====Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night====
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===Overview===
"Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night" is the flagship title in the Bloodstained series, created by [[misc:koji_igarashi|Koji Igarashi]]. Released on June 18, 2019, the game is a gothic action-adventure RPG that pays homage to the classic "[[misc:igavania|IGAvania]]" style. It features deep exploration, intricate level design, and a rich narrative centered around the protagonist, [[Miriam]].

====Plot====
===Synopsis===
In the 18th century England, the Alchemist Guild performs experiments on humans to harness the power of the demons. [[Miriam]], an orphan, is one such subject who survives the process but falls into a deep slumber. Ten years later, she awakens to find the world ravaged by demonic forces and her friend [[Gebel]], who has fully succumbed to the curse, summoning these creatures. Miriam must venture into the demon-infested castle to confront Gebel.

The [[setting:story|story]] is told though the [[setting:story#prologue]], [[setting:story#journal|journal entries]] found in book shelves throughout the [[Hellhold]], and [[setting:story#dialogue]] between characters.

===Key Characters===
[[Miriam]]: The main protagonist, cursed by alchemists and partially crystallized. She seeks to stop Gebel and end the curse affecting her and others.

[[Gebel]]: The primary antagonist, who has fully embraced the curse and aims to unleash demons upon the world.

[[Johannes]]: An alchemist and friend of Miriam who aids her in her quest.

[[Zangetsu]]: A demon hunter who initially sees Miriam as an enemy but eventually becomes an ally.

====Gameplay====
===Exploration===
"Ritual of the Night" features a vast, interconnected map full of hidden rooms, secret passages, and diverse environments. Players must navigate the [[castle]], backtracking to previously inaccessible areas as they acquire new abilities and items.

===Combat===
Combat in the game combines melee attacks with magical abilities. Players can equip various [[data:start#weapons|Weapons]] such as swords, whips, and spears, each with unique attack patterns. Magical [[mode:shards|Shards]] obtained from defeated enemies grant additional powers and abilities, allowing for extensive customization of combat styles.

===Crafting and Upgrades===
A robust [[data:start#craft|Crafting]] system enables players to create [[data:start#inventory|Potions]], [[data:start#weapons|Weapons]], and [[data:start#gear|Armor]] using materials found throughout the game. Upgrades can be achieved through exploration and defeating powerful enemies, enhancing [[Miriam]]’s abilities and combat efficiency.

===Boss Battles===
The game features challenging [[boss]] battles requiring strategic use of abilities and careful study of [[enemy]] patterns. Defeating bosses often rewards players with significant upgrades or new abilities that are essential for progressing further in the game.

===Development===
==Creation and Funding==
"Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night" was developed following a successful [[misc:kickstarter|Kickstarter]] campaign launched in May 2015. The campaign was a resounding success, raising over $5.5 million, making it one of the most funded video game projects on the platform. [[misc:koji_igarashi|Koji Igarashi]], famed for his work on the [[Castlevania]] series, spearheaded the project, aiming to create a spiritual successor to the beloved franchise.

==Art and Music==
The game’s art style blends 2.5D graphics with gothic, baroque-inspired aesthetics. [[Michiru Yamane]], known for her work on [[Castlevania]], composed the music, enhancing the game’s atmospheric and immersive experience.

===Modes===
Main Game - Character select;
  * [[Miriam]]
  * [[Zangetsu]]
  * [[Aurora]]
  * [[Bloodless]]

Difficulty: Normal, Hard, Nightmare

Several [[cheat codes]] can be used by naming your save file various things. 

Extra Modes:

  * [[bloodless|Bloodless Mode]]
  * [[bossrush|Boss Rush Mode]]
  * [[speedrun|Speed Run Mode]]
  * [[randomiser|Randomizer Mode]]
  * [[bossrevenge|Boss Revenge Mode]]
  * [[chaos|Chaos Mode]]
  * [[vs|Versus Mode]]
  * [[classic|Classic Mode]]
  * [[classic2|Classic Mode 2 DLC]]

====DLC====
[[IGA's Back Pack]]

[[Classic II: Dominique's Curse]]

[[Succubus Cosmetic Pack]]

[[Magical Girl Cosmetic Pack]]

[[Japanesque Cosmetic Pack]]

[[Soundtrack]]