I know it's way too late for this year's halloween season, but I think a Castlevania origins episode about Vampire Hunter D would be interesting for next year, Jeremy. Somehow I never made the connection until revisiting it this year, but a lot of the imagery from the old OVA seems to have directly inspired the aesthetic of Castlevania. From the way Dracula and his castle looks, to the very Belmont-esque main female character in the anime with her skirt and whip, to the enemy designs, even down to the projectiles characters throw (the vampire girl throws red light needles that hit the ground and burst into sustained, low to the ground, billowing fire, for example). It doesn't really come across in words, I'm sure, but if you get a chance to rewatch the 80's OVA with that in mind, I think you will see what i mean. And considering that animation came out about a year before the first Castlevania, I don't think it's merely coincidence.
It could also be a jumping off point to discuss Amano's art (outside of Final Fantasy), and the spiritually similar Ayami Kojima's, who herself has worked on some Vampire Hunter D novel illustrations in addition to her work on Castlevania.
Of course, I take any chance I get to recommend people watch the gorgeous Vampire Hunter D: Bloodlust as well, but that's just extra. Ive never actually read the books, so I can't speak to those, but who knows? I think they are supposed to be quick reads.
I enjoy your video game adjacent media episodes, and I think this would be a topic that could be enough for a full episode while also tapping into your interests.
