When Devil May Cry 5 launched in March 2019, it wasn’t just another sequel—it was a love letter to fans, a culmination of nearly two decades of storytelling, action, and stylistic evolution. Set years after the events of Devil May Cry 4, DMC5 reintroduces Dante, Nero, and the mysterious newcomer V in a bold attempt to reinvent the genre and bring the series back into the gaming spotlight. Among the visual highlights of the game is the redesign of Nero, featuring a darker, more grounded Stylish Nero Costume that symbolises both character maturity and a grittier narrative shift. But the question remains: why was Devil May Cry 5 made in the first place?
The Long Silence After DMC4
After the release of Devil May Cry 4 in 2008, the franchise faced a peculiar crossroads. Despite strong sales, Capcom remained unsure of the series' future direction. The mixed fan response to Nero as a protagonist and the desire to modernise the franchise led to a controversial reboot in 2013 with DmC: Devil May Cry, developed by Ninja Theory. While DmC was praised by critics, its drastic departure from the original tone and character designs left a large portion of the fanbase dissatisfied. This polarising reception made Capcom reconsider its approach. There was a growing demand from the community to return to the original storyline, characters, and aesthetic. Capcom knew it had to do more than just continue where DMC4 left off—it had to redeem the franchise in the eyes of loyal fans, while also attracting new players.
Listening to the Fans
One of the primary motivations behind Devil May Cry 5 was fan demand. Over the years, Capcom noticed persistent calls on forums, social media, and fan conventions asking for a direct sequel to DMC4. These fans wanted to know what happened to Nero, how Dante’s story would progress, and what secrets the franchise still had left to uncover. Capcom made a strategic decision: bring back the original team that worked on DMC4 and let them pick up the narrative threads left behind. Hideaki Itsuno, the series director, had already proven his creative strength, and his return signalled that DMC5 would remain faithful to its roots.
Advancing the Franchise Without Losing Its Identity
Another key reason behind DMC5's development was the desire to blend old-school gameplay with modern technology. Thanks to the RE Engine, which had already powered Resident Evil 7, Capcom had the tools to deliver jaw-dropping visuals and fluid mechanics. The company aimed to create a high-octane hack-and-slash title that felt as satisfying to play as it looked on screen. This technology allowed the development team to reimagine familiar characters with fresh designs and hyper-realistic detail, while enhancing gameplay mechanics. Nero’s Devil Breaker arm, Dante’s expanded weapon arsenal, and V’s unique summoning-based combat system were all designed to evolve the gameplay without straying from what made the series iconic.
A Story That Needed Closure
From a narrative standpoint, DMC5 was a necessary instalment. The arcs of Dante and Nero remained unresolved after DMC4. Fans were left with more questions than answers, particularly regarding Nero's origins and Vergil’s fate. Devil May Cry 5 sought to close those loops in a meaningful way. The game dives deep into family dynamics, destiny, and identity. Nero’s journey from an impulsive demon hunter to someone who understands his legacy is a central theme. The story also gives much-needed attention to Vergil, whose return adds depth and complexity to the franchise’s overarching plot.
The Rise of Character-Driven Action Games
By the late 2010s, character-action games were on the rise again, led by titles like Bayonetta 2 and Nier: Automata. Capcom saw an opportunity to reclaim the throne of stylish action. The timing was perfect: players were craving deep combat mechanics, visually spectacular movesets, and over-the-top boss fights. No series does that better than Devil May Cry. Capcom also capitalised on the growing trend of cinematic storytelling in games. Devil May Cry 5 features movie-level cutscenes and voice acting, which elevate the emotional depth and intensity. This approach was a deliberate move to modernise the series while keeping its signature flair.
An Ode to Style and Substance
Another reason DMC5 was made lies in its celebration of visual storytelling. Everything in the game—from the environment design to character wardrobes—reflects a commitment to aesthetic excellence. Characters don’t just fight with style; they wear it. Whether it’s Dante’s legendary crimson trench or V’s poetic minimalism, the fashion tells a story. Nowhere is this more evident than in the customisation options. Each character’s outfit is a reflection of their journey, choices, and growth. This subtle yet powerful detail has long been a cornerstone of the DMC identity.
Honouring the Legacy of Performers
Capcom also aimed to honour the legacy of the actors who had brought these characters to life. Performance capture was given a larger role than ever before in DMC5, and actors were allowed to fully embody their roles physically and emotionally. The realism this added to each scene cannot be overstated. A particularly noteworthy example is Dante, played by Reuben Langdon. His iconic performance—equal parts badass and emotionally vulnerable—is cemented in gaming history. The Dante Leather Coat used in performance captures is more than a piece of clothing; it’s a symbol of Dante’s legacy and Langdon’s decade-long portrayal. It brings a tangible continuity to the game’s world, further bridging the gap between reality and fiction.
A New Generation of Devil Hunters
Beyond nostalgia, Capcom saw DMC5 as a gateway for a new generation of players. With advanced tutorials, difficulty settings, and online leaderboards, the game invites both veterans and newcomers to embrace the chaos. Nero and V act as entry points for younger gamers, while Dante continues to thrill longtime fans with his unmatched versatility. The careful balance between accessibility and complexity is one of DMC5’s greatest triumphs. It ensures that the franchise remains relevant, not just as a relic of gaming history, but as a living, evolving series.
Conclusion: A Stylish Return Worth the Wait
Devil May Cry 5 was made because it had to be made. It wasn’t just another sequel—it was a resurrection, a redemption, and a revolution. It addressed the unresolved storylines of beloved characters, embraced cutting-edge technology, and brought back the stylish action gameplay that defined the series. From the striking Nero Costume to the emotional depth of Reuben Langdon’s performance, every element served a purpose. In the end, Capcom didn’t just bring back Devil May Cry—they redefined what it could be. And for fans around the world, that made the long wait more than worth it.