Castlevania II - Simon's Quest Game

Ah, Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest—the black sheep of the early Castlevania games, but in the best way possible! This NES classic ditched the straightforward action of its predecessor and plunged players into a dark, open-world adventure full of cryptic clues, eerie townsfolk (who may or may not be lying to you), and a day-night cycle that actually made you fear sunset. As Simon Belmont, you’re racing to lift a curse by gathering Dracula’s scattered remains, battling monsters, and solving puzzles that’ll test your patience—and maybe your sanity.

Sure, the translation is famously rough ("What a horrible night to have a curse"), and the progression can feel obtuse without a guide, but that’s part of its weird charm. Simon’s Quest was ahead of its time, blending RPG elements with exploration years before "Metroidvania" became a genre staple. Love it or hate it, this game’s haunting atmosphere and experimental gameplay make it a cult favorite—and a must-play for anyone who enjoys a side of nostalgia with their gothic horror.