• Publisher: Nintendo
  • Release Date: Oct 25, 2004
Metascore
74 out of 100

Mixed or average reviews - based on 10 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5 out of 10
  2. Negative: 0 out of 10
  1. The play control is perfect, the enemy AI is well-tuned and the graphics are top-notch for the era. [Dec 2004, p.148]
  2. 80
    Even with the limited save feature, Castlevania on the GBA is still a great retro throwback. It would have better fit as an unlockable in an original Castlevania, but as it stands it's the only official way you can have the original game in portable form. It's the best game of the second batch, by far.
  3. The character design in Castlevania brought way to a whole new viewpoint in video games. The level design is easily one of the best, bringing a deep sense of platforming to the action. After over 15 years, the game still has a unique look.
  4. All things considered Castlevania holds up extrememly well dispite its age. The level design is great, and the overall experience of fighting the undead is not so much different then modern games.
  5. The music is still awesome. I want "Contra" next! [Dec 2004, p.100]
  6. This is a well-produced port of an excellent game, and even though it probably would have been better served as part of a collection than as a stand-alone product, you could certainly find a number of worse ways to spend $20 for your GBA.
  7. Due to the enduring and challenging gameplay, Castlevania is certainly worthy of a purchase since it's doubtful an average gamer will complete it in a day or two.
  8. The 8-bit classic has aged gracefully, and while its graphics don't compare to the more modern Castlevania games, the gameplay is still very solid, and is something fans will definitely want to sink their teeth into.
  9. 65
    It's a short quest, but while it lasts it's a genuine challenge that promises to kick you in the pants and make you like it.
  10. It's unfortunate that the simple gameplay hasn't held up well over the years, because most of the fun here is had through shear nostalgia (whipping candles, etc).
User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Classic jump-and-whip action flies to the GBA with this NES port. Smooth control and great enemy-AI make this very fun to play on-the-go. If you missed the NES release, be sure to check this one out. Full Review »
  2. WilliamT.
    5
    A good game but let down by some constantly frustrating (in my opinion) controls and bland graphics.
  3. MattC.
    10
    The game and music are awesome, this classic has deffinetly stood the test of time. game play is great, once you star you will find it very hard to put it down, awesome playability and great for a challenge. Full Review »