bandages, item crash will get them all, whip some more. He should go down soon and give you a turkey!

Frankenstein isn't difficult but he's strong as hell. Keep your distance and whip him, if he grabs you it's gonna hurt bad. The backflip can save you when he shoots lightning.

Now you get to shaft. He's not terribly difficult on his own but your probably low on life and short on hearts. It's ok to die, you won't have to fight the bosses again, you'll go straight to Shaft. Can you dig it?

LowRes · 05/14/2017, 08:08 PM

Quote from: GohanX on 05/14/2017, 07:58 PM
Quote from: LowRes on 05/14/2017, 07:29 PM
Quote from: GohanX on 05/14/2017, 07:09 PMThis thread inspired me to play completely through the game in one sitting. I was wearing some new headphones, the sound on this game is so badass. I managed to beat it while only losing one life.
lol I don't know how you do it. I'm stuck on stage 6. Gotta beat 5 bosses in a row. My goal tomorrow is to beat stage 6.
I've been playing it for over 15 Years and it's my favorite game.

Stage 6 is ridiculously easy if you use Maria and her special moves. This can be handy if you just want to get past it for now to see the end.

Otherwise, my strategy is to go in with the axe equipped. Actually, I use the axe whenever I can. It's ridiculously useful and the item crash doesn't used that many hearts and gives you temporary invincibility.

First fight against the bad. Use the whip only. It's not that hard on its own but you can't get hit since you need that life. Use the whip and save your hearts, only use the axe if the flame is about to hit you and you can't use your whip.

Medusa is fairly easy. Duck so she can't hit you with the eye beam, whip the shit out of her. Be careful when she stands still, you need to move back since she's gonna whip you. When she shoots out those circular things I just item crash since they are difficult to avoid.

The mummy is the hardest boss imo. Whip like a mofo, climb the square stones and jump over them. By the time you land he shoots a lot of bandages, item crash will get them all, whip some more. He should go down soon and give you a turkey!

Frankenstein isn't difficult but he's strong as hell. Keep your distance and whip him, if he grabs you it's gonna hurt bad. The backflip can save you when he shoots lightning.

Now you get to shaft. He's not terribly difficult on his own but your probably low on life and short on hearts. It's ok to die, you won't have to fight the bosses again, you'll go straight to Shaft. Can you dig it?

I managed to do it once I beat Frankenstein I had a couple lives left so I had a couple tries at Shaft. I didn't realise earlier that you can start at Shaft if you beat Frankenstein lol thank god. I've done this stage on the PSP remake but I swear that version is easier

Thanks for the tips!

NoSexGex · 05/14/2017, 10:35 PM

Quote from: guest on 05/14/2017, 03:16 PMA lot of people, most prominent James Rolfe, rave about how great Super Castlevania IV is

100%%

Thank god some of his game reviews are off, and help keep prices deflated

soop · 05/15/2017, 05:03 AM

I will say though, the fire effect and the mode 7 on Super is very nice.

esteban · 05/15/2017, 06:39 AM

I love Rondo.

IV is a fun game, too.

We are better off having *both* games.

Gypsy · 05/15/2017, 07:06 AM

Quote from: esteban on 05/15/2017, 06:39 AMI love Rondo.

IV is a fun game, too.

We are better off having *both* games.

GohanX · 05/15/2017, 08:35 AM

Don't forget about Bloodlines on Genesis, which is also fantastic.

esteban · 05/15/2017, 09:12 AM

Quote from: GohanX on 05/15/2017, 08:35 AMDon't forget about Bloodlines on Genesis, which is also fantastic.

Quote from: Gypsy on 05/15/2017, 07:06 AM
Quote from: esteban on 05/15/2017, 06:39 AMI love Rondo.

IV is a fun game, too.

We are better off having *both* games.

Hahahahhaha. I know.

I know.

NecroPhile · 05/15/2017, 11:22 AM

Congrats on finally getting a copy. It's great in every way.

Unless they're new to gaming in general, it amazes me that peeps still haven't played it. How did they resist the urge to burn one?

soop · 05/15/2017, 11:41 AM

Personally, I was tempted to get it for the Virtual Console, but I always knew I'd get it one day. It just happened that one popped up in my price range and I had the money. But I have to say, I think waiting so long makes it all the sweeter!

Gypsy · 05/15/2017, 01:21 PM

Quote from: guest on 05/15/2017, 11:22 AMCongrats on finally getting a copy. It's great in every way.

Unless they're new to gaming in general, it amazes me that peeps still haven't played it. How did they resist the urge to burn one?

I've only played through the PSP version to my eternal shame. I got a new disc drive coming from Newegg though, that I plan to put to the grindstone burning off PCE games. Rondo will be one of the first...

esteban · 05/15/2017, 04:34 PM

Quote from: soop on 05/15/2017, 11:41 AMPersonally, I was tempted to get it for the Virtual Console, but I always knew I'd get it one day. It just happened that one popped up in my price range and I had the money. But I have to say, I think waiting so long makes it all the sweeter!

Yes, this is how I have been with a bunch of games...I know I'll eventually play them, it just might be a few years.

At this point...I've waited 20-30 years, so I think I'll survive.

Flash carts + console will be my savior for all the impossible to afford NES/Famicom/SNES/Genesis/etc.

I have tons of games, but 99% of the time they were the ones that were cheap and affordable.

So I will eventually get a bunch of flash carts.

soop · 05/16/2017, 04:27 AM

Quote from: esteban on 05/15/2017, 04:34 PM
Quote from: soop on 05/15/2017, 11:41 AMPersonally, I was tempted to get it for the Virtual Console, but I always knew I'd get it one day. It just happened that one popped up in my price range and I had the money. But I have to say, I think waiting so long makes it all the sweeter!
Yes, this is how I have been with a bunch of games...I know I'll eventually play them, it just might be a few years.

At this point...I've waited 20-30 years, so I think I'll survive.

Flash carts + console will be my savior for all the impossible to afford NES/Famicom/SNES/Genesis/etc.

I have tons of games, but 99% of the time they were the ones that were cheap and affordable.

So I will eventually get a bunch of flash carts.

I've noticed recently that there's a lot of good quality repros coming out of China. I recently bought a repro of Wild Guns for a decent price, considering I'd never pay £100+ for an original. I might go the same way for Little Sampson or Mr Gimmick.

tbone3969 · 05/17/2017, 02:18 PM

I recently beat Rondo of Blood and got 100% completion on it without using guides. So good. By far the best Castlevania IMO. 2nd would be SotN. Still trying to unlock all the boss videos.

NoSexGex · 05/17/2017, 03:12 PM

Quote from: tbone3969 on 05/17/2017, 02:18 PMI recently beat Rondo of Blood and got 100% completion on it without using guides.

Damn nice, my first play through I caved when I couldn't unlock the alternative stage for lvl 5

Gentlegamer · 05/17/2017, 04:02 PM

Quote from: soop on 05/16/2017, 04:27 AM
Quote from: esteban on 05/15/2017, 04:34 PM
Quote from: soop on 05/15/2017, 11:41 AMPersonally, I was tempted to get it for the Virtual Console, but I always knew I'd get it one day. It just happened that one popped up in my price range and I had the money. But I have to say, I think waiting so long makes it all the sweeter!
Yes, this is how I have been with a bunch of games...I know I'll eventually play them, it just might be a few years.

At this point...I've waited 20-30 years, so I think I'll survive.

Flash carts + console will be my savior for all the impossible to afford NES/Famicom/SNES/Genesis/etc.

I have tons of games, but 99% of the time they were the ones that were cheap and affordable.

So I will eventually get a bunch of flash carts.
I've noticed recently that there's a lot of good quality repros coming out of China. I recently bought a repro of Wild Guns for a decent price, considering I'd never pay £100+ for an original. I might go the same way for Little Sampson or Mr Gimmick.

The word is bootleg.