Devil May Cry: 12 Best Bosses Ranked

by

With the fresh Netflix take on Devil May Cry, it’s certain that the series will attract a host of novice enthusiasts who might be intrigued by the games. If you happen to be among these newcomers, welcome aboard! We’re thrilled to have you join us. Let me take this opportunity to officially introduce you to the franchise.

The Devil May Cry series is renowned for its exceptional boss battles within video games, having been one of the first to establish the hack-and-slash genre. Regardless of their difficulty level, these encounters are always exhilarating to engage in.

Just as any devoted fan of the Devil May Cry series is aware, these battles are less about vanquishing the boss and more about demonstrating complete mastery over them.

A top-notch Devil May Cry boss battle should be both thrilling and enjoyable, devoid of frustrating mechanics or unnecessary distractions. Instead, it should be a strict examination of one’s combat prowess.

What’s truly valuable is grasping and mastering how they launch their attacks, as this opens up exciting methods to amass Style points.

Moreover, these epic boss battles in “Devil May Cry” are further enhanced by an amazing soundtrack and memorable scenes. It’s the flamboyant boss fights that truly set this series apart as one of Capcom’s most outstanding franchises.

Spoiler Warning: Naturally, there will be spoilers for DMC1, DMC3, DMC4, and DMC5.

12. Arkham

Devil May Cry 3

As I tapped into the hidden demonic might of the Temen-ni-gru, and harnessed an unparalleled strength, I found myself transforming into none other than the legendary Dark Knight Sparda – the father of Dante and Vergil.

Following a tough opening battle with the boss, Dante finds it challenging to keep up against Arkham, who has transformed into a shapeless, oozing mass of violet demonic gloop. However, with Vergil’s involvement, these two siblings have decided, for the moment, to put aside their disagreements and join forces to combat a shared adversary.

The boss battle in Arkham feels excessively repetitive and challenging, making it difficult to engage with. Additionally, the design of Arkham as a demon lacks distinctiveness.

Arkham was included on the list solely because the second stage features a significant narrative impact from collaborating with Vergil and an emblematic scene where the two siblings swap weapons momentarily before simultaneously firing the guns known as Ebony and Ivory while exclaiming their famous catchphrase, “Jackpot.

Did you know? When Vergil enters the battle, having an additional controller on hand allows the second player to take control of Vergil.

11. Echidna

Devil May Cry 4

In the Devil May Cry Netflix show, Echidna is portrayed as a demon serving under the White Rabbit. Initially, she was introduced in the game, Devil May Cry 4, where Nero and Dante engaged her in battle as a boss character.

In a pursuit sequence, Nero initially encounters a demonic creature resembling a serpentine plant-master known as Echidna. During the battle, this formidable foe summons allies and attempts to devour Nero, while also hurling enormous eggs at him.

In an initial chase scene, Nero comes across a demonic creature called Echidna who resembles a serpentine plant-controller. During the confrontation, she brings reinforcements and tries to consume Nero, all while launching giant eggs at him.)

By dealing sufficient damage to Echidna, Nero can utilize his Devil Bringer to pound her vulnerable area, causing her to withdraw in defeat.

Later in the narrative, we meet her again, and on this occasion, Dante displays his dominance by nudging her eggs aside as if they were soccer balls, while simultaneously taunting her verbally.

After Dante defeats it, he acquires the Gilgamesh Devil Arm, a robust weapon that equips him with formidable kickboxing techniques.

10. Berial

Devil May Cry 4

In the game DMC4, Berial makes multiple appearances as a secondary antagonist. This formidable demon character, reminiscent of a centaur with a bull’s head, is engulfed in infernal flames and wields a mighty sword filled with magma.

In DMC4, Berial, who appears as a recurring minor villain, is a powerful demon that looks like a centaur-bull hybrid enveloped in hellish blaze, armed with a magma-filled sword.

As a dedicated fan, I find myself immersed in the tale where, during Mission 2, a character named Berial makes an appearance with the intention of assaulting Nero. While he presents a minor obstacle on Nero’s journey, after being vanquished, he temporarily withdraws and reappears later in Mission 14. It is here that I cross paths with Dante, ultimately leading to the destruction of Berial.

In this confrontation, the imposing, fiery figure of Berial seems less menacing due to the frequent blows Dante delivers during their battle.

In return for his efforts, Dante discovers and delights in his latest acquisition, known as the Devil Arm Lucifer. This device has the extraordinary ability to conjure an endless supply of slicing blades which he employs to blast open a portal from Hell, earning him the signature taunt from DMC5 where he hurls a rose at his adversary.

…the scene where Dante initially wields Lucifer carries a subtly provocative undertone throughout.

9. Nevan

Devil May Cry 3

Although Nevan mainly showed up in DMC3 and the mobile game Devil May Cry: Peak of Combat that stirred some controversy, Nevan is a renowned boss character who perfectly complemented the narrative tone established by the storyline of DMC3 with his interaction with Dante.

Utilizing her alluring tone and charms, Nevan conjures shadows and bats for combat assistance. Moreover, she possesses the ability to siphon life force through a lethal kiss.

Known as the “Lightning Witch,” Nevan is a leannan sidhe, a supernatural being from Irish legends who charms humans, and she is among the beings imprisoned within the Temen-ni-gru. Dante comes across her during mission 9, and in response to her overtly flirtatious actions, he uses guns and swords.

When he wins against her, Nevan submits and voluntarily morphs into a fearsome Devil Arm – a lethal blend of an electrifying guitar and a razor-edged scythe.

Following the custom of obtaining a fresh Devil Arm, Dante experiments with his latest tool, showcasing his rhythm and gaining the power to conjure lightning bolts and hordes of bats.

8. Nelo Angelo

Devil May Cry

Throughout most of Devil May Cry’s narrative, a secretive demonic knight known as Nelo Angelo consistently pursues Dante, often goading him into multiple battles spread across the game.

In the initial game, the boss fight wasn’t particularly impressive as the developers were still refining the gameplay and combat mechanics. However, the encounters with Nelo Angelo stood out, largely because he felt distinct from the other bosses, including Mundus himself.

He possessed a distinctively one-of-a-kind character that was hard to ignore, and it seemed as though he shared an even footing with Dante, which set him apart from the other demons he had encountered.

Indeed, it’s been established that Nelo Angelo is none other than Vergil, a character who was forcibly captured, altered, and mind-controlled by Mundus after jumping willingly into hell in the final stages of DMC3.

In subsequent titles, the title of Angelo continued to be prominent, notably in DMC4 and DMC5. Here, Nelo Angelo served as a model for creating new knight-like demons, such as Cavaliere Angelo, Scudo/Proto Angelo, and the artificial Bianco Angelos.

The title of Angelo persisted in subsequent titles, most notably in DMC4 and DMC5. In these games, Nelo Angelo was used as a blueprint for creating future versions of knight-like demons, including Cavaliere Angelo, Scudo/Proto Angelo, and the artificial Bianco Angelos.

You may observe that V harbors a deep-seated grudge towards Scudo and Proto Angelos, stemming from the distress he endured under Mundus while posing as Vergil.

7. Agni And Rudra

Devil May Cry 3

In the Netflix show, Agni and Rudra are depicted as evil sidekicks for the White Rabbit, but personally, I didn’t find their representation as appealing as how they were introduced in Devil May Cry 3.

In the game DMC3, rather than being brutish demons with bothersome Cockney accents, Agni and Rudra are portrayed as two living swords that are held by statue figures without heads, serving as guards to the demonic tower of Temen-ni-gru’s entrance.

Initially, these characters are excessively courteous and eager to chat with Dante, yet they engage in a debate over being gracious hosts. However, when Dante asks for entry, they swiftly transition from cordial behavior to acting as protective guards, launching an attack on him instead.

Engaging with both Agni and Rudra simultaneously in a fierce battle of leadership requires you to skillfully alternate your strategy. They have the ability not only to ward off attacks, but also to shield one another when one is temporarily incapacitated.

When one of the brothers goes down, the remaining brother picks up his sibling’s sword and wields it in both hands, launching a potent barrage of fire and wind assaults.

Or simply:

When one brother is defeated, the other takes his sword and fights with dual weapons, combining powerful attacks of fire and wind.

After Dante defeats them, the two characters humbly ask Dante to let them become his Devil Arms, which he agrees to on the provision that they remain silent. Interestingly, in Volume 1 of the drama CD, Dante ends up selling them to Enzo because their constant bickering became tiresome for him.

I must admit, it’s quite disappointing that in the Netflix adaptation, we don’t get to see Dante interact with Agni and Rudra. Their dynamic could have added a hilarious twist to the series, which is something I was really looking forward to.

6. Griffon, Shadow, Nightmare

Devil May Cry & Devil May Cry 5

In the narrative of DMC5, Griffon, Shadow, and Nightmare serve as V’s companions, while they appeared as separate boss battles during Dante’s investigation on Mallet Island in DMC1.

Currently, we have a diverse group of three mysterious entities. They serve as the tangible embodiments of Vergil’s emotional turmoil and recollections during his time being manipulated by Mundus as Nelo Angelo.

In Mission 17 of DMC5, when V meets up with Urizen, the two pieces of Vergil come together and change back into the impending tempest.

Now that their master is absent, Griffon, Shadow, and Nightmare find themselves free from V’s command. Choosing to stay at the Qliphoth, they harbor a desire for revenge against Dante, stemming from past events on Mallet Island as depicted in DMC1.

In a gesture that feels like sorrowful mercy-killing, Dante puts an end to the lives of his three former companions, who were once his familiars. Yet, he acknowledges their resilience and devotion beforehand, for they remained loyal even though they knew they could never surpass Dante.

Most of the bosses in DMC5 are great, and fighting V’s familiars is a gauntlet.

In this battle, the boss encounter is separated into four stages. Initially, you’ll engage with Griffon, followed by a confrontation against Shadow. Later, both Griffon and Shadow will appear simultaneously for a fight. Lastly, you’ll face off against all three characters in a climactic final round.

Managing each of these creatures individually might seem straightforward, but encountering all three simultaneously could prove challenging, particularly if you’re not accustomed to dividing your focus among multiple adversaries.

5. Urizen

Devil May Cry 5

In the main storyline of DMC5, Urizen stands out as the chief antagonist, a formidable demon who resides on his ominous crimson throne and is shielded by an indestructible red crystal. As one might expect, he represents the malevolent side of Vergil.

When I initially encounter Urizen, I assume the role of the one-armed character, Nero, as we dash through the Qliphoth. Naturally, taking on the final boss from the start is an uphill battle that’s destined for defeat, since it seems like the odds were stacked against me.

You’ll eventually challenge Urizen to a rematch three more times–one as Nero and two as Dante.

As I engage in this epic battle, Urizen remains a formidable foe from his throne. He unleashes bursts of energy, explosive blood geysers, and hurls orbs of time-slowing mayhem my way. But when I manage to chip away at his health, he abandons his seat and transforms into an even greater menace, wielding his deadly tentacles like a master.

In the last battle, it’s Dante who confronts Urizen, and this is where the boss fight takes an awe-inspiring turn. Instead of unleashing magical attacks from the depths of hell, he decides to engage in a physical brawl, landing powerful kicks and punches with ferocious intensity.

4. King Cerberus

Devil May Cry 5

In the game DMC5, King Cerberus serves as a formidable boss character that players encounter during Mission 16. As Dante advances through the Qliphoth in pursuit of Urizen, his progress is halted by a shackled King Cerberus, who bears a striking resemblance to an ordinary, smelly dog, much like Dante himself.

Previously, Dante has engaged in combat with a three-headed canine resembling a giant puppy, and that was during his adventure in the game _DMC3_ while approaching the demonic tower Temen-ni-gru. Here, he encountered Cerberus, a formidable guard dog known for its potent ice attacks.

As a gamer, I’ve got to say, taking on King Cerberus in DMC3 is like stepping up to a whole new level. This boss fight isn’t just amped, it’s off the charts! With the ability to summon devastating lightning and fire attacks, King Cerberus can transform the battlefield into a warzone with a nuke-like attack. Each of his heads controls a different element, adding an extra layer of strategy to the fight. It’s not just a battle, it’s a high-stakes dance with a powerful creature.

The intense battle with the boss is set to an energetic, heavily bass-enhanced soundtrack, which is unquestionably one of the game’s standout musical moments.

In typical fashion, Dante’s lighthearted demeanor comically clashes with King Cerberus’s escalating fury, as he becomes increasingly enraged each time Dante strikes him.

After his defeat, King Cerberus transforms into a Devil Arm, resembling a three-handed icy nunchaku similar to those seen in DMC3. However, unlike the standard version, it possesses an extra ability to change into a flaming bo staff and a shocking three-section staff.

3. Cavaliere Angelo

Devil May Cry 5

We currently rank among the top three, and I’m confident that fellow fans of Devil May Cry will agree: Cavaliere Angelo is undoubtedly one of the finest demonic boss battles not only in DMC5 but across the whole series as well.

In the Netflix series, Cavaliere Angelo seems out of place in terms of continuity since he is actually an artificial demon modeled after Nelo Angelo, with Trish serving as his host when she and other Devil Hunters lost to Urizen. However, let’s move on from delving into the show’s details.

We’ll bypass the Elder Geryon Knight entirely – it wasn’t a particularly memorable boss battle. However, Cavaliere Angelo was an outstanding adversary with clearly signaled moves, an excellent soundtrack, and earning the Cavaliere Devil Arm upon victory makes it all worthwhile.

Fighting Cavaliere Angelo as Dante, Nero, V, or Vergil (in Special Edition) is incredibly gratifying because his moves are well-timed and easy to anticipate, making him an excellent boss for honing your combos, mastering parries, and engaging in stylish sword clashes.

Among all the bosses in the game, Cavaliere Angelo stands out as one of my top favorites to battle, be it during my Dante Must Die campaigns or Bloody Palace challenges. In fact, I’d say he is one of the finest bosses that the series has produced.

2. Dante

Devil May Cry 4 & Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition

In most of the Devil May Cry series, you primarily control Dante as the player. Consequently, opportunities for you to engage in combat with Dante are limited. However, there are exceptions such as the Doppelgänger boss battle in DMC3 and the fights against Dante that occur in both DMC4 and the Special Edition of DMC5.

In Devil May Cry 4, Dante initially appears as a villain who begins to cause destruction without discrimination towards the Order of the Sword. To prevent spoilers, Nero attempts to battle against Dante, and just like many of Dante’s adversaries, the goal isn’t to defeat him but to make it through his attacks unscathed.

Battling Dante in DMC4 offered a fresh viewpoint, making us realize how fearsome he appears to his adversaries – something we tend to overlook as we usually play the role of him.

In the Special Edition of DMC5, instead of facing off against Vergil in the last two missions, you’ll encounter Dante, who is equally formidable.

Initially, Dante employs a fundamental set of moves, occasionally triggering his devilish powers, while also utilizing both Swordmaster and Gunslinger styles. Later on, however, the challenge intensifies when he incorporates multiple weapons together with his mighty Sin Devil Trigger.

Dante, known for his terrifying deeds, certainly has a reason for it. After all, one can imagine that after constantly meting out stylish punishments, standing on the other side might stir up a bit of compassion within him towards the countless demons he slays. However, it’s also possible that this isn’t the case.

1. Vergil

Devil May Cry 3, DmC: Devil May Cry & Devil May Cry 5

Are you taken aback by this fact? Vergil’s entrance into the series paved the way for the iconic rival character in action games. Not only are his battles with bosses unforgettable and thrilling, but he poses a constant threat whenever he appears on screen, making it less predictable when Dante would typically have an advantage.

Vergil embodies the quintessential quality of a climactic battle. His chilling disposition, an arsenal of potent and lethal moves, and a thrilling soundtrack for each boss encounter create an atmosphere of unparalleled intimidation that no other final boss can even come close to replicating.

You’ll encounter Vergil in DMC3, DmC: Devil May Cry (including the remake), and DMC5. In nearly every battle with him, he is armed with his iconic katana, Yamato, which moves so swiftly through the air that it can seemingly cut through space within a warp bubble.

Besides having to dodge his relentless Yamato attacks, you must find a way to circumvent his Judgement Cut End, boasting an exceptionally broad reach. Can you endure it, Dante? Your optimism, I’m afraid, is misplaced.

Since Missions 19 and 20 solely involve battling the Vergil boss, you can skip the entire level and go straight to the fight, making it more convenient for practicing combos and parries against him.

Among all the bosses across the whole series, I find Vergil to be the most thrilling to engage in combat. His move set is diverse and potent, making our battles both challenging and enjoyable. Furthermore, he is skillfully designed as a playable character in every game he appears in.

Furthermore, the tunes that resonate during the boss battle (The Duel, Silver Bullet) are real earworms.

Beyond just saying so, the songs that soundtrack the boss fight (The Duel, Silver Bullet) are truly catchy hits.

Read More

2025-04-15 18:21