Why is this game so bright and yet so dark?

Dragon Quest V: Hand of the Heavenly Bridecompleted

Alright, we made it out of the childhood act. God damn this game gets dark as hell. They are not pulling any punches with the "boy it must suck to be a child slave for ten years." It's so random and feels out of place with the brightness of the look.

We got to the monster recruiting part and it’s still fun. My biggest issue so far is just the aimlessness of it. Just point me at things better. I feel like I just need the outline of a walkthrough. Go here, talk to this dude next. The game is just willing to let you flounder for a while until you get to the right spot. I ain’t got time for that!

Castlevania: Order of Ecclesiacompleted

The progression curve on this feels weird. I don't feel like my weapons are strong enough currently.