8.  Bloodlines – Genesis

Be sure to check out my review of Bloodlines if you want to know more!

Bloodlines is Castlevania’s one and only appearance on the Sega Genesis.  It’s difficult to pin down exactly why this entry has been shoved aside and neglected by more casual fans of the series, but perhaps it’s because the storyline diverges so greatly from previous installments.  In Bloodlines, the Belmont Clan proper is absent and in its stead is the Morris family accompanied by the LeCardes.  Castlevania’s sole legacy on the Genesis was arguably the finest looking game of the franchise upon its release and also introduces a few new gameplay elements.  Players can choose to hunt down Dracula as either John Morris or Eric LeCarde, each character having his own unique weapon and special ability.  Bloodlines sees our antagonist(s) move away from the archetypal gothic horror atmosphere a little and into new settings as our heroes travel across Europe.  It’s also fairly notable for having a “GA” rating despite its content.  Take a look at the blood and body parts in the battle with Frankenstein’s Creature below.

Slightly more innovative in comparison with previous games, Bloodlines still remains unmistakably Castlevania in tone and gameplay.  The real reason to see this game is just that – to see it.  Presentation is spectacular and easily surpasses the oft-cited impressive visuals of Super Castlevania IV.  Maybe it was a little too early for players to buy into the World War I setting in lieu of something ancient or medieval, but Bloodlines will always mark a high point of the series and a pinnacle of the Genesis’ graphical achievement.

Be warned, however.  Bloodlines has become a bit of a collector’s item and even the bare bones (i.e. cartridge only) is likely to run $40; maybe more if you don’t want “Matthew Henderson” or “Brett Studebaker” scrawled across the label!

How can you play it today?

I like having the real thing.  I’m a collector; I collect.  But then again, Castlevania: Bloodlines isn’t the average $8.00 Genesis game, or even one of the nicer $25.00 ones, and I can understand those that don’t necessarily want to pay for its rarity and reputation.  Emulation is the quick and easy route, but if you are willing to shell out some cash or don’t mind getting a deal for a copy with a poorly-conditioned label, plenty of copies are floating around out there looking for good homes.

Cube’s Recommendation:  BUY IT if possible; EMULATE if desperate.

Written by The Cubist

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