Konami announced Castlevania Harmony of Despair, the first Castlevania game exclusively for Xbox LIVE  Arcade for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, the premier destination for quality downloadable games. Slated for a Summer 2010 release,

Castlevania Harmony of Despair has been selected as one of the five titles in Microsoft's third annual Summer of Arcade program kicking off in July. Designed by the legendary producer of the Castlevania series, Koji Igarashi creates the latest chapter of this revered franchise, reuniting players with Dracula featuring fast paced, 2D side scrolling action that the series has become known for with a new six-player multiplayer mode.
"As a Konami flagship title, it was important for Castlevania Harmony of Despairto represent the merging of traditional platform gaming with the expectations of today's tech savvy consumer," said Shinji Hirano, President of Konami Digital Entertainment Inc. "By offering Castlevania Harmony of Despair exclusively on Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360, we wanted to stay true to the origins of the game while presenting special downloadable content to both long time fans of the franchise, as well as new entrants to the series."

In Castlevania Harmony of Despair, fan favorite vampire hunters from throughout the series come together in order to return Dracula to his eternal slumber. Joining forces with friends on Xbox LIVE, up to six players can explore massive levels inspired by the worlds of Castlevania Dawn of Sorrow, Portrait of Ruin and Order of Ecclesiavia online co-op play. As players employ their cooperative skills to unleash devastating attacks and fight the forces of darkness, they can discover hidden locations, special items and equipment to help in their quest. Fearless players can even choose to engage in competitive Survival Mode with friends to and determine the best slayer of evil. Players can also upload ghost data and share with friends.  Featuring detailed 2D art and follow-up downloadable content for new characters and levels, Castlevania Harmony of Despair will provide players with a thrilling, next generation gaming experience coupled with the classic Castlevania aesthetic.

Castlevania Harmony of Despair will be available this summer exclusively for Xbox LIVE Arcade for Xbox 360 for 1200 Microsoft Points. For more information, please visit www.konami.com/downloads