Devil May Cry 5 stands out as a high-energy action game that delivers intense hack-and-slash combat on PC. Released in 2019, this entry in Capcom's long-running series brings back familiar faces while introducing fresh elements to the fight against demonic forces. Set in the overrun Red Grave City, the story follows demon hunters battling a massive invasion sparked by a demon tree. With its focus on stylish combos and over-the-top battles, the game appeals to those who enjoy fast-paced action where skill and flair matter.
Gameplay
The core of Devil May Cry 5 revolves around combating waves of demons using a style rating system that rewards varied attacks, long combos, and precise dodging. Music shifts dynamically based on performance, adding to the intensity. Players control three main characters in the campaign, each with distinct combat styles that encourage experimentation. Nero relies on his sword Red Queen and revolver Blue Rose, enhanced by mechanical Devil Breaker arms that provide abilities like grabbing enemies or stopping time, though these arms can break during use. Dante switches between four combat styles for techniques like parrying and wields weapons such as the buzzsaw motorcycle Cavaliere or fiery gauntlets Balrog. V summons familiars including Griffon for ranged attacks, Shadow for close-range strikes, and Nightmare for powerful melee in a triggered state, finishing off weakened foes with his cane. Abilities can be upgraded through interactions with Nico or in-game statues, and transformations like Devil Trigger boost power in fights against bosses like the flying Empusa or colossal Goliath.
Built on Capcom's RE engine, the game features photorealistic designs and detailed environments that heighten the sense of a city under siege. Combat emphasizes adrenaline-fueled encounters with a killer soundtrack that syncs to the action, making every battle feel cinematic.
Game Modes
The primary mode is the single-player campaign, where players progress through missions in Red Grave City, switching between characters to tackle the demonic threat. This mode supports the Cameo System, an online feature allowing up to three players to appear in each other's games during specific missions for a cooperative twist without direct interaction.
Bloody Palace offers a wave-based survival challenge, pitting players against endless demons in a confined arena, added as a free update in April 2019. The Special Edition, released in 2020, introduces Legendary Dark Knight mode, which ramps up enemy counts, and Turbo mode, speeding up gameplay by 20 percent for added challenge.
Characters and Story
Nero, a young demon hunter with Sparda's blood, arrives in Red Grave City alongside weapons expert Nico, who crafts his Devil Breaker arms after he loses his right arm. They team up with legendary hunter Dante and the enigmatic V to stop the invasion. The narrative explores demonic powers and personal backstories, blending high-stakes action with character-driven moments.
The Special Edition adds Vergil as a playable character, bringing his Concentration gauge and weapons like Yamato for a unique playstyle that includes summoning familiars or creating spectral copies.
Is It Worth Playing?
Devil May Cry 5 has earned positive reception for its gameplay variety and character mechanics, with critics praising it as a strong installment in the series. It won Best Action Game at The Game Awards 2019 and holds a "generally favorable" status on Metacritic, highlighting its accessibility for newcomers while offering depth for veterans. Sales reached 10 million units by March 2025, making it the best-selling in the franchise.
For those drawn to hack-and-slash action with stylish combos and boss fights, this game remains a solid choice on PC, especially with the free Bloody Palace update and Special Edition enhancements still relevant in 2026. If you prefer narrative-driven single-player experiences or light multiplayer elements, it delivers without ongoing seasons or major new updates needed to enjoy the core content.
