Key Points:
- Devil May Cry release order provides the most balanced experience in terms of narrative flow, gameplay evolution, and developer intent.
- Chronological order suits lore-focused fans, but comes with disjointed gameplay progression.
- DmC (the reboot) is optional, best played last or skipped entirely depending on preference.
What Is the Correct Devil May Cry Game Order by Release?
The best starting point for most players is the release order. Not only does this approach mirror how fans experienced the series over time, but it also reflects how the developers intended the gameplay and story to evolve. Here’s the release lineup:
- Devil May Cry (2001)
- Devil May Cry 2 (2003)
- Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening (2005)
- Devil May Cry 4 (2008)
- DmC: Devil May Cry (2013, reboot – optional)
- Devil May Cry 5 (2019)
Why release order works:
- DMC1 introduces the world, tone, and mythos. It’s rough around the edges but foundational.
- DMC2 is generally viewed as the weakest entry, but it’s short and showcases a different phase of Dante’s personality.
- DMC3 is a prequel, but it lands better after seeing Dante’s future self.
- DMC4 expands the cast and introduces Nero, layering new dynamics.
- DmC can be played optionally to explore an alternate universe.
- DMC5 ties the threads together and is best appreciated with full context.
This path gives players a steady climb in gameplay refinement, with DMC3 acting as the series’ combat crescendo and DMC5 delivering a modern, polished climax.
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What Is the Devil May Cry Chronological Timeline?
For those who care more about narrative continuity than evolving controls, chronological order maps Dante’s story in-universe:
- Devil May Cry 3: Dante’s Awakening (young Dante vs. Vergil)
- Devil May Cry (Dante vs. Mundus)
- Devil May Cry: The Animated Series (optional, set between 1 and 4)
- Devil May Cry 2 (stoic Dante vs. Arius)
- Devil May Cry 4 (introduces Nero)
- Devil May Cry 5 (Dante, Nero, and Vergil face Urizen)
This approach offers a clean view of Dante’s progression from reckless teen to weathered demon hunter. It also clarifies character arcs, particularly Vergil’s. But there’s a catch: the older gameplay doesn’t age gracefully, and DMC3’s smooth systems can make DMC1 and DMC2 feel clunky by comparison.
In short, chronological order is for players who don’t mind a bit of mechanical whiplash in the name of lore.
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Is It Okay to Start with Devil May Cry 5?
Technically, yes. Devil May Cry 5 includes a brief recap that catches players up on the key beats. The gameplay is sharp, the visuals are slick, and the combat system is peak DMC. But emotionally? It hits harder if you’ve been with the series from the beginning.
DMC5 draws heavily from DMC3 and DMC4, especially when it comes to Vergil and Nero. For new players, jumping straight into DMC5 is like walking into the final act of a play—exciting, but you’re missing the buildup.
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What About the Devil May Cry Anime and Side Media?
The 2007 Devil May Cry anime is set between DMC1 and DMC4, focusing on Dante’s day-to-day life at Devil May Cry HQ. It’s light on action and lore, more of a character piece.
Other side media like the DMC3 manga or Visions of V novella add flavor but aren’t necessary for understanding the games. Treat them as optional snacks between the main courses.
Devil May Cry Game Order
| Game Title | Release Order | Chronological Order | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| DMC (2001) | 1st | 2nd | Dated controls, but iconic atmosphere. |
| DMC2 (2003) | 2nd | 4th | Widely considered the weakest. |
| DMC3 (2005) | 3rd | 1st | Prequel; refined combat and style-switching. |
| DMC4 (2008) | 4th | 5th | Nero’s debut; dual protagonists. |
| DmC (2013) | 5th (optional) | N/A | Reboot, alternate universe. |
| DMC5 (2019) | 6th | 6th | Polished combat; emotional payoff. |
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What Is the Best Way to Play Devil May Cry Games?
If you want the full Devil May Cry experience—story, gameplay progression, fan culture, and all—release order is the way to go. It lets you see the franchise evolve, absorb references as intended, and appreciate DMC5 as the culmination of a decades-long saga.
But if your priority is Dante’s story arc above all, and you’re ready to stomach gameplay inconsistencies, chronological order provides a straight narrative line.
And if you just want to slash some demons with no baggage? Start with DMC5 and work your way back. No judgment.
Source: The Gamer
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