I've been playing Bloodstained due to the new difficulty, and I'm reminded of how I like the Classic Mode that was added in an update. Classic Mode feels very much like the original Castlevania, which is a style of game that doesn't seem like it's that common nowadays. (Or, at least, I don't perceive it as being that common.)

So, my question: Anyone know of any RPGs that are similar to Bloodstained's Classic Mode?

Underrail, when it comes exp gains. By default it uses the "oddity" system which requires collecting certain objects and completing quests. The "classic" option is similar to Fallout, where you get gain exp by killings things, comleting quests, and using certain skills.

Isn't classic mode essentially a 2D platformer with no RPG elements whatsoever? There's a fair few Castlevania clones and similar games out there. The Bloodstained: Curse of the Moon games are entirely in that style, for starters.

Yes, it is essentially a 2D platformer with no RPG elements (aside from the fact that you do earn points from killing enemies, and if you earn enough points you get an extra life IIRC).

Unfortunately, the CotM games are not available DRM-free, and the developer has explicitly stated their opposition to making them DRM-free, so those are not games I can ethically purchase.

(Incidentally, some data mining has revealed the possibility of a Classic Mode 2, which some suspect would be in the style of Simon's Quest, which actually *does* have some RPG elements, specifically XP-based leveling and a currency that can be used to buy items. (On the other hand, it still has instant-death pits and limited lives, mechanics that don't normally appear in games with RPG mechanics.)

That's fair enough. There's not a lot of Castlevania-likes to recommend on here, besides obvious ones like Shovel Knight or the first half of The Messenger. Volgarr the Viking and Oniken might be close, but I haven't played those.

Don't forget that there is that old Castlevania and Contra collection available here.