Castlevania: Order of Ecclesia Areas
astlevania: Order of Ecclesia is a distinctive game in the series for how it is structured. Areas of the game are accessed via a world map. When one area is exited at a certain point, a new area will appear on the world map awaiting exploration. There are sometimes several exit points within an area (these are marked as yellow squares on the mini-maps), and a certain exit point must be reached in order to reveal a certain area.
There are a few places of tranquility in this troubled land. Ecclesia Headquarters, where our quest begins, is Shanoa's home, and where Master Barlowe waits for word of progress on our quest. Wygol Village is home to several residents who have been kidnapped by Albus, a former member of the Order of Ecclesia. He has placed them in many different locations across the world map. Once they're liberated, they will return to the village where Shanoa may help them on different quests, and receive rewards for doing so.
When all the areas on the world map have been completed, Dracula's Castle will rise, and inside, it operates like a more traditional "Metroidvania".
Let us see what maladies have befallen this land as we search for Albus, and see what secrets there are to be uncovered.
I'm taking you on a journey. . .
Ecclesia
This Cathedral-like building is the headquarters of Ecclesia, an underground organization backed by those in positions of power and dedicated to ridding the world of Count Dracula. It is the home of Shanoa, and the former home of Albus. Master Barlowe waits here in a room with a strange glowing altar.
In one of the rooms is a plaque bearing the inscription "Descendo Lumen". When translated from Latin, this means Descendants of Light. But, when translated from Portuguese, it changes to "Failing Light". Some say that hidden organizations often leave secret messages within plain sight. What could this mean?*
The main area in Ecclesia is a hub that branches to other rooms, including a save room. The ginger lighting dims the further up you go.
Ecclesia has a High Victorian Gothic style to its structure. Pay attention to the writings on the wall.
Barlowe can be visited in his muted room. Whenever substantial progress is made on your quest, or there is a new development, it is a good idea to head back to base and consult with Barlowe.
Music Track:
* Thanks goes to Alec Morris for this information.
Monestary
An aged building veiled by a thicket of trees is the first place Shanoa investigates in her search for Albus. It was once a holy sanctuary, but as monks fell ill to plague or deserted their sanctified positions to live more indulgent lifestyles, this safe haven was left to decay. Mockingly, it is now a refuge for the undead, criminals, and vagrants.
The area is brown toned, lit by a late afternoon sun and glowing stoves. Could Albus be using this sacrilegious haunt as a base to continue his research of Dominus?
Shanoa embarks on her quest in this aged structure beneath the multi-hued sky.
It is a disheveled place roamed by ghosts and specters. Shanoa will find herself crawling under and leaping over tables, pots, dried grass, and statues to find her way.
There are vertical towers lit by bronzy light pouring through windows. Watch out for bats. They like to hide under ledges and launch surprise attacks!
The Monastery has a surprising amount of stoves and what appears to be kitchenware. Either these are tools used for experiments of some sort, or the monks that used live here were doing a lot of cooking.
This is the area where the Magnes Glyph is found. Practice using it, as it will prove to be a very important asset, perhaps much sooner than you think.
Boss:
• Arthroverta
Chest Common:
• Meat
• Anti-Venom
• Magical Ticket
• Cotton Thread
Chest Rare:
• Darjeeling Tea
• Heart Repair
• High Tonic
• Lapis Lazuli
Music Track:
Wygol Village
The map Albus left behind in the Monestary directs Shanoa to this sleepy hamlet. Wygol is a picturesque village with intriguing inhabitants. This peaceful parish was founded by Father Nikolai. A calling from God told him to clear the wasteland and plant seeds. He soon inspired others, such as Eugen, who lent his woodworking skills to build homes. Wygol's serenity is endangered by hostile creatures that lurk the nearby wilderness.
Albus stormed Wygol and abducted all but one of the villagers for an unknown purpose, including women and children. Nikolai believes that Albus may have taken the villagers to Minera Prison Island, a little ways off the mainland. There is not much to do in this deserted town at first, so prepare to head for the coastline.
A very scenic European village. It has old-fashioned charm in its reserved colors, beautiful architecture that mingles with natural landscaping, and masterwork skies.
Father Nikolai is the first villager to be found. He cares deeply for the other residents, and beseeches Shanoa to help them. He is genuinely grateful for any help that she can give in this time of calamity for the peaceful village.
Jacob runs the village's only General Store. This shop will be of much convenience on your quest. In order to have it fully stocked, you must help the other villagers first.
Atop the buildings of Wygol, a grand view can be seen of the stunning nearby countryside.
Villagers inhabit different areas of the village. Some are outside, while others are indoors. The jeweler Laura apparently has more interest in decorating her home than the others.
Music Track:
Ruvas Forest
This old forested lane from Wygol is very treacherous. Whispered legends tell of wayfarers who got lost in the woods and found themselves in another world.
Have you ever wanted to play through the area outside of Symphony of the Night's draw bridge? I imagine it would be something like Ruvas Forest, since it looks just like it. Evergreens rest against a deep purple sky as enemies strike from all angles. Those who don't stay sharp won't make it through this woodland alive.
Ruvas Forest is dark and gloomy. Though it is a straight path from beginning to end, it is crowded with enemies. Beware the Metroid-like Nominon, which can paralyze Shanoa and suck her soul dry.
Watch out for the Necromancer. His glyph can be stolen by absorbing it as he's casting his spell.
The enemies keep coming. If not taken care of one by one, they stand the chance of overwhelming Shanoa with their numbers.
Be sure to pick up whatever treasure may be lying around environments. Even if some seems useless to you, you never know what curious soul may take an interest in it.
At last, an end to the evergreen horror. It was straightforward. It was short. But, it was intense regardless.
Chest Common:
• Meat
• Anti-Venom
• Magical Ticket
• Cotton Thread
Chest Rare:
• Darjeeling Tea
• Heart Repair
• High Tonic
• Lapis Lazuli
Music Track:
Kalidus Channel
This bitter and stormy sea route must be traversed to reach Minera Prison Island, our target destination. The dominant airstreams from the south cause the weather to shift aggressively and abruptly. Due to such unstable conditions, it is a fool's errand to brave this waterway, as ships have been known to capsize, sending their crews into the turbulent ocean, claiming their souls.
At first, Kalidus Channel may not seem like much, but a look into its deep reveals a labyrinth of aquatic caverns lodging treasure and paths that lead to new areas. Search low enough and you may discover downed vessels filled with loot!
A large vessel is tossed back and forth by the unruly waves of the sea.
An impassive warrior can be a useful tool. Fear would keep many away from this inhospitable waterway, but Shanoa presses on with thoughts of completing her mission.
A certain relic will allow deep sea exploring. When first entering Kalidus Channel, Shanoa will not have it. Be patient and return later.
There are sporadic dry areas in the cavernous maze. The rock structures in this teleport room are a natural work of art.
Other sites of interest include underwater walls lined with skulls, perhaps as decoration, warning, or trophies telling of how many souls the turbulent waters have claimed.
Search deep enough and you will find a sunken ship full of booty. Beware, as many deadly creatures inhabit this downed vessel.
Chest Common:
• Iron Ore
• Lapis Lazuli
• Cotton Thread
Chest Rare:
• Gold Ring
• Resist Ring
• Rubber Suit
• Silk Thread
Music Track:
Minera Prison Island
This prison is situated on an island surrounded by cold sea to make it even more difficult for prisoners to escape. Now derelict, it once confined thieves and criminals who were cast out from society. It is a large, unadorned stronghold haunted by ghouls and specters roaming cells and corridors. The basement dungeon is armed with traps and instruments of torture and execution. The ghosts of dead sentries make their rounds through the prison grounds, perhaps still believing themselves bound to the duty they had when they were fleshly.
The prison shares the island with a lighthouse that is still in service. Unexplained figures can be seen going to and fro from the lighthouse. But, what purpose would anyone have for such a forsaken place? It is worth investigation.
There are many ethereal sentries at the prison. Anyone who is caught in the sights of the search lights will be confronted by ultra powerful creatures that protect the grounds. Shanoa must depend on her dexterity and resourcefulness to travel in stealth.
The insides of the prison are plain, gray, and battered. Broken stair ways and railings, bashed in doors, and ever vigilant spear guards are common features.
Cell block city! Skeleton Archers and Spear Guards team up to make a formidable combination. Watch yourself! The Spear Guards have learned some new tricks since the last Castlevania adventure.
Prison Towers provide a good view of the magenta skies and agitated waters of Kalidus Channel.
The basement area is a torture chamber with bloody traps. An out of the ordinary laboratory is found here, apparently where someone is putting together the Creature. Giant capsules appear to hold organs of some sort.
Chest Common:
• Chamomile
• Magical Ticket
• Cotton Thread
• Sage
Chest Rare:
• Iron Ore
• Lapis Lazuli
• Military Wear
• Protect Ring
Music Track:
Lighthouse
This weather-beaten beacon carries the same look as the prison it is next to. Magenta skies live on, with gray stone and frigid water. Though the lighthouse is a vital milestone to seafarers of nearby waters, it is a giant enigma. No one knows who built it, who tends the light, or what causes the tremors on the island. Enter this mystery and see what you can find. But… maybe some things are better left uncovered?
Cloudy skies drenched in deep purple blanket the sea. Make use of the Magnes Glyph to pass a bed of unwelcoming barbs at the tower's entrance.
An elevator can take you from the bottom to the top of the mysterious Light House. There is a path that lies below the ground level.
The best view of the sea is at the tower's peak. This spot has special meaning to a certain someone in Wygol Village. It's not hard to see why. It is a splendid view.
This is the room with the great light. It is a Glyph called Luminatio. Shanoa can make use of it, so it's hers for the taking.
Boss:
• Brachyura
Music Track:
Tymeo Mountains
The largest mountain range in the region is also rumored to be a nesting ground for horrendous creatures. It has an unfeeling gray tone, further calloused by the gloom of a thousand clouds. The insides of its grottos are a huge contrast to the dreary exterior. They are a warm pitch, an amiable russet backed by springs in the distance. These places are reminiscent of Super Castlevania IV's damp cave.
Those foolish enough to hike these parts tell stories of peculiar howling in the caverns below the peaks. Passing through this mountain range leads to a dead forest covered in fog.
High flying Winged Skeletons patrol these mountains in droves. Such a dark and dreary place, this is, yet somehow offers solace in its lifelessness.
Craggy stalactites and springs exist inside the mountains. Crossing the threshold of the caves is going from a black and white world to one of vibrant color.
More spike beds. Time for the Magnes Glyph again, but it's going to be trickier this time, as this expanse of spikes is much larger than the one at the Lighthouse.
Leafless trees are homes for crows at the higher points of the mountain range. The carrion feeders are easily agitated. Kill them when you see them. The fog at these parts is very heavy. Don't lose your way.
Rows and rows of puffy clouds go on for as far as the eye can see…
Chest Common:
• Chamomile
• Iron Ore
• Lapis Lazuli
• Rue
Chest Rare:
• Archer Ring
• Chrysoberyl
• Ruby
• Silver Ore
Music Track:
Misty Forest Road
A forest of the dead. Colored by a depressing blue night sky with mist enveloping all regardless of the season, this is not a place anyone in their right mind would stray. The fog whispers to unsuspecting travelers, luring them from the road and consuming them. This area is also a large burial ground rife with the living dead.
In the left corner, from Death Valley, at 7 feet tall, weighing in at 299lbs. THE UNDERTAKER!!!
A gargantuan brute obstructs this passage of the road. To complicate matters, the pillar he uses as a bludgeon has a White Dragon attached to it. It would be wise to use a powerful Glyph Union in this sticky situation.
She may be easy on the eyes, but this were bat will suck its victims dry.
It seems this wall isn't completely solid. With a certain power, Shanoa can pass through to find hidden secrets of the treacherous forest. Keep a mental note of this spot and return later.
Headstones upon headstones line this Haunted Wood. What a terrible place to spend the evening.
Chest Common:
• Sage
• Silk Thread
• Lapis Lazuli
• Uncurse Potion
Chest Rare:
• Blow Ring
• Cashmere Thread
• Silver Ore
Music Track:
Skeleton Cave
An unexplained shrine built from the bones of the fallen. Legend has it that on a moonless night, many burial places were defiled and opened. The bones from the graves were stolen to add to this temple. This is the first time this area has been seen since Harmony of Dissonance. It's regrettably not as cool as the Harmony of Dissonance version in looks and ambiance. It is more literally a stony cave, whereas Harmony of Dissonance's take was actually skeletal. Gray and craggy corridors filled with bony denizens await Shanoa. This area is quite challenging. If entered on Hard Mode, you will need a well planned strategy to survive.
All of the enemies in this cave are skeletons of some sort. The familiar Bone Pillars are planted all over the place. On Hard Mode, they are as powerful as tanks.
There is loot to be had, but it's often guarded by skeletal denizens. You can either risk a fight, or come back when stronger and more fortified.
Skeleton on parade like a great coordinated dance.
This cave even has skeletal dinosaurs. They are formidable opponents, so do not take them lightly.
This glorious chamber is reminiscent of Harmony of Dissonance'a version of Skeleton Cave. It would have been great if the entire area had this sort of tone and level of detail.
Boss:
• Maneater
Chest Common:
• Lapis Lazuli
• Sage
• Silk Thread
• Uncurse Potion
Chest Rare:
• Blow Ring
• Cashmere Thread
• Silver Ore
Music Track:
Somnus Reef
A serene reef off the northern banks. The water of this area is warm and calm, but the tranquility can be lethal. Monsters like Lorelei, with its hypnotic voice and great beauty, lure victims to a watery grave, and the soothing echoes of Saint Elmo may relax some into unawareness. Be wary, as many of the creatures have toxins which may poison Shanoa. The sunken caves shimmer azure and turquoise. On clear days, the peaks of Tristis Pass are visible from here.
Gentle fog rests on the top of the water, and in the distance grand blue mountains are seen rising above a verdant forest. This is one of the most beautiful areas in the region.
This area is quite similar to Kalidus Channel. Many of the enemies of here are toxic. Be sure to stock up on Antidotes.
Whimsical sea creatures inhabit this quiet reef. Lorelei is one of the strange beings to be found in the underwater caves.
Oversized star fish are a reacurring problem in these parts. They use their huge girth to block paths, and their defenses make them difficult to kill. Avoid touching them, as they, too, are poisonous.
There are important side rooms in this cave. Some more important than you may know. Be sure to thoroughly explore everything and search for hidden passages.
Boss:
• Rusalka
Chest Common:
• Chamomile
• Silver Ore
• Silk Thread
Chest Rare:
• Chrysoberyl
• Tasty Meat
• Sapphire
• Wind Ring
Music Track:
Giant's Dwelling
No one dares approach this haunted estate. On the grounds are two different houses separated by an outdoor cemetery set to a red-orange swirled sky. Many spine-chilling ghouls reside here among the gnarled trees and time-worn interiors. Boarded up windows shed an unwelcoming tone. To pester the murderous creatures of this abode is foolhardy, but if this is where Albus has taken up residence, there is no other choice. Time was it belonged to local authorities, but now, tales hint that a fierce giant has claimed the property.
Giant Skeletons guard the entrance to this haunted mansion. It's near a large pine forest, but the trees on the property all appear to be dead.
This area is like Somnus Reef in that many of the enemies strike with a status effect that will handicap Shanoa. This time it is the magic draining Curse. Monsters are crawling all over the rickety estate, but do what you can to avoid contact with them.
There are side rooms that seem to be used for personal quarters. I wonder about the contents of those books on the desk.
Yet another cemetery within this region. The living dead roam these grounds, including Curse Divas - spirits consumed with regret, which ceaselessly search for their lost loves.
The Giant Skeletons are fearsome, but there is a much fiercer giant that inhabits this house. He will not go down easily.
Boss:
• Goliath
Music Track:
Tristis Pass
This is a rough, barren pathway cut from stony crags. Suspension bridges connect the ends of mountains, though some are broken. Tristis is said to be a march of the dead. A depressing brown sky covers the outside, while its insides are frozen caverns glowing icy blue. There are water channels within the caves, and even a massive cascade. Trees in these parts have lost all their leaves and are home to violent birds, which manifest themselves as the pathway goes higher and higher, with mist covering the upper most points. The caverns are said to glow blue due to the countless tears shed in grief for the lost.
Carnivorous spider women prowl the slopes of Tristis looking for their next meal. Avoid the acidic substance they secrete from their abdomens.
Tristis is barren and glum. Only the strong survive in this infertile area, so be on guard for advanced monsters. The Lizard Men have their guard up. It may be difficult to strike these intelligent foes because of their defensive shields.
Once thawed, grand blue falls flow incessantly in the icy caverns. When first visiting Tristis, the waterfall is a massive pillar of crystalline ice.
A familiar situation by now. Use Magnes as before to cross this hazardous expanse. A simple bat could spell doom, as they try to knock Shanoa into the spiky floor.
This area is similar to the Tymeo Mountain range, but the cold gray of Tymeo is replaced with an Autumn-like brown tone.
Chest Common:
• Rue
• Silver Ore
• Tonic
• Zircon
Chest Rare:
• Diamond
• Emerald
• Ruby
• Traveler's Hat
Music Track:
Oblivion Ridge
A region where dead crops stretch forever into the horizon. It is very suggestive of The Misty Forest Road. The shriveled flora gives way to rocky, dried out cliffs and another graveyard springs up in front of a small, lonesome church. Once a pleasant area that was the site of the local harvest celebrations, the land has since withered, and the sounds of laughter and merriment died from this territory long ago.
Sorbet swirled sunsets and fields of dry crops make for a peculiar appearance. It would have been a majestic site if the land was fertile and taken care of. The monsters seem to like things the way they are.
Parched cliffs are home to repulsive birds that release Flea Men to attack.
Not much grows around these parts. This area in particular is desert-like in appearance.
Headstones and a ramshackle gate lead to the one place of splendor in this used up land - a strangely placed church.
This humble place of worship holds sentimental value to a villager in Wygol. It is not the most immaculate Church we've seen from Castlevania, but there is something delightful in its quaintness. It is a welcome sight after the malice of the surrounding fields and ridges.
Boss:
• Gravedorcus
Music Track:
Argila Swamp
A gloomy quagmire with warped trees reaching toward the dismal heavens as if begging for salvation from this poisoned land. The plant life is festering and the waters putrid. The bog has been known to engulf unwary travelers, dragging them into its bleak abyss. The plant life can be very dangerous, as it reaches out to attack Shanoa.
The swamp is host to several out of the ordinary creatures. One being the Jersey Devil. An individual in Wygol has taken an interest in this horse and bat amalgamation, so remember where to find it.
Much like Ruvas Forest, the monsters will follow Shanoa, forming a giant horde if not taken care of.
The Chosen Une is a Swamp Thing-like creature. A normal human the swamp has mutated into a repulsive plant being.
The muck slows Shanoa's pace. Watch where you step. Creatures of these parts often lurk directly under foot, and get the jump on Shanoa by emerging beneath her.
Stone Rose and Owl Knights - familiar faces from Castlevania's past show up to give Shanoa a hard time.
Chest Common
• Rue
• Silver Ore
• Tonic
• Zircon
Chest Rare
• Diamond
• Emerald
• Ruby
• Traveler's Hat
Music Track:
Mystery Manor
A night cloaked mansion surrounded by mist located at the north western potion of the region. Beneath it are mine shafts and a pitch black room of deadly traps containing a great prize. This manor is the subject of local legend. It was the scene of numerous bizarre murders, and was allegedly burned down, yet still stands tall. It is currently host to a number of curious incidents. Could this be another of Albus' stations?
A mansion veiled in fog. It's immediately hostile as the welcome wagon comes to formally greet Shanoa on sight.
Perhaps this would be an exquisite place were it not in such terrible condition. Mad butchers race about the grounds looking for anything they can slice and dice, including Shanoa.
The guard creatures from Minera Prison Island roam freely here, trying to suffocate Shanoa with stank breath.
Below the Manor is a small mine that leads to a dead end. An important confrontation waits ahead. Stay focused.
Something keeps this room as black as pitch. Try to work your way through the traps to shed a little light on this situation.
Boss
• Albus
Music Track:
