The Devil May Cry series has been a staple of the action-adventure genre for over two decades, with its unique blend of stylish combat, gothic atmosphere, and over-the-top gameplay. With six mainline titles and several spin-offs, the series has built a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim. But which game stands out as the best? In this article, we'll rank the Devil May Cry games, from the original to the latest installment, and crown the ultimate winner.
Devil May Cry (2001) - The Original
The original Devil May Cry game was released in 2001 for the PlayStation 2 and set the tone for the series. Developed by Team Little Devils, the game introduced players to Dante, a young and cocky demon hunter with a penchant for style and a love for kicking demon butt. The game's combat system, which emphasized stylish combos and acrobatic maneuvers, was a breath of fresh air at the time and helped establish the series as a force to be reckoned with.
While the game's story was somewhat convoluted, the gameplay was addictively fun, and the atmosphere was eerily atmospheric. However, the game's camera system and level design have aged poorly, making it feel somewhat clunky by today's standards.
Ranking: 4/6
Devil May Cry 2 (2003) - The Black Sheep
Devil May Cry 2 is often considered the black sheep of the series, and for good reason. Released in 2003, the game took a different approach to combat and level design, which didn't quite gel with fans. The game's combat was more methodical and less fast-paced, and the levels were more linear and less exploration-focused.
While the game's story was somewhat improved, with a more personal focus on Dante's backstory, the gameplay and level design were a step back from the original. The game's reception was mixed, and it's generally considered the weakest link in the series.
Ranking: 3/6
Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening (2005) - The Redemption
Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening was released in 2005 and marked a significant return to form for the series. Developed by a new team, led by Hideaki Itsuno, the game refined the combat system and level design, making it feel more fluid and expansive.
The game's story was also a highlight, with a more focused narrative that explored Dante's relationship with his twin brother, Vergil. The game's atmosphere was darker and more gothic, with a greater emphasis on exploration and character customization.
Ranking: 5/6
Devil May Cry 4 (2008) - The New Blood
Devil May Cry 4 was released in 2008 and introduced a new protagonist, Nero, a young and hot-headed demon hunter with a unique arm called the Devil Bringer. The game's combat system was further refined, with a greater emphasis on mobility and strategy.
The game's story was also well-received, with a more personal focus on Nero's relationship with his mentor, Kyrie. However, the game's level design was somewhat linear, and the game's replay value was limited compared to its predecessors.
Ranking: 4.5/6
Devil May Cry 5 (2019) - The Return of the King
Devil May Cry 5 was released in 2019 and marked a triumphant return to form for the series. Developed by a veteran team, led by Hideaki Itsuno, the game refined the combat system and level design, making it feel more fluid and expansive than ever before.
The game's story was also well-received, with a more focused narrative that explored the relationships between the game's three protagonists: Nero, Dante, and V. The game's atmosphere was darker and more gothic, with a greater emphasis on exploration and character customization.
Ranking: 6/6
DmC: Devil May Cry (2013) - The Reboot
DmC: Devil May Cry was released in 2013 and marked a reboot of the series. Developed by Ninja Theory, the game took a different approach to combat and level design, with a greater emphasis on mobility and strategy.
While the game's story was somewhat well-received, with a more personal focus on Dante's origins, the gameplay and level design were somewhat polarizing. The game's reception was mixed, and it's generally considered a divisive entry in the series.
Ranking: 4/6
In conclusion, the Devil May Cry series is a beloved and iconic franchise that has undergone many changes over the years. While each game has its strengths and weaknesses, Devil May Cry 5 stands out as the ultimate winner, with its refined combat system, expansive level design, and well-received story.
Whether you're a veteran fan or a newcomer to the series, there's never been a better time to experience the stylish action and gothic atmosphere of Devil May Cry.
What is the best Devil May Cry game?
+According to our ranking, Devil May Cry 5 is the best game in the series, with a refined combat system, expansive level design, and well-received story.
Which Devil May Cry game is the most underrated?
+Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening is often considered the most underrated game in the series, with a refined combat system and expansive level design that set the stage for the series' future success.
Is DmC: Devil May Cry worth playing?
+While DmC: Devil May Cry received a mixed reception, it's still a solid game with a unique take on the series' combat and level design. If you're a fan of action-adventure games, it's worth checking out.