Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow [Loose]

Widely hailed as one of the best games on the GBA, Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow sets itself apart with a compelling plot twist that pulls the franchise into the year 2035, centering on the amnesiac protagonist Soma Cruz trapped within Dracula’s castle during a solar eclipse. This is the pinnacle of the Metroidvania style, featuring vast exploration and non-linear progression, but its true genius lies in the Tactical Soul System (TSS). By defeating enemies, Soma can steal their souls and gain their unique abilities—collecting over 100 different souls to customize his combat style, movement, and defensive powers. The combination of its dark, futuristic setting, intricate castle design, and deep customization system makes Aria of Sorrow an absolute must-own for action-RPG and exploration fans.