Sunrise Parabellum DmC: Devil May Cry Definitive Edition Review

DmC Devil May Cry was the first game of the franchise I stepped into. I don't have that nostalgia for the original series, which allowed me to dive into this reboot with fresh eyes. I finished the main story in about 10h, and added 2 more for the DLC. While the game excels visually and mechanically, there are a few rough edges nonetheless that held it back from greatness. ✅[B] Strengths = [/B] [U]✔ Visually stunning + gorgeous art direction[/U] The distorted and shifting environments of Limbo immediately drew me in (reminding me somewhat of [I]Control[/I]). Environments feel alive, especially when cities bend and morph around you in real time. The depiction of demons/angels has a painterly quality that is visually rich and haunting. [U]✔ The music was consistently excellent[/U] It hit hard and matched the tone perfectly, especially during boss fights and the final credits. It elevated both combat and exploration. [U]✔ Both combat and movement were satisfying[/U] Combat is fluid and responsive but also feels intuitive, even for a newcomer like me. The variety of weapons, angel/demon powers, and grappling mechanics makes for a dynamic system that is easy to pick up on one hand and satisfying to master on the other. Platforming sections (especially the parkour and grappling segments++) add variety without overstaying their welcome. [U]✔ Memorable environments and bosses[/U] Several levels introduce original ideas that break the mold. There’s strong enemy variety and environmental diversity to keep things fresh across the campaign. Most bosses stand out (lilith + newsbroadcaster+++), though quality varies. [U]✔ Strong finish with concept art + music[/U] The credits roll is particularly rewarding showcasing concept art and behind the scenes footage (mocap, music production..) that celebrates the effort behind the game. It feels like a proper send-off <33 [U]✔ Replay Value[/U] Thanks to the wide range of abilities and enemy types. [B]⚠️ Weaknesses =[/B] [U]✱ Awful camera control[/U] The most frustrating part of the game (sometimes combat but usually during platforming sequences) [U]✱ Underwhelming Final Fight[/U] After a series of creative bosses, the last encounter fails to deliver the kind of payoff I expected. It’s both mechanically + emotionally flat, especially considering the buildup :/ [U]✱ DLC[/U] Inspite of my appreciation for the nice animation and art style + Vergil’s enhanced mobility, the DLC felt lacking overall.. There was only one boss, that didn’t feel different enough from the main game either. The soundtrack was almost absent. Vergil’s character development didn’t really make sense.. 😁 [B]Conclusion =[/B] [I]Stylish - Flawed - Unforgettable[/I] As I said, this was my first into the Devil maay Cry universe and the game quite delivered a visually striking + fast paced experience that stuck with me well beyond the credit screen. Despite its flaws (mostly the frustrating camera +- last boss encounter).. it left a strong impression thanks to its bold art direction and creative world design without forgetting its satisfying combat system. Even after finishing the game, I still find myself listening to the soundtrack.