Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow

A castle full of possible tools

A creature can be both an obstacle and a possible new tool. That makes returning through familiar rooms more interesting than simply retracing a route: another soul might suggest a different attack combination. The map and equipment choices give the wandering structure, while weapon creation provides another reason to inspect what you have collected. Magic Seals require drawing symbols on the touch screen, interrupting the rhythm of button-controlled movement. Hunting a particular drop can also become repetitive, so the main route is often more rewarding than delaying it for an exhaustive inventory.

Konami’s 2005 DS sequel continues Soma Cruz’s story from Aria of Sorrow. Enemy-derived abilities link character growth to the creatures inhabiting the castle, and soul-based weapon creation adds another use for that collection. Its place in this list follows that combination of exploration and experimentation.

Keep the route moving

Try an unfamiliar soul against a safe opponent before discarding it. When a route seems closed, compare the map with recently gained abilities. Leave prolonged drop hunting for occasions when trying a particular build is itself the attraction.