As a long-time fan, the question I get asked most often is: "Which Devil May Cry games are actually canon?"
It‘s an understandable question, given the convoluted nature of the series. Across mainline entries, prequels, reboots and supplementary materials, the DMC timeline can be confusing for even veterans.
In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll break down exactly which games are canon, the story chronology, and provide deeper analysis into the lore and future of this iconic franchise. Strap in, this will be one hell of a demon-slaying ride.
The Short Answer: Main Games Canon, Reboot and Anime Separate
To quickly summarize:
- The 5 core numbered Devil May Cry games are all canon, with DMC3 first chronologically.
- The 2013 DmC reboot by Ninja Theory is completely separate non-canon continuity.
- The animated series is considered canon.
- Comic books and novels are ‘soft canon‘ but may be overridden by games.
So for the true DMC story, stick to the main entries, with the anime as acceptable supplemental material. Now let‘s dive deeper into the twisted canon.
Analyzing Each Major DMC Game‘s Story Impact
As a hardcore fan who‘s analyzed every minute detail across multiple playthroughs, I‘ve identified the key canonical contributions of each main game:
Devil May Cry (2001)
- Debut of Dante and his demon hunting mission against Mundus. Establishes core lore.
- Dante discovers his heritage as the son of Sparda and unlocks his powers.
- Defeating Mundus cements Dante‘s legacy and status as protector of the human world.
Devil May Cry 2 (2003)
- Introduces Lucia and the Vie de Marli clan sworn to guard demonic artifacts.
- Dante acquires signature moves like Quicksilver time slow ability.
- Confirmed by developers as canon, but regarded as the weakest entry gameplay and storywise. Recommended to read plot summaries rather than slog through it.
Devil May Cry 3 (2005)
- Best game in the franchise and crucial prequel defining Dante‘s early days.
- Explores Dante‘s rivalry with his twin brother Vergil as they tap into their shared demonic legacy.
- Vergil‘s corruption into Nelo Angelo links DMC3 to the first game.
Devil May Cry 4 (2008)
- Shifts focus to newcomer Nero, Dante‘s nephew and another Son of Sparda.
- Nero‘s demonic arm and mysterious father set up plot lines paid off in DMC5.
- Dante unlocks new weapons and styles like Dark Slayer.
DmC: Devil May Cry (2013)
- Non-canon reboot reimagining Dante‘s origin story in an alternate universe.
- Some excellent action and creative boss fights, but does not fit established timeline.
- Intended to co-exist with original series but Capcom later separated the continuities.
Devil May Cry 5 (2019)
- Direct sequel building off previous entries, set after DMC2 and 4 chronologically.
- Confirms Nero as Vergil‘s son, extending Sparda bloodline.
- Reconciliation of Dante and Vergil provides satisfying story capstone.
So in summary, the core numbered games all directly build on established canon (with a few retcons), while DmC operates in its own bubble.
Statistical Analysis of DMC Review Scores Over Time
Expanding my business data analysis expertise into the gaming sphere, let‘s examine how the DMC games have been received over time using review score averages:
| Game | Release Year | Metacritic Score | IGN Review Score |
| Devil May Cry | 2001 | 94 | 9.6 |
| Devil May Cry 2 | 2003 | 68 | 6.9 |
| Devil May Cry 3 | 2005 | 84 | 9.6 |
| Devil May Cry 4 | 2008 | 84 | 9.4 |
| DmC: Devil May Cry | 2013 | 85 | 9.2 |
| Devil May Cry 5 | 2019 | 88 | 9.5 |
Key observations:
- The original DMC and DMC3 earned critical acclaim, setting the standard for the series.
- DMC2 saw a noticeable dip in reception with average review scores around 30% lower.
- DMC4 and DmC reboot were similarly well received, showing a comeback in quality.
- DMC5 represents the highest average scores since the debut entry in 2001.
So the numbers corroborate DMC2 as the outlier in terms of quality and reception. Overall the series maintains relatively consistent praise over time.
Friend, Let Me Tell You Why Devil May Cry 3 is an Absolute Masterpiece
As a fellow fan, I know you understand how incredible DMC3 is. But indulge me while I gush about why it represents the peak of the series:
- The gothic flair and twisted environments create an ideal atmosphere.
- Fighting hordes of demons with Dante‘s expanding arsenal never gets old. The combat possibilities are endless.
- Epic boss battles punctuate the thrilling missions. Cerberus, Nevan, Vergil – need I say more?
- Unlocking new combat styles adds wonderful depth. Finding your perfect mix provides endless replay value.
- The cutscenes and voice acting are so melodramatic and indulge all your demon hunting power fantasies.
DMC3 perfected the gameplay formula while delivering an origin story that enriched the lore substantially. It will always hold a special place in my heart, and deserves to be experienced by any stylish action fan. The pinnacle of the genre.
The Future: DMC6, Vergil DLC & More?
DMC5 brought the Sons of Sparda storyline a satisfying sense of closure. So where could the property go next should Capcom extend the canon?
- DMC6 seems inevitable down the road to continue Dante and Nero‘s adventures post-DMC5.
- DLC focusing on Vergil, Lady or Trish could offer enticing side stories fleshing out the universe.
- A full DMC prequel based on Sparda‘s story has amazing potential if done right.
- The upcoming mobile game Devil May Cry: Peak of Combat could tide over fans in the meantime.
Personally, I believe there are still so many amazing directions for the series to take building on its signature combat and characters. The DMC universe is rich and deserves to be explored for years to come.
So in summary, the canon provides an immensely fun ride for seasoned demon hunters and newcomers alike. If you‘ve ever had questions about continuity or where to start, I hope this guide provides answers and recommendations straight from a loyal fan. Let‘s continue enjoying the antics of gaming‘s coolest bloodline of devil hunters for a long time to come. It‘s gonna be one hell of a party.
