October 4^th, 2005 (4:08pm) - Konami has announced that the highly anticipated game Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow for the Nintendo DS has shipped to retail stores nationwide. Bringing all of the nostalgia of 2D gaming to the DS, this robust title also includes an incredibly deep storyline and innovative features that utilize the handheld system’s unique capabilities.

Continuing the storyline from the critically-acclaimed Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow, Castlevania: Dawn of Sorrow follows Soma Cruz who finds himself at the center of a mysterious cult’s plan to resurrect their evil lord and master, Dracula. Players will find themselves in the role of Soma, the game’s protagonist, as they infiltrate the enemy’s lair, a towering replica of Dracula’s castle, and battle against gruesome creatures and the franchise’s signature oversized bosses.

Specifically crafted for the Nintendo DS by the award-winning producer Koji Igarashi and his creative team, the game features the "Magic Seal" system, which utilizes the Nintendo DS’ touch screen and gives players the ability to defeat and lock away evil spirits. Players can also exchange or trade acquired souls with other players as well as race another gamer through custom made maps in ’Versus’ mode via the DS wireless connection. Drawing inspiration from the past Castlevania titles and their role playing roots, players can, through an enhanced Tactical Soul System, collect more souls than ever before to upgrade abilities and skills. Completing this compelling gaming experience are its stunning graphics, special effects as well as an all-new musical score.

Nearing its 20th anniversary, the Castlevania franchise is known for its classic platform-jumping, problem-solving and combat elements and includes such games as the beloved Castlevania: Symphony of the Night (PlayStation, 1997), Castlevania: Harmony of Dissonance (Game Boy Advance, 2002) and Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow (Game Boy Advance, 2003).