Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse Unveiled 23 Years After Dracula’s Demise

WINDSOR (Azat TV) – Konami Digital Entertainment, B.V. (KONAMI) has officially unveiled “Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse,” a highly anticipated new entry in the iconic gothic horror series, slated for release later in 2026. This 2D action-exploration platformer, developed by Evil Empire and Motion Twin, marks a significant return for the franchise, picking up the narrative 23 years after the events of “Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse” and setting a young Belmont on a new quest through a besieged 15th-century Paris. The announcement, made during a recent State of Play event, signals the first mainline Castlevania title in 12 years, reigniting excitement among long-time fans and introducing the legendary vampire-hunting clan to a new generation.

The reveal of “Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse” celebrates the series’ 40th anniversary, bringing the franchise back to its beloved 2D roots. Fans have awaited a new mainline installment since 2014’s “Castlevania: Lords of Shadows 2.” This new title promises a blend of classic Metroidvania-style exploration with modern gameplay enhancements, echoing the critical success of previous titles that helped pioneer the genre.

Castlevania’s Return to Form and Core Narrative

The new game is specifically set two decades and three years after “Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse,” placing players in 15th-century Paris. The city finds itself under siege by monstrous creatures, with a looming mystical castle serving as the primary antagonist’s stronghold. Players will step into the role of a young, unnamed successor to Trevor Belmont, armed with the legendary holy whip, the Vampire Killer. Their mission is to descend into the city’s depths, hunt down the beasts, and rescue the Parisians from an encroaching eternal darkness.

This narrative choice directly ties into the series’ rich lore, offering both a continuation for veteran players and an accessible entry point for newcomers. The focus on a young Belmont’s journey ensures that the core theme of the Belmont clan’s unwavering fight against evil remains central, while introducing fresh perspectives and challenges within a familiar historical setting.

Gameplay and Development Insights for Belmont’s Curse

“Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse” is being developed by Evil Empire studios, known for their work on the acclaimed roguelike “Dead Cells” and last year’s “The Rogue Prince of Persia.” Motion Twin, the original developer of “Dead Cells,” is providing advisory support, promising a high level of polish and engaging gameplay mechanics. This collaboration is particularly notable given Evil Empire’s track record of revitalizing classic gaming experiences.

The game will feature the iconic Vampire Killer whip, which returns with enhanced functionality. Beyond its primary role as a weapon, the whip will serve as a vital tool for traversal, allowing players to swing across diverse areas, uncover hidden rooms, and access previously unreachable sections of the environment. Mastery of the whip’s mechanics is expected to unlock inventive combat possibilities, enabling players to strike enemies from unconventional positions. Additionally, players will have access to other weapons and abilities, such as a sword, to strategically plan their approach against a variety of foes, including familiar enemies like the slow-moving but numerous Zombies.

Visually, the game boasts a unique art style that builds upon Castlevania’s signature gothic aesthetic. It blends 2D and 3D elements to create enamoring environments rich with secrets, puzzles, and deadly traps, allowing players to discover the world of Castlevania with a fresh, colorful approach that still honors its classic look.

Release and Platform Availability

“Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse” is slated for a 2026 release. KONAMI has confirmed that the game will be available on PlayStation®5, Xbox Series X|S, Steam®, and Nintendo Switch. Wishlisting for these platforms is already active, indicating a strong push for early engagement ahead of its launch. More information regarding the game’s development and specific release date is expected to be revealed later this year, building anticipation for what many consider a long-overdue return to the series’ foundational gameplay.

The strategic decision by KONAMI to collaborate with Evil Empire and Motion Twin, studios renowned for their mastery of 2D action and exploration, signals a deliberate effort to recapture the essence of the classic Castlevania experience. By grounding the narrative 23 years after a pivotal entry and focusing on the Metroidvania genre, “Belmont’s Curse” appears poised to satisfy both long-standing fans yearning for a return to form and new players seeking a compelling gothic adventure.