Edit filter log

'{{Short description|2008 video game}} {{use mdy dates|date=August 2018}} {{Infobox video game | title = Devil May Cry 4 | image = DMC4COVER.jpg | caption = | developer = [[Capcom]] | publisher = Capcom | director = [[Hideaki Itsuno]] | producer = [[Hiroyuki Kobayashi (producer)|Hiroyuki Kobayashi]] | writer = [[Bingo Morihashi]] | composer = {{ubl|[[Tetsuya Shibata]]|Kento Hasegawa|[[Akihiko Narita]]}} | series = ''[[Devil May Cry]]'' | engine = [[MT Framework]]<ref name=AndSanMTFW>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100315051705/http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/06/14/mt_framework/| url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/06/14/mt_framework/|title=Capcom Talks MT Framework 2.0|date=June 14, 2009|archive-date=March 15, 2010|author=Gantayat, Anoop|access-date=April 18, 2016|publisher=Andriasang}}</ref> | platforms = {{Unbulleted list|[[PlayStation 3]]|[[Xbox 360]]|[[Microsoft Windows]]|[[Android (operating system)|Android]]|[[iOS]]|[[Shield Android TV]]}} | released = {{collapsible list|title=January 30, 2008|titlestyle=font-weight:normal;font-size:normal;background:transparent;text-align:left|'''PlayStation 3''', '''Xbox 360'''{{Video game release|JP|January 31, 2008|NA|February 5, 2008|AU|February 7, 2008|EU|February 8, 2008}}'''Microsoft Windows'''{{Video game release|NA|July 8, 2008|AU|July 10, 2008|EU|July 11, 2008|JP|July 24, 2008}}'''Android''', '''iOS'''{{vgrelease|WW|February 3, 2011}}'''Shield Android TV'''{{vgrelease|WW|2016}}}} | genre = [[Action-adventure]], [[hack and slash]] | modes = [[Single-player]] }} {{nihongo foot|'''''Devil May Cry 4'''''|デビル メイ クライ4|Debiru Mei Kurai Fō|lead=yes|group=lower-alpha}} is a 2008 [[action-adventure game]] developed and published by [[Capcom]]. It was released for the [[PlayStation 3]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[Microsoft Windows]] platforms. It is the fourth installment in the ''[[Devil May Cry]]'' series and is written by [[Bingo Morihashi]] and directed by [[Hideaki Itsuno]]. The story follows [[Nero (Devil May Cry)|Nero]], a young man possessing demonic powers who is on a mission to stop the series' main character, [[Dante (Devil May Cry)|Dante]], after he assassinates the leader of the Order of the Sword. The player assumes the role of both Nero and Dante as they fight enemies using their demonic powers and a variety of weapons. ''Devil May Cry 4'' is the first entry in the series to be released simultaneously for multiple consoles. During its development, Capcom focused on each version achieving the same visual quality using the [[MT Framework]] [[game engine]]. Around eighty people formed the team that created the game. Nero was introduced to attract the new gamers. Dante's popularity with gamers proved challenging because the developers needed to use him as a supporting character in the story. Critical reception to ''Devil May Cry 4'' was positive. It was praised for its challenging difficulty, its visuals and Nero's characterization as a new protagonist. However, it was criticized for its backtracking in Dante's stages and a troublesome camera. The game sold over three million units worldwide, becoming the series' best-selling title before the release of its sequel. Bingo Morihashi adapted it into a two-volume [[light novel]]. It was released on [[iOS]] as ''Devil May Cry 4: Refrain'' in February 2011. A remastered version of the game was released in June 2015 as ''[[Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition]]'' which adds both English and Japanese voice tracks, improved visual effects and textures, in-game re-balancing, additional costumes, and three bonus playable characters: Vergil, Lady and Trish. A sequel, ''[[Devil May Cry 5]]'', was released on March 8, 2019. ==Gameplay== Gameplay in ''Devil May Cry 4'' is like previous games in the series. The player must fight through levels called "missions", occasionally solving puzzles or gathering items. Performance in a mission is graded from "D", the lowest grade, to "A" then "S", "SS", and "SSS", the highest grade. Grades are based on items used, Red Orbs gathered, time taken, and the number of Style Points accumulated. Each Style Point grade has its own tag-word. The stylish grade shows up on the side of the screen and begins at "Deadly" (D); progresses through "Carnage" (C), "Brutal" (B), and "Atomic" (A); then, advances through one last bar of grades containing the phrases "Smokin'" (S), "Smokin' Style" (SS), and lastly "Smokin' Sick Style" (SSS). Stylish combat is the focus of the game, conveyed through unbroken combos of varied attacks while avoiding damage. The player must avoid enemy attacks to continue performing combos, often by memorizing attack patterns.<ref name="guide">{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry 4: Prima Official Game Guide|publisher= Prima Games|date=2008-02-05|isbn=978-0-7615-5897-2}}</ref> The Devil Trigger is a super state that enables the player to become more powerful adding a slow but steady health regeneration, with increased damage done. Devil Trigger can be activated by pressing the button to trigger it when the gauge is filled.<ref name="guide" /> Some changes introduced in ''Devil May Cry 4'' are the presence of two playable characters, [[Dante (Devil May Cry)|Dante]] and [[Nero (Devil May Cry)|Nero]], and a slight modification to the shop system. A new currency, Proud Souls, is used to buy new abilities while Red Orbs are used to buy items. Proud Souls are rewarded at the end of missions; the amount varies depending on how well the player performed. The cost of abilities increases with the purchase of other abilities, though all abilities can be sold back for their original price.<ref name="guide" /> [[File:DevilBringerfirstmission.png|thumb|right|Nero uses his Devil Bringer ability to parry Dante's attack. The green bar at the top shows Nero's health while the yellow one shows Dante's.]] The player plays as Nero throughout most of the game. He is equipped with the Red Queen sword, Blue Rose revolver, and the powers of his Devil Bringer. The Red Queen features an Exceed Gauge that can be charged up to the 3 stages, allowing for subsequent attacks that are more powerful than regular slashes, until the gauge empties. Nero also has the powers of his Devil Bringer and can use it to pull himself towards enemies or vice versa. The Devil Bringer may also be used for context-sensitive throw attacks, leading to high damage and various effects depending on the enemy. Nero's Devil Bringer also gains new abilities during the game, including being able to detect secret missions or caches of Red Orbs. Nero eventually gains the ability to use Devil Trigger after getting the ''[[katana]]'' known as Yamato. This increases his Devil Bringer's power changing its attacks into more powerful versions with different animations.<ref name="guide" /> The player plays as Dante through seven missions, taking over halfway through the game. His gameplay is like that in ''Devil May Cry 3''. He has access to multiple melee and ranged weapons which he gains after boss battles. He is able to cycle through them freely in combat and is no longer limited to equipping two weapons of each type as he was in the previous game. Dante also begins with his four styles, each of which grants him different abilities. But, unlike in ''Devil May Cry 3'', he may now switch them at will with buttons or pads on the controller.<ref name="psm">{{cite news | last =Hwang | first =Kaiser | title =Devil May Cry 4, The PS3's Ruby Red Slipper | pages =11 | publisher =Independent PlayStation Magazine |date=May 2007}}</ref> He also gains the Dark Slayer style near the end of his appearance, which only has one style level. Styles do not level up through experience as in the previous game, but instead must be upgraded like other skills in the shop screen in between missions or at statues. Dante can also enter Devil Trigger where he gains most of the benefits that Nero's Devil Trigger has. Since he does not have the Devil Bringer, he gets animation and property changes on some of his normal attacks instead.<ref name="guide" /> ==Plot== {{see also|Characters of Devil May Cry}} Nero is a young demon hunter who lives on the isolated island of Fortuna and is also a member of the Order of the Sword: a religious sect of knights who worship the Legendary Dark Knight Sparda as a God. Dante arrives, and murders The Order's leader, the High Priest Sanctus, in front of the entire congregation. At the same time, an army of demons invade the city, putting everyone, including Nero's love interest Kyrie, in danger. Tasked with stopping Dante by Kyrie's brother Credo,<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Nero:''' Guy just came from Hell, he's gotta hit up a couple tourist sites. / '''Credo:''' You jest so lightly in a time of crisis? You must capture him. / '''Nero:''' Trust me, I'll get it done.}}</ref> the Captain of the Holy Knights, Nero's journey leads him to discover that he is in fact a descendant of Sparda himself, and Dante is not his enemy.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Nero:''' You aren't human, are you / '''Dante:''' We're the same... you and... I... and them... Though I suspect you carry something different from the others. / '''Nero:''' What are you talking about? / '''Dante:''' You will come to learn the meaning soon enough. But... business beckons.}}</ref> Under orders from Sanctus, Agnus, has been siphoning the power of the long lost Devil Arm Yamato, the sword of Dante's brother Vergil, to create a demonic army, and imbue high-ranking members of the Order with demonic power.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Agnus:''' Ahhh, but His Holiness has been reborn. As an angel! / '''Nero:''' An angel...? / '''Agnus:''' And soon, soon, so shall I. See what just a small fraction of my research has yielded? Look! How beautiful this white armor stands! You have no idea the hardship to make just one armor come to life. I had to capture and control countless demons to harness their souls. Summoning them alone was almost an insurmountable task! / Nero: Summoning...? So it was you... who made the gate!? / '''Agnus:''' Yes, yes, the Hellgate! I created it merely as a reference in substitution for the real Gate, but after utilizing an extremely powerful Devil's Arm, it proved sufficient...}}</ref> To Agnus' shock, the shattered Yamato restores itself in Nero's presence, and flies to Nero's aid.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Agnus:''' How... Not even I could succeed in restoring it...! '''Nero:''' From that day forth... my arm changed... and a voice echoed... "Power..." "Give me more power!" / '''Agnus:''' What...? / '''Nero:''' And if I become a demon, so be it. I will endure the exile. Anything to protect her. / '''Agnus:''' This is preposterous! Preposterous! / '''Nero:''' I should get back to Headquarters. If what Agnus said is true... Credo must've known something.}}</ref> With The Order's plans revealed, Agnus flees to inform the newly resurrected Sanctus. As Nero sets his sights on The Order, he discovers to his dismay that Credo is part of the conspiracy, until he ends up being deceived as well when they witness Kyrie being kidnapped by Sanctus. He intends to use a creature known as Savior to defeat the demon army he's created, as a means of strengthening the people's worship of Sparda. With the Sparda Sword already in his possession, and needing the blood of a descendant of Sparda along with the Yamato, Sanctus captures Nero to power The Savior's core.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Sanctus:''' Held back by love. Such a shame. Still, I must salute a man who carries the blood of Sparda. While not in Dante's league, you still presented a harder fight than I had anticipated. / '''Nero:''' Dante...? / '''Sanctus:''' I had originally intended to absorb him into our Savior, but circumstances presenting, I'd rather choose the option at hand.}}</ref> Dante arrives, with Trish, who was revealed to be a spy within The Order, and makes a promise to the dying Credo to save Nero and Kyrie.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Credo:''' Please... honor my one last request... Save them... Kyrie... and... Nero... / '''Dante:''' I'll do it. I wouldn't want to deny anyone their dying request.}}</ref> Splitting up, Trish evacuates Fortuna's human residents, while Dante destroys all the Hell Gates scattered over Fortuna, and defeats Agnus, reclaiming the Yamato sword for the last time. Confronting the Savior in a sky battle above Fortuna, Dante drives the Yamato through The Savior's chest,<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Dante:''' Time to wake up kid, you're missing out on all the fun. Nero! It's up to you from here, kid! An opportunity to save the world doesn't happen every day you know! Savor it. / '''Nero:''' This I will savor... Let's clean up this mess!}}</ref> where Nero recovers it inside, freeing himself and Kyrie, and defeating Sanctus. Nero is able to make peace with the power it has given him to protect those he cares about. Before Dante leaves, he decides to entrust Nero with the Yamato,<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Nero:''' Wait. You forgot this. / '''Dante:''' Keep it. / '''Nero:''' What...? I thought this meant a lot to you...? / '''Dante:''' That's the only kind of gift worth giving. I want to entrust it to you, and so I am. What you do from here is your call. / '''Nero:''' Hey, Dante! Will we meet again?}}</ref> and Kyrie and Nero share their first kiss in the ruins of Fortuna.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Capcom|developer=Capcom|year=2008|quote='''Kyrie:''' The city's a wreck. / '''Nero:''' Yeah. / '''Kyrie:''' I... I am still alive, right? / '''Nero:''' Yeah. We both are. Kyrie... If I'm a demon, and not a human anymore... is this what you want? / '''Kyrie:''' Nero, you're you. And it's you I want to be with... I don't know anyone who is as human as you are.}}</ref> Back at Dante's office, Lady arrives. As previously revealed in the game, it was Lady who sent Dante and Trish to Fortuna in the first place as The Order had begun butting in on some of her jobs, which was why Trish immediately went undercover to expose The Order's true colors. As Trish and Lady bicker over the small reward, Dante gets a phone call from a customer and the trio moves out of the office for a new mission. ==Development== [[File:Vatican City - main entrance with Swiss Guard.jpg|thumb|Vatican City was one of the main inspirations for the fictional city of Fortuna.]] Development of ''Devil May Cry 4'' began shortly after its predecessor was a success.<ref name="writing">{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=208}}</ref> A total of eighty people formed the development team.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/features/dmc4_iv_p3.asp|title=Devil May Cry 4: Kobayashi Interview|date=January 2, 2008|access-date=August 6, 2018|publisher=Video Games Daily}}</ref> The first teaser was that of Dante on a snowy peak shown at [[E3]] 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gQ-ajWP1FSY | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211117/gQ-ajWP1FSY| archive-date=2021-11-17 | url-status=live|title=Devil May Cry 4 PlayStation 3 Trailer - Official E3 2005|year=2005| access-date=March 12, 2021|publisher=IGN on YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref> while the [[Tokyo Game Show]] 2005 trailer showed Dante doing multiple moves in front of a camera,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8GOyOBDDvc | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211117/p8GOyOBDDvc| archive-date=2021-11-17 | url-status=live|title=Devil May Cry 4 First Teaser TGS 2005 ( Trailer )|year=2005| access-date=March 12, 2021|publisher=Jeffrey Velarde on YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref> both containing elements that were not included in the finished product. Capcom only made the E3 2005 video to confirm their staff had begun work on the game.<ref name="Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts">{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=212}}</ref> Since they had just finished ''Devil May Cry 3'' and ''Devil May Cry 3: Special Edition'', the developers initially were confused in regards to what they had to do in order to innovate the gameplay mechanics they developed previously.<ref name="ReferenceB">{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=213}}</ref> The team wanted to introduce new gameplay elements and a new character allowed them to do this. This was the first ''Devil May Cry'' not to be released for PlayStation 2, because it was designed for the next generation of hardware. This allowed the team to try new play mechanics and expand the series' plot.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://www.gameplanet.co.nz/features/131337.20080205.Devil-May-Cry-4-interview/| title=Devil May Cry 4 interview!| access-date=July 1, 2013| publisher=GamePlanet| date=February 5, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130604175533/http://www.gameplanet.co.nz/features/131337.20080205.Devil-May-Cry-4-interview/| archive-date=June 4, 2013| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> While not intending to send a religious message, members from the Capcom team did research in [[Vatican City]] and [[Istanbul]].<ref name="design"/> On September 6, 2006, Japanese video game magazine ''Famitsu'' reported that the previous games' main character, Dante, would not be the protagonist in ''Devil May Cry 4''. Instead, a new character named Nero, voiced and [[motion capture]]d by [[Johnny Yong Bosch]], took the lead.<ref name="nlr">{{cite web| url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/730/730818p1.html| title=IGN: New Hero for DMC4| access-date=July 8, 2008| website=IGN| date=September 6, 2006| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060909114252/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/730/730818p1.html| archive-date=September 9, 2006| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> The use of a new protagonist was discussed many times at Capcom but was not approved until producer [[Hiroyuki Kobayashi (producer)|Hiroyuki Kobayashi]] said that the Dante character had to be in the game.<ref name="ReferenceB"/> Fearing negative feedback, as happened when [[Konami]]'s stealth game ''[[Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty]]'' introduced a new character, replacing protagonist [[Solid Snake]] with newcomer [[Raiden (Metal Gear)|Raiden]], producer Kobayashi said Capcom aimed to make Nero fun to play like Dante and intended to make him stronger at some point.<ref name="comparison">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/devil-may-cry-4-interview-the-men-behind-the-mayhem/5/|title=Devil May Cry 4 interview - the men behind the mayhem|date=April 24, 2007|publisher=GamesRadar|access-date=June 22, 2018}}</ref> Two of the game's PC exclusive features are Turbo Mode (previously used only in ''Devil May Cry 3: Special Edition'') giving the game a twenty percent speed boost, and a new difficulty mode called Legendary Dark Knight Mode which can display over 100 enemies in some missions at once.<ref name=PCGS/> Both features returned in the ''[[Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition]]'' release.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=April 18, 2016|url=http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/03/23/devil-may-cry-4-special-edition-on-ps4-new-details/|title=Devil May Cry 4 Hands-On|publisher=PlayStation|date=March 23, 2015|author=Itsuno, Hideaki|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160427201214/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2015/03/23/devil-may-cry-4-special-edition-on-ps4-new-details/|archive-date=April 27, 2016|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The PC version also has both [[DirectX]] 9 and DirectX 10 mode. It is labeled [[Games for Windows]] and runs on [[Windows XP]], [[Windows Vista|Vista]], and [[Windows 7]].<ref name=PCGS>{{cite web|access-date=April 18, 2016|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/devil-may-cry-4-hands-on/1100-6193113/|title=Devil May Cry 4 Hands-On|website=GameSpot|date=June 27, 2008|author=Miller, Jonathan|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150601044732/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/devil-may-cry-4-hands-on/1100-6193113/|archive-date=June 1, 2015|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> It assumes a [[Gamepad]] is present and only uses the mouse in the menus, providing the same interface as the Xbox 360 version. ===Engine=== Hiroyuki Kobayashi noted the production team began working with the game using a PC-based engine. He said that this was the first PlayStation 3 game developed by Capcom, and making this transition was a "hard step", particularly because no member of the production team was familiar with the console's capabilities.<ref name="Lost Planet Community">{{cite web| url=http://blog.lostplanetcommunity.com/blogs/brian.php/2006/12/21/lead_programmer_interview_part_3| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070402173025/http://blog.lostplanetcommunity.com/blogs/brian.php/2006/12/21/lead_programmer_interview_part_3| archive-date=April 2, 2007 | title=lostplanetcommunity: Exclusive Lost Planet Lead Programmer Interview - Part 3 | access-date=2008-07-08|publisher=Lost Planet Community}}</ref> Capcom justified the game's multi-platform crossover by emphasizing the Xbox 360's success in the North American and European markets, labeling the move as "natural". The final version of ''Devil May Cry 4'' uses Capcom's internally developed [[MT Framework]] engine.<ref name="Lost Planet Community"/> In a thread questioning the move on the official Capcom message board, the company's senior director of strategic planning and research, Christian Svensson, responded by saying that they were moved by people's strong feelings about the decision, but that it was the best decision for the company and consumers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom-unity.com/go/network/forum?p=225065&postcount=46|title=Capcom official responds to criticism of multi-platform move|access-date=July 8, 2008|publisher=Capcom Unity|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081208131632/http://www.capcom-unity.com/go/network/forum?p=225065&postcount=46|archive-date=December 8, 2008|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> He also claimed that the contents would be identical, except that "the feel of the controller" may cause a slight difference.<ref name="EurogamerSep07" /> Despite Capcom having already used the MT Framework to create two Xbox 360 games-''[[Dead Rising]]'' and ''[[Lost Planet]]'', the team found difficulties with this engine.<ref name="Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts"/> The developers first showed a demo of the game at [[Tokyo Game Show]] 2006 where Dante fought the boss character Berial. <ref name="VideoGamesDailyOct06">{{cite magazine| author= Wollenschlaeger, Alex| url=http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200610/081.asp| magazine=Video Games Daily|title= Devil May Cry 4: Hands-On Preview| access-date=March 4, 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200125023643/http://archive.videogamesdaily.com/news/200610/081.asp |archive-date = January 25, 2020|url-status=live}}</ref> The visuals satisfied the Capcom staff to the point where they called them a "miracle".<ref name="design">{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=214}}</ref> Itsuno said in the ''Famitsu'' article that the visuals attempt to deliver a satisfying feel of being in the air. The actions of Nero's Devil Bringer could not be done on second generation consoles, but they could be done on the new generation of consoles such as the PlayStation 3.<ref name="nlr"/> Kobayashi said the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 versions would be identical, although he did not comment on the PC version.<ref name="GameInformerJun07">{{cite magazine| author= Berghammer, Billy| url=http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200706/N07.0620.1738.49035.htm| magazine=Game Informer|title= 9 Things You Didn't Know About Devil May Cry 4| access-date=July 8, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080616094612/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200706/N07.0620.1738.49035.htm |archive-date = June 16, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> Kobayashi confirmed the PC version "would be great, because the same team is working on both".<ref name="EurogamerSep07">{{cite web| author= MacDonald, Keza| url= http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=82705| title= Interview - Devil May Cry 4| website= Eurogamer|date = September 5, 2007| access-date= July 8, 2008| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20081208173447/http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=82705| archive-date= December 8, 2008| url-status= live| df= mdy-all}}</ref> The PlayStation 3 version requires the user to install 5GB of game data which takes 20 minutes and shortens the length of the loading screens throughout the game.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=https://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/02/05/capcom-dont-worry-the-5gb-devil-may-cry-install-is-worth-it|title=Capcom: don't worry, the 5GB Devil May Cry install is worth it|publisher=ars technica|date=February 5, 2008|author=Kuchera, Ben|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705060347/http://arstechnica.com/journals/thumbs.ars/2008/02/05/capcom-dont-worry-the-5gb-devil-may-cry-install-is-worth-it|archive-date=July 5, 2008|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> During production, new gameplay options were implemented to "keep up with fresh action games"; among these is the Devil Bringer's ability to bring enemies towards the characters.<ref name="GameSpy">{{cite web| url=http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/devil_may_cry_4/809520p1.html| title=Devil May Cry 4 Producer Interview (PS3)| author=Patrick Joynt| publisher=GameSpy| date=July 31, 2007| access-date=February 22, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080216021808/http://ps3.gamespy.com/playstation-3/devil_may_cry_4/809520p1.html| archive-date=February 16, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> Unlike Dante's progress in ''Devil May Cry 3'', Nero was designed to become stronger by upgrading his Devil Bringer ability instead of receiving new weapons after defeating boss characters. During development the production team decided that Nero would be one of two main characters and that Dante was not going to be the only character from previous entries to appear in the series.<ref name="Informer"/> Producer Hiroyuki Kobashi noted before the game's release they wanted to make Dante seem significantly more powerful than Nero. This was done to create an obvious difference between the strength of a "veteran" when compared to a "rookie".<ref name="very long interview">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3165697 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130116034927/http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?cId=3165697 |url-status=dead |archive-date=January 16, 2013 |title=Previews: Devil May Cry 4 |author=James Mielke |website=1UP.com |date=January 31, 2008 |access-date=February 25, 2008 }}</ref> Unlike ''Devil May Cry 3'', the game's difficulty would be the same in both the Japanese and European versions as the version released in North America.<ref name="Informer">{{cite magazine| url=http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200706/N07.0620.1738.49035.htm| title=Nine Things You Didn't Know About Devil May Cry 4| author=Billy Berghammer| magazine=Game Informer| date=June 20, 2007| access-date=July 8, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080616094612/http://www.gameinformer.com/News/Story/200706/N07.0620.1738.49035.htm |archive-date = June 16, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> ===Scenario and cast=== For the first time in the series [[Bingo Morihashi]] was the game's writer. He collaborated with film director Yuji Shimomura who worked on the earlier games. Morihashi had many issues with the making of the game to the point he quit Capcom. However, after Itsuno's asked him to return, he did so. He finished writing the game's events, which took a year. Morihashi had difficulties with the characterization of Nero, the new protagonist. Dante returned as a supporting character.<ref name="writing"/><ref name="ReferenceA">{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=209}}</ref> Itsuno was responsible for most of Kyrie's elements. She was envisioned as an "ordinary, cute heroine" who had a big impact on Nero despite not being a fighter. Her role was to motivate Nero and the player as the story progresses.<ref name="ReferenceA"/> The writings of late manga artist [[Ramo Nakajima]] in the series ''[[Amagasaki City]]'' inspired Morihashi to write Nero's story; "I love you, so I protect the city you love." Love is the focus of the ''Devil May Cry'' series; ''Devil May Cry 4'' focuses on Nero's love for Kyrie. While ''Devil May Cry 4'' is a simple story similar to Hollywood movies involving a [[damsel in distress]], the staff were satisfied with it because it also carried Morihashi's ideas well.<ref>{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=211}}</ref> The Capcom staff created Nero as a new protagonist who would develop across the ''Devil May Cry'' series because Dante had become stronger with each game. Nero was created as a weaker character who develops new powers as the story progresses until he reaches Dante's level. This was done mostly through his "Devil Bringer" ability, which makes him stand out. Another reason for Nero's introduction was to attract new gamers to the franchise.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/devil-may-cry-4-interview-the-men-behind-the-mayhem/4/|title=Devil May Cry 4 interview - the men behind the mayhem|date=April 24, 2007|publisher=GamesRadar|access-date=June 22, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180623061209/https://www.gamesradar.com/devil-may-cry-4-interview-the-men-behind-the-mayhem/4/|archive-date=June 23, 2018|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Before commencing the designs for the characters in ''Devil May Cry 4'', character designer Tatsuya Yoshikawa consulted with several members of the staff who had worked on the series before to become familiar with previous elements. The characters were designed to emphasize their moves, which made the staff controlling their motions vital to the design.<ref name="very long interview"/> Some of the antagonist's demonic forms in ''Devil May Cry 4'' resemble angels. These characters were designed to be attractive to the game's audience while providing a contrast when compared to other demons in the game.<ref name="very long interview"/> Yoshikawa noted that several of the boss characters presented some difficulty when creating them. He said that Nero's design was one of the biggest challenges he had experienced in his career, because the character had to be accepted by the public and fit in the series' universe.<ref name="very long interview"/> Yoshikawa liked the interactions between Nero and Dante because of the balance the two playable characters make.<ref>{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry: 3142 Graphic Arts|publisher=Capcom, Udon Entertainment|year=2015|isbn=978-1927925485|pages=217}}</ref> Yoshikawa also created another devil transformation, the Devil Trigger, for Nero. Unlike Dante's transformation that makes him look like a devil, Nero's Devil Trigger generates a creature situated behind his back. One that did not appear in the game turned Nero into a demon like Dante. Nero's hood covers one eye as a symbol whose interpretation is left up to the fans. Yoshikawa wanted to incorporate this into the game and hoped to make it into a figurine, but this was not possible.<ref>{{cite book|title=Devil May Cry 4 Devil's Material Collection Art Book|publisher=Capcom|isbn=978-4862331854|year=2008|page=31}}</ref> Both main voice actors motion capture actors, Reuben Langdon and Bosch, expressed pleasure working as Dante and Nero, respectively with the former noting he made Dante like his younger ''Devil May Cry 3'' persona but more mature. Langdon's inspiration for the character was [[Roy Focker]] of the anime series ''[[The Super Dimension Fortress Macross]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.halfkorean.com/?page_id=379 |title= Interview with Johnny Yong Bosch |date= April 8, 2010 |publisher= HalfKorean.com |access-date= June 22, 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180623032926/http://www.halfkorean.com/?page_id=379 |archive-date= June 23, 2018 |url-status= live |df= mdy-all }}</ref><ref name="YouTube">{{cite web|author=Langdon, Reuben |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8ySzx_fmjk |title=DMC4 Nero |publisher=Youtube |date=14 January 2013 |access-date=30 May 2013 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625221956/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8ySzx_fmjk |archive-date=25 June 2014 }}</ref> ===Music=== The soundtrack for ''Devil May Cry 4'' was composed by [[Tetsuya Shibata]], Shusaku Uchiyama, Kento Hasegawa, Akihiko Narita, Kota Suzuki, Rei Kondoh, Masayoshi "Chamy" Ishi, Masami Ueda and [[Shinichiro Sato]].<ref name="dmc4ost">{{cite AV media notes |url=http://vgmdb.net/album/6366 |title=Devil May Cry 4 Original Soundtrack |year=2008 |publisher=[[Suleputer]] |access-date=January 23, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111121174717/http://vgmdb.net/album/6366 |archive-date=November 21, 2011 |url-status=live }}</ref> Shibata said that since the release of ''Devil May Cry 3'' he had wanted to emphasized lyrics in the fourth title.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.squareenixmusic.com/features/interviews/tetsuyashibata.shtml|title=Interview with Tetsuya Shibata (October 2009)|publisher=Square Enix Music|access-date=August 6, 2018}}</ref> The game is noted for its use of heavy metal songs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.vgmonline.net/original-composers-return-for-devil-may-cry-rockmetal-arrange/|title=Original composers return for Devil May Cry rock/metal arrange|publisher=VGM Online|access-date=August 7, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190328192357/http://www.vgmonline.net/original-composers-return-for-devil-may-cry-rockmetal-arrange/|archive-date=March 28, 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Devil May Cry 4 Original Soundtrack'' is a three-disc, 104 track soundtrack. It was released in Japan on February 27, 2008.<ref name="Play Asia">{{cite web|url=http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-na-77-8-49-en-70-2j3z.html |title=Devil May Cry 4 Original Soundtrack|access-date=January 18, 2008}}</ref> <ref name="Famitsu">{{cite web|url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/1213135_1124.html |title=Famitsu |access-date=2008-01-23}}</ref> Female vocals are handled by Aubrey Ashburn (1-02) while male vocals are handled by Shawn "Shootie HG" McPherson of Hostile Groove (1-20 and 3-03) and Jason "ShyBoy" Arnold of Hypnogaja (1-13 and 3-38). Tetsuya Shibata is credited as the primary composer, with tracks composed by Shusaku Uchiyama, Kota Suzuki, Akihiko Narita, Rei Kondoh, Chamy Ishikawa and Shinichiro Satoh. The soundtrack was released in the US on November 25, 2008, with new artwork.<ref>{{cite web |title=Devil May Cry 4 (Original Game Soundtrack) |url=https://tidal.com/browse/album/19744413 |website=TIDAL |access-date=June 22, 2018 |language=en}}</ref> ==Marketing and release== The first teaser trailer was shown at [[E3 2005]], depicting Dante traveling through a snow-covered environment.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/614/614796p1.html|title=E3 2005: Eyes-on Devil May Cry 4|website=IGN|date=May 16, 2005|author=Allen, Jason|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071114212711/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/614/614796p1.html|archive-date=November 14, 2007|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> A more substantial trailer was released at that year's [[Tokyo Game Show]], with a more rugged and older Dante in a city-like setting.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=6556|title=TGS: Booth Round-Up - Capcom Faces Devil, Dead, Monster-s|website=Gamasutra|date=September 17, 2005|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080624190612/http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=6556|archive-date=June 24, 2008|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Both teasers show very little detail of the game itself. At the 2006 Tokyo Game Show, a more complete trailer debuted, along with a playable demo, featuring the character Nero.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://majornelson.com/archive/2007/07/10/devil-may-cry-4-gamer-pictures-theme-and-trailer-hd.aspx|title=Devil May Cry 4 Gamer pictures, Theme and Trailer (HD)|publisher=Major Nelson|date=July 10, 2007|author=Nelson, Major|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080610074920/http://majornelson.com/archive/2007/07/10/devil-may-cry-4-gamer-pictures-theme-and-trailer-hd.aspx|archive-date=June 10, 2008|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> A fourth trailer, released on December 17, 2007, revealed more gameplay and story detail, as well as information on new songs for the game. These included a new version of "Lock and Load", Dante's theme music from the first ''Devil May Cry'', with new lyrics written and performed by Shawn "Shootie HG" McPherson, the lyricist and lead vocalist on the soundtrack of ''[[Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening]]''. Released with the Japanese version of the game is Japanese rock band, ''[[L'Arc-en-Ciel]]'', and their new single, "[[Drink It Down (L'Arc-en-Ciel song)|Drink It Down]]", which is used as the Japanese opening for the game.<ref name="final trailer 2007">{{cite web| url=http://www.gamersyde.com/stream_5709_en.html| publisher=Gamer Syde| title=Final trailer 2007| date=December 18, 2007| access-date=July 8, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080628001826/http://gamersyde.com/stream_5709_en.html| archive-date=June 28, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> The company presented the game's first demo at an event titled "Capcom's Gamer's Day", where Kobayashi highlighted several of the game's features.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://ps3.ign.com/articles/840/840234p1.html| title=Devil May Cry 4 New Look| author=Jeff Haynes| website=IGN| date=December 7, 2007| access-date=February 22, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071211040830/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/840/840234p1.html| archive-date=December 11, 2007| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> With the team focused on completing the game, a new demo was not produced in time for the [[History of E3#2007|2007]] [[E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo)|E3]] Media and Business Summit.<ref name="Informer"/> ===Collector's Edition=== A collector's edition of the game was released at the same time as the regular version. The North American version features a bonus disc containing the making of ''Devil May Cry 4'', and an additional disc of the first four episodes of ''[[Devil May Cry: The Animated Series]]'',<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/action/devilmaycry4/news.html?sid=6182293|title=Capcom Announces Devil May Cry 4 Collector's Edition |website=GameSpot|date=November 5, 2007 }}</ref> while the European and Australian versions include a signed artbook instead, titled ''Art of the Devil''<ref>{{cite web| publisher=Kotaku| url=http://kotaku.com/gaming/limited-edition/devil-may-cry-4-special-edition-details-318767.php| title=Devil May Cry 4 Special Edition Details| access-date=January 10, 2008| url-status=dead| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071224122240/http://kotaku.com/gaming/limited-edition/devil-may-cry-4-special-edition-details-318767.php| archive-date=December 24, 2007}}</ref><ref name="gameinformerdmc4ce">{{cite web|publisher=Game Informer| author= Berghammer, Billy | url=http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/5FEE8992-0B36-4846-83DE-DEA6E35C0972.htm| title= Capcom Packs It In For The Devil May Cry 4 | access-date=July 8, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080401090450/http://www.gameinformer.com/NR/exeres/5FEE8992-0B36-4846-83DE-DEA6E35C0972.htm |archive-date = April 1, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite AV media notes |url=http://vgmdb.net/album/6366 |title=Devil May Cry 4 Original Soundtrack |year=2008 |publisher=[[Suleputer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web| publisher=PS3 Fanboy| url=http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2008/01/05/uk-jumps-on-the-devil-may-cry-4-se-bandwagon/| title=UK Jumps on the Collector's Edition bandwagon| access-date=January 3, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080106195745/http://www.ps3fanboy.com/2008/01/05/uk-jumps-on-the-devil-may-cry-4-se-bandwagon/| archive-date=January 6, 2008| url-status=live| df=mdy-all}}</ref> A very small number of Collector's Edition packages were signed by the game's producer, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, on the back of the metal tin on Dante's left shoulder. This number was reported to be as low as only 100 signed copies for each console, for a total of 200 signed copies. Both versions were packaged in a steelbook case.<ref>{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://kotaku.com/344816/capcom-adds-golden-ticket-bonus-to-devil-may-cry-4-ce|title=Capcom Adds "Golden Ticket" Bonus To Devil May Cry 4 CE|publisher=Kotaku|date=January 14, 2008|author=McWhertor, Michael|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080430231212/http://kotaku.com/344816/capcom-adds-golden-ticket-bonus-to-devil-may-cry-4-ce|archive-date=April 30, 2008}}</ref> An [[iOS (Apple)|iOS]] version called ''Devil May Cry 4: Refrain'' was announced January 11, 2011. It was released on February 3, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/02/03/devil-may-cry-4-refrain-now-available-for-iphone|title=DEVIL MAY CRY 4 REFRAIN NOW AVAILABLE FOR IPHONE|work=IGN|date=February 3, 2011|access-date=May 26, 2019}}</ref> == Reception == ===Critical reception=== {{Video game reviews | MC = PS3: 84/100<ref name=MCPS3>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/devil-may-cry-4/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |title=Devil May Cry 4 for PlayStation 3 Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=January 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121228020720/http://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/devil-may-cry-4 |archive-date=December 28, 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />X360: 84/100<ref name=MCX360>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/devil-may-cry-4/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |title=Devil May Cry 4 for Xbox 360 Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=January 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130201122422/http://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-360/devil-may-cry-4 |archive-date=February 1, 2013 |url-status=live}}</ref><br />PC: 78/100<ref name=MCPC>{{cite web |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/devil-may-cry-4/critic-reviews/?platform=pc |title=Devil May Cry 4 for PC Reviews |website=[[Metacritic]] |publisher=[[CBS Interactive]] |access-date=January 17, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121228013933/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/devil-may-cry-4 |archive-date=December 28, 2012 |url-status=live}}</ref> | 1UP = A−<ref name="1UpDMC4review">{{cite web| publisher= 1UP| author= Bettenhausen, Shane| url= http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3165793| title= Devil May Cry 4 Xbox 360 Review Index, Devil May Cry 4 Reviews| access-date= May 9, 2008| url-status= dead| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110629053437/http://www.1up.com/reviews/devil-cry-4_3| archive-date= June 29, 2011}}</ref> | Edge = 8/10<ref name="EdgeDMC4review">{{cite web|publisher=Next Gen Biz|author=Edge staff|url=http://www.next-gen.biz/reviews/devil-may-cry-4-review|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130115034045/http://www.next-gen.biz/reviews/devil-may-cry-4-review|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 15, 2013|title=Devil May Cry 4 Review|access-date=March 30, 2008}}</ref> | Fam = 35/40<ref name="FamReview">{{cite magazine | script-title=ja:デビル メイ クライ 4 | url=https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=225 | magazine=[[Famitsu]] | access-date=August 9, 2018 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151126194222/https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=225 | archive-date= November 26, 2015 | url-status=live | df=mdy-all }}</ref> | GI = 9/10<ref name="GIDMC4review">{{cite magazine|magazine=Game Informer| author= Joe, Juba | url=http://gameinformer.com/Games/Review/200803/R08.0205.1105.44993.htm | title= Game Informer: Devil May Cry 4 Review| access-date=February 5, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080512084303/http://gameinformer.com/Games/Review/200803/R08.0205.1105.44993.htm |archive-date = May 12, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> | GSpot = 8/10<ref name="gamespot"/> | GSpy = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="GSpyDMC4review">{{cite web| publisher=GameSpy| author=McGarvey, Sterling| url=http://xbox360.gamespy.com/xbox-360/devil-may-cry-4/849351p1.html| title=GameSpy: Devil May Cry 4 Review| pages=1–2| access-date=November 23, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120215080641/http://xbox360.gamespy.com/xbox-360/devil-may-cry-4/849351p1.html| archive-date=February 15, 2012| url-status=live}}</ref> | GT = 8.6/10<ref name="gametrailers review">{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://www.gametrailers.com/gamereview.php?id=1671|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=GameTrailers|date=February 5, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110606025344/http://www.gametrailers.com/gamereview.php?id=1671|archive-date=2011-06-06|url-status=live}}</ref> | GameZone = 9/10<ref name="GameZonereview">{{cite web|title=Devil May Cry 4 Review |publisher=GameZone |url=http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r28090.htm |access-date=May 5, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080506234931/http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r28090.htm |archive-date=May 6, 2008 |url-status=dead }}</ref> | HCG = 4.25/5<ref name="HGMDMC4review">{{cite web | title=Devil May Cry 4 Review | publisher=Hardcore Gamer | url=http://www.hardcoregamer.com/?option=com_magazine&id_rubrique=1&type=article&id_article=39 | access-date=May 9, 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131030040135/http://www.hardcoregamer.com/?option=com_magazine&id_rubrique=1&type=article&id_article=39 | archive-date=October 30, 2013 | url-status=live }}</ref> | IGN = 8.7/10<ref name="IGNDMC4review">{{cite web| website= IGN| author= Haynes, Jeff| url= http://ps3.ign.com/articles/849/849224p1.html| title= IGN: Devil May Cry 4 Review (PS3)| date= February 4, 2008| access-date=February 5, 2008| archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120101200755/http://ps3.ign.com/articles/849/849224p1.html| archive-date= January 1, 2012| url-status= live}}</ref> }} ''Devil May Cry 4'' received favorable reviews, according to [[review aggregator]] [[Metacritic]].{{r|MCPS3|MCX360|MCPC}} Japanese gaming magazine ''[[Famitsu]]'' gave the game a "Platinum" rank as part of its review. It praised the difficulty balance and gameplay options.<ref name="FamReview"/> ''Devil May Cry 4'' received praise for its hack and slash mechanics.<ref name="FamReview"/><ref name="gamespot"/><ref name="1UpDMC4review" /><ref name="xboxworld"/><ref name="cvg"/> ''Xbox World Australia'' called it "the most solid of all of the Devil May Cry games" citing its responsive controls despite being the first game in the series to be released for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.<ref name="xboxworld">{{cite web|access-date=July 11, 2008|url=http://www.xboxworld.com.au/games/xbox-360/devil-may-cry-4/review.htm|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Xbox World Australia|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080705104238/http://www.xboxworld.com.au/games/xbox-360/devil-may-cry-4/review.htm|archive-date=July 5, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[PSM3]]'' rated the game's degree of difficulty positively based on how the system ranks the player and the challenges the game offers.<ref name="cvg">{{cite web| url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=181579| title=PS3 Reviews: Devil May Cry 4| publisher=PSM3| date=February 6, 2008| access-date=February 24, 2008| archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080221194219/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=181579| archive-date=February 21, 2008| url-status=live}}</ref> [[1UP.com]] praised the gameplay and "predictably slick" looks. However, sites often criticized the game's backtracking elements, a big issue found within the level design. Some criticized the theme songs.<ref name="1UpDMC4review" /><ref name="xboxworld"/> The use of boss fights and the approach to the action's style was well received by ''[[GameSpot]]''. They felt it would attract and appeal to gamers despite the backtracking issues.<ref name="gamespot"/> As to the presentation, [[GameTrailers]] praised the voice acting, fight scenes, but criticized the corny dialogue.<ref name="gametrailers review" /><ref name="gamespot"/> [[GameSpy]] said the game succeeds thanks to its gameplay and visuals.<ref name="GSpyDMC4review"/> The introduction of Nero as new protagonist was well received.<ref name="GIDMC4review"/><ref name="IGNDMC4review" /><ref name="gamespot"/><ref name="GSpyDMC4review"/> Bosch's voice acting in the English-language version was also praised by GameZone and GameSpot.<ref name="gamezone">{{cite web|url=http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r28090.htm|title=Devil May Cry 4|publisher=Game Zone|archive-url=https://archive.today/20080506234931/http://xbox360.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r28090.htm|archive-date=May 6, 2008|access-date=June 22, 2018|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref name="gamespot">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/devil-may-cry-4-review/1900-6185608/|title=Devil May Cry 4 Review|website=GameSpot|access-date=June 26, 2018}}</ref> Despite the similarities between Nero and Dante, [[IGN]] still found the new protagonist appealing based on how different his gameplay is from the returning hero's.<ref name="IGNDMC4review" /> IGN agreed, finding Nero's story appealing.<ref name="IGNDMC4review" /> The GameSpy review also praised the Nero character for "[bringing] something fresh to the franchise" and being "as diverse as DMC3 SE's Vergil".<ref name="GSpyDMC4review"/> When it came to the console version, IGN said fans would enjoy the video game, but might be disappointed that Dante had fewer weapons and missions than he did in ''Devil May Cry 3''.<ref name="IGNDMC4review" /> GameSpy also said that "it cheapens things a little to see that the team has opted to recycle assets in lieu of showing us more of this rich world". They did not find the soundtrack appealing.<ref name="GSpyDMC4review" /> ''[[Hyper (magazine)|Hyper]]''{{'}}s Dirk Watch commended the game for "looking great, combos galore and being more fun than ''Devil May Cry 3''". However, he criticized it for "still playing like ''Devil May Cry 2''" and for its "choppy pacing and level design".<ref>{{cite journal|last=Watch|first=Dirk|date=March 2008|title=Devil May Cry 4|journal=[[Hyper (magazine)|Hyper]]|publisher=[[Next Media]]|issue=173|pages=60, 61|issn=1320-7458}}</ref> The PC version received mixed reviews. 1UP.com appreciated the port's exclusive Legendary Dark Knight mode where the character is cornered by multiple enemies in a single battle. However, they felt that Capcom could have made a more comfortable controller as it had similar issues as the one from ''[[Resident Evil 4]]''. They expected the developers to have put in more features.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412220251/http://www.1up.com/reviews/devil-cry-4|url=http://www.1up.com/reviews/devil-cry-4|title=Devil May Cry 4 Review|archive-date=April 12, 2013|access-date=August 7, 2018|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> While also appreciating Dark Knight and the Turbo mode that increased the game's speed, IGN said this port was only for hardcore fans of the series since it was not too different from the original console versions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2008/07/24/devil-may-cry-4-review?page=2|title=Devil May Cry 4 Review|website=IGN|date=July 24, 2008|access-date=August 7, 2018}}</ref> Nevertheless, GameZone said that Capcom did not rush the port and praised it for being as enjoyable as the original game in contrast to other PC ports.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080912062905/http://pc.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r28090.htm|url=http://pc.gamezone.com/gzreviews/r28090.htm|title=Devil May Cry 4 Review|archive-date=September 12, 2008|access-date=August 7, 2018|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> ===Sales=== Capcom expected ''Devil May Cry 4'' to ship 1.8 Million Units by the end of its fiscal year.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/data/pdf/fy2007a.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=November 11, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120725035909/http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/data/pdf/fy2007a.pdf |archive-date=July 25, 2012 |url-status=live }}</ref> Upon its release week in Japan, the PlayStation 3 version outsold the Xbox 360 version—140,000 units to 28,000.<ref>{{cite web|archive-url=https://archive.today/20091106000201/http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/10/30/bayonetta_first_day_sales/|title=Xbox 360 VS PS3 in First Day Bayonetta Sales|publisher=Andraisang|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/10/30/bayonetta_first_day_sales/|archive-date=November 6, 2009|access-date=August 7, 2018|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> On February 20, 2008, Capcom's president Haruhiro Tsujimoto announced in a press release that the game shipped two million copies in its first month, making it the fastest selling title in the series.<ref>{{cite web| url=http://ir.capcom.co.jp/english/news/html/e080220.html| title=Smokin'! Capcom's "Devil May Cry 4" Ships over 2 Million Stylish Units - Making it the fastest game in the DMC series to reach that milestone | author=Haruhiro Tsujimoto| publisher=Capcom| date=2008-02-20| access-date=February 21, 2008|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080228012611/http://ir.capcom.co.jp/english/news/html/e080220.html |archive-date = February 28, 2008|url-status=dead}}</ref> By the end of the title's launch year, it had sold 2.32 million copies and would eventually reach the milestone of three million units sold by December 31, 2014.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/data/pdf/annual/2015/annual_2015_01.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=November 7, 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151015180917/http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/data/pdf/annual/2015/annual_2015_01.pdf |archive-date=October 15, 2015 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/business/million.html|title=CAPCOM - Platinum Titles|date=8 February 2015|access-date=June 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208030840/http://www.capcom.co.jp/ir/english/business/million.html|archive-date=February 8, 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> Capcom's Christian Svensson noted the PC retail version's sales in the US did not meet his expectations. A digital download version was only available in pirated form as Capcom Japan did not allow the game to be sold online.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/news/capcom-devil-cry-4-pirated|title=Capcom: Devil May Cry 4 PC Pirated 'To Hell and Back'|website=1UP.com|date=March 8, 2008|access-date=April 25, 2013|author=Nunneley, Stephany|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131102193858/http://www.1up.com/news/capcom-devil-cry-4-pirated|archive-date=November 2, 2013}}</ref> A PC digital distribution release was made available over a year later.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.destructoid.com/not-a-joke-devil-may-cry-4-going-digital-this-month-157893.phtml|title=Not a joke: Devil May Cry 4 going digital this month|date=December 15, 2009|access-date=June 18, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160410040017/http://www.destructoid.com/not-a-joke-devil-may-cry-4-going-digital-this-month-157893.phtml|archive-date=April 10, 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> ===Legacy=== {{See also|Devil May Cry (novels)}} A two-volume graphic novel adaptation of the game titled ''Devil May Cry 4: Deadly Fortune'' was released in 2009 by [[Capcom]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom-fc.com/devil4column/2009/04/_deadly_fortune.html|title=デビルメイクライ４ -Deadly Fortune-1|publisher=Capcom|language=ja|access-date=May 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130603031554/http://www.capcom-fc.com/devil4column/2009/04/_deadly_fortune.html|archive-date=June 3, 2013|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom-fc.com/devil4column/2009/07/_deadly_fortune_1.html|title=デビルメイクライ４ -Deadly Fortune-2|publisher=Capcom|language=ja|access-date=May 2, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130602104915/http://www.capcom-fc.com/devil4column/2009/07/_deadly_fortune_1.html|archive-date=June 2, 2013|url-status=live|df=mdy-all}}</ref> It is written by [[Bingo Morihashi]] and his assistant writer Yasui Kentarou. In the afterword, Morihashi wrote that some of the novel's scenes were intended to be included in the game but were removed due to production issues. Director Hideaki Itsuno noted the action system implemented in the game was expanded further in his next title ''[[Dragon's Dogma]]''. Kobayashi said fans of ''Devil May Cry 4'' might enjoy this new RPG game.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/the-x-button/2011-08-10|title=The X Button|work=Anime News Network|access-date=August 17, 2018}}</ref> The series' original creator, [[Hideki Kamiya]], said he used this game for research while developing ''[[Bayonetta (video game)|Bayonetta]]'', an action game that would use a similar style and which borrowed elements from the ''Devil May Cry'' series.<ref name="gamespot-qanda">{{cite web |last=Ramsay |first=Randolph |url=http://www.gamespot.com/news/6207621.html |title=Q&A: Hideki Kamiya on Bayonetta |website=GameSpot |date=April 8, 2009 |access-date=October 21, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091228001200/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6207621.html |archive-date=December 28, 2009 |url-status=live |df=mdy-all }}</ref> In 2010, the game was included as one of the titles in the book ''[[1001 Video Games You Must Play Before You Die]]''.<ref>{{cite book|title=1001 Video Games You Must Play Before You Die|last=Mott |first=Tony |year=2010 |publisher=Quintessence Editions Ltd.|location=London |isbn=978-1-74173-076-0 |page=188}}</ref> In the fighting game ''[[Street Fighter V]]'', Dante and Nero's original appearance serve as alternate costumes.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.dualshockers.com/street-fighter-v-getting-devil-may-cry-costumes-updated-survival-mode/|title=Street Fighter V Getting Devil May Cry Costumes, Updated Survival Mode and More|date=June 20, 2018 |publisher=Dual Shockers|access-date=June 27, 2018}}</ref> A sequel, ''[[Devil May Cry 5]]'', was announced by Capcom in June 2018. It released on 8 March 2019 and featured the return of Nero, Dante and introduced a new playable character known as "V".<ref name="e3-2018">{{cite magazine|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/e3-2018/2018/06/10/devil-may-cry-5-announced-features-three-playable-characters|title=Devil May Cry 5 Announced, Features Three Playable Characters|author=Camden Jones|magazine=[[Game Informer]]|date=10 June 2018|access-date=June 18, 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180612003434/https://www.gameinformer.com/e3-2018/2018/06/10/devil-may-cry-5-announced-features-three-playable-characters|archive-date=June 12, 2018}}</ref> ===''Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition''=== {{main|Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition}} ==See also== {{Clear}} ==Notes== {{notelist}} == References == {{reflist|colwidth=30em}} == External links == {{wikiquote}} * {{Official website|http://www.capcom.co.jp/devil4|Official ''Devil May Cry 4'' website}} {{in lang|ja}} * {{Official website|http://www.capcom.co.jp/devil4se/|Official ''Devil May Cry 4: Special Edition'' website}} * [http://www.devilmaycry.com/ Official ''Devil May Cry'' series portal] * [https://www.mobygames.com/game/devil-may-cry-4 Devil May Cry 4] at [[MobyGames]] {{Portal bar|Japan|Speculative fiction|Video games}} {{Devil May Cry|state=expanded}} {{good article}} [[Category:2008 video games]] [[Category:Action-adventure games]] [[Category:Android (operating system) games]] [[Category:Capcom games]] [[Category:Dark fantasy video games]] [[Category:Devil May Cry games]] [[Category:Games for Windows]] [[Category:Hack and slash games]] [[Category:Video game interquels]] [[Category:IOS games]] [[Category:PlayStation 3 games]] [[Category:Romance video games]] [[Category:Science fantasy video games]] [[Category:Single-player video games]] [[Category:Video game sequels]] [[Category:Video games about demons]] [[Category:Video games about religion]] [[Category:Video games based on mythology]] [[Category:Video games developed in Japan]] [[Category:Video games scored by Akihiko Narita]] [[Category:Video games scored by Tetsuya Shibata]] [[Category:Video games set on fictional islands]] [[Category:Video games with alternative versions]] [[Category:Windows games]] [[Category:Xbox 360 games]]'