Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
For most newcomers, buy Castlevania Advance Collection and start with Aria of Sorrow. It introduces the series’ exploration, character growth and ability-collecting style without the harsher structure of many early entries. Choose Castlevania Anniversary Collection instead if you specifically want linear stages, whip-focused combat and old-school challenge. Choose Castlevania Dominus Collection if the Nintendo DS trilogy, modern convenience features or Haunted Castle Revisited is your priority. If story continuity matters, play Aria of Sorrow before Dawn of Sorrow.
What is available on Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo’s Castlevania Collections Bundle groups three separate compilations: Castlevania Anniversary Collection, Castlevania Advance Collection and Castlevania Dominus Collection. They represent three different eras and play styles rather than three interchangeable greatest-hits packages.
| Collection | Games included | Primary style | Best suited to | Main trade-off | Switch release |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Castlevania Anniversary Collection | Castlevania, Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest, Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse, Super Castlevania IV, Castlevania: The Adventure, Castlevania II: Belmont’s Revenge, Bloodlines and Kid Dracula | Classic, stage-based action | Players who want discrete levels, pattern learning and traditional whip combat | Much less exploration and RPG-style progression than the later compilations | May 16, 2019 |
| Castlevania Advance Collection | Circle of the Moon, Harmony of Dissonance, Aria of Sorrow and Dracula X | Open-ended exploration with RPG elements | Newcomers and players looking for the style popularized by Symphony of the Night | The four games differ noticeably in quality, balance and structure; Dracula X is a more linear bonus | September 24, 2021 |
| Castlevania Dominus Collection | Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin, Order of Ecclesia, Haunted Castle Revisited and the original Haunted Castle | Later 2D exploration plus arcade material | Players who want the Nintendo DS trilogy, distinctive systems, rewind and quick saves | Dawn of Sorrow follows Aria of Sorrow, so its story is stronger when played second | August 27, 2024 |
The most useful dividing line is the one Nintendo Life uses: Anniversary is mostly “Classicvania,” with stage-based progression and limited lives, while Advance adopts the “Metroidvania” format of open-ended exploration and RPG elements. That distinction should guide your first purchase more than the number of games in each package.
Why Advance is the safest first purchase
Castlevania Advance Collection is the default recommendation because it places the most approachable game at the center of the package: Aria of Sorrow. Nintendo describes the compilation as a set of “action-exploration masterpieces,” and all four entries show the series moving away from one-screen-at-a-time stage clears toward interconnected maps, equipment and ability growth.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Aria of Sorrow gives you the clearest introduction
Aria of Sorrow uses the Tactical Soul system. Defeated enemies can yield abilities that you equip and combine with weapons, armor and other upgrades. This makes exploration immediately meaningful: a new room may contain a useful soul, a traversal option or equipment that changes how you approach the next area.
Nintendo Life’s review describes Tactical Soul as more manageable and balanced than the earlier DSS approach used in Circle of the Moon. Its conclusion calls Aria of Sorrow “one of the best games in the entire Castlevania series.” For a first-time player, that combination of flexible progression and relatively clear systems makes it easier to understand why the exploration-focused branch became so influential.
Circle of the Moon shows the earlier formula
Circle of the Moon is useful after Aria because it lets you see an earlier version of the handheld formula. Its DSS system asks you to combine cards to produce effects, so experimentation is more central and the balance can feel less immediately readable. Playing it second turns those differences into context instead of an obstacle during your first hour with the series.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Harmony of Dissonance is a contrasting follow-up
Harmony of Dissonance continues the exploration format but has its own pacing, map structure and presentation. The collection’s four games vary in feel and quality, so you should not expect every entry to match Aria of Sorrow’s balance. That variety is valuable if you want to trace the GBA era, but it is also the package’s principal weakness for someone seeking a uniformly polished set.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Dracula X is the linear outlier
Dracula X does not use the same open-ended structure as the other three games. Treat it as a compact, more linear action game that rounds out the compilation rather than as the next step in the exploration sequence.
When Anniversary is the better first choice
Castlevania Anniversary Collection traces the franchise’s origins across NES, Super NES, Game Boy, Mega Drive/Genesis and Famicom-era releases. Its eight-game lineup includes the foundational Castlevania, the unusual quest structure of Castlevania II: Simon’s Quest, branching routes in Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse, the fluid movement of Super Castlevania IV, the portable entries Castlevania: The Adventure and Castlevania II: Belmont’s Revenge, Bloodlines and the lighter Kid Dracula.
Expect stages, patterns and limited resources
These games are built around discrete stages rather than one continuous castle. Progress depends on learning enemy patterns, jump timing, boss phases and the placement of hazards. Limited lives and a more arcade-like structure make failure part of the intended loop: you repeat a section, refine your timing and push farther on the next attempt.
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallOutdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchThat design is ideal if you want the “original Castlevania feel,” but it can be a poor first impression for someone expecting free exploration, equipment screens and frequent character growth. Anniversary does not provide the same map-driven sense of discovery that defines Aria of Sorrow, Dawn of Sorrow or Order of Ecclesia.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Extra historical material
Nintendo includes a developer-and-artist eBook with the collection. It adds useful historical context for players who want to understand how the franchise developed, rather than simply play through its levels.
When Dominus should come first
Castlevania Dominus Collection is the most specialized of the three packages. It contains the Nintendo DS trilogy—Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin and Order of Ecclesia—plus both versions of the arcade game Haunted Castle: the original and Haunted Castle Revisited, a redrawn version.
Dawn of Sorrow continues Soma’s story
Dawn of Sorrow is set one year after Aria of Sorrow and follows Soma Cruz again. It expands the soul-based progression idea with weapon creation tied to the souls you collect. Because it is a direct narrative continuation, starting with Dawn can make character relationships and references less meaningful. You can play it first mechanically, but Aria is the better story entry point.
Portrait of Ruin changes the party dynamic
Portrait of Ruin lets you switch between dual heroes. That system changes combat, traversal and puzzle solving: some situations reward the strengths of one character, while others require coordinated use of both. It is a good choice if you want a more party-oriented structure than Soma’s solo progression.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Order of Ecclesia emphasizes glyphs
In Order of Ecclesia, Shanoa absorbs glyphs and uses them as weapons and abilities. The system gives the game a distinct identity within the exploration-focused entries and supports different loadouts as you learn which glyphs fit a particular enemy or area.
Haunted Castle Revisited supplies a modern arcade option
Haunted Castle Revisited is not another chapter in the DS-style exploration format. It reworks the arcade game with redrawn presentation, while the original Haunted Castle is included for comparison. If you mainly want a modernized, stage-based challenge without buying Anniversary, this pair is the reason to consider Dominus early.
Convenience features that affect the choice
Dominus documents several features that make its older games easier to approach: rewind, quick saves, regional-version switching, music playlists and an information compendium. Rewind lets you correct a mistimed jump or recover from an unexpected hit without replaying an entire segment. Quick saves reduce the commitment required for a short session. Regional switching is useful for comparing versions, while the playlist and compendium make the package more suitable for historical exploration.
Anniversary and Advance remain playable without those Dominus-specific conveniences, but the difference matters if you are new to demanding 2D action or usually play in short bursts.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Which collection matches your preferred style?
| If you want… | Start with… | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Classic stages, whip combat and pattern learning | Anniversary Collection | Its lineup is built around discrete levels and traditional action design. |
| A first experience similar to Symphony of the Night | Advance Collection | Aria of Sorrow demonstrates interconnected exploration, RPG growth and collectible abilities. |
| The best newcomer-friendly exploration entry | Aria of Sorrow within Advance | Tactical Soul is more approachable than the earlier DSS approach, according to Nintendo Life’s review. |
| The DS trilogy in one purchase | Dominus Collection | It is the only Switch compilation containing Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin and Order of Ecclesia. |
| Modern recovery tools for older games | Dominus Collection | It includes rewind, quick saves, regional-version switching, playlists and an information compendium. |
| An arcade-style game with a redrawn version | Dominus Collection | It includes both Haunted Castle Revisited and the original Haunted Castle. |
Recommended play orders
Best route for a complete newcomer
- Start with Aria of Sorrow in Castlevania Advance Collection.
- Play Circle of the Moon to see the earlier DSS-based approach.
- Try Harmony of Dissonance for another interpretation of GBA exploration.
- Finish the package with Dracula X as its linear action-oriented contrast.
This is an editorial route rather than an official chronology. It prioritizes a smooth learning curve and then exposes you to the design changes across the handheld games.
Best route for Soma’s storyline
- Play Aria of Sorrow.
- Continue with Dawn of Sorrow.
- Move to Portrait of Ruin and Order of Ecclesia afterward, since they use different protagonists and systems.
Best route for historical classic action
- Begin with the original Castlevania.
- Try Super Castlevania IV to experience the Super NES interpretation.
- Play Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse for branching routes and multiple playable characters.
- Explore the Game Boy and Mega Drive/Genesis entries, then compare the original and redrawn Haunted Castle if you also own Dominus.
Controls, modes and practical setup
Nintendo’s listing for Dominus supports handheld, tabletop and TV modes. It also lists the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller as compatible. A full-size controller is optional, but it can make precise jumps and repeated boss attempts more comfortable than small handheld controls. Handheld mode is useful for short sessions, while TV mode gives the pixel art and maps more screen space.
The collections are compilations of older games, so do not expect identical menus, difficulty curves or progression systems between entries. Save features and presentation tools can differ by collection; Dominus is the one explicitly documented with rewind and quick saves.
Release timeline
| Collection | Nintendo Switch release date |
|---|---|
| Castlevania Anniversary Collection | May 16, 2019 |
| Castlevania Advance Collection | September 24, 2021 |
| Castlevania Dominus Collection | August 27, 2024 |
Prices and discounts change by region and storefront, so the release dates above identify the editions rather than promise a current price. Check the Nintendo eShop listing for your region before purchasing.
Quick Recap
The decision in one minute
- Pick Advance first if you have never played Castlevania or want the exploration-and-RPG style. Launch Aria of Sorrow.
- Pick Anniversary first if “Castlevania” means tough, linear stages, whip timing and classic hardware-era design to you.
- Pick Dominus first if you specifically want the DS trilogy, Shanoa’s glyph system, dual-hero play, Soma’s sequel, or the most extensive modern convenience features.
- For narrative continuity, place Aria of Sorrow before Dawn of Sorrow.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
