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Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2020

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Quick resume

Koji Igarashi and Inti Creates are back with more retro sword-and-whip action! Curse of the Moon 2 brings classic 2D action and a dark, 8-bit aesthetic together with modern playability.

Global score

85/100

Genres

Action, Indie, Platform, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up

Pros

  • Challenging and rewarding gameplay
  • Multiple characters with unique abilities
  • Local co-op mode
  • High replayability with multiple episodes and endings
  • Faithful retro castlevania-inspired design

Cons

  • Repetition due to replaying same levels multiple times
  • Difficulty spikes and occasional frustrating sections
  • Some players find music less memorable than first game
  • Lack of online multiplayer
  • Certain characters or mechanics can feel overpowered or unbalanced

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players can freely choose characters and switch between them to tackle challenges, with multiple routes and episodes offering different experiences."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game is challenging with boss fights requiring pattern recognition and skill, and multiple difficulty levels including a demanding Veteran mode."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is mainly on personal skill and progression; no mention of ranked modes or leaderboards, but co-op play exists."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Multiple episodes, replayability with different characters and routes, and a final episode encourage long play sessions and repeated playthroughs."

  • Cooperation
    4

    "Local co-op mode is a significant feature, allowing two players to work together and interact uniquely."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players experiment with different characters' unique abilities and subweapons, and explore alternate paths and secrets."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions emphasize shared play and cooperation rather than exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The retro fantasy setting and challenging gameplay provide an immersive escape from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and nostalgia for classic Castlevania-style games."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Players try new characters, abilities, and routes, experimenting with strategies to overcome challenges."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Multiple pathways and secrets in levels encourage discovery, though stages are reused across episodes."

  • Expression
    2

    "Character selection and use of unique abilities offer some self-expression, though customization is limited."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strong fantasy elements with demons, magic, and a gothic retro setting inspired by Castlevania."

  • Fellowship
    3

    "Community and shared experience are supported through co-op and shared achievements."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop skills through repeated play, learning boss patterns and mastering character abilities."

  • Health
    -5

    "No indication of physical activity; gameplay is sedentary platforming."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention and precise input; not suited for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    2

    "Co-op play fosters social interaction and bonding, though no deep emotional sharing is described."

  • Leadership
    -3

    "Players collaborate without hierarchical roles; co-op is balanced and supportive."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players collect upgrades, unlock characters, and progress through episodes and endings."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "The game is challenging and sometimes frustrating, with tension from difficult bosses and platforming."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Enjoyable retro visuals and music provide sensory stimulation and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -3

    "Focus is on individual or cooperative play rather than social recognition or leaderboards."

  • Story
    3

    "Narrative is present with multiple episodes and character interactions, though story is minimalistic and secondary."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Players must plan character usage, subweapon management, and route selection to overcome challenges."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Challenging boss fights and platforming create suspense and excitement."

  • Value
    4

    "Offers substantial content and replayability for the price, with multiple episodes and modes."

  • Violence
    3

    "Combat against demons and bosses is central, with attacks and destruction as core gameplay."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must avoid death and manage health and resources to progress through difficult stages."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026