Top 50 Video Games: Number 44

#44: Devil May Cry
System: Playstation 2
Publisher: Capcom
Released: 2001
Players: 1


Blasting the shit outta shit.


Every now and again, a game or movie comes along that, for lack of a better phrase, just radiates coolness. The Matrix did that when I saw it, and Devil May Cry had the same effect for me. It's dark, gothic, death metal feel may be over the top, but it's a blast to play. Devil May Cry is fast moving, stylish, and fun. The story is nothing special. You play Dante, the half-human, half-demon son of the legendary dark knight Sparda. There's ancient evil arising and....yawn.....you know the rest.

DMC handles beautifully, never interfering with the flow of the gameplay. Dante gathers a small arsenal of weapons as the game proceeds, including a big fucking sword and his trademark pistols, Ebony & Ivory. No, I didn't make that up. Dante also eventually gains the ability to transform into a demon, and between levels you get the chance to purchase upgrades and new skills. All the different choices of weapons and skills gives the game a highly personalized feel.


Blasting the shit outta more shit. Hell yes.


There are a few simple puzzles, mostly of the "there's a door, where do I find the key?" variety. Not that this is a bad thing. The developers definitely know where their bread is buttered - this game is all about fast, intense combat. DMC is pretty challenging, and at the end of each stage you are judged based on your skill in battle and how many orbs (think coins, mario fans) you collect. There are more difficult modes that can be unlocked by finishing the game and scoring high marks on each level.

Some people try to classify this game as survival horror. I don't buy it. When I think of survival horror, I think of a protagonist who is generally afraid of the shit that's happening. Like me in the dank, dark, dungeon-like basement, cowering like a little girl next to Jimbob. That'd make a fun game. Anyhoo, Devil May Cry is a departure for me. I usually play RPGs, strategy games, or weird sissy farming sims and stuff. Even sensitive artists like to kick ass sometimes. Devil May Cry has had 2 sequels. DMC2 was about the equivlent of the Matrix Reloaded: bloated and crappy. DMC3 was just released and has been recieved pretty well from what I've seen. DMC is still readily available, usually found for under $20. Those of you who own a PS2 shouldn't pass this one up.