Continuing a streak of success, Konami's latest Castlevania arrives on the DS with an epic quest that goes beyond the usual limitations of the series. Still following an adventure path that varies from the earlier incarnations that were basic platform titles, Portrait of Ruin is another nearly flawless effort. Konami has found a gameplay style that never loses its addictive nature.
As with all recent Castlevania games, Portrait of Ruin offers unique mechanics to keep things fresh. A team mechanism is the hook here, allowing the player to swap between two characters with their own unique set of powers. Managing their weapons, spells and special abilities are the key.
Swapping characters could not be easier. A single press of a face button can activate them instantly. There is an option to keep them with you at all times or let them rest. In a wise design choice, the player will not lose health if the non-player controlled partner is hit. Instead, magic points take the brunt of the blow. Having an extra offensive force isn't always the solution.
As expected, some puzzles require the characters working in unison. Most of these logic traps can be figured out in a few minutes. Other puzzles follow the series standard fare of requiring a certain item or power to pass. It's a slightly wasted opportunity given the possibilities available with the two characters. Touch screen controls are limited to directing the non-user controlled player to an area of the screen and rarely proves useful.
Game size is the next addition that helps Portrait become the best game in the series since Symphony of the Night. Instead of being confined to the castle (which is still massive), you'll enter paintings that reveal an entirely new area to explore. Most of these have enemies and bosses unique to the environment. Little graphical touches bring the environments to life, while new polygonal enemies make a superb addition alongside the always stunning 2-D sprites.
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