DmC Devil May Cry Review Roundup: Critics Praise Combat, Split on Tone and Story

"DmC: Devil May Cry" is coming out Tuesday and the review embargo has finally been lifted prompting major publications to release their thoughts on Ninja Theory's reboot of the renowned franchise. The general consensus seems to be positive as the title has garnered an 85 score on Metacritic for the Xbox 360 version. The Playstation 3 iteration of the title received an 83 score on the aggregate website.

All the critics noted that the combat was solid. The Guardian stated that "it's as rock solid as any entry in the series." Game Spot's Mark Walton adds that "the combat turns into a harmonious ballet of sword slicing, swinging, and all-out carnage that's not only impressive to look at, but delightful to perform too."

IGN's Ryan Clements concurs and notes that "the combat of DmC... is where developer Ninja Theory exhibits some of its most intelligent design to date. From simple interface additions to brilliant combo structuring, elegance flows through DmC like rivers of demon blood."

The new tone of the game split the critics however. Game Spot noted that the final twist in the story was not surprising or fulfilling. Polygon gave the title and 8.0, but noted that "the game's tone falls apart as it fluctuates between deadpan and dopey."

Most critics were also disappointed by the boss battles. Eurogamer of the game said, "Every single boss is beaten through a gimmicky weakness, whether it's yanking a glowy red bit with your chain or pounding a glowy red bit on the ground. There's the odd great moment, but that's the best you can say about them."

Here is a rundown of how major publications scored the game;

OPM: 8/10

Edge: 8/10

OXM: 9/10

GamesRadar: 4/5

TheSixthAxis: 7/10

Destructoid: 9/10

Game Spot: 8/10

IGN: 8.9/10

The game comes out on Jan. 15 for the Xbox 360 and PS3. The PC version will be released on Jan. 25.