Akumajou Dracula X: Gekka no Yasoukyoku

About

Akumajou Dracula X: Gekka no Yasoukyoku is a side-scrolling action RPG built on the foundations of Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. Players take control of Alucard, Dracula’s vampire son, and later Maria Renard, a determined hunter, as they navigate large castle corridors and eerie outdoor zones. Combat blends platforming precision with RPG depth, switch between swords, firearms, and magic like bat transformations or ethereal mist to dismantle over 140 enemy types. Progress hinges on backtracking to uncover hidden passages, collectibles, and branching paths that adjust based on your gear and skills. This Japan-exclusive Saturn title adds roughly 30% more content than its predecessor, including new areas, extended boss encounters, and a secret character that reshapes late-game strategies. Its tight controls and Metroidvania-style design earned it cult status among fans, though its 1998 release limited broader exposure. With intricate level design and a haunting orchestral score, it remains a key entry for series historians and retro action fans. The dual protagonists and expanded world make it feel distinct from its predecessor without overshadowing the original’s legacy.

Storyline

The game's story takes place during the year 1797, 5 years after the events of Rondo of Blood and begins with Richter Belmont's defeat of Count Dracula, mirroring the end of the former game. However, despite Dracula being defeated, Richter vanishes without a trace. Castlevania rises again five years later, and while there are no Belmonts to storm the castle, Alucard, the son of Dracula, awakens from his self-induced sleep, and decides to investigate what transpired during his slumber. Meanwhile, Maria Renard, Richter's sister-in-law, enters Castlevania herself to search for the missing Richter. She assists Alucard multiple times throughout the game.