Konami' Matt Knoles spends time with Joel Szerlip on their latest in the Castlevania franchise, Castlevania: Curse of Darkness for the PS2 and Xbox.

Hi! First off can you first tell us a bit about yourself and Castlevania: Curse of Darkness?

My name is Matt Knoles and I am the Product Manager at Konami Digital Entertainment – America in charge of Castlevania: Curse of Darkness.

What is the storyline going to be of Castlevania and how closely does it relate to previous games?

First of all, I should make it clear that this game is not a sequel to Castlevania: Lament of Innocence. In fact Curse of Darkness represents a different direction for the Castlevania series. Typically the stories have followed the Belmont clan and their quest to save the world from Dracula. However, this time the story revolves around an entirely new character – Hector, a devil forgemaster and former lieutenant of Dracula.

Curse of Darkness takes place three years after the events of Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse. Disillusioned with the ideals of his mentor, Hector fled Vallachia leaving Dracula vulnerable to the Belmonts. Now, three years after Dracula was defeated in battle, the magic power of the curse released upon his death has infected all of Europe. As the continent succumbs to pestilence, heresy and mob violence, Hector's girlfriend is killed. Fueled by revenge, Hector must find his way back to the ruins of Dracula's castle and uncover an intricate web of deception, unaware of the sinister plan that has been orchestrated to lure him home.

Very intriguing. What can you tell us at this point in time about the combat system, and how will it compare to other action games on the market?

In addition to much more enhanced combo system than what was in the previous Castlevania games, we are also introducing new allies that will fight alongside the main character as well as helping him solve puzzles. As a devil forgemaster, you have the ability to summon Innocent Devils. There are various different types and each has a unique ability which comes in very handy. There will also be an expansive selection of new weapons – each of course with unique attacks.

What sort of things can we expect to be doing through the story mode of the game?

In addition to fighting off the creatures of the night in your quest for revenge, there will be more exploration this time around and you will gain various experience points to grow your character. You'll also encounter many plot twists and quite a few surprises!

With many action games offering more modes to enhance the replay value of the game, what can we expect to see in the game?

Beyond the main story mode of the game I'm afraid I can't say anything more at this point.

Fair enough. What sort of graphical elements can we expect to see in the game?

The Castlevania series has always been known for its amazing graphics and unique look. Curse of Darkness will provide equally impressive graphics as well as newer, more wide-open and expansive surroundings.

Great. And how about the aural aspects? I would think a strong orchestral soundtrack would be fitting to the Castlevania franchise.

In traditional Castlevania style, we are pleased to have Michiru Yamane working on the soundtrack. The darker storyline will be supported by a strong new orchestral composition.

From the developers viewpoint, what gets you most excited about the game?

I am really excited about playing the series from a different point of view – playing a character who used to be close to Dracula. I'm also excited about the Innocent Devils, a unique new addition to the combat and exploration aspects of the series.

Lastly, when should we expect to see Castlevania: Curse of Darkness hit store shelves?

Castlevania: Curse of Darkness will be available this fall in time for the holiday season.

Click for more info on Castlevania: Curse of Darkness for PlayStation 2 and Xbox.