20 PS2 Games That Still Hold Up

Even though Devil May Cry felt like the next big thing, the underwhelming Devil May Cry 2 nearly destroyed Capcom's demon-slaying property before it got going. As a result, the developers needed to prove the dark hack-and-slash still had legs.

And boy, did they deliver. Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening didn't just save the brand single-handedly, but solidified its reputation as a classic. It gives players incredible freedom in battle, thanks to the introduction of combat styles, each offering unique abilities. Chaining combos, juggling enemies, and switching between weapons on the fly is intuitive and addictive, pushing players to be creative and precise. Its difficulty curve is tough but fair, encouraging mastery of mechanics while delivering exhilarating gameplay.

Beyond that, Dante's Awakening also shines in story and presentation. Serving as a prequel, it delves into Dante’s origins and his rivalry with his twin, Vergil, giving fans one of the most iconic sibling rivalries in gaming. 

The cutscenes are stylishly zany, blending humour and spectacle in a way that matches the gameplay’s over-the-top energy. Combined with a booming soundtrack, larger-than-life battles, and Dante’s endless wisecracks, there's no doubt Devil May Cry 3 raised the bar significantly.