Although Konami's game releases have slowed down compared to their peak in the 90s and early 2000s, the company remains a major player in the industry, boasting a rich catalog of iconic titles. While many of their games offer accessible gameplay, given Konami's extensive experience, it's unsurprising that they have also produced some exceptionally challenging and, at times, punishing games.
Often, this unforgiving difficulty is deliberately integrated by the developers to cater to a more committed gaming audience. However, certain idiosyncratic mechanics and uneven gameplay can also contribute to the extreme level of challenge. Let's delve into some of the toughest Konami games ever released and explore what makes them so formidable.
7 Saw 2: Flesh And Blood
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 3.38
- Release Date: October 2010
- Developer: Zombie Studios
- Publishers: Konami
Set between the first and second films, Saw 2 puts players in the shoes of Michael, who is trying to uncover the mystery behind his father's death. The combat system is unique, encouraging players to use environmental traps to fend off pursuers, but the basic melee system's demanding button inputs and the abundance of challenging quick time events contribute to its formidable difficulty.
The game's unresponsive controls and clunky mechanics make maneuvering and combat even more challenging.
6 Azure Dreams
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 3.62
Azure Dreams revolutionized RPGs with its randomly generated maps, adding an unpredictable and challenging element to dungeon exploration. The game's resemblance to Dark Souls in terms of its punishing nature and the need for extensive perseverance makes it a daunting experience for even seasoned RPG enthusiasts.
5 7 Blades
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 3.67
- Release Date: September 2001
- Developer: Konami
- Publishers: Konami
Based on the Japanese film Zipang, 7 Blades offers fast-paced action but overwhelms players with numerous formidable enemies and confined battle arenas, making each encounter extremely challenging. This intense difficulty enhances the gameplay's engagement and rewards, yet may deter newcomers.
4 Ring Of Red
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 3.82
Ring of Red, an RTS game, introduces complex mechanics that heighten the game's difficulty. Elements like reduced accuracy at night and terrain-based mechanics contribute to the game's formidable challenges, making it one of the most demanding RTS titles for the PlayStation 2.
3 Contra
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 3.89
Despite its eventual popularity, Contra is an immensely difficult game with one-hit deaths, requiring players to memorize level layouts and strategically utilize power-ups to survive. The game's challenging nature aligns with the era's trend of demanding gameplay, providing an intense and rewarding experience.
2 Castlevania
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 4.09
The original Castlevania captivated players with its gothic aesthetics and challenging gameplay. The game's demanding platforming sections and formidable enemies, coupled with the intricacies of the whip mechanics, contribute to its formidable difficulty, offering a truly challenging experience.
1 Castlevania 3: Dracula's Curse
Game FAQ Difficulty Rating: 4.15
Considered one of the most difficult NES games, Castlevania 3 presents relentless challenges, particularly in the North American release. The game's punishing difficulty, extended levels, and unforgiving platforming sections have made it a beloved yet formidable classic, attracting players seeking the ultimate gaming challenge.