After the breakout success of Castlevania Nocturne, Netflix is doubling down on its video game anime adaptations with Devil May Cry. In collaboration with Castlevania producer Adi Shankar. Fans of the legendary Devil May Cry video game series from Capcom have been gifted with an anime adaptation.
Solo Leveling is the opposite, it had a manhwa and anime first. Then it got a video game: Solo Leveling Arise.
The Devil May Cry 2025 animated series is just like the video game, action-heavy and visually appealing. It’s a nostalgic but modern interpretation that delivers heavy combat sequences, dark humor, and plenty of bloody demon hunting. However, while the series nails the look and feel of the video game, it’s not without its flaws.
Synopsis
When a mysterious villain threatens to open the gates of Hell, a devilishly handsome demon hunter could be the world’s best hope for salvation. (Netflix)
What I Liked
Animation
Right from the Devil May Cry anime trailer, it was clear that the animation would be one of the show’s biggest strengths—and that’s proven true. Created by Studio Mir, known for their expressive action work, the Devil May Cry anime Netflix series bursts with gothic flair and kinetic fight scenes. The animation style leans heavily into the high-octane aesthetic fans associate with Devil May Cry, full of over-the-top combos, slow-motion gunplay, and demonic explosions that practically scream “SSStylish!”
This Netflix anime series doesn’t just rely on visual polish—it also boasts a killer soundtrack. From moody string sections to throwback nu-metal bangers like Limp Bizkit’s “Rollin’,” the score accentuates both the action and the emotional beats. It’s a bold, confident blend of early-2000s cool with modern storytelling ambition.
What I Didn’t Like
Dante the Demon Hunter
Of course, no Devil May Cry anime would be complete without Dante. The half-demon demon hunter is still the main character. He makes jokes mid-fight, eats pizza between missions, and slices through hordes of enemies with his iconic sword Rebellion and dual pistols Ebony & Ivory.
But while the anime portrayal and action sequences do him justice, his emotional arc isn’t as good. In the Devil May Cry anime Netflix adaptation, Dante’s trauma, his relationship with his brother Vergil, and his lingering guilt over his mother’s death are only hinted at.
Compared to how richly developed he’s been in the games, the anime’s take on his personality feels lackluster. Supporting characters are similar.
It’s Kind of a Prequel for More Seasons in the Future
Plot-wise, the Devil May Cry 2025 anime functions more like a prelude than a complete arc. The series hints at a bigger threat but spends most of its time on the missions. While entertaining, this structure sacrifices momentum and narrative depth.
That said, some episodes do stand out. One particularly creepy chapter, set in a cursed orphanage, blends horror and action. It’s moments like these that show the potential of the Devil May Cry animated series. When it leans into its darker side and dares to get weird.
But by the season finale, it’s clear that this first batch of episodes is mostly a prequel. There’s a lot of lore left untouched, and characters like Vergil, Trish, and Sparda remain either absent or only briefly teased. Fans expecting a full Devil May Cry saga will need to be patient.
Comparisons to Castlevania Nocturne
Netflix’s Devil May Cry anime will inevitably draw comparisons to Castlevania Nocturne, which set a high bar for video game-to-anime adaptations. While Nocturne leaned heavily into character drama, complex lore, and moral ambiguity, Devil May Cry opts for flashy battles and fast pacing. It’s a different flavor—less Shakespearean, more Saturday-morning chaos—but one that suits the franchise’s DNA.
Still, where Castlevania used it’s time to slowly build characters and themes, the Devil May Cry anime Netflix series occasionally feels rushed. The writing is solid but rarely exceptional. The show’s attempts at emotional resonance are often overshadowed by another demon fight or edgy one-liner.
What Does the Anime Community Think?
The Devil May Cry anime has received mostly positive reviews from critics like IGN and GameSpot. They praised its animation and faithfulness to the game’s energy. Fans, however, have been more split.
While many appreciate the high-quality visuals and nostalgic vibes, others feel the show lacks the heart and complexity that made games like Devil May Cry 3 iconic.
Online forums like Reddit have featured heated discussions, with some labeling the series “style over substance” and others defending it as a fun. It’s an accessible intro to the Devil May anime universe. Some longtime fans are also critical of how the show deviates from Capcom’s original lore in favor of new characters and reinterpretations.
Should You Watch the Devil May Cry Anime?
The Netflix Devil May Cry anime is a solid, stylish debut that gives longtime fans plenty to cheer for, especially in terms of action and atmosphere. It’s a love letter to the franchise’s roots. A strong introduction for newcomers curious about the world of demon hunting and the enigmatic Dante. That said, the show’s thin plot and underdeveloped characters prevent it from reaching the same heights as Castlevania Nocturne. Still, the potential is there.
With future seasons promised the Devil May Cry animated series could evolve into one of Netflix’s premiere anime properties. For now, it’s a wild, bloody ride that looks cool, even if it doesn’t always hit the emotional mark.
Check some other Netflix anime such as Terminator Zero here.
