Watch Super Castlevania IV (SNES Classics 2)

Super Castlevania IV is a classic side-scrolling action game developed and published by Konami for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1991. The game is the fourth installment in the Castlevania series and a remake of the original Castlevania game released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in 1986.

In Super Castlevania IV, players take on the role of the legendary vampire hunter Simon Belmont, who is on a mission to defeat Count Dracula and his minions once again. The game is set in a gothic castle filled with monsters and traps, and players must navigate through its various levels, defeat the bosses, and ultimately confront Count Dracula himself.

The game features improved graphics and sound compared to its predecessors, as well as new gameplay mechanics and abilities for Simon. Players can use Simon's whip to attack enemies and swing from platforms, as well as move it in eight different directions for greater precision. Simon can also use a variety of secondary weapons such as holy water, axes, and cross-shaped boomerangs, which can be found throughout the levels or purchased from merchants.

In addition to the classic platforming and combat gameplay, Super Castlevania IV introduces new gameplay mechanics such as the ability to control Simon's jump mid-air, as well as the ability to use the whip to grapple onto hooks or other environmental objects. The game also features a mode called "Mode 7," which utilizes the SNES's unique hardware to create a 3D-like effect in certain parts of the game.

The game's levels are designed to be challenging and varied, with different themes such as a clock tower, a dungeon, a laboratory, and a graveyard. Each level has its own unique enemies and obstacles, as well as a boss at the end that must be defeated to progress. Some of the bosses include a giant bat, a manticore, a merman, and the Grim Reaper.

Super Castlevania IV also features a memorable and atmospheric soundtrack, with music composed by Konami veteran Masanori Adachi and newcomer Taro Kudo. The music ranges from catchy and upbeat tracks such as "Stalker" and "Vampire Killer," to haunting and eerie tracks such as "Bloody Tears" and "The Silence of Daylight."

Overall, Super Castlevania IV is a must-play classic for fans of the Castlevania series and retro gaming in general. With its challenging levels, satisfying combat, and memorable soundtrack, it remains a beloved and influential game nearly 30 years after its initial release.