Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2 similar games & best alternatives
Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon 2
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
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Autonomy4
"Players can freely choose characters and switch between them to tackle challenges, with multiple routes and episodes offering different experiences."
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Competence4
"The game is challenging with boss fights requiring pattern recognition and skill, and multiple difficulty levels including a demanding Veteran mode."
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Competition-3
"Focus is mainly on personal skill and progression; no mention of ranked modes or leaderboards, but co-op play exists."
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Continuation4
"Multiple episodes, replayability with different characters and routes, and a final episode encourage long play sessions and repeated playthroughs."
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Cooperation4
"Local co-op mode is a significant feature, allowing two players to work together and interact uniquely."
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Creativity3
"Players experiment with different characters' unique abilities and subweapons, and explore alternate paths and secrets."
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Domination-4
"Interactions emphasize shared play and cooperation rather than exerting control or superiority over others."
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Escapism4
"The retro fantasy setting and challenging gameplay provide an immersive escape from real life."
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Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily out of interest and nostalgia for classic Castlevania-style games."
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Experimenting4
"Players try new characters, abilities, and routes, experimenting with strategies to overcome challenges."
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Exploration3
"Multiple pathways and secrets in levels encourage discovery, though stages are reused across episodes."
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Expression2
"Character selection and use of unique abilities offer some self-expression, though customization is limited."
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Fantasy5
"Strong fantasy elements with demons, magic, and a gothic retro setting inspired by Castlevania."
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Fellowship3
"Community and shared experience are supported through co-op and shared achievements."
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Growth4
"Players develop skills through repeated play, learning boss patterns and mastering character abilities."
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Health-5
"No indication of physical activity; gameplay is sedentary platforming."
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Idle-4
"Requires focused attention and precise input; not suited for passive or background play."
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Intimacy2
"Co-op play fosters social interaction and bonding, though no deep emotional sharing is described."
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Leadership-3
"Players collaborate without hierarchical roles; co-op is balanced and supportive."
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Progression4
"Players collect upgrades, unlock characters, and progress through episodes and endings."
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Relaxation-2
"The game is challenging and sometimes frustrating, with tension from difficult bosses and platforming."
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Sensation3
"Enjoyable retro visuals and music provide sensory stimulation and emotional engagement."
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Status-3
"Focus is on individual or cooperative play rather than social recognition or leaderboards."
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Story3
"Narrative is present with multiple episodes and character interactions, though story is minimalistic and secondary."
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Strategy4
"Players must plan character usage, subweapon management, and route selection to overcome challenges."
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Thrill3
"Challenging boss fights and platforming create suspense and excitement."
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Value4
"Offers substantial content and replayability for the price, with multiple episodes and modes."
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Violence3
"Combat against demons and bosses is central, with attacks and destruction as core gameplay."
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Survival3
"Players must avoid death and manage health and resources to progress through difficult stages."
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Where to buy
Last update: 06/03/2026