As a Metroid guy, I finally 'get' Castlevania. It's less about atmospheric exploration, more of a gauntlet - Room after room of quirky enemies with unique behaviors to be aware of, constantly feeding you fun new abilities.

The map is fantastic, important rooms are so subtly memorable that it feels like your idea every time you venture back somewhere to test a new ability. There's always a little risk/reward to consider, safety is just far away enough to keep you on your toes. I get it now!