The first two thirds are legitimately great, though the map design's not the most interesting when it comes to exploration. The weapon types are varied, and while I didn't ever bother dual wielding as it made the game even easier, it's still a fun mechanic to have. The final third is probably the worst thing to come out of any of the metroidvania Castlevania games, losing all semblance of balance or interesting design as the directors apparently changed hands partway into development. Further, the game as a whole - particularly in those good first two thirds - is far too easy.

While I don't think those gripes are anywhere near enough to make SotN bad, they definitely tarnish the game's overall quality to make it 'good', not 'great'. Still an important game and worth playing, but personally I'd rather replay just about any of the ones after it before picking it up again.