Yeah, it's everything we hoped it would be! I actually played all of the Castlevanias that use the same formula before I played this one and had a really great time. It helped me see this game in light of all the games that came before. I can definitely recommend at least playing Symphony and maybe a few others (the game draws heavily from Aria of Sorrow for the GBA, for example).

When you get the chance to try it, let me know what you think! And thanks for your comment!