Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

A side-scrolling action-RPG where you play as Dracula's son exploring his father's castle in 1797. You gain experience, equip weapons and armor, and unlock new abilities as you map out interconnected rooms—backtracking with fresh powers opens previously blocked paths. Combat mixes real-time sword swings and spell-casting with stat-driven damage rolls. The castle hides optional areas, alternate equipment loadouts, and multiple endings depending on how thoroughly you explore. You'll shapeshift into mist or a bat to reach new sections, collect relics that grant double-jumps or underwater breathing, and piece together why the castle reappeared after its owner's recent defeat. Progression hinges on curiosity rather than linear objectives.