Summary
- Release Year: 2011
- Genres: Adventure, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up
- Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360
- Developers: MercurySteam
- Publishers: Konami
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Reverie: A Return to Darkness
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Reverie is a downloadable content (DLC) pack for the 2010 video game Castlevania: Lords of Shadow. The DLC was released on October 25, 2011, for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360. Reverie marks a return to the game’s climactic castle setting as Gabriel Belmont seeks to assist the recently-slain vampire Queen’s hand maiden. The download spans three stages, and offers a breath-taking twist to the game’s plot.
Gameplay
Reverie features the same core gameplay as Lords of Shadow. Players control Gabriel Belmont, a vampire hunter, as he fights his way through hordes of enemies using a variety of weapons and abilities. The DLC introduces some new gameplay elements, such as the ability to use Gabriel’s whip to grapple onto objects and swing across gaps.
The three stages in Reverie are all set in Dracula’s Castle. The first stage is a ruined courtyard, the second is a series of underground chambers, and the third is a grand throne room. Each stage is filled with enemies, traps, and puzzles.
Story
Reverie takes place after the events of Lords of Shadow. Gabriel has defeated Dracula and become the new Lord of Shadow. However, he is still haunted by the memories of his past. When the vampire Queen’s hand maiden is slain, Gabriel sets out to avenge her death.
Gabriel’s journey takes him back to Dracula’s Castle. As he fights his way through the castle, he begins to learn more about his own past and the true nature of his destiny.
Reception
Reverie received positive reviews from critics. IGN praised the DLC’s “breathtaking” visuals and “gripping” story. GameSpot called Reverie “a must-play for fans of Lords of Shadow.”
Legacy
Reverie is considered to be one of the best DLC packs ever released. It is a standalone story that offers a new perspective on the events of Lords of Shadow. Reverie also sets up the events of the sequel, Castlevania: Lords of Shadow 2.
Overall
Castlevania: Lords of Shadow – Reverie is an excellent DLC pack that is a must-play for fans of the series. The new levels are full of great action and set-pieces, and the story is gripping. Fans of the series will not be disappointed.
Score: 8.5 out of 10
Pros:
- Breathtaking visuals
- Gripping story
- New gameplay elements
- Sets up the events of the sequel
Cons:
- Short length
- Some puzzles can be frustrating
Review Score
8.5/10