Yoko Belnades, like her cohort Julius Belmont, is an unlockable character whose escapades are worth noting. In Dawn of Sorrow's "fantasy" mission, appropriately titled "Julius Mode," Yoko, along with Alucard, will join Julius' company in its bid to keep a promise and destroy Soma Cruz, who eventually chose the wrong path and became the Dark Lord incarnate. Her story: In 2035, it was Yoko Belnades who helped Soma Cruz to realize that his possession of dark power didn't necessarily render him a representation of evil. Truly, she was as encouraging as anyone in guiding along Soma to his destiny. A year later, as part of the Church's continuing investigations, she arrived at the cult's hideaway in order to supply Soma assistance--mainly the enhancing of his weapons via released souls--thanks to her magical prowess.

Her playable appearance proves that Yoko doesn't stray too far from what Sypha Belnades showcased way back in Castlevania III: Dracula's Curse (whose ally system is conveniently emulated here). She commands what could be the very same Warakiya Staff, and she most definitely has magical powers that are one in the same if not advanced: The holy flame spell allows her to expel flames more rapidly, in quick-fire shots. The ice spell allows her to fire out giant icicles all around, released outward from a half-circle formation. And the lightning spell sees the release of three heat-seeking charges that pass through enemies and in the process strike for repeated damage.

To see Yoko in action, click here.