Devil May Cry 2

Posted Mar 21, 2003 by Doug Buel

Updated Feb 12, 2008 at 06:22 PM

System: PlayStation 2

Publisher: Capcom

Reviewer’s rating: C-

ESRB rating: Mature

Game type: Action

Kind of like: “Soul Reaver 2”

Best feature: Double-jumping and hovering in the air can be fun.

Worst feature: The atmosphere and story are weak.

The bottom line: The original “Devil May Cry” had an interesting story, cool characters and moves, and plenty of challenges.

“Devil May Cry 2” has the main character, Dante. And that’s about the only thing carried over.

In “Cry 2,” you control one of two sword-wielding demon hunters, each of whom can transform into a diabolical monster. The second character, Lucia, isn’t different enough to improve the game.

The story revolves around slaying other demons who are troubling the earth. But unlike the first game, which spun a tale of Dante’s self-discovery in the midst of deadly challenges — and presented that tale compellingly — the second game tells what little story it has with uninspired cut scenes and dull menus.

Often, you’ll find yourself wandering an empty street, wishing for some sort of tension. The game is often too easy. Many enemies can be defeated simply by keeping away from them and using ranged weapons. The first game was much more challenging.

Both games give a “style rating” based on what moves the player uses while fighting. It’s less clear in the sequel, however, what to do to get a good rating, and it often feels random. And when the levels themselves have no style, “playing for style” can feel like you’re giving more than you’re getting.