Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

In short: Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening is an action game released in 2005 by Capcom, available on PlayStation, PC and Nintendo. Our score: 9.2/10 (highly recommended).

Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening

Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening is an action-adventure hack and slash video game developed and published by Capcom. The story is a prequel to the first Devil May Cry, featuring a younger Dante and exploring his relationship with his brother Vergil.

Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening is a prequel to the original Devil May Cry, delving into the origins of Dante and his demonic heritage. The game sets the stage for the intense rivalry between Dante and his identical twin brother, Vergil, as they clash over their father's legacy and their own destinies. The narrative is rich with demonic lore, stylish action, and memorable characters, providing a deeper understanding of the series' overarching mythology. At its core, Devil May Cry 3 is celebrated for its deep and highly acrobatic combat system. Players can switch between multiple fighting styles (Swordmaster, Gunslinger, Trickster, Royalguard, and later Quicksilver and Doppelganger) on the fly, each offering a unique set of abilities and strategies. This innovative system encourages experimentation and mastery, allowing players to chain together elaborate combos and express their personal flair in battle. The game's difficulty is notoriously challenging, often referred to as one of the hardest in the series, but it rewards perseverance with immense satisfaction. The game's aesthetic is a gothic masterpiece, blending intricate architectural designs with grotesque demonic creatures. The character designs are iconic, particularly Dante's youthful, rebellious portrayal and Vergil's stern, elegant demeanor. The soundtrack perfectly complements the frantic action, featuring a mix of hard rock and industrial tracks that amplify the intensity of combat. Devil May Cry 3 is more tha…

Game details

Our review

Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening is a masterclass in stylish action, offering a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience. The combat system is deep and versatile, allowing for endless customization and spectacular combos. While its difficulty can be off-putting for some, those who persevere will find one of the most satisfying hack-and-slash games ever made. The story provides excellent context for the series, and the character development of Dante and Vergil is a highlight. A must-play for fans of the genre.

Pros

Cons

FAQ

Is Devil May Cry 3 a difficult game?
Yes, Devil May Cry 3 is widely considered one of the most challenging games in the series, especially on its initial release. It requires precision, timing, and mastery of its combat systems.
Do I need to play previous Devil May Cry games to understand the story?
No, Devil May Cry 3 is a prequel, making it an excellent starting point for new players interested in the lore. It explains the origins of many key characters and plot points.
What are the different fighting styles in Devil May Cry 3?
The main styles are Swordmaster (melee), Gunslinger (ranged), Trickster (evasion), and Royalguard (defense/counter). Two additional styles, Quicksilver and Doppelganger, are unlocked later.
Is there a New Game+ option?
Yes, after completing the game, you can start a New Game+ mode where you retain all your purchased skills and weapons, allowing you to tackle higher difficulties or new challenges.

More about this game

Similar games

Last updated: 01/04/2026