Roguelikes and Metroidvanias are fundamentally different games. The former are meant to be played repeatedly. On the other hand, the latter is meant to be played like a continuous game, which is why they very rarely have loading screens. But, Metroidvanias and roguelikes do crossover sometimes. Case in point, the upcoming DLC for Dead Cells, Return to Castlevania.
Return to Castlevania is described as Dead Cells’ “biggest DLC to date” and was revealed at the pre-show at The Game Awards.
Here is the DLC’s description, as per its Steam page:
The inspiration behind it all returns to its 2D action roots! Castlevania’s unforgettable characters & gothic setting meet the fast-paced combat of the award-winning roguelite Dead Cells in this unprecedented collaboration.
A gateway to a striking castle has suddenly appeared, and an imposing warrior called Richter asks you to help him vanquish the great evil within.
Enticed by the promise of new loot rather than a sense of moral duty, you strike out through the grounds and corridors of the gothic castle to find and kill this mysterious Dracula…Slay hordes of his supernatural minions as you progress through our biggest DLC yet, including two levels, three bosses and a new storyline!
Unfortunately, while Richter Belmont appears in the trailer with Alucard, the DLC won’t let you play as either character, or others from Castlevania. Instead, you can only “roleplay” as the said iconic characters by unlocking outfits in the game.
In addition to their likeness, the Return to Castlevania DLC promises 14 new weapons and what it describes as the game’s “most epic and ambitious boss battle yet.” Finally, Return to Castlevania will incorporate 12 recognizable tracks from Castlevania that have been “reimagined in the style of Dead Cells.”
The pricing for Return to Castlevania isn’t confirmed yet, but we’re assuming it won’t be much more expensive than Dead Cells’ other $5 DLCs.
Speaking of Castlevania, Santa Monica Studio’s Eric Williams recently openly lobbied for a shot at a Castlevania game. Finally, Netflix revealed a new trailer and the name of the spin-off to Castlevania.
