+ Music: the music here is unrivalled in the Castlevania games. Really classic stuff.
+Art style: dark gothic pixel art. What else could you ask for? Also the best in the series.
+Gameplay depth: an RPG-sidescroller hybrid? Systems are interesting, generally well done and enjoyable? Nice.
+Story: it's basic as fuck yet still more interesting than all the others in the series. The ending is quite cool.
-Challenge: everyone that gives a damn about challenge or is versed in the ways of the old school should grab the SoTN romhack by Landon Ray. It doesn't fix the difficulty (e.g soul steal still exists) but it goes a long way.
-Level design: Really, the level design is more good than bad. It's open, it's entertaining enough, and it's diverse enough, but it's not as good as it could have been. If every level were as interesting as the underground lake this game would be something else. As another user pointed out, overall there's a severe lack of environmental hazards (pitfalls, traps etc), engaging platforming etc and not really for any good reason. Nonetheless it's not completely devoid. See: clockwork tower medusa heads w/platforming, or the underground lake hazardous water.
Additionally, the second half of the game being a semi-recycle of the first...it's not a terrible thing, but you'd think they'd be able to deliver a bit more since it's not a terribly huge game.
And that's about it. It's a great game nonetheless, a fine example of a time where even console games used to be awsum and all should play it.
Heh, it's growing on me. I'm stuck but can't stop playing.
So, what's the deal with Firebrand or Icebrand swords? Both have less damage then the Damascus but cost more. What's the catch?
They have special powers. Or at least the ice brand does. Not sure about firebrand but I'd assume so. Do a street fighter Hadouken to execute. down, down-forward, forward, attack. Not really possible if you're playing w/Keyboard and mouse.
Also, elemental damage.