Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls brings the legendary gothic action series back with a fresh storyline, iconic characters, and side-scrolling combat. Available exclusively on Apple Arcade, the game lets players relive the haunting charm of Dracula’s world while exploring new challenges and narratives.
Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls – A Dark Fantasy Revival on Apple Arcade
Introduction
Konami revives its iconic franchise with Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls, a side-scrolling action game that honors the legacy of the series while offering new content. Released in 2021 and updated for 2025, the game remains exclusive to Apple Arcade, making it a must-play for fans craving both nostalgia and innovation.
Storyline and Setting
The game takes place after Dracula’s defeat and the sealing of his castle in 1999. A mysterious letter received by Genya Arikado (Alucard) reveals that ancient grimoires have awakened, unleashing monsters into the world once again. Players embark on a journey to uncover the mystery, with a narrative that spans across the Castlevania universe, offering a new chapter to its dark history.
Gameplay and Features
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Classic Side-Scrolling Action: True to its roots, the game delivers a full 2D action experience.
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Iconic Playable Characters: Fans can step into the shoes of legendary heroes such as Alucard, Simon Belmont, Charlotte, Shanoa, and Maria, each with unique skills and combat styles.
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Deadly Boss Battles: Test your skill against powerful enemies and traps hidden within Dracula’s grimoires.
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Multiple Modes: Enjoy diverse gameplay experiences that go beyond standard story missions.
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Exclusive to Apple Arcade: Ad-free, no in-app purchases, ensuring smooth progression for subscribers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
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Authentic Castlevania side-scrolling gameplay.
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A large roster of fan-favorite characters.
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Original storyline expanding the franchise lore.
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Available on Apple Arcade with no ads or microtransactions.
Cons:
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Exclusivity limits access to Apple devices only.
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Graphics and mechanics may feel traditional compared to modern AAA titles.
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Appeals more to long-time fans than casual players.
Comparison with Other Games
Compared to other Apple Arcade titles like Dead Cells+ or Oceanhorn 2, Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls stands out with its gothic atmosphere and franchise legacy. Unlike subscription-free games on PC or consoles, it benefits from Apple Arcade’s premium ecosystem—no ads, offline play, and stable updates. However, players on Android, PlayStation, or Xbox are left without access, making exclusivity its biggest limitation.
Conclusion
Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls is a faithful yet fresh revival of one of gaming’s most beloved franchises. With its combination of side-scrolling combat, rich gothic lore, and iconic characters, it is a treat for both veteran fans and newcomers who own Apple devices. While exclusivity keeps it from reaching a wider audience, those within the Apple Arcade ecosystem can experience a polished, story-driven action game that carries the Castlevania legacy into a new era.
User Reviews
