Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition

Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition is an action-packed hack-and-slash game set in a world overrun by demons, following the story of Nero, Dante, and a new character, V, as they battle to stop the demon king Urizen. The Deluxe Edition includes the base game along with additional content such as playable characters, new weapons, and enhanced gameplay features, offering an expanded experience for fans of the series.

Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition – A Masterclass in Stylish Action

Introduction

Few franchises have defined the hack-and-slash genre as indelibly as Devil May Cry. Since its debut in 2001, the series has been synonymous with over-the-top combat, flamboyant protagonists, and a unique blend of gothic and modern aesthetics. Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition (2019) is not just a continuation of this legacy—it is a refinement, a celebration, and arguably the pinnacle of the series thus far. Developed by Capcom’s Osaka studio under the direction of Hideaki Itsuno, DMC5 is a game that understands its roots while boldly pushing forward, delivering an experience that is both nostalgic and fresh.

This review will dissect Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition in exhaustive detail, exploring its development history, narrative depth, gameplay mechanics, artistic direction, and lasting impact on the gaming landscape. By the end, it will be clear why DMC5 is not just a great action game, but a landmark title in the genre.

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Development History & Context

The Road to Devil May Cry 5

The development of Devil May Cry 5 is a story of perseverance, creative vision, and a deep respect for the series’ legacy. After the divisive DmC: Devil May Cry (2013), developed by Ninja Theory, fans were clamoring for a return to the classic DMC formula. Hideaki Itsuno, the director of Devil May Cry 2, 3, and 4, was initially uncertain about the future of the franchise. In interviews, Itsuno revealed that he considered leaving Capcom after DmC, feeling unsatisfied with the direction the series had taken. However, Capcom convinced him to stay, and Devil May Cry 5 became his passion project—a chance to craft the definitive DMC experience.

Development began as early as 2014, with Itsuno working on the game shortly after the release of Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition (2015). The full team was assembled in 2015, and the game was officially announced at E3 2018, much to the delight of fans. The development process was marked by a friendly rivalry with the team behind Resident Evil 2 Remake (2019), both of which were being developed using Capcom’s RE Engine. This competition pushed both teams to excel, resulting in two of Capcom’s most polished and visually stunning games.

Technological Innovations and the RE Engine

Devil May Cry 5 was built using the RE Engine, the same technology that powered Resident Evil 7: Biohazard (2017) and Resident Evil 2 Remake. This engine allowed for photorealistic graphics, advanced lighting, and intricate character models. The developers went to extraordinary lengths to achieve this realism:

• Photogrammetry and Motion Capture: The team scanned real-life models and clothing to create lifelike character designs. Nero’s jacket, for instance, was meticulously crafted in London and scanned in Serbia, resulting in a model with over 130 million polygons before optimization. The final in-game model retained an impressive 190,000 polygons, ensuring that every detail—from the stitching on Dante’s coat to the texture of V’s cane—was rendered with astonishing fidelity.
• Facial Technology: Capcom partnered with 3Lateral, a Serbian company specializing in facial animation, to create expressive and lifelike character faces. The motion capture process was equally sophisticated, with voice actors recording their lines after seeing the animated scenes, allowing for more natural and emotionally resonant performances.
• Environmental Design: The game’s primary setting, Red Grave City, was inspired by real-world locations in London, including Midhurst, Rochester, and Canterbury. The team conducted extensive research trips to ensure that the city felt authentic, even as it was overrun by demonic forces.

The Gaming Landscape in 2019

Devil May Cry 5 was released in March 2019, a year that saw the launch of several high-profile action games, including Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, Resident Evil 2 Remake, and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order. The gaming industry was in the midst of a transition, with the PlayStation 4 and Xbox One nearing the end of their lifecycles and the next generation looming on the horizon. Despite this, DMC5 stood out for its sheer polish, its unapologetic embrace of its roots, and its willingness to innovate within the confines of its established formula.

The game’s announcement at E3 2018 was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, and its subsequent demos at events like Gamescom and TGS further solidified its status as one of the most anticipated titles of the year. The reveal of Nero’s new Devil Breakers, Dante’s expanded arsenal, and the enigmatic V generated significant buzz, as did the game’s striking visuals and dynamic combat.

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Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot Summary: A Tale of Family, Power, and Redemption

Devil May Cry 5 picks up several years after the events of Devil May Cry 4. The story begins with Nero, now a seasoned demon hunter, operating his own branch of Devil May Cry with the help of his partner and mechanic, Nico. The game opens with a dramatic confrontation: a mysterious hooded figure (later revealed to be Vergil) invades Nero’s office, rips off his Devil Bringer arm, and steals the Yamato, leaving Nero bleeding and helpless.

The narrative then shifts to Dante, who is hired by a mysterious client named V to take down Urizen, a powerful demon king who has taken root in Red Grave City. Urizen’s presence has caused a massive demonic tree, the Qliphoth, to sprout, draining the city of its blood and life force. Dante, along with Trish and Lady, confronts Urizen but is soundly defeated, forcing him to retreat and regroup.

As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that V is not what he seems. He is, in fact, the human half of Vergil, who split himself into two beings—Urizen (his demonic half) and V (his human half)—in a desperate bid for power. V’s body is deteriorating, and he seeks to reunite with Urizen to restore his full strength. Meanwhile, Nero, now equipped with a series of mechanical Devil Breakers, joins forces with V to stop Urizen and uncover the truth behind his missing arm.

The climax of the story is a tour de force of emotional and thematic payoff. After a series of battles, V merges with Urizen, restoring Vergil to his full power. Dante and Vergil engage in their long-awaited rematch, but their fight is interrupted by Nero, who has fully awakened his demonic powers and grown back his Devil Bringer. Nero refuses to let his father and uncle kill each other, forcing them to confront their shared past and the cycle of violence that has defined their relationship.

In a poignant moment, Dante and Vergil acknowledge their bond as brothers and agree to work together to destroy the Qliphoth, even if it means being trapped in the demon world forever. Nero, now the heir to the Sparda legacy, returns to the human world with Kyrie, ready to carry on the family business.

Themes: Legacy, Identity, and the Burden of Power

Devil May Cry 5 is, at its core, a story about family and the weight of legacy. The game explores the complex relationships between Dante, Vergil, and Nero, each of whom grapples with their identity and the expectations placed upon them.

• Dante: The veteran demon hunter is portrayed as a mentor figure, both to Nero and to the player. His journey in DMC5 is one of reflection, as he confronts the consequences of his past actions and the unresolved conflict with his brother. Dante’s character is given depth through his interactions with V, who represents the part of Vergil that Dante has always wanted to save.
• Vergil: The tragic figure of the series, Vergil’s arc in DMC5 is a study in obsession and redemption. His decision to split himself into V and Urizen is a desperate attempt to achieve godlike power, but it ultimately leads to his downfall. The reunion of his two halves is a powerful moment, symbolizing his acceptance of his dual nature as both human and demon.
• Nero: The protagonist of DMC4 and a central figure in DMC5, Nero’s journey is one of self-discovery. His struggle to come to terms with his heritage—being the son of Vergil and the nephew of Dante—is a central theme of the game. His awakening of the Devil Trigger and the regrowth of his Devil Bringer represent his acceptance of his demonic lineage and his readiness to step into his role as the next generation of Sparda’s bloodline.

The game also delves into the concept of power and its corrupting influence. Urizen’s rise to power is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition, while V’s deterioration serves as a reminder of the human cost of such pursuits. The Qliphoth, with its insatiable hunger for blood, is a metaphor for the destructive nature of power when wielded without restraint.

Character Analysis: Depth Beyond the Stylish Exterior

One of the strengths of Devil May Cry 5 is its character writing. While the series has often been criticized for its campy dialogue and over-the-top personalities, DMC5 strikes a balance between humor and emotional depth.

• Dante: Voiced and motion-captured by Reuben Langdon, Dante is as charismatic as ever, but DMC5 gives him a more introspective side. His interactions with V are particularly poignant, as he grapples with the reality of his brother’s fractured psyche. Dante’s signature humor is still present, but it is tempered by a sense of weariness and maturity.
• Vergil/V: The duality of Vergil’s character is brilliantly realized through the contrast between V and Urizen. V, voiced by Brian Hanford, is a frail, poetic figure who relies on his familiars—Griffon, Shadow, and Nightmare—to fight for him. His dialogue is laced with literary references, and his mannerisms are delicate and measured. Urizen, on the other hand, is a towering, silent figure who exudes raw power. The merge of the two halves is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant moment.
• Nero: Johnny Yong Bosch reprises his role as Nero, bringing a mix of youthful energy and emotional vulnerability to the character. Nero’s journey from a hot-headed rookie in DMC4 to a seasoned hunter in DMC5 is compelling, and his struggle to reconcile his human and demonic sides is handled with nuance.
• Nico: A new character introduced in DMC5, Nico is Nero’s partner and the granddaughter of Nell Goldstein, the creator of Dante’s iconic pistols, Ebony and Ivory. Nico’s brash, irreverent personality provides a welcome contrast to the more serious tone of the main characters. Her role as the provider of Devil Breakers also gives her a practical function in the gameplay.

Dialogue and Localization

The dialogue in Devil May Cry 5 is a mix of the series’ trademark camp and more serious, introspective moments. The localization team, led by translator Mike McNamara, worked closely with the voice actors to ensure that the English script retained the tone and intent of the original Japanese. Reuben Langdon, in particular, has spoken about the challenges of balancing Dante’s humor with his more serious moments, and the final product is a testament to the care and attention given to the script.

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Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loop: Stylish Action Perfected

Devil May Cry 5 is, first and foremost, a game about combat. The series has always been defined by its “stylish action” gameplay, which emphasizes fluid combos, precise timing, and a deep understanding of each character’s move set. DMC5 refines this formula to near-perfection, offering three distinct playstyles that cater to different preferences while maintaining a consistent sense of depth and mastery.

The core gameplay loop revolves around the following elements:

1. Combat: Engaging in fast-paced, combo-driven battles against waves of demons.
2. Exploration: Navigating the game’s environments, solving light puzzles, and uncovering hidden secrets.
3. Progression: Earning Red Orbs (the game’s currency) to purchase new abilities, upgrades, and items.
4. Scoring: Achieving high style rankings based on combat performance, encouraging players to experiment with different techniques.

Character-Specific Mechanics

Devil May Cry 5 features three playable characters, each with their own unique mechanics and playstyles:

Nero: The Rising Star

Nero returns as the protagonist of DMC5, and his gameplay has been significantly overhauled from DMC4. The most notable change is the replacement of his Devil Bringer with the Devil Breakers, a series of mechanical arms that offer a variety of abilities.

• Devil Breakers: These disposable arms are the cornerstone of Nero’s combat. Each Devil Breaker has a unique function, from the Punch Line (which allows Nero to ride a rocket-powered fist) to the Buster Arm (which can grab and throw enemies). The Break Away mechanic allows Nero to sacrifice a Devil Breaker for a powerful attack, adding a layer of strategy to his combat.
• Red Queen and Blue Rose: Nero’s signature sword and revolver return, with the Red Queen featuring the Exceed mechanic, which allows players to charge up attacks for increased damage. The Blue Rose has been rebalanced, with a faster charge shot that fires three quick bullets.
• Devil Trigger: Nero’s Devil Trigger is unlocked later in the game, transforming him into a demonic form that enhances his strength and speed. This form also allows him to use the Devil Bringer, which can grab multiple enemies at once.

Nero’s gameplay is designed to be accessible yet deep, with the Devil Breakers offering a wide range of options for both casual and advanced players.

Dante: The Veteran

Dante’s gameplay in DMC5 is a refinement of his DMC4 incarnation, with an expanded arsenal and new mechanics.

• Weapons: Dante has access to a staggering 12 weapons, including returning favorites like the Rebellion sword and Ebony & Ivory pistols, as well as new additions like the Cavaliere (a motorcycle that transforms into dual buzzsaw blades) and the King Cerberus (a three-headed nunchaku).
• Styles: Dante can switch between four combat styles—Trickster (enhanced mobility), Royal Guard (defensive counters), Gunslinger (ranged attacks), and Swordmaster (melee combos)—on the fly, allowing for a high degree of customization and creativity in combat.
• Devil Trigger and Sin Devil Trigger: Dante’s Devil Trigger enhances his abilities and gradually restores his health. His Sin Devil Trigger, unlocked later in the game, is a more powerful form that grants access to new attacks and abilities.

Dante’s gameplay is the most complex of the three characters, offering a near-limitless array of combo possibilities. Mastering Dante requires a deep understanding of his weapons and styles, as well as the ability to switch between them seamlessly.

V: The Enigma

V is the most unconventional of the three playable characters, offering a gameplay style that is unlike anything seen in previous DMC games.

• Familiars: V does not engage in direct combat. Instead, he relies on three demonic familiars—Griffon (a bird that attacks from range), Shadow (a panther that fights up close), and Nightmare (a massive golem that can only be summoned when V’s Devil Trigger meter is full).
• Cane: V’s primary weapon is his cane, which he uses to deliver finishing blows to enemies that have been weakened by his familiars. This mechanic encourages a methodical, strategic approach to combat, as players must position V correctly to maximize the effectiveness of his familiars.
• Devil Trigger: V’s Devil Trigger summons Nightmare, which fights autonomously and deals massive damage. However, V cannot regain health while Nightmare is active, adding a risk-reward dynamic to its use.

V’s gameplay is the most divisive of the three characters, with some players finding it frustrating due to the lack of direct control over his familiars. However, those who take the time to master V’s mechanics will find a deeply rewarding and unique playstyle.

Combat Systems: Depth and Mastery

Devil May Cry 5’s combat is built on a foundation of precision, creativity, and mastery. The game’s systems are designed to reward experimentation and skill, with a variety of mechanics that encourage players to push the boundaries of what is possible.

• Style Ranking: The game’s style ranking system evaluates players based on their combat performance, awarding higher ranks for varied combos, dodging attacks, and avoiding damage. This system is a core part of the DMC experience, encouraging players to strive for perfection in every encounter.
• Jump Canceling and Advanced Techniques: Advanced players can utilize techniques like jump canceling (canceling the recovery frames of an attack by jumping) and royal guard parrying (timing a block to counterattack) to extend combos and achieve higher style rankings.
• Enemy Variety: The game features a wide range of enemies, each with unique behaviors and weaknesses. From the agile Empusa to the hulking Behemoth, players must adapt their strategies to overcome each foe.

Progression and Customization

Devil May Cry 5 offers a robust progression system that allows players to tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle.

• Red Orbs: The game’s currency, earned by defeating enemies and completing missions, can be spent on new abilities, upgrades, and items.
• Skill Trees: Each character has a skill tree that allows players to unlock new moves and enhancements. These skills range from basic combat techniques to advanced maneuvers, providing a clear path for progression.
• Devil Breakers: Nero’s Devil Breakers can be found throughout the game or purchased from Nico, offering a wide range of options for customization.

Multiplayer and Cameo System

Devil May Cry 5 features a unique multiplayer component known as the Cameo System, which allows players to summon AI-controlled versions of other players’ characters to assist in combat. This system is optional and can be toggled on or off, but it adds an interesting layer of unpredictability to the gameplay.

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World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting: Red Grave City and the Qliphoth

Devil May Cry 5 is set in Red Grave City, a fictional metropolis that serves as the battleground for the game’s events. The city is a blend of modern urban architecture and gothic influences, with towering skyscrapers juxtaposed against ancient, demonic structures. The most striking feature of Red Grave City is the Qliphoth, a massive demonic tree that grows throughout the game, draining the city of its blood and life force.

The Qliphoth is more than just a set piece—it is a living, breathing entity that evolves as the story progresses. Its roots spread through the city, creating new pathways and challenges for the player. The tree’s interior is a labyrinth of organic and mechanical elements, with pulsating veins, twisted metal, and eerie, otherworldly landscapes.

Visual Direction: A Feast for the Eyes

Devil May Cry 5 is a visual masterpiece, with a level of detail and polish that is rare in the action genre. The game’s art direction is a blend of realism and stylization, with characters and environments that are both grounded and fantastical.

• Character Design: The characters in DMC5 are some of the most detailed and expressive in the series. Dante’s iconic red coat, Nero’s cybernetic Devil Breakers, and V’s enigmatic appearance are all rendered with stunning fidelity. The use of photogrammetry ensures that every detail, from the texture of fabric to the glow of demonic energy, is captured with precision.
• Lighting and Effects: The game’s lighting is dynamic and atmospheric, with shadows that shift and change as the player moves through the environment. The use of particle effects—such as the sparks from Nero’s Red Queen or the electrical discharges from Griffon’s attacks—adds a sense of weight and impact to the combat.
• Animation: The animation in DMC5 is fluid and expressive, with each character’s movements conveying a sense of personality and style. Dante’s swagger, Nero’s agility, and V’s deliberate, almost dance-like motions are all brought to life through meticulous motion capture and keyframe animation.

Sound Design: A Symphony of Chaos

The sound design in Devil May Cry 5 is a crucial component of the game’s immersive experience. From the crunch of bones breaking to the roar of demonic engines, every sound is crafted to enhance the player’s sense of presence in the world.

• Voice Acting: The voice acting in DMC5 is top-notch, with Reuben Langdon, Johnny Yong Bosch, and Brian Hanford delivering standout performances as Dante, Nero, and V, respectively. The dialogue is a mix of humor, drama, and intensity, with each character’s personality shining through in their delivery.
• Music: The game’s soundtrack is a highlight, with a mix of rock, electronic, and orchestral tracks that perfectly complement the action. Nero’s battle theme, “Devil Trigger”, performed by Ali Edwards, is a standout track that has become iconic among fans. Dante’s theme, “Subhuman”, and V’s theme, “Crimson Cloud”, are equally impressive, each reflecting the character’s unique personality and playstyle.
• Sound Effects: The sound effects in DMC5 are meticulously designed, with each weapon, ability, and enemy having a distinct audio profile. The crack of Nero’s Red Queen, the hum of Dante’s Rebellion, and the growl of V’s familiars all contribute to the game’s immersive atmosphere.

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Reception & Legacy

Critical Reception: A Triumphant Return

Devil May Cry 5 was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with reviewers praising its combat, visuals, and narrative. The game holds an aggregate score of 88/100 on Metacritic, with many outlets hailing it as one of the best action games of all time.

• GameSpot (9/10): “Devil May Cry 5 is a masterclass in action game design, offering a variety of playstyles and a combat system that rewards creativity and skill.”
• IGN (9.5/10): “The finest version of DMC combat brings me to tears of joy. Devil May Cry 5 is a triumphant return to form, with a story that is both engaging and emotionally resonant.”
• Destructoid (10/10): “Devil May Cry 5 is not just a great game—it’s a landmark title in the action genre. Its combat is deep, its visuals are stunning, and its story is compelling.”

Commercial Success: A Sales Juggernaut

Devil May Cry 5 was a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies in its first two weeks and surpassing 10 million copies as of 2025. The game’s success was driven by strong word-of-mouth, critical acclaim, and a dedicated fanbase that had been eagerly awaiting a new entry in the series.

The game’s Deluxe Edition, which includes additional content such as the Cavaliere R weapon and alternate costumes, was particularly popular among fans. The subsequent release of the Special Edition for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, which added Vergil as a playable character and introduced ray tracing and 120 FPS support, further extended the game’s lifespan and appeal.

Awards and Accolades

Devil May Cry 5 received numerous awards and nominations, including:

• Golden Joystick Awards 2019: Best Visual Design
• The Game Awards 2019: Best Action Game
• Japan Game Awards 2019: Award for Excellence
• SXSW Gaming Awards 2020: Excellence in Gameplay

The game’s soundtrack also received recognition, with “Devil Trigger” becoming a fan-favorite track and earning nominations for Best Score/Music at The Game Awards.

Influence on the Genre

Devil May Cry 5 has had a significant impact on the action genre, influencing subsequent games with its refined combat mechanics, visual fidelity, and narrative depth. Its success has also reinvigorated interest in the Devil May Cry series, with fans eagerly anticipating future entries.

The game’s use of the RE Engine has set a new standard for visual quality in action games, and its Cameo System has introduced a novel approach to multiplayer integration. Additionally, the game’s accessibility options, such as the auto-assist mode, have made it more approachable for newcomers while still offering depth for veteran players.

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Conclusion: A Definitive Masterpiece

Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition is more than just a game—it is a testament to the enduring appeal of the Devil May Cry series and a celebration of the action genre as a whole. With its deep combat mechanics, stunning visuals, compelling narrative, and memorable characters, DMC5 stands as one of the greatest action games ever made.

Itsuno and his team at Capcom have crafted a game that is both a love letter to longtime fans and a welcoming entry point for newcomers. The Deluxe Edition, with its additional content and enhancements, is the definitive way to experience the game, offering even more reasons to dive into its rich, demon-infested world.

In the pantheon of action games, Devil May Cry 5 is a titan—a game that not only meets the high standards set by its predecessors but surpasses them in nearly every way. It is a masterclass in game design, a visual and auditory feast, and a narrative tour de force. For these reasons, Devil May Cry 5: Deluxe Edition is not just a great game—it is a landmark title that will be remembered for years to come.

Final Verdict: 10/10 – A Perfect Symphony of Stylish Action