Devil May Cry 4, Experiment with Different Combat Styles

Adored by fans for its flamboyant combat which blends guns and swordplay, hopes were high that this next-generation debut for the Devil May Cry series would be spectacular. The game certainly does not disappoint in the eye-candy department and is great fun but it is a shame Capcom were not more ambitious.

Despite DMC's hardcore reputation, the game is accessible, with beginners able to choose an easy setting and learn some of Nero's outrageous moves in a tutorial. But experts proficient in demon slaying certainly haven't been neglected and are able to learn devastating combination moves in a deep and rewarding fighting system.

Mouthy and rebellious, Nero is equipped with a huge sword he can rev like a motorbike to unleash more powerful blows. He also wields a long-range pistol and a "Devil Bringer" spectral arm that can grab and hurl enemies and propel him to new heights.

Players also get the chance to control acrobatic sword-slinger Dante, star of the previous DMC games, which offers variety and the chance to experiment with different combat styles.

Taunting foes before unleashing a string of stylish manoeuvres is entertaining, even if the action can become repetitive. Epic boss battles are the highlight, including a hideous toad, a devastating serpent and an enormous flaming demon that smashes buildings with a single blow.

While longer than most games of its ilk, the playtime is artificially padded. It is not always obvious what to do next, which can result in aimless wandering and having to fight reappearing enemies again and again. There is also plenty of backtracking and recycling of the same stunning locations and the (otherwise imaginative) enemies.

Secret missions and end-of-level ratings encourage replay, and fans will enjoy being able to compare their achievements with friends or the world's best players via online ranking tables.

Review by The Sydney Morning Herald | View product details at Amazon