𧊠Cheat Codes & Secrets
Looking to make your journey through Castlevania: Bloodlines a little easier - or maybe even tougher? The game hides several special options and codes that can change how you play. From unlocking Expert Mode and gaining extra lives to using stage passwords for quick access, these secrets let you explore every corner of this gothic adventure your way.
Expert Mode
Want a real challenge? Castlevania: Bloodlines includes a hidden Expert Mode that pushes your skills to the limit.
If you don't want to beat the game to unlock it, just enter this code on the title screen:
SpaceK
If done correctly, you'll hear a confirming sound - and the Expert difficulty will be available. Get ready for tougher enemies and faster action!
9 Lives Option
Need a few extra chances to survive Dracula's army? You can unlock a hidden 9 Lives option right from the main menu.
From the title screen, go to Options. Set "BGM" to 05 and "SE" to 073, play both, then press Enter to return to the title screen. Let it fade back to the "Press Start" screen, and press Enter again.
Now, on the title screen with the menu visible, enter the classic Konami Code:
SpaceK
If done correctly, you'll hear a chime. When you return to the Options menu, you'll see both the Expert Mode and 9 Lives settings unlocked. Perfect for players who want a tougher fight - but a little more breathing room!
Stage passwords
If you don't want to start from the very beginning every time, Castlevania: Bloodlines lets you use stage passwords to continue your journey. Each code corresponds to a specific stage, so you can jump right back into the action.
Stage 2
Empty Axe Bird Empty Bird Empty Bird Empty Jewel Empty Bird Axe Axe Empty Axe Axe
Stage 3
Axe Bird Jewel Axe Empty Empty Empty Jewel Axe Empty Bird Empty Bird Axe Axe Axe
Stage 4
Empty Bird Empty Bird Bird Empty Bird Empty Axe Empty Bird Empty Axe Empty Jewel Axe
Stage 5
Axe Axe Jewel Jewel Empty Empty Empty Jewel Empty Bird Bird Jewel Bird Axe Jewel Axe
Stage 6
Axe Axe Empty Jewel Empty Bird Empty Jewel Empty Axe Bird Jewel Bird Axe Empty Empty
đ§ Playable Characters
In Castlevania: Bloodlines, you can choose between two distinct heroes, each offering a different combat style and movement abilities. Picking the right one can completely change how you experience the game's gothic journey.
âī¸ John Morris
A direct descendant of the Belmont family, John Morris wields the legendary Vampire Killer whip. His playstyle is classic Castlevania - powerful strikes, solid reach, and precise control. John can swing his whip in multiple directions, letting you attack enemies above or across gaps. While he can't jump as high as Eric, his attacks feel stronger and more familiar to fans of earlier games.
đĄī¸ Eric Lecarde
A noble Spanish warrior, Eric Lecarde fights using the mystical Alcarde Spear, a weapon said to be blessed against the forces of darkness. His reach and agility make him ideal for players who like mobility and vertical attacks. Eric can perform a high pole-vault jump using his spear, allowing access to hidden areas and alternate paths. His playstyle feels faster and more acrobatic, offering a fresh twist on the traditional Castlevania formula.
Together, John and Eric bring variety and replay value to Castlevania: Bloodlines, making each run feel unique. Whether you rely on the whip's power or the spear's grace, both heroes share the same mission - to stop Elizabeth Bartley and prevent Dracula's resurrection once and for all.
⨠Did You Know?
𩸠Different Titles by Region
In North America, the game was released as Castlevania: Bloodlines, while in Europe it became Castlevania: The New Generation. The Japanese version carried the title Vampire Killer - a name often associated with the Belmonts' legendary weapon.
âī¸ Only Castlevania on SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive
This is the only Castlevania game ever developed specifically for the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive. It was created by Konami's internal team in 1994 and made full use of the console's hardware, especially its fast scrolling and detailed sprites.
đ Toned Down for Europe
The European release, The New Generation, removed most of the blood effects and changed red liquids to green or blue due to stricter content guidelines at the time. Even the title "Bloodlines" was considered too intense for the region.
đ§ Hidden Alcarde Reference
Eric Lecarde's weapon is called the "Alcarde Spear" in the game's character select screen - a small typo that likely meant Alucard Spear, referencing Dracula's son from other Castlevania titles. Fans still debate whether it was an intentional nod or just a translation error.
đĩ Memorable Soundtrack
The soundtrack, composed by Michiru Yamane, combines gothic organ melodies with SEGA's signature FM synth sound. She later went on to compose for Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, carrying forward the series' iconic musical identity.
đšī¸ Legacy & Reception
When Castlevania: Bloodlines launched in 1994, it stood out as a bold step for the series. Instead of appearing on Nintendo consoles like most previous titles, this entry brought the gothic adventure to the SEGA Genesis/Mega Drive, showcasing the console's technical strengths - fast scrolling, layered backgrounds, and sharp, detailed sprites.
Critics at the time praised its visuals, soundtrack, and smooth gameplay. Magazines like Electronic Gaming Monthly and GamePro noted that Bloodlines delivered a more action-focused experience than its Super Nintendo counterpart, Super Castlevania IV. The darker tone and challenging boss fights helped the game earn a loyal following among Genesis players.
Over the years, Castlevania: Bloodlines gained recognition as one of the best action-platformers on SEGA's hardware. It was later included in the Castlevania Anniversary Collection (2019), allowing a new generation of fans to experience it on modern systems. Many still regard it as a hidden gem that bridged the classic Castlevania formula with the more ambitious direction the series would take in Symphony of the Night.
Today, you can play Castlevania: Bloodlines online and revisit this unforgettable chapter in SEGA history. Its fast-paced gameplay, haunting music, and atmospheric levels remain as powerful as ever - a true testament to Konami's creativity at the height of the 16-bit era.