Castlevania: Nocturne, the latest installment in the beloved vampire-hunting franchise, plunges viewers into a new era and setting distinct from its predecessor. This article explores the chronological and geographical differences between Nocturne and the original Castlevania animated series.
A Revolution in Time: Nocturne’s 1792 Setting
Castlevania: Nocturne unfolds amidst the fervor of the French Revolution in 1792. The series vividly portrays the social and political upheaval of this period, with Richter Belmont, the new protagonist, confronting a clandestine vampire conspiracy manipulating French society. The choice of 1792 specifically places the narrative around the establishment of the First French Republic, a pivotal moment in history likely to influence the plot.
Nocturne meticulously recreates the atmosphere of 18th-century France, from the neoclassical architecture to the period-accurate costumes. While commoners’ attire reflects the styles of the time, the vampires’ wardrobe takes creative liberties, drawing inspiration from French aristocratic fashion. This blend of historical accuracy and artistic license creates a compelling and immersive world.
Centuries Apart: Bridging the 300-Year Gap
While the original Castlevania series doesn’t explicitly state its timeframe, it’s based on the game Castlevania III: Dracula’s Curse, set in 1476 Wallachia (modern-day Romania). This establishes a significant chronological gap of approximately 300 years between the two series. Furthermore, the geographical setting shifts from Eastern Europe to France, highlighting the expansive reach of the vampire threat.
This considerable time difference allows Nocturne to explore the evolution of the Belmont lineage and Richter’s connection to his ancestors’ legacy. It also provides narrative space to delve into the resurgence and spread of vampires across Europe following the events of the original series. The shift in setting and time period opens exciting possibilities for exploring new characters, storylines, and vampire lore within the Castlevania universe. Nocturne promises a fresh perspective on the enduring battle between humanity and the forces of darkness, while still honoring the rich history of the franchise.
