25 Years of Vampire Slaying


It was on May 2nd of 1987 when Konami introduced the western world to Akumajou Dracula, a Famicom Disk System title that starred and chronicled vampire hunter Simon Belmondo in his campaign to dethrone the evil Count Dracula, whose dark forces had lay claim to Transylvania. Knowing true gold and hoping to find greater success abroad, Konami took the theme of castles and the west's fascination with the mystical quality of Transylvania and through this amalgamation (and its localization process) brought Castlevania to our NES systems.

In an industry known for quick turnover and rampant consumer cynicism, where what's hot today is all thrown away in favor of what will be cool tomorrow, it's only the most treasured properties that stand the test of time and like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Final Fantasy, and their ilk earn respect through longevity and universal appeal; it's a testament that a series like Castlevania, which dates back 25 years, can still profess equity considering its continued evolution through one major transitional period after another, where technology has sometimes been in direct conflict with the series' very spirit. It's certain, then, that the famed series is only waiting to conquer new hardware and eventually reach the next plateau. For now, we celebrate the series' 25th anniversary with homage, tributes and hope that these wonderful games will entertain the masses even 25 years from now. That in mind, this page will remain open for those who wish to share their memories.

 

Select Your Tribute

The Justin Gildow Poem Collection: To honor the series' 25th anniversary where the artist feels Konami fell short, Justin has provided 100 poems that uniquely capture the sights, sounds and exploits experienced in a quarter-century of vampire-slaying.
The Ainaveltsac Medley Album: The Ainaveltsac Medley album was made in tribute to the 25th anniversary of the Castlevania series. The album, filled with multiple arrangements and stereo remixes, was created by musician Stoneheart.
RonNYCity's "Castlevania 25th Anniversary" logo: In light of Konami's lack of celebrating the anniversary of its enduring series, Castlevania fan Ron supplies his own commemorative logo in hope that the company will take notice.
Death Got PHAT's Simon Belmont Tribute: The entertaining Death Got PHAT show, dedicated to video games in general, shows its appreciation for series stalwart Simon Belmont, whose history and artistic presentation are discussed.
Orchid SSR 20th Anniversary Tribute: The author ventures into the hallowed halls of Castlevania to interview the characters that have made on the series' universe an indelible mark.

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