Looks like they're going the exploration without any reason to explore route.
Yeah, I don't really get it either. Collecting stuff is fun! In fact, it's the whole point. Unless exploration is there only for finding new exits. Which is ok with me. But even though many of the items/weapons you pick up in the Metroidvanias are completely useless, I still think it's pretty fun. In this game it seems we're exploring just to, dunno... replenish MP? Get more subweapons? I hope there's at least a few other things, like - "dun dun DUN! You get equipped with: WALL JUMP!" Or, dunno, SLIDE.
Whenever Mercury Steam call this game an "action combat game" I cringe. I mean, there's no need to rub it in. We already know how combat-heavy this game is gonna be. I think they're focusing 70% on the combat, 20% on the story, and 10% on this so-called exploration.
But make no mistake; I am still interested in the game and will probably enjoy it. I love beat'em'ups and combos. I'm just not used to it being such a big part of Castlevania.