The Castlevania franchise is almost as old as I am. Well, I have a few years on the game, but still, it is hard to believe this game franchise has almost been around for a quarter of a century. I’ve never really gotten into this series much, but any franchise that sees success after 23 years deserves mad props.

Fans of the series will be thrilled to know that the game offers a selection of new modes including a multiplayer option that features up to six other players on XBox Live Arcade. The details and screenshots have been made available through E3 and there is a playable demo for those who are currently at the convention.

The new map system in Castlevania: Harmony of Despair allows players to better utilize maps during quests. In fact, the entire quest map area is visible thanks to this brand new mapping system.

This 2D title has a Co-Op mode, which includes quests to find items and an inevitable Boss battle. It is similar to the Boss fighting modes of previous Castlevania titles. There is also a versus mode, where players can battle one another.

Castlevania: Harmony of Despair offers the ability to play as multiple, recognizable characters from past releases of this game series. Multiple palettes are available so multiplayer games can be played with the same character.

Castlevania: Harmony of Despair is slated for release on XBLA July 28, 2010.

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