Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Devil May Cry 4 delivers the trademark hack-and-slash gameplay that fans have come to love, blending lightning-fast combos with satisfying enemy takedowns. Whether you’re wielding Nero’s Devil Bringer arm or switching between Dante’s legendary weapons, the combat system strikes a fine balance between accessibility for newcomers and depth for series veterans. Each encounter challenges you to mix up your attacks, experiment with Styles, and string together high-rank combos to rack up impressive Stylish ratings.

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The Collector’s Edition itself doesn’t alter core gameplay, but the inclusion of PC content—screen savers, wallpapers, and icons—lets you stay immersed in the DMC universe even off the console. Replayability is bolstered by multiple difficulty settings, secret missions, and a host of unlockable weapons and abilities. For completionists, hunting down all the secret lockboxes and achieving high scores on each mission adds hours of extra value beyond the main storyline.

Boss battles in Devil May Cry 4 are standout set pieces that test your mastery of timing, evasive maneuvers, and Devil Trigger modes. The game introduces memorable foes such as Berial and Agni & Rudra, each requiring unique strategies to overcome. Add in dynamic arena layouts and environmental hazards, and you have a combat system that remains fresh and exhilarating from start to finish.

Graphics

Visually, Devil May Cry 4 runs on Capcom’s MT Framework engine, delivering sharp character models, richly detailed environments, and fluid animations. The game’s gothic architecture, from the towering Sanctus Cathedral to the fiery depths of the demon world, is brought to life with moody lighting and intricate textures. Character designs—especially Nero’s youthful rebellion and Dante’s trademark coat—pop in every scene, ensuring you never lose sight of the protagonists amid the carnage.

The Collector’s Edition’s Steelbook metal case is a real treat for display, featuring high-gloss artwork that complements the game’s dark fantasy aesthetic. Owners of the European edition will also appreciate the accompanying artbook, which showcases concept illustrations, character sketches, and environmental studies. These pieces not only highlight the artists’ vision but also deepen your appreciation for the game’s visual storytelling.

For US players, the bonus DVD includes a digital artbook and music tracks straight from the soundtrack, offering another layer of visual and auditory flair. The “Making of Devil May Cry 4” featurette sheds light on the development team’s design choices, while the animated series DVD provides a different medium to enjoy the franchise’s stylized look. Together, these extras celebrate the game’s artistry and reinforce the lush, cinematic feel that defines the DMC line.

Story

Devil May Cry 4 shifts the series’ narrative focus to Nero, a brash young demon hunter with a mysterious connection to Dante. As an agent of the Order of the Sword, Nero’s journey takes him to Fortuna, a city under the Order’s iron rule, where he confronts questions of loyalty, faith, and identity. The intertwining storylines of Nero and Dante gradually reveal deeper conspiracies, culminating in a showdown that binds their fates together.

Character development is a core strength, with Nero’s cocky exterior gradually giving way to moments of vulnerability and resolve. Dante’s iconic wit and swagger return in full force, offering comic relief and satisfying closure for long-time fans. The dynamic between mentor and pupil adds emotional weight to the action, making every cutscene and boss encounter feel personally significant.

The Collector’s Edition enhances the narrative experience by including Volume 1 of ADV Film’s Devil May Cry: The Animated Series on DVD (US version only). These four complete episodes expand on the lore and set the tone for the series, bridging the gap between game installments and providing additional context for characters and factions. For those keen on immersive storytelling, the animated adaptation is a welcome bonus to the main game’s plot.

Overall Experience

Devil May Cry 4 (Collector’s Edition) offers an outstanding package for both newcomers and die-hard fans. The core game remains one of the most polished entries in the franchise, boasting addictive combat, striking visuals, and a compelling storyline. The Collector’s Edition extras—in the form of the Steelbook metal case, artbook or animated series DVD, bonus DVD, and digital goodies—add significant shelf appeal and extended value without altering the essential experience.

US buyers gain a multimedia feast with the animated series volume, behind-the-scenes featurettes, and downloadable PC content, while European players receive a beautifully produced artbook that highlights the game’s creative process. Either way, the physical and digital extras elevate the package above a standard release, making it a must-have for collectors and fans of action games alike.

In summary, Devil May Cry 4 (Collector’s Edition) stands as a stellar blend of top-tier gameplay, visual flair, and narrative depth, all wrapped up in a premium package. Whether you’re looking to relive Dante’s demon-slaying exploits or dive into Nero’s origin story for the first time, this edition delivers an unforgettable ride from start to finish.

Retro Replay Score

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