Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse Is Up for Preorder

IGN

by Chris Reed

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Konami, the legendary video game company behind the iconic *Castlevania* series, is making a triumphant return with *Castlevania: Belmont’s Curse*, the first new side-scrolling entry in the franchise since 2008. This eagerly anticipated game is set to launch in 2026 for PS5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, and PC, marking a significant milestone for fans of the action-horror genre. Available for preorder at $39.99 across major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, and Walmart, *Belmont’s Curse* is already generating buzz among gaming enthusiasts. Developed by Evil Empire, the studio behind *The Rogue Prince of Persia* and Dead Cells DLCs, including *Dead Cells: Return to Castlevania*, *Belmont’s Curse* promises to bring back the classic side-scrolling experience that defined the series. Set in 1499 Paris during a monster invasion, the game follows Simon Belmont as he battles through terrifying environments filled with saw blades and towering bosses. Players can expect fast-paced action, including platform jumping, ring swinging, and enemy whipping, alongside unique abilities like throwing a cross or using a flame spell. The game’s setting is also notable for its historical context—23 years after the events of *Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse* on NES. While details about whether it leans more toward metroidvania or traditional action-adventure are still emerging, early trailers suggest a thrilling mix of exploration and combat. With no preorder bonuses currently available, the focus remains on delivering a standout gameplay experience. For fans of *Castlevania

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Originally published on IGN on 2/19/2026