Castlevania is seeing a re-release through the Classic Nes Series for the Game Boy Advance. Very few times do I ever fight to get the chance to review a game, but I was prepared to do whatever I could to be able to review the original Castlevania. Lucky for me I was able to, and this is like a dream come true.

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Now that you have hopefully stopped laughing, I will continue.

Back in 1987, the first iteration of Castlevania in the US was released for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), and everyone knows this marked the beginning of one of the longest running game series of all time. Although this was not the first game in the series (Vampire Hunter, Haunted Mansion) it is the one that really set the precedent for what the series would become.

You play the part of Simon Belmont, as you attempt to thwart the evil Dracula. Simon begins his quest at the gate of the Count’s castle, and a feeling of impending dooms surely fills his soul. Lucky for Simon he is prepared. His primary weapon is his magical whip; passed down through generation after generation of his clan. Only this -- coupled with the holy relics that are found in the castle -- can defeat Dracula and his minions. These relics include an axe, sword, cross, and holy water. The only downside to the relics is that Simon must find hearts to use them. Upgrades can also be found in the castle for your whip, and these relics.

If you have ever played any Castlevania game, you know what to expect. Lots of platform jumping, along with using your weapons to destroy enemies and attempting to dodge their attacks. Now, if you are a fan of newer Castlevaina games where you have RPG elements such as experience points, and leveling up, you will find nothing of that sort in this game. This is Castlevania in its purest form.