Official Devil May Cry 4 Thread Ver. 2.0
Thread created by Dahbomb/ChaosAptom
Devil May Cry 4 TGS Trailer Direct Feed <-- Click on Movies!
Devil May Cry 4 TGS Trailer Full HD <-- Off-Cam footage highest rez
Devil May Cry 4 REALTIME DEMONSTRATION On Stage Video!
IGN's DMC4 Impressions : "One of the best looking games on the TGS floor".
IGN's DMC4 Game Play Clips
1Up's Full Demo Walkthrough
More Game Play Footage
And since this is a much asked question for DMC4, the "Special Announcement" at TGS by Capcom for Devil May Cry was the Devil May Cry Anime being produced by Madhouse studios, aired on WOWOW satellite channel and will start development around 2007, airing a total of 12 episodes. To the disappointment of many, the announcement was not anything DMC4 game related...
Table Of Contents
*Basic DMC4 Info
*Graphics and Sound Details
*Art/Concept and Environment Designs
*Characters and Story
*Bosses and Enemies
*Game Play Details
*TGS Showing + Media
*Old DMC4 Concepts
*External Links
*Credits
1) Basic DMC4 Info
In 5 short years, Devil May Cry has been through ups and downs the most series don't experience in an entire lifetime. The dauntless protagonist Dante was introduced to widespread acclaim in 2001, then fell from grace (in DMC2), and finally redeemed himself (in DMC3) - all within a span of only 3 games.
Now, as Capcom prepares to move its stylish gothic action franchise onto the PS3, the development team is using the revered third entry as a starting point for everything in DMC4. Taking what fans loved about the game play and enhancing it, gamers can expect to see even crazier combos, more fluid integration of the weapons, and over-the-top cutscenes. However, amid all those things that have become synonymous with the name "Devil May Cry", there is one thing that will be surprised to find missing: Dante in the starring role.
- Gameinformer, October Issue
FACTS
*Devil May Cry 4 will be appearing on Playstation 3 AND Xbox360 simultaneously. PC version will follow soon after. The game is set for an early Fall release with a demo being released in the Summer.
*All the event cutscenes in DMC4 will be realtime and the game will be 60FPS throughout. No word yet on 1080P resolution but 720P is guaranteed as expected of next-gen graphics.
*Devil May Cry 4 will be playable at TGS with an on-stage demo and accompanying trailer.
*The main starting characters of DMC4 will be BOTH Nero and Dante. Dante is 100% confirmed to be playable, returning with DMC3 style movelist and now with REALTIME STYLE SWITCH. Realtime style switch is done via D-pad ie. Trickster is Up, Royal Guard is Down.
*Devil May Cry 4 takes place after the original Devil May Cry making it the first direct "sequel" to the first game (DMC1).
Devil May Cry 4 is confirmed to have people from both DMC1 (Studios 4) and DMC3 (Studios 1) working on it. The 4 big name developers are as follows:
Director: Hideaki Itsuno
Producer: Hiroyuki Kobayashi
Cutscene/Action Director: Yuji Shimomura
Lead Character Artist: Tatsuya Yoshikawa
*Yuji Shimomura is the returning cutscene director from DMC3 and did an outstanding job on the action choreography.
*Itsuno is the series veteran, with both DMC2 and DMC3 under his belt. He retains his position as game director. Itsuno is also credited with many outstanding 2D Capcom fighters.
*Kobayashi is a returning Producer, from the original Devil May Cry. Kobayashi's recent work includes the critcally acclaimed Resident Evil 4.
*Tatsuya Yoshikawa is now the lead character artist for DMC4 and has showcased numerous concept arts as proof of his artistic prowess. Tatsuya is accredited with designing the art/characters for the Breath of Fire series.
*Johnny Yong Bosch, a profession stunt actor, is doing the motion capture AND the voice acting for the new character Nero. He has under his belt numerous live action titles including being one of the original Power Rangers and many VA roles including Ichigo from Bleach and Vash from Trigun.
Gameinformer touches on the great possibility of DMC4 using the PS3's online capabilities. Capcom states that they are experimenting with what they can do with the PS3 network play. Capcom also stated that putting in A LARGE number of combatants/players in one area will be very difficult, giving the graphical construct of the game and how much it would push the hardware. Capcom however DID NOT rule out the possibility of online co-op play and Gameinformer sort of ran with it. Then the example of Vergil/Dante Arkham fight in DMC3 was used to better support the existence of such co-op play.
*Gameinformer confirms that there is more than a year until the release of DMC4 so there are a lot of details that need to be revealed. Capcom has stated that all the necessary precautions are taken to avoid another debacle like DMC2. Capcom also stated that Sony is pushing them to release DMC4 closer to the release date as well as the fans, just because of the name "Devil May Cry". Kobayashi had this to say about that, "While I understand that users would would like it as quickly as possible and Sony would like it as quickly as possible, the name of the game is Devil May Cry 4. Since it bears the name of DMC, we can't just make something and put it out, it has to live up to the Devil May Cry name."
A NEW HUNT BEGINS - 2007!!!
2) Graphics and Sound Details
*DMC4 features some very nifty next-gen effects, including self-shading, high definition resolutions, gorgeous water effects and of course particle effects. Capcom also touches upon the possibility of maximizing the PS3's hardware by taking advantage of the Tilt feature with the new controller. However the team wants to make sure the Tilt fits well with the game play before promising anything (smart move). DMC4 IS going to be 60FPS.
More on DMC4's graphics later on.
The music featured on the official Devil May Cry 4 site is the chorale sung in the memory of Sparda, as confirmed by the composer of DMC4. More on the music of DMC4 will be revealed at TGS. DMC4 will output at Dolby Digital just like most other PS3 games.
3) Art/Concept and Environment Designs
Realtime Environments:
Environment Arts:
4) Characters and Story
Story Stuff: Nero (main DMC4 character) lives in a remote island city called Fortuna (the setting of most of DMC4). He belongs to an ancient group of religious crusaders known as the Order of the Sword who worship Sparda and fight demons in his name. Prior to the beginning of the game, Nero's life involves doing special jobs for the Order, cleaning up "messy" situations. All of that changes one day when a white-haired man in a long red coat starts slaying the clergyman at the Order. Kobayashi ends that with, "Just because Nero's in the game doesn't mean that Dante disappears from the game completely."
The Famitsu article talked a bit about Neros personality. It apparently stated that Nero wasnt a good person, and was quite sullen and serious, lacking a sense of humour or fun-loving spirit. Other translations have stated that Nero is a sarcastic, cynical and world-weary misanthropist.
Nero Concept Art
*Kobayashi's reason for not putting Dante in the starring role: "The reason we switched to Nero is, when you consider how we want to open new avenues for the core user and that we're switching harware to the PS3, the easiest way to have these new game play mechanics ... was to introduce a new character," he clarifies.. "If we gave Dante [Nero's abilities], it wouldn't be Dante anymore."
*Kobayashi insists that unlike Dante and Vergil's connection, there is no story-based reason why Nero bears resemblance to the sons of Sparda. Nero's look is about finding a design that is different YET familiar. He ends with the quote: "Devil May Cry is about guns and swords, and we want people to be able to see and understand that."
Dante in realtime cutscene
*There is an event/cutscene before the starting of the game where Nero's arm is possessed by an evil force - an occurence he works hard to conceal, going as far as to wear his arm in a sling to keep it from sight. Of course, the time comes when it can no longer be hidden and Nero discovers, along with the player, the immense combat possibilities of this demonic appendage.
Dante Concept Art
*Random Fact*: DMC4 Dante will be more mature/grim and less party crazy, but still retain his wise-cracking, unflappable personality. In the first cutscene showed for DMC4, he is seen dropping from the castle window and shooting a priest in cold blood, and then proceeding to kill all remaining soldiers in the vicinity. He is even seen with blood on his face.
Nero and Dante clash in the following cutscene:
The Other Son of Sparda
Capcom and Gameinformer sort of touch upon the unavailability of Vergil in DMC4. Gameinformer states that Vergil is an integral part of the DMC's franchise, as proven by DMC3SE, and they believe that Vergil still has a part to play in DMC4. Capcom has this to say, "We are not ready to say what role Vergil himself plays in the story, but the existence of Vergil as a character is something very important to the story of the DMC games. That's something that I don't think is going to end!"
*There was a new girl shown in the DMC4 TGS 06 trailer by the name of Kyrie. She is apparently Nero's love interest and is apparently some sort of royalty.
5) Bosses and Enemies
VARIEL - The Fire Demon
Variel is the first boss you face in DMC4 as Nero, and he has a lot to live up to. The DMC series features some of the most spectacular bosses in action gaming and Variel looks to match that record.
The boss is about the size of a small building. Apparently Gameinformer was baffled as to how to beat the boss, and Capcom would not tell them the trick to beating it. Gameinformer also comments that it might be hazardous to get near the boss as it sets nearby buildings ablaze. Variel will feature some very nice fire effects that will be unlike anything you have seen in a DMC game before.
Verbally, Variel can be described as a 3 way hybrid between True Ogre from Tekken 3, Beowulf from DMC3 and Balrog from the LOTR franchise. His lower body is that of a Centaur. - Random stuff
New Marionette-type Basic Fodder Enemies
The new basic enemies in DMC4 are a nod to the original DMC enemies where were a group of very large wooden Marionettes. Going on that design, DMC4 keeps the tradition alives and features a variety of Marionette-type enemes from the start. The new enemies feature twisted body parts that are stitched together. The enemies have scythe protroding out of their limbs as their standard weapons. So far 3 types have been identified including one humongous version that combines all form and is able to breathe fire.
BLADES???
This particular concept art features DMC4 being ambushed by a group of Blades right in front of Fortuna (city). A fairly bold implication is made by this concept art...
SHADOWS???
Regarding the enemies of DMC4, Kobayashi stated that while they are easy to start off, they will get generally more aggressive/stronger when you get more into the game. The demo features enemies that could be dispatched by standard DMC shoot/slash tactics + combos. Kobayashi then makes a remarkable statement about a VERY FAMILIAR enemy, "We are definitely experimenting with enemies like the Shadow Cats." Gameinformer then goes about giving the history/mechanics of the Shadow enemies from DMC1.
6) Game Play Details
*Information regarding the Red Queen*: Kobayashi states that the Red Queen (Nero's default sword) is a "tricked out" version of a "standard-issue" sword given to the Order of Knights (meaning others will have swords of similar designs as well). Kobayashi refuses to comment on the game play aspects of the Red Queen and the whole motorcycle lever thing but bear in mind that it DOES have game play application (it's not just for decoration).
The Red Queen, Neros sword, has a sort of will of its own, and Nero has tuned it himself, turning it into a very powerful weapon. The Red Queen has been confirmed to feature a special system called Acceleration. Equipped with this magical sword, Nero can surpass human limits and have enough strength to deal with even the strongest demons. However, this strength depends on the speed of the strikes: the hilt of the sword works just like a motorcycle's handle, and as it is pushed harder, the force of the delivered strikes will also be greater In the HUD featured in the screens, the circular meter thing beside the stamina gauge is based on a motorcycle's speedometer, no doubt linked to the new Acceleration system.
*A New Batch of Style Accolades* Goes from Do It! to Come On! to Big Up! and so on. I personally hate this system but oh well... does not change game play one bit.
*With the addition of the arm mechanic, the team is putting a lot more emphasis on aerial combat. Also the enemies will be brand new, just like it was with previous games and DMC3.*
The "Devil's Right Arm"
*Note about Devil Arm*: Initially the arm manuevers will only set enemies up (throw them up in the air for juggles, via single button input) but later in the game they will do damage as well (in addition to gaining other abilities mentioned later on in the article).
*The arm is not just another weapon added to the DMC arsenal, it completely changes the way DMC is played. It's about positioning as well as damaging enemies, crowd controlling and crowd destroying. The way that the new Arm game play is managed is sort of the anti-thesis of Vergil's Dark Slayer. After leveling it up, you are able to manuever it a variety of ways, including pulling enemies towards you, throwing them away, bringing down enemies from the sky and smacking them, or tossing them up in the air for juggles. Instead of you going towards/away from the enemy or you manipulating yourself, you are manipulating the enemy and moving them towards/away from you.
An example of how the arm works in practical application a Stinger example was used for the fans (this more or less confirms that Nero has a Stinger type move for Red Queen). The quickness of the Devil Arm allows the player to completely negate the Stinger knockback, meaning as soon as you pull off Stinger, you can pull out the Devil Arm to bring the enemy back to you! Stinger is now changed from a combo finisher to a combo starter! Gameinformer flourishes over the idea of chaining multiple Stingers together for some really fancy combos with the Devil Arm.
*Note about Nero's Gun*: The Revolver is a vertically double-barreled revolver. However, reload times will NOT be an issue in game play.
Capcom states that Devil May Cry has mostly been about the binary relationship between guns and swords, but DMC4 takes it one step forward by forming a triangular relationship among the Devil arms + Abilities, the guns and the swords. *About the whole DMC3 Style system and the new Devil Arm, Capcom has this to say, "The DMC3 battle system is very good but it feels split up, I wish there was a more cohesive system. [The Devil Arm] is not about replacing the Style system. What we want to do is increase the number of ways you can go about battling. You have your sword, your gun and now you have the arm." A whole category of moves for this new weapon(?) will essentially maintain the same level of depth (as in DMC3) while opening up new avenues of combat.
Devil Trigger?
*Capcom comments about the Devil Trigger or lack there of for Nero, "Since Nero isn't of Sparda progeny, he probably won't be able to undergo a full tranformation, but that doesn't mean the mechanic will vanish completely from DMC4." Unfortunately this is the aspect of DMC4 that is still under work, and Kobayashi only teases with, "The key word on Devil Trigger is 'Devil' - but that's something - as far as its relationship to Nero - we're not ready to explore just yet..."
*Random Fact*: Gameinformer states that there is enough space under the HUD for a Devil Trigger guage or another similar guage.
*Gameinformer comments on the staple hard difficulty of the series and how it might be tweaked according to Capcom. Kobayashi pulls out a difficulty scale which goes something like this: DMC3 (hardest) > DMC3SE > DMC1 > DMC2 (easiest). Kobayashi states that when you first start out, the game is easier than DMC3(SE) but when you progress in the game, it gets as hard as DMC3 (original). The difficulty is linearly increasing not in weird steps like in previous games. Everyone should be able to get into DMC4 but not everyone might be able to beat the game that easily... Also Capcom refuses to confirm or deny a playable Dante in DMC4 but Gameinformer seems to think otherwise by giving support of images such as these...
7) Realtime Demo Screencaptures
8) Old DMC4 Concepts
DMC4 has properly shown its face twice before now, once at E3 2005, and then again at TGS 2005, and on both occasions a short teaser trailer was provided. (It, and RE5, were noticeably absent at E3 2006, much to the serious shock and disappointment of fans, who had expected at least some kind of news or mention) Concept art of characters and costumes were also released on a few occasions, along with sporadic interviews and comments from the director and producer. Solid information was pretty scarce though, and the development team let it be known most of what was seen in the teaser trailers was NOT indicative of what we would see in the actual game.
E3 TRAILER
The teaser trailer was mostly composed of footage from past games along with a cryptic comment for each, DMC4 was given the words: Evil is punished
This trailer is set in a snowy environment, and we can see a dark castle in the background
Dante is breifly seen using Ebony and Rebellion
Famitsu article, a few days before TGS 2005:
DMC4 was said to be 5% complete
DMC4 will continue the mission system seen in the previous DMC games
Focus is being given to flowing hair and clothes, as well as facial expression.
The article featured both screens from the then unreleased TGS 05 trailer, and various pieces of concept art. One featured a lot characters from the previous games, namely Dante, Lady (now with longer hair, an altered missile launcher and bigger assets), Trish (in sillouette), Nelo Angelo, and someone that looked like Vergil (separately that is) although his hair was styled like Dantes. Most of the concept art then appeared to be of Dante, although also featured, was a much younger looking character, also with white hair. (he was being designed with quite old timey Victorian-esque clothes) Translations revealed that it was in fact labelled new male character There was also concept art of a blue coated character, which fans assumed was of Vergil.
Devil May Cry 4 will feature more weapons, maneuvers, enemies, locations, music, and cut scenes than all the previous releases combined. It is also being billed as being the longest release yet.
Players "won't be able to go back." Possibly hinting that you can't backtrack to previous missions and/or locations until completing the game once.
Kobayashi confirmed that - despite initial plans - the fourth iteration of the game won't be any easier. He explained that while he began development intending to lessen the challenge, he realised the decision would be unpopular with series fans. Instead, the development team is concentrating on making the title "easier to control" and simpler to "get into" i.e. rather than easier, DMC4 will be more accessible.
The graphics seen in the TGS 2005 teaser are apparently the bare minimum that we will see in the actual game
It was revealed that Dante was to sport a much more gruff appearance in DMC4, and would even have a slight beard. As seen in some concept art provided in the article.
As well as being ever so slightly bearded, the concept art also featured Dante in a thick and fluffy-collared winter style jacket, implying he would be specially dressed for the cold environment.
TGS 2005 teaser
The teaser is set in a more urban environment, a city street
The message PS3 exclusive can be seen early in the trailer.
Dante is seen to be using Rebellion, E+I and a shotgun, and performing a variety of attacks upon the loose camera, most notably hightime, classic DMC juggling, (along with shotgun fire flipping the enemy mid air) a variant of aerial rave, and even a helm breaker.
There are 3 posters of choice DMC3 characters pasted around the area. There is one of Nevan (concept art image), Beowulf (CG art), and then one of Lady (concept art image) with the english text learn to protect yourself on it.
A sign in the background says "Galerie Duve IR" and theres a "cafe" sign with "classic" on a board under it. Using these, it has been speculated that the street is based in either Germany or France, and given the background and style of the architecture, it is most likely in France. (the cathedral like building behind may or may not be Notre Dame) Following this, use of a real location as a base may have been used to save design time.
Addressing the TGS 05 trailer, Kobayashi confirmed it was designed to demonstrate the PS3's power and isn't indicative of the direction he plans to take the sequel. For example, the Dante seen in the trailer is merely a continuation of the younger character from DMC3 whereas Dante is likely to adopt a much darker guise for the next-gen game.
The Dante that we control in Devil May Cry 4 will be following from the Dante of the original Devil May Cry.
Devil May Cry's character designer Tatsuya Yoshikawa is currently experimenting with a darker, older, moodier look for the series' anti-hero.
Kobayashi last worked on the series' first incarnation and he's apparently keen to make fans feel like they're discovering the franchise all over again. He wants to give players the feeling that Dante is making his world debut once again.
In addition to Dante, we can, continuing with series tradition, expect a female lead. In the interview, Kobayashi asks readers if they'd prefer a previous heroine to return, or a completely new heroine. Jokingly, he adds that a heroine is important in order to show off how cool Dante really is. Other characters from past games may or may not make an appearance -- Kobayashi says that nothing has been decided.
Kobayashi was keen to point out that he feels the balance between cinematics and gameplay was perfect in DMC3 and he hopes to emulate that successful structure for Devil May Cry 4, while adding new elements.
Kobayashi promises to start thinking about a release date for Devil May Cry 4 once the PS3 has seen release.
9) External Links
(more to come)
Devil May Cry 4 Official Site
Old Famitsu Interview for DMC4
Gamespot's translation to latest Famitsu article
E3 05 Teaser
TGS 05 Teaser
10) Credits
Dexter's Blog - All the old DMC4 concept information was obtained from here.
Gameinformer - A lot of the new information posted is from GI.
C-Warrior - Thread renewal based on C-Warrior's suggestion.
Famitsu - Another source of great information.
GAF - For their wonderful DMC4 scans, GIFs, comments, and Photoshop. Best gaming board EVAR!
Gamespot - Source of Famitsu translation
Thread created by Dahbomb/ChaosAptom
Devil May Cry 4 TGS Trailer Direct Feed <-- Click on Movies!
Devil May Cry 4 TGS Trailer Full HD <-- Off-Cam footage highest rez
Devil May Cry 4 REALTIME DEMONSTRATION On Stage Video!
IGN's DMC4 Impressions : "One of the best looking games on the TGS floor".
IGN's DMC4 Game Play Clips
1Up's Full Demo Walkthrough
More Game Play Footage
And since this is a much asked question for DMC4, the "Special Announcement" at TGS by Capcom for Devil May Cry was the Devil May Cry Anime being produced by Madhouse studios, aired on WOWOW satellite channel and will start development around 2007, airing a total of 12 episodes. To the disappointment of many, the announcement was not anything DMC4 game related...
Table Of Contents
*Basic DMC4 Info
*Graphics and Sound Details
*Art/Concept and Environment Designs
*Characters and Story
*Bosses and Enemies
*Game Play Details
*TGS Showing + Media
*Old DMC4 Concepts
*External Links
*Credits
1) Basic DMC4 Info
In 5 short years, Devil May Cry has been through ups and downs the most series don't experience in an entire lifetime. The dauntless protagonist Dante was introduced to widespread acclaim in 2001, then fell from grace (in DMC2), and finally redeemed himself (in DMC3) - all within a span of only 3 games.
Now, as Capcom prepares to move its stylish gothic action franchise onto the PS3, the development team is using the revered third entry as a starting point for everything in DMC4. Taking what fans loved about the game play and enhancing it, gamers can expect to see even crazier combos, more fluid integration of the weapons, and over-the-top cutscenes. However, amid all those things that have become synonymous with the name "Devil May Cry", there is one thing that will be surprised to find missing: Dante in the starring role.
- Gameinformer, October Issue
FACTS
*Devil May Cry 4 will be appearing on Playstation 3 AND Xbox360 simultaneously. PC version will follow soon after. The game is set for an early Fall release with a demo being released in the Summer.
*All the event cutscenes in DMC4 will be realtime and the game will be 60FPS throughout. No word yet on 1080P resolution but 720P is guaranteed as expected of next-gen graphics.
*Devil May Cry 4 will be playable at TGS with an on-stage demo and accompanying trailer.
*The main starting characters of DMC4 will be BOTH Nero and Dante. Dante is 100% confirmed to be playable, returning with DMC3 style movelist and now with REALTIME STYLE SWITCH. Realtime style switch is done via D-pad ie. Trickster is Up, Royal Guard is Down.
*Devil May Cry 4 takes place after the original Devil May Cry making it the first direct "sequel" to the first game (DMC1).
Devil May Cry 4 is confirmed to have people from both DMC1 (Studios 4) and DMC3 (Studios 1) working on it. The 4 big name developers are as follows:
Director: Hideaki Itsuno
Producer: Hiroyuki Kobayashi
Cutscene/Action Director: Yuji Shimomura
Lead Character Artist: Tatsuya Yoshikawa
*Yuji Shimomura is the returning cutscene director from DMC3 and did an outstanding job on the action choreography.
*Itsuno is the series veteran, with both DMC2 and DMC3 under his belt. He retains his position as game director. Itsuno is also credited with many outstanding 2D Capcom fighters.
*Kobayashi is a returning Producer, from the original Devil May Cry. Kobayashi's recent work includes the critcally acclaimed Resident Evil 4.
*Tatsuya Yoshikawa is now the lead character artist for DMC4 and has showcased numerous concept arts as proof of his artistic prowess. Tatsuya is accredited with designing the art/characters for the Breath of Fire series.
*Johnny Yong Bosch, a profession stunt actor, is doing the motion capture AND the voice acting for the new character Nero. He has under his belt numerous live action titles including being one of the original Power Rangers and many VA roles including Ichigo from Bleach and Vash from Trigun.
Gameinformer touches on the great possibility of DMC4 using the PS3's online capabilities. Capcom states that they are experimenting with what they can do with the PS3 network play. Capcom also stated that putting in A LARGE number of combatants/players in one area will be very difficult, giving the graphical construct of the game and how much it would push the hardware. Capcom however DID NOT rule out the possibility of online co-op play and Gameinformer sort of ran with it. Then the example of Vergil/Dante Arkham fight in DMC3 was used to better support the existence of such co-op play.
*Gameinformer confirms that there is more than a year until the release of DMC4 so there are a lot of details that need to be revealed. Capcom has stated that all the necessary precautions are taken to avoid another debacle like DMC2. Capcom also stated that Sony is pushing them to release DMC4 closer to the release date as well as the fans, just because of the name "Devil May Cry". Kobayashi had this to say about that, "While I understand that users would would like it as quickly as possible and Sony would like it as quickly as possible, the name of the game is Devil May Cry 4. Since it bears the name of DMC, we can't just make something and put it out, it has to live up to the Devil May Cry name."
A NEW HUNT BEGINS - 2007!!!
2) Graphics and Sound Details
*DMC4 features some very nifty next-gen effects, including self-shading, high definition resolutions, gorgeous water effects and of course particle effects. Capcom also touches upon the possibility of maximizing the PS3's hardware by taking advantage of the Tilt feature with the new controller. However the team wants to make sure the Tilt fits well with the game play before promising anything (smart move). DMC4 IS going to be 60FPS.
More on DMC4's graphics later on.
The music featured on the official Devil May Cry 4 site is the chorale sung in the memory of Sparda, as confirmed by the composer of DMC4. More on the music of DMC4 will be revealed at TGS. DMC4 will output at Dolby Digital just like most other PS3 games.
3) Art/Concept and Environment Designs
Realtime Environments:
Environment Arts:
4) Characters and Story
Story Stuff: Nero (main DMC4 character) lives in a remote island city called Fortuna (the setting of most of DMC4). He belongs to an ancient group of religious crusaders known as the Order of the Sword who worship Sparda and fight demons in his name. Prior to the beginning of the game, Nero's life involves doing special jobs for the Order, cleaning up "messy" situations. All of that changes one day when a white-haired man in a long red coat starts slaying the clergyman at the Order. Kobayashi ends that with, "Just because Nero's in the game doesn't mean that Dante disappears from the game completely."
The Famitsu article talked a bit about Neros personality. It apparently stated that Nero wasnt a good person, and was quite sullen and serious, lacking a sense of humour or fun-loving spirit. Other translations have stated that Nero is a sarcastic, cynical and world-weary misanthropist.
Nero Concept Art
*Kobayashi's reason for not putting Dante in the starring role: "The reason we switched to Nero is, when you consider how we want to open new avenues for the core user and that we're switching harware to the PS3, the easiest way to have these new game play mechanics ... was to introduce a new character," he clarifies.. "If we gave Dante [Nero's abilities], it wouldn't be Dante anymore."
*Kobayashi insists that unlike Dante and Vergil's connection, there is no story-based reason why Nero bears resemblance to the sons of Sparda. Nero's look is about finding a design that is different YET familiar. He ends with the quote: "Devil May Cry is about guns and swords, and we want people to be able to see and understand that."
Dante in realtime cutscene
*There is an event/cutscene before the starting of the game where Nero's arm is possessed by an evil force - an occurence he works hard to conceal, going as far as to wear his arm in a sling to keep it from sight. Of course, the time comes when it can no longer be hidden and Nero discovers, along with the player, the immense combat possibilities of this demonic appendage.
Dante Concept Art
*Random Fact*: DMC4 Dante will be more mature/grim and less party crazy, but still retain his wise-cracking, unflappable personality. In the first cutscene showed for DMC4, he is seen dropping from the castle window and shooting a priest in cold blood, and then proceeding to kill all remaining soldiers in the vicinity. He is even seen with blood on his face.
Nero and Dante clash in the following cutscene:
The Other Son of Sparda
Capcom and Gameinformer sort of touch upon the unavailability of Vergil in DMC4. Gameinformer states that Vergil is an integral part of the DMC's franchise, as proven by DMC3SE, and they believe that Vergil still has a part to play in DMC4. Capcom has this to say, "We are not ready to say what role Vergil himself plays in the story, but the existence of Vergil as a character is something very important to the story of the DMC games. That's something that I don't think is going to end!"
*There was a new girl shown in the DMC4 TGS 06 trailer by the name of Kyrie. She is apparently Nero's love interest and is apparently some sort of royalty.
5) Bosses and Enemies
VARIEL - The Fire Demon
Variel is the first boss you face in DMC4 as Nero, and he has a lot to live up to. The DMC series features some of the most spectacular bosses in action gaming and Variel looks to match that record.
The boss is about the size of a small building. Apparently Gameinformer was baffled as to how to beat the boss, and Capcom would not tell them the trick to beating it. Gameinformer also comments that it might be hazardous to get near the boss as it sets nearby buildings ablaze. Variel will feature some very nice fire effects that will be unlike anything you have seen in a DMC game before.
Verbally, Variel can be described as a 3 way hybrid between True Ogre from Tekken 3, Beowulf from DMC3 and Balrog from the LOTR franchise. His lower body is that of a Centaur. - Random stuff
New Marionette-type Basic Fodder Enemies
The new basic enemies in DMC4 are a nod to the original DMC enemies where were a group of very large wooden Marionettes. Going on that design, DMC4 keeps the tradition alives and features a variety of Marionette-type enemes from the start. The new enemies feature twisted body parts that are stitched together. The enemies have scythe protroding out of their limbs as their standard weapons. So far 3 types have been identified including one humongous version that combines all form and is able to breathe fire.
BLADES???
This particular concept art features DMC4 being ambushed by a group of Blades right in front of Fortuna (city). A fairly bold implication is made by this concept art...
SHADOWS???
Regarding the enemies of DMC4, Kobayashi stated that while they are easy to start off, they will get generally more aggressive/stronger when you get more into the game. The demo features enemies that could be dispatched by standard DMC shoot/slash tactics + combos. Kobayashi then makes a remarkable statement about a VERY FAMILIAR enemy, "We are definitely experimenting with enemies like the Shadow Cats." Gameinformer then goes about giving the history/mechanics of the Shadow enemies from DMC1.
6) Game Play Details
*Information regarding the Red Queen*: Kobayashi states that the Red Queen (Nero's default sword) is a "tricked out" version of a "standard-issue" sword given to the Order of Knights (meaning others will have swords of similar designs as well). Kobayashi refuses to comment on the game play aspects of the Red Queen and the whole motorcycle lever thing but bear in mind that it DOES have game play application (it's not just for decoration).
The Red Queen, Neros sword, has a sort of will of its own, and Nero has tuned it himself, turning it into a very powerful weapon. The Red Queen has been confirmed to feature a special system called Acceleration. Equipped with this magical sword, Nero can surpass human limits and have enough strength to deal with even the strongest demons. However, this strength depends on the speed of the strikes: the hilt of the sword works just like a motorcycle's handle, and as it is pushed harder, the force of the delivered strikes will also be greater In the HUD featured in the screens, the circular meter thing beside the stamina gauge is based on a motorcycle's speedometer, no doubt linked to the new Acceleration system.
*A New Batch of Style Accolades* Goes from Do It! to Come On! to Big Up! and so on. I personally hate this system but oh well... does not change game play one bit.
*With the addition of the arm mechanic, the team is putting a lot more emphasis on aerial combat. Also the enemies will be brand new, just like it was with previous games and DMC3.*
The "Devil's Right Arm"
*Note about Devil Arm*: Initially the arm manuevers will only set enemies up (throw them up in the air for juggles, via single button input) but later in the game they will do damage as well (in addition to gaining other abilities mentioned later on in the article).
*The arm is not just another weapon added to the DMC arsenal, it completely changes the way DMC is played. It's about positioning as well as damaging enemies, crowd controlling and crowd destroying. The way that the new Arm game play is managed is sort of the anti-thesis of Vergil's Dark Slayer. After leveling it up, you are able to manuever it a variety of ways, including pulling enemies towards you, throwing them away, bringing down enemies from the sky and smacking them, or tossing them up in the air for juggles. Instead of you going towards/away from the enemy or you manipulating yourself, you are manipulating the enemy and moving them towards/away from you.
An example of how the arm works in practical application a Stinger example was used for the fans (this more or less confirms that Nero has a Stinger type move for Red Queen). The quickness of the Devil Arm allows the player to completely negate the Stinger knockback, meaning as soon as you pull off Stinger, you can pull out the Devil Arm to bring the enemy back to you! Stinger is now changed from a combo finisher to a combo starter! Gameinformer flourishes over the idea of chaining multiple Stingers together for some really fancy combos with the Devil Arm.
*Note about Nero's Gun*: The Revolver is a vertically double-barreled revolver. However, reload times will NOT be an issue in game play.
Capcom states that Devil May Cry has mostly been about the binary relationship between guns and swords, but DMC4 takes it one step forward by forming a triangular relationship among the Devil arms + Abilities, the guns and the swords. *About the whole DMC3 Style system and the new Devil Arm, Capcom has this to say, "The DMC3 battle system is very good but it feels split up, I wish there was a more cohesive system. [The Devil Arm] is not about replacing the Style system. What we want to do is increase the number of ways you can go about battling. You have your sword, your gun and now you have the arm." A whole category of moves for this new weapon(?) will essentially maintain the same level of depth (as in DMC3) while opening up new avenues of combat.
Devil Trigger?
*Capcom comments about the Devil Trigger or lack there of for Nero, "Since Nero isn't of Sparda progeny, he probably won't be able to undergo a full tranformation, but that doesn't mean the mechanic will vanish completely from DMC4." Unfortunately this is the aspect of DMC4 that is still under work, and Kobayashi only teases with, "The key word on Devil Trigger is 'Devil' - but that's something - as far as its relationship to Nero - we're not ready to explore just yet..."
*Random Fact*: Gameinformer states that there is enough space under the HUD for a Devil Trigger guage or another similar guage.
*Gameinformer comments on the staple hard difficulty of the series and how it might be tweaked according to Capcom. Kobayashi pulls out a difficulty scale which goes something like this: DMC3 (hardest) > DMC3SE > DMC1 > DMC2 (easiest). Kobayashi states that when you first start out, the game is easier than DMC3(SE) but when you progress in the game, it gets as hard as DMC3 (original). The difficulty is linearly increasing not in weird steps like in previous games. Everyone should be able to get into DMC4 but not everyone might be able to beat the game that easily... Also Capcom refuses to confirm or deny a playable Dante in DMC4 but Gameinformer seems to think otherwise by giving support of images such as these...
7) Realtime Demo Screencaptures
8) Old DMC4 Concepts
DMC4 has properly shown its face twice before now, once at E3 2005, and then again at TGS 2005, and on both occasions a short teaser trailer was provided. (It, and RE5, were noticeably absent at E3 2006, much to the serious shock and disappointment of fans, who had expected at least some kind of news or mention) Concept art of characters and costumes were also released on a few occasions, along with sporadic interviews and comments from the director and producer. Solid information was pretty scarce though, and the development team let it be known most of what was seen in the teaser trailers was NOT indicative of what we would see in the actual game.
E3 TRAILER
The teaser trailer was mostly composed of footage from past games along with a cryptic comment for each, DMC4 was given the words: Evil is punished
This trailer is set in a snowy environment, and we can see a dark castle in the background
Dante is breifly seen using Ebony and Rebellion
Famitsu article, a few days before TGS 2005:
DMC4 was said to be 5% complete
DMC4 will continue the mission system seen in the previous DMC games
Focus is being given to flowing hair and clothes, as well as facial expression.
The article featured both screens from the then unreleased TGS 05 trailer, and various pieces of concept art. One featured a lot characters from the previous games, namely Dante, Lady (now with longer hair, an altered missile launcher and bigger assets), Trish (in sillouette), Nelo Angelo, and someone that looked like Vergil (separately that is) although his hair was styled like Dantes. Most of the concept art then appeared to be of Dante, although also featured, was a much younger looking character, also with white hair. (he was being designed with quite old timey Victorian-esque clothes) Translations revealed that it was in fact labelled new male character There was also concept art of a blue coated character, which fans assumed was of Vergil.
Devil May Cry 4 will feature more weapons, maneuvers, enemies, locations, music, and cut scenes than all the previous releases combined. It is also being billed as being the longest release yet.
Players "won't be able to go back." Possibly hinting that you can't backtrack to previous missions and/or locations until completing the game once.
Kobayashi confirmed that - despite initial plans - the fourth iteration of the game won't be any easier. He explained that while he began development intending to lessen the challenge, he realised the decision would be unpopular with series fans. Instead, the development team is concentrating on making the title "easier to control" and simpler to "get into" i.e. rather than easier, DMC4 will be more accessible.
The graphics seen in the TGS 2005 teaser are apparently the bare minimum that we will see in the actual game
It was revealed that Dante was to sport a much more gruff appearance in DMC4, and would even have a slight beard. As seen in some concept art provided in the article.
As well as being ever so slightly bearded, the concept art also featured Dante in a thick and fluffy-collared winter style jacket, implying he would be specially dressed for the cold environment.
TGS 2005 teaser
The teaser is set in a more urban environment, a city street
The message PS3 exclusive can be seen early in the trailer.
Dante is seen to be using Rebellion, E+I and a shotgun, and performing a variety of attacks upon the loose camera, most notably hightime, classic DMC juggling, (along with shotgun fire flipping the enemy mid air) a variant of aerial rave, and even a helm breaker.
There are 3 posters of choice DMC3 characters pasted around the area. There is one of Nevan (concept art image), Beowulf (CG art), and then one of Lady (concept art image) with the english text learn to protect yourself on it.
A sign in the background says "Galerie Duve IR" and theres a "cafe" sign with "classic" on a board under it. Using these, it has been speculated that the street is based in either Germany or France, and given the background and style of the architecture, it is most likely in France. (the cathedral like building behind may or may not be Notre Dame) Following this, use of a real location as a base may have been used to save design time.
Addressing the TGS 05 trailer, Kobayashi confirmed it was designed to demonstrate the PS3's power and isn't indicative of the direction he plans to take the sequel. For example, the Dante seen in the trailer is merely a continuation of the younger character from DMC3 whereas Dante is likely to adopt a much darker guise for the next-gen game.
The Dante that we control in Devil May Cry 4 will be following from the Dante of the original Devil May Cry.
Devil May Cry's character designer Tatsuya Yoshikawa is currently experimenting with a darker, older, moodier look for the series' anti-hero.
Kobayashi last worked on the series' first incarnation and he's apparently keen to make fans feel like they're discovering the franchise all over again. He wants to give players the feeling that Dante is making his world debut once again.
In addition to Dante, we can, continuing with series tradition, expect a female lead. In the interview, Kobayashi asks readers if they'd prefer a previous heroine to return, or a completely new heroine. Jokingly, he adds that a heroine is important in order to show off how cool Dante really is. Other characters from past games may or may not make an appearance -- Kobayashi says that nothing has been decided.
Kobayashi was keen to point out that he feels the balance between cinematics and gameplay was perfect in DMC3 and he hopes to emulate that successful structure for Devil May Cry 4, while adding new elements.
Kobayashi promises to start thinking about a release date for Devil May Cry 4 once the PS3 has seen release.
9) External Links
(more to come)
Devil May Cry 4 Official Site
Old Famitsu Interview for DMC4
Gamespot's translation to latest Famitsu article
E3 05 Teaser
TGS 05 Teaser
10) Credits
Dexter's Blog - All the old DMC4 concept information was obtained from here.
Gameinformer - A lot of the new information posted is from GI.
C-Warrior - Thread renewal based on C-Warrior's suggestion.
Famitsu - Another source of great information.
GAF - For their wonderful DMC4 scans, GIFs, comments, and Photoshop. Best gaming board EVAR!
Gamespot - Source of Famitsu translation
