While the graphics are arguably better than Super Castlevania IV, the combat in this is clunky as all hell and hard to master. The monster placement was more frustrating than in IV, with Knight's able to poke you from above with spears through floors (seriously, one time a knight was placed so haphazardly that it made it almost impossible to pass). The game also feels very short for a mainline release. This was definitely a step down from IV, hopefully later entries will be better.