This is one of the best 2D action games I've ever played. The act of play feels fantastic with rock solid, responsive controls. Richter's personality comes through with his still stiff, but more acrobatic moveset when compared to previous Castlevania protagonists. And as a secondary playable character, Maria takes this acrobatic control to greater heights.

The pixel art is evocative and lends a sense of place to the environments you traverse. The soundtrack has already jumped into my favorites.

And for a 2D action game, Rondo of Blood gives you an incredible amount of freedom. There are secret alternative routes through stages, alternative levels and bosses, and plenty of secrets to find. This game is an incredible achievement, and I can see myself replaying it many times in the years to come.

Favorite Tracks: All of them??? Fine, I'll choose a few.

Bloodlines (Stage 1): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KR0UjAQIX6E&list=PL60B3A83F3AAC6E44&index=3

Cross a Fear (Stage 2a): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CT6PC3z-BLA&list=PL60B3A83F3AAC6E44&index=4

Beginning (Stage 4b): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbObVMYy3yg&list=PL60B3A83F3AAC6E44&index=9

Opus 13 (Stage 5b): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1dRzjA_Xlc&list=PL60B3A83F3AAC6E44&index=11