How does Devil May Cry compare to other Netflix video game adaptations?

While Netflix’s Devil May Cry series may not yet match the acclaim of other video game adaptations like Castlevania or Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, it certainly shows some potential.

Adapted from Capcom’s legendary video game series, Devil May Cry combines familiar elements from the games, manga, and additional source material, while introducing new concepts to craft an experience that resonates with both longtime fans and newcomers.The first season follows Dante, a demon hunter portrayed by Johnny Yong Bosch, who is thrust into a country-wide hunt with a plot to destroy the veil separating the Earth from the demon realm. The show makes several changes to characters and lore, offering a new take on a beloved universe, though some of these changes may be jarring for purists.

At the center of the show is Dante, who initially feels out of place with his quirky humor and Deadpool-esque wit. In the first few episodes, his character seems somewhat one-dimensional, relying heavily on humor and sarcasm. However, Johnny Yong Bosch’s performance grounds the character, bringing out his emotional depth as the series progresses. By the time second half of Devil May Cry kicks in, Dante’s humor takes a backseat to his internal struggle, transforming into a more nuanced character dealing with an identity crisis. While the humor may not always land, Bosch’s voice work eventually anchors Dante’s character, making him feel authentic in this increasingly fantastical world.

Devil May Cry: Characters, Performances, and Visuals

Apart from Bosch’s performance, Devil May Cry also features a memorable supporting cast. One of the standout moments in the series is hearing Kevin Conroy, the late Batman: The Animated Series star, bring life to the character of Vice President Baines. Conroy’s unmistakable voice adds gravitas to Baines, who serves as a religious fanatic with a savior complex working for a cowboy president. Although the character of Baines is compelling, it is the show’s main villain, the White Rabbit (voiced by Hoon Lee), who truly steals the show. Lee’s portrayal of the White Rabbit, despite having somewhat predictable motivations, is so powerful that it elevates the character beyond the typical villain archetype. His unshakeable conviction and chilling presence make him the perfect antagonist to Dante’s more human and conflicted hero.

The most interesting thing about Devil May Cry is how the show boldly criticizes U.S. foreign and domestic policy during the early 2000s, and this message is particularly potent in the season’s climactic moments. The show uses a memorable 2004 hit song during its montage, providing an exclamation point to these themes. The blend of 2000s nostalgia with its pointed social commentary is both bold and occasionally unsubtle, but it remains effective in driving home its messages.

Visually, Devil May Cry impresses, particularly with its action sequences. Studio Mir, the animation studio behind The Legend of Korra and X-Men ’97, brings their expertise in creating thrilling, bone-crushing action. However, the use of CG for the demons is somewhat of a letdown. While it may have been intended to make the demons appear more otherworldly, the animation style detracts from the action and doesn’t hold up to the rest of the show’s fluid animation.

Devil May Cry hits its visual high point in episode 6, where Studio La Cachette (known for their work on Primal and Unicorn: Warriors Eternal) steps in to handle a deeply emotional and visually stunning episode centered on the White Rabbit. This episode, almost entirely devoid of dialogue, shifts the visual style to a gorgeous animation that feels more meditative and slower-paced. It’s a beautiful departure from the more action-packed scenes that dominate the show, and the tonal shift brings a refreshing new layer to the series. This episode is, without a doubt, one of the best animated pieces of 2025, and it serves as a highlight of the season. Even if the entire season can’t maintain this level of visual excellence, the shift in tone and style gives hope for the future.