Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition

The story of Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition receives mixed but generally balanced praise, with several critics highlighting its engaging combat-driven narrative and character development. GameSpot notes that the dual perspective between Nero and Dante offers "some engagement," while Vandal acknowledges the unique elements like Nero’s demonic arm and his journey of self-discovery. Games.cz emphasizes that the plot is "engaging enough to keep players invested through the combat," and PlaySense describes it as "over-the-top, absurd, and filled with cheesy elements" but still enjoyable for its style. The inclusion of new characters like Vergil, Lady, and Trish adds variety, though their storylines are often tied to Nero and Dante’s missions, as noted by Gameplanet and JeuxActu. These aspects suggest the narrative, while not groundbreaking, maintains the series’ signature flair and keeps players entertained through its action-centric approach. However, the story faces consistent criticism for repetition, lack of originality, and structural flaws. Gameblog.fr and GameCrate highlight the "repetitive structure" and awkward integration of new characters, with the latter comparing their inclusion to an "unnatural fit." The backtracking and reusing of levels in reverse when switching between characters are frequently cited as tedious, as noted by Gameblog.fr, Gameplanet, and JeuxActu. Critics like Push Square and The Jimquisition lambaste the narrative for being "uninvesting" and "absolutely inane," respectively, with the latter calling it "one of the barmiest narratives ever committed to a videogame." Issues like underdeveloped characters (e.g., Vergil’s thin storyline per LaPS4) and disjointed cutscenes when playing as new characters (PC Games) further detract from the experience. The plot’s reliance on familiar tropes, such as demonic cults and over-the-top drama, is also seen as lacking depth by PlaySense and Ragequit.gr. Overall, critics agree that Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition’s story is a mixed bag, prioritizing style and action over narrative innovation. While the dual-character structure and character development offer some freshness—particularly for newcomers like Nero (Games.cz, COGconnected)—the repetitive mechanics, lack of originality, and underdeveloped subplots (GameSpot, IGN Spain) overshadow its potential. The game’s narrative remains true to the series’ identity, as noted by GameCritics and Atomix, but falls short of delivering a compelling or cohesive story on its own. Despite these flaws, many acknowledge it as a worthwhile experience for fans of the franchise, with PlayStation LifeStyle and Destructoid noting that it retains the "signature style" of Devil May Cry while failing to elevate the storytelling beyond its roots.

The gameplay of Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition is widely praised for its dynamic combat mechanics, variety of characters, and refined action sequences. Critics like Eurogamer Italy highlight the "excellent" combat system, noting innovations such as Nero’s extendable arm and the inclusion of new playable characters like Vergil, Lady, and Trish, who each bring distinct playstyles. Gameblog.fr emphasizes the depth of combat mechanics, including lock-ons, weapon switches, and combos, while Games.cz applauds the challenge of achieving high ratings through precise timing and style. The Special Edition’s additions—such as modes like Legendary Dark Knight and Turbo Mode—enhance replayability, with GameCrate and Push Square noting their appeal to both casual and hardcore players. The combo system, juggle mechanics, and character-specific abilities are frequently lauded as highlights, with Vandal and XGN praising the intensity and variety of combat. However, several critics point to persistent flaws that detract from the experience. Digital Chumps criticizes the "picky" controls and unclear mechanics in sections like the final boss fight, while GameSpot and PC Games highlight repetition in combat and level design, noting a lack of architectural variation that makes the gameplay feel exhausting. Platforming issues (e.g., GameCrate, LaPS4) and frustrating backtracking (e.g., Gameplanet, PC Games) are recurring complaints, as are problematic camera angles (COGconnected, JeuxActu). Additionally, some reviewers, like Hobby Consolas and PC Games, argue that the core mechanics feel outdated compared to newer titles, with GameSpot and Xbox Achievements noting that while difficulty settings and modes improve accessibility, they don’t fully address these issues. Overall, critics agree that Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition delivers a robust and stylish combat experience, but its flaws remain divisive. The game’s strengths—its deep combo systems, character variety, and replayable modes—are balanced by criticisms of repetition, outdated design elements, and control quirks. While Game Informer and Destructoid acknowledge the improvements and added content as significant positives, they also note that core issues like backtracking and camera problems persist. The consensus leans toward a generally favorable view, with many recognizing the game’s enduring appeal despite its shortcomings. As Push Square and Vandal observe, the Special Edition enhances the original’s strengths but fails to fully resolve its long-standing design flaws, leaving it as a mixed but ultimately enjoyable experience for fans of the series.

The positives surrounding Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition’s graphics and visual design are centered on technical upgrades and nostalgic appeal. Multiple critics highlight the 1080p/60fps resolution, which enhances fluidity and clarity, with GameCrate praising "stylish animations" and Push Square noting "bright, vivid, and sharp" visuals that retain the game’s "2008 charm." Digitally Downloaded emphasizes improved character models, environments, and menus in the PC version, calling it "visually striking," while Xbox Achievements lauds the "damn fine remastering job" that preserves the series’ aesthetic. GameSpot and IGN Spain acknowledge cleaner visuals and better cutscenes, with some reviewers like Gameplanet noting that final bosses and character designs remain impressively detailed despite the game’s age. These upgrades, though modest, are seen as sufficient to elevate the experience for fans of the original. However, criticisms focus on outdated graphical elements and persistent technical flaws. Many reviewers, including Eurogamer Italy ("niente di eccezionale") and Gameplanet, point to "outdated textures," "flat" environments, and "generic" level design that fail to match modern standards. Hobby Consolas and XGN criticize the lack of significant visual polish, with "flat and unrealistic" textures and "inconsistent" details. Camera placement is another recurring issue: Digital Chumps, GameCrate, and GameSpot all note restrictive or poorly positioned cameras that hinder gameplay. Additionally, technical glitches like screen flicker (Gameplanet) and "rigid" character models (LevelUp) underscore the game’s aging foundation. While some praise the HD remaster’s stability, others, like PlayStation LifeStyle, argue the visuals feel "like those of a pre-HD era title," highlighting a disconnect between the upgrades and modern expectations. The overall consensus among critics is that Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition offers a polished but ultimately modest visual upgrade. While the 1080p/60fps overhaul and nostalgic aesthetic are appreciated—particularly by Push Square and Xbox Achievements—the game’s graphical shortcomings remain evident. Reviews like those from GameCrate and IGN Spain emphasize that the remaster retains the original’s charm but fails to modernize its visuals significantly. Despite mixed reactions, most agree that the improvements are sufficient for fans, though not groundbreaking. As GameSpot notes, the Special Edition “looks better” and “runs smoother,” yet its "restrictive camera controls" and aged design prevent it from feeling truly next-gen. The critical reception reflects a balanced view: a respectful remaster that honors the source material but falls short of pushing graphical boundaries.

The Sound Design and Music of Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition received generally positive feedback from critics, with many praising its energetic and stylistically fitting audio elements. PlayStation LifeStyle highlighted the "energetic rock/metal mix" that complements the game’s action, while Push Square commended the "crisp" combat effects and a "rockin’ soundtrack" that aligns with the over-the-top gameplay. COGconnected specifically lauded the "techno music, sound effects, and musical scores" for creating a "demonic atmosphere," particularly during boss fights. PlaySense noted that the soundtrack "fit[s] the game’s style," even if it became annoying over time. These reviews underscore the audio’s ability to enhance the game’s high-octane, stylish combat while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. IGN Spain also affirmed that the sound design remained true to the original, with guitar-driven tracks and slower melodies that retain their impact. However, some critics pointed out minor drawbacks. PlaySense expressed frustration with the soundtrack becoming "annoying over time," suggesting repetitive or overwhelming musical elements. Xbox Achievements described the music as "screechy rock" that is "subtle," implying a lack of distinctiveness or potential annoyance for some players. While these critiques are relatively mild, they highlight that the audio, though functional and well-integrated, may not resonate with all audiences. Additionally, Games.cz noted that sound and voice acting were "functional and unobtrusive" but did not receive significant upgrades in the Special Edition, which could suggest a lack of innovation compared to the original release. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition’s Sound Design and Music successfully uphold the series’ signature style while delivering an immersive experience. The energetic rock/metal tracks, dynamic combat effects, and atmospheric soundscapes are widely appreciated for their synergy with the game’s action-oriented gameplay. While some reviewers found certain aspects—like repetitive music or "screechy" tones—slightly off-putting, these criticisms were overshadowed by the general praise for the audio’s quality and consistency. The Special Edition’s audio remains a strong pillar of the game, maintaining its original charm while offering a polished experience that satisfies both longtime fans and newcomers.

The voice acting in Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition receives generally favorable remarks from several critics, though most focus on its adequacy rather than exceptional quality. Games.cz highlights that the voice acting was "satisfactory" in the original and remained unchanged in the Special Edition, contributing to the game’s overall quality without needing modifications. Digital Chumps notes that each playable character—Vergil, Lady/Trish—has distinct voiceovers, adding variety to the experience, which enhances immersion despite a lack of deeper critique. Additionally, ZTGD mentions a new voiceover for Lady, suggesting minor improvements in specific areas, while COGconnected points out Johnny Yong Bosch’s performance as Nero, implying that key roles are handled competently by recognizable actors. These comments collectively underscore the voice acting’s functional and consistent nature, aligning with the game’s action-oriented design. However, several critics describe the voice acting as unremarkable or average, lacking standout moments. PlaySense explicitly calls it "allesbehalve top" (far from top-tier), emphasizing its mediocrity despite being adequate for the game’s tone. While IGN Spain acknowledges the presence of English voice acting with subtitles, they refrain from specific praise or criticism, suggesting a neutral stance on quality. Similarly, GameCrate and Xbox Achievements provide minimal commentary, leaving little to no insight into the depth or emotional range of the performances. These reviews indicate that while the voice work meets baseline expectations, it fails to leave a lasting impression or elevate the narrative beyond its surface-level execution. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward neutrality, with most agreeing that the voice acting is functional and consistent but not exceptional. Games.cz and Digital Chumps offer the strongest endorsements, framing it as satisfactory and varied, while PlaySense and others highlight its average quality. The lack of detailed critique across many reviews suggests that the voice work is neither a strength nor a weakness for the game, instead serving as a background element that supports gameplay without drawing attention to itself. This balanced perspective reflects the Special Edition’s focus on refining existing content rather than redefining it through vocal performances.

The technical performance of Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition across platforms shows notable improvements, particularly in frame rates and visual fidelity. On PS4, reviewers like Gameplanet praised the smooth 60fps with minor graphical glitches, while Push Square highlighted "flawless" performance and upscaled resolution, crediting Capcom’s technical refinement. PC versions saw consistent 60fps at 1080p, as noted by PC Games, though some critics like Digitally Downloaded pointed out that the game “feels like an old PS3 title” despite these upgrades. On Xbox One, MondoXbox and Xbox Achievements emphasized stable 60fps performance, with The Jimquisition noting it runs "beautifully" despite minor controller remapping needs. These positives underscore the game’s technical polish compared to its original release, though not without lingering issues. However, persistent technical flaws across platforms detract from the experience. On PS4, critics like Gameblog.fr and GameSpot criticized rigid platforming mechanics and unpredictable camera angles, while Digital Chumps highlighted "frequent load screens" and "invisible walls." Eurogamer Italy and Games.cz noted that structural issues from the original, such as backtracking, remained unresolved. On PC, PC Games lamented minimal technical upgrades, calling the Special Edition “an old PS3 title” with no significant modernization beyond resolution and frame rate. For Xbox One, COGconnected and Gaming Nexus criticized fixed camera perspectives and unreliable controls, while MondoXbox pointed to poor polygon optimization and low-texture definition. These issues suggest that while the remaster addressed some technical shortcomings, many design and control flaws persisted across platforms. Overall, critics agree that Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition delivers a technically stable experience with improved frame rates and visuals, but its core issues remain unresolved. The PS4 version saw praise for smoother performance (e.g., Push Square) yet faced criticism for camera and backtracking problems (Gameblog.fr, Eurogamer Italy). On PC, the game’s technical base was solid (Digitally Downloaded, PC Games), but its lack of modernization drew ire. For Xbox One, while stability was praised (MondoXbox, Xbox Achievements), control and design flaws like camera issues (COGconnected) and repetitive level design (LevelUp) were highlighted. Despite these critiques, the consensus leans toward the Special Edition being a worthwhile upgrade for fans, albeit one that fails to fully address its original technical shortcomings. The mixed reception reflects a balance between Capcom’s improvements and the enduring challenges of its legacy design.

The positives surrounding the replay value of Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition are largely centered on its expanded content and character variety. Critics like Games.cz and Push Square highlight that new playable characters (Vergil, Lady, Trish) and modes such as the Legendary Dark Knight Mode significantly enhance replayability, offering distinct playstyles and challenges. Gameblog.fr and Eurogamer Italy note that these additions provide fresh experiences for both returning fans and newcomers, with Games.cz emphasizing that mastering combos and tackling the game’s difficulty keep it engaging across multiple playthroughs. Additionally, Xbox Achievements and The Jimquisition praise the ability to experiment with different characters, difficulty modes, and campaigns, creating a sense of variety despite the core content remaining largely unchanged. The Bloody Palace mode and character-specific challenges are frequently cited as key incentives for revisiting the game. However, the negatives focus on repetitive design elements and unaddressed flaws that undermine long-term appeal. Many critics, including GameCrate and Game Informer, argue that the core campaign’s repetition in areas, boss fights, and level design diminishes replayability, even with added content. GameSpot and PC Games point out that while new characters and modes exist, they often feel like superficial additions rather than substantial improvements, with MondoXbox criticizing the lack of fresh environments or mechanics beyond reusing the same levels. JeuxActu and Hobby Consolas also note that outdated systems—such as camera angles and vague objectives—hinder immersion, while Gameplanet and Vandal mention backtracking and unnecessary DLC as drawbacks. These issues create a divide between fans who prioritize variety and those seeking deeper innovation. The overall consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward the Special Edition being a worthwhile experience for existing fans rather than a must-buy for newcomers. While Games.cz, IGN Spain, and LevelUp celebrate its replay value through character diversity, difficulty modes, and challenge-oriented content, many reviewers like GameSpot, PC Games, and Gaming Nexus acknowledge that the game’s repetitive core and design flaws limit its longevity. The consensus is that Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition succeeds in offering a robust set of tools for completionists and series enthusiasts but falls short of fully addressing the limitations of its original release. As GameCritics and Hardcore Gamer note, the additions are compelling enough to justify revisiting the game for fans but may not elevate it beyond its age-related shortcomings.