Akumajou Dracula (Japan) (Rev 1)

What is Akumajou Dracula (Japan) (Rev 1)?

Akumajou Dracula (Japan) (Rev 1) is the original Japanese release of the groundbreaking action-platformer that launched the iconic Castlevania series. Released for the Famicom Disk System (FDS), this revision includes minor bug fixes and adjustments from the initial version. Players step into the boots of vampire hunter Simon Belmont as he battles through gothic corridors filled with supernatural horrors to confront Count Dracula in his foreboding castle. The game established core franchise staples like sub-weapons, branching paths, and challenging boss encounters, all wrapped in a haunting atmosphere with memorable chiptune melodies.

Game Features

• Iconic Gothic Setting: Explore six treacherous stages of Dracula's castle, from crumbling courtyards to clock towers and catacombs
• Signature Sub-Weapons: Collect holy water, throwing axes, daggers, and more using collected hearts as ammunition
• Challenging Boss Battles: Face off against classic monsters like Medusa, Frankenstein's Monster, and Death
• Branching Pathways: Discover alternate routes and hidden secrets that reward exploration
• Distinctive Visual Style: Pixel-art environments dripping with horror atmosphere and detailed enemy designs
• Memorable Soundtrack: Haunting FDS-exclusive audio with enhanced sound channels for immersive ambiance

How to Play Akumajou Dracula (Japan) (Rev 1)?

As an FDS game, Akumajou Dracula uses the following controls:

1. Move Simon Belmont left/right with the arrow keys or A/D keys
2. Press Z key to attack with your whip (primary weapon)
3. Press X key to jump (commit fully – jumps can't be adjusted mid-air!)
4. Hold Down + Attack (Z) while standing on stairs to descend them
5. Press Up near staircases to climb or near doors to enter new areas
6. Collect hearts from candles to power sub-weapons activated by pressing Up + Attack (Z)
7. Defeat bosses to obtain key items that unlock progression to Dracula's throne room

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Rev 1 version different from the original?
This revision fixes several bugs from the initial release, including collision detection issues and audio glitches, providing a more polished experience while retaining all core gameplay elements.

Why is the jumping mechanic so unforgiving?
The deliberate, momentum-based jumps are a signature challenge requiring precise timing – plan your leaps carefully as you can't change direction mid-air, adding strategic depth to platforming sections.

How do sub-weapons work?
Breaking candles drops hearts that act as ammunition for special weapons. Press Up + Attack to use your currently selected sub-weapon (like holy water or boomerang cross), each with unique tactical advantages against specific enemies.