Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening delivers a frenetic combat system that rewards precision, creativity, and timing. From the moment you unsheathe Dante’s signature sword, Rebellion, the game challenges you to weave together melee strikes, firearm shots, and demon weapon attacks into seamless combos. Enemy encounters are designed to be more than simple mashes of the attack button—timely dodges, well-placed counters, and style changes keep each skirmish engaging.

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The introduction of the Style system is perhaps the most significant gameplay innovation in the series. At the start of each mission you choose between Trickster, Swordmaster, Gunslinger, and Royal Guard—each altering Dante’s move set and tactical options. Trickster grants acrobatic evades, Swordmaster adds unique melee flourishes, Gunslinger expands firearm techniques, and Royal Guard focuses on parries and devastating counters. As you earn Style points by dispatching foes, you unlock advanced maneuvers that make you feel increasingly powerful.

Missions take place within the towering Temen-ni-gru, where you’ll face waves of demons, platforming puzzles, and environmental hazards. Boss fights punctuate the ascent, demanding mastery of newly acquired weapons or styles. Scattered throughout each level are collectible red orbs (currency for upgrades), blue orb fragments (health increases), and yellow orbs (extra lives), encouraging exploration and replay for those chasing the highest style ranks.

Graphics

On its original PlayStation 2 hardware, Devil May Cry 3 pushed boundaries with fluid animations and detailed character models. Dante’s moves—whether launching a volley of pistol shots or executing an aerial combo—are rendered with crisp, satisfying keyframes that still hold up. Environments range from gothic corridors to fiery demon lairs, each boasting ornate textures and moody lighting that enhance the game’s dark fantasy tone.

The art direction leans heavily into gothic and baroque influences, giving the Temen-ni-gru an imposing, otherworldly presence. Demon designs are varied and imaginative, from skeletal warriors to grotesque beasts, each animated to feel weighty and alive. Particle effects for Devil Trigger, explosions, and magical attacks add visual flair without overwhelming the screen.

While higher-resolution remasters exist, even the original visuals possess a timeless quality thanks to strong silhouette work and dynamic camera angles. Cutscenes—both pre-rendered and in-engine—punctuate the action with dramatic flair, supported by expressive character poses and atmospheric lighting that underline key story moments.

Story

As a prequel to the original Devil May Cry, this entry explores Dante’s early days as a fledgling demon hunter. The narrative hinges on the rivalry between Dante and his twin brother, Vergil, whose ambition to open the gate to the demon world plunges the city into chaos. This familial conflict, rooted in the legacy of their father Sparda, provides emotional stakes that elevate what could otherwise be a straightforward hack-and-slash plot.

Characterization shines through Dante’s cocky one-liners and Vergil’s cold determination. Supporting figures—like the tragic sorcerer Arkham and the resourceful human ally Lady—add depth to the tale, each with their own motivations and betrayals. The story pacing alternates between high-octane combat chapters and quieter moments of revelation, ensuring that you remain invested in the brothers’ fateful confrontation.

While the overarching plot is not overly complex, cutscenes and voice acting convey the drama effectively. Key twists—such as the true goal behind Arkham’s machinations—land with satisfying impact. For fans of the series, this origin story deepens the mythology and sets the stage for Dante’s transformation into the devil hunter we know from later installments.

Overall Experience

Devil May Cry 3 strikes a near-perfect balance between challenge and reward. Its steep learning curve encourages you to refine your combat skills, chase higher style ranks, and experiment with different weapon and style combinations. The satisfaction of clearing a tough boss or achieving an S-Rank on a mission never gets old.

While newcomers may find the difficulty spikes daunting, adjustable modes and the ability to revisit missions make trial-and-error progression manageable. The game’s design promotes replayability: unlocking new styles, mastering advanced techniques, and chasing leaderboard times provide countless reasons to return long after the credits roll.

As one of the defining action titles of its generation, Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening remains highly influential. Its blend of stylish combat, memorable characters, and gothic atmosphere has inspired countless successors. For anyone seeking a deep, rewarding hack-and-slash experience with flair and polish, Dante’s Awakening stands as a must-play classic.

Retro Replay Score

8.5/10