Play Castlevania – The New Generation Online

If you thought Castlevania was just a Nintendo thing, The New Generation (or Bloodlines if you're in the US) proves the Genesis could do gothic action just as well. Instead of another Belmont, you pick between two hunters—John Morris with his classic whip, or Eric Lecarde with this ridiculous spear that lets you pole-vault over enemies. Weirdly fun once you get the hang of it.

The levels stretch across Europe, which was a nice change from Dracula’s castle for the hundredth time. There’s one stage where you’re climbing a crumbling tower while gears and pistons try to crush you—pure Genesis "blast processing" chaos. And the music? Some of the best the console ever pulled off, especially that gothic-industrial boss theme.

It’s shorter than the SNES games, but the branching paths and different character abilities give it replay value. Just don’t expect to beat it in one sitting unless you’re a masochist—those late-game bosses don’t mess around.