Table of Contents
Introduction
The “Devil May Cry HD Collection” is a remastered compilation of the first three games in the iconic action-adventure series developed by Capcom. Released for modern consoles and PC, this collection includes “Devil May Cry,” “Devil May Cry 2,” and “Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening,” offering fans and newcomers an opportunity to experience Dante’s early adventures in high definition. This review will cover the gameplay mechanics, storylines, graphical enhancements, and overall experience of navigating through the HD collection, providing a comprehensive overview for those interested in this classic series.
Gameplay Mechanics
Devil May Cry
The first game in the series introduces players to Dante, a half-demon hunter who takes on missions to destroy demonic entities. The gameplay is characterized by its fast-paced combat, which blends melee attacks with firearms to create a fluid and stylish combat system. Players can chain together combos, dodge attacks, and use a variety of weapons, each with unique moves and abilities.
The game is divided into missions, each with its own objectives and boss battles. Exploration plays a significant role, with hidden items and secret missions scattered throughout the levels. Puzzle-solving elements are also present, often requiring players to find keys or solve environmental puzzles to progress.
Devil May Cry 2
“Devil May Cry 2” expands on the original’s formula with the addition of a second playable character, Lucia. The combat system remains largely the same, though with some refinements and new abilities. The game introduces the “Stylish Rank” system, which grades players based on their combat performance, encouraging more creative and efficient play.
The missions in “Devil May Cry 2” are more expansive, with larger environments and more emphasis on platforming. However, the game is often criticized for being easier and less engaging than its predecessor, with simpler puzzles and less challenging enemies.
Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening
Considered by many to be the pinnacle of the series, “Devil May Cry 3” introduces a deeper combat system with the addition of “Styles,” which players can switch between to customize their fighting approach. These Styles, such as Swordmaster and Gunslinger, offer unique abilities and moves, adding a significant layer of strategy to combat.
The game returns to the challenging difficulty of the first installment, with more complex puzzles, tougher enemies, and intricate level design. Boss battles are a highlight, each requiring different tactics and often serving as a test of the player’s mastery of the game’s mechanics.
Storylines
Devil May Cry
The story of “Devil May Cry” follows Dante, a demon hunter seeking revenge against the demon emperor Mundus for the death of his family. The narrative unfolds through a series of missions set in the eerie and gothic Mallet Island. Dante encounters various demons, including the enigmatic Trish, who bears a striking resemblance to his deceased mother. The plot is straightforward but engaging, with a focus on action and atmosphere rather than deep storytelling.
Devil May Cry 2
Set sometime after the first game, “Devil May Cry 2” sees Dante teaming up with Lucia to stop the demon businessman Arius from achieving world domination. The story is less cohesive than its predecessor, with a more fragmented narrative and less character development. Despite this, it provides some interesting lore and expands the series’ universe.
Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening
Serving as a prequel to the original game, “Devil May Cry 3” explores Dante’s origins and his rivalry with his twin brother, Vergil. The story is more character-driven, delving into the brothers’ conflicting ideologies and their quest for power. The narrative is tightly woven into the gameplay, with cutscenes that enhance the experience without interrupting the flow of action. The themes of family, betrayal, and redemption are explored in greater depth, making it the most emotionally resonant entry in the collection.
Graphical Enhancements
The “Devil May Cry HD Collection” brings the classic games into the modern era with high-definition graphics and improved textures. While the original art direction and style are preserved, the enhanced resolution and smoother frame rates make the games more visually appealing. Character models, environments, and special effects all benefit from the graphical upgrade, though some dated elements, such as the fixed camera angles and occasional low-poly models, remain.
The HD treatment also includes widescreen support, making the games look more modern and fitting for contemporary displays. However, the transition to HD is not without its flaws. Some cutscenes and pre-rendered backgrounds can appear blurry or stretched, detracting from the overall presentation. Despite these minor issues, the visual enhancements are generally well-received, providing a fresh look at these classic titles.
Overall Experience
Nostalgia and Accessibility
For long-time fans of the series, the “Devil May Cry HD Collection” is a nostalgic trip back to the early 2000s. The remastered visuals and improved performance make revisiting these games a joy, while the core gameplay remains as engaging and challenging as ever. Newcomers to the series will find the collection to be an accessible entry point, offering a chance to experience the origins of one of the most beloved action franchises.
Replayability
One of the strengths of the “Devil May Cry” series is its replayability. Each game in the collection offers multiple difficulty levels, secret missions, and unlockable content, encouraging players to revisit the games and strive for higher ranks and better performance. The addition of trophies and achievements in the HD collection adds another layer of motivation for completionists.
Controls and Gameplay
The controls in the HD collection are responsive and intuitive, with options to customize the button layout to suit individual preferences. The combat mechanics, especially in “Devil May Cry 3,” are deep and rewarding, offering a satisfying blend of skill and strategy. The variety of weapons and abilities ensures that combat remains fresh and exciting throughout each game.
Sound and Music
The sound design and music in the “Devil May Cry” series are top-notch, with memorable tracks and atmospheric sound effects that enhance the gameplay experience. The voice acting, while occasionally cheesy, adds to the charm and character of the games. The HD collection preserves the original audio while improving the clarity and quality, ensuring that the soundscapes remain as impactful as ever.
Conclusion
The “Devil May Cry HD Collection” is a must-have for fans of the series and action-adventure enthusiasts alike. The remastered visuals and improved performance breathe new life into these classic games, while the core gameplay and storytelling remain as compelling as ever. Whether you’re a seasoned demon hunter or a newcomer to the world of “Devil May Cry,” this collection offers hours of challenging and stylish entertainment.
In summary, the “Devil May Cry HD Collection” successfully brings the first three games of the series to modern platforms, offering a polished and enjoyable experience for both old fans and new players. The combination of fast-paced combat, intriguing storylines, and high-definition graphics makes it a standout compilation that celebrates the legacy of one of Capcom’s most iconic franchises.