While Alucard himself may not be a playable character in Castlevania: Belmont's Curse, his presence is felt throughout the game via a series of portraits that hold a significant secret. These paintings, scattered throughout the main hall, are more than just decorative; they serve as directional clues for navigating the game's intricate world and uncovering hidden passages, weapons, and sidequests.
Early in the game, players will notice numerous paintings of Alucard, even appearing on the in-game map. A talking statue within the Servant's Hall offers a hint: "The Artiste chose to honor one who left your side too soon. The Master's son will point the way, his face still makes us swoon." This cryptic message highlights the paintings' function as guides.
Deciphering the Paintings
The key to understanding these portraits lies in the direction Alucard's sword is pointing. Each direction indicates a specific type of hidden area or path:
- Downward: If Alucard's sword points downwards, it signifies that the floor in that location is passable. Players should interpret this as an invitation to drop through the floor to discover what lies beneath.
- Upward or Sideways: When the sword is directed upwards or to the side, players should look for a blank painting nearby. Interacting with this blank painting using the Arcane Whip will allow Rose to launch herself in the indicated direction, revealing a hidden path.
By deciphering these visual cues, players can unlock access to various secrets, including the entrance to the Artist's studio, hidden weapon caches, valuable relics, the path to the Waterworks area, and even the route for complex sidequests. The Alucard paintings, therefore, transform from simple environmental details into essential navigational tools for dedicated explorers.