This topic may be old but here is my take.
Many people were saying that LoS should not be a CV title since it doesn't resemble any CV element except for the fact that the MC is a Belmont. That's not true. Yes, many elements are new on the series, but it still feels like a CV game to me. Here's why:
The Stage SystemOlder Castlevania (Classicvanias) are played with simplicity. Just whoop some baddies, reach the finish line and beat the boss. This game have the same formula. Beat the stage to proceed to the next one.
Stage checkpointAnother element from Classicvanias. You restart from the last checkpoint if you ever fail the level by either getting fall from a pit (in this case you only take damage) or simply get beat up by baddies.
SubweaponsThis element never left any CV title and LoS is not an exception. You get to use things like dagger and holy water. Maybe some hack n slash games have this feature but I think it's still different. Look at DMC. He use guns as subweapons and we never see this thing on a CV game as a subweapon.
PlatformingWho said LoS was just a pure hack n slash game without any substance? You need to jump to some platforms to reach certain areas. This were not much on a factor on the previous CV games but you will see Gabriel swinging with his chain just like Simon on CV4.
BacktrackingA feature started in Simon's Quest. Unlike CV2 or any Metroidvanias, you don't return in some level because you can't reach some areas of it but rather you have to master it to obtain some power-ups. Like Rondo, you will find some areas for an alternate route. In LoS case, this means new moves for Gabe.
The Gothic Horror themeYou will see enemies like werewolf, vampires, demons and stuff. That's what Castlevania is about. Unless you prefer the anime themed one (Legends, RoB, DoS and PoR). This is a standard element for a CV game.
And the least important but still a factor somehow..
CharactersThere are some returning characters from previous games like Conell and Camilla. Being able to play a Belmont with a whip is CV-isque enough for me. Fan favorites like Simon and Alucard are returning in the sequel. Where is Dracula? Well, unless you finished the game or just want to be spoiled here it is
Gabriel Belmont is Dracula
That's all I have to say (for now at least) but hey! Everyone have different opinion.