Three Capcom classics are being ported to current-gen platforms for the second time. It’s time to bust out Ebony and Ivory again and make them feel the wrath of Dante. This is the same collection that was released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360; nothing more, nothing less besides a slight bump in resolution. The reason for porting this collection to current-gen is still a mystery. It could be due to the numerous rumors of Capcom preparing to announce Devil May Cry 5, although nothing is official. Still, these three games are the crown jewels of the action genre. However, while these titles are considered as classics, are they still worth the double dip?
Platform Reviewed: PS4
Platforms Available: PS4, Xbox One, PC
Developer: Capcom
Publisher: Capcom
Release Date: March 16, 2018
Price: $29.99
This review is based on a review code provided by Capcom.
Nothing has changed with this collection. Devil May Cry HD Collection is still the same experience you had back on the PS3 and Xbox 360 with Dante’s edgy comebacks and signature white hair. Present still are the weird 4:3 ratio menus and certain cutscenes. Aside from weird aspect ratios, everything else is sleek and crisp with the HD coat of paint. Comparing to the original collection, visuals are a lot clearer, with a noticeable bump in resolution. Colors also seem more vibrant and pop more compared to the original, which is definitely a plus.
Other than the slight visual upgrade, you’re pretty much left with a menu hub to access three Devil May Cry games. This is where I feel the new port is a missed opportunity; it’s more akin to a greatest hits album, rather than a Blu-Ray Special Edtion. While one contains the classics you love, the other includes Behind-the-scenes documentaries and interviews. While there may be cool concept art to look at and music from all three games to listen to, but for fans wanting to take a deeper dive into the series, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
What can’t be taken away from this collection, however, is just how great the games actually are. Of course, you’ll get your usual Devil May Cry 2 complaints. The game drops down significantly in difficulty and becomes a little convoluted, gameplay-wise, due to the addition of Lucia as a playable character. Despite the flaws it has, especially compared to Devil May Cry, it’s still something to experience and see the evolution of the series. The first game is still the classic, all action game fans know and love. Devil May Cry is the pioneer of the action genre and gave birth to a game that kicks its players in the balls over, and over, and over again way before Dark Souls came to be. Although it’s a classic, it was still getting its bearings, with awkward static camera angles and stiff jumping; but for the time, it accomplished so much. Devil May Cry 3 is where the series shines and is rightfully the favorite for many. It featured a more elaborate combo system, along with all new weapons. For a prequel, it added so much more to Dante’s character and gameplay compared to the original. If Devil May Cry kicks you in the balls, Devil May Cry 3 castrates you.
Since this is just a slightly prettier port of the first collection, it’s quite a tough sell, especially at $29.99. The appeal of convenience is nice since you won’t have to revisit your PS3 or Xbox 360, but with many other games coming out around the same time as this collection, it’d be wise to save your money for other games and perhaps just wait for sales before picking up a copy.
For those itching to revisit these classics, then look no further. It’d be best to temper your expectations, however, if you were looking for a meatier collection with in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes videos. Otherwise, prepare to grit your teeth and scream at your TV screen as you try and slay demons and get them “Stylish” combos. Now that this collection is available on current generation console, you can experience every entry this franchise and prepare yourself when Capcom finally announces the long-awaited Devil May Cry 5.
