Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition PS5 PlayStation 5 1

Devil May Cry 5 is a frontrunner in the race for PlayStation 4’s flashiest game, so it’s no surprise that Capcom’s turning up the style for its PlayStation 5 upgrade. Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition – unlike so many next-gen re-releases – is a premium remaster, so there’s no free PS4 to PS5 path here. Fortunately, the Japanese publisher has incorporated some pretty huge new features and modes, including the addition of fan favourite Vergil as a playable character.

We’ll bring you a full review later this month, but for now we wanted to deliver some very brief first impressions, as we continue to knuckle down with our next-gen coverage. The title includes a multitude of graphics configurations – in fact, you’ll spend a good five minutes upon initially booting the title purely adjusting settings, although you can change any of these later if you like. Among the new options is raytracing, improving the overall look of the title.

Capcom says that its 4K raytracing mode reduces the release’s framerate to 30 frames-per-second, but based on our three to four hours with the campaign thus far, it still feels very responsive even with the advanced graphics technology enabled. There is an option to lower the resolution to 1080p for a better framerate while still keeping raytracing enabled, or you can just shut it off completely for 4K at 60 frames-per-second. Those with a compatible display can even enable a 120Hz option.

We’ve actually been enjoying the game in 4K with raytracing on; as already alluded, the gameplay feels smooth enough for our casual combat skills. Obviously, your mileage may vary. One thing’s for definite: raytracing improves the overall look of every scene. While this is far from the best implementation of the technology we’ve experienced thus far, the title’s drizzly interpretation of London pops with its many reflective lights visible in puddles on the floor.

Other additions to this re-release include a Turbo mode, which presumably is where the 120 frames-per-second mode will come into its own. We’ve been focusing on the new PS5 specific features, however, and there’s undoubtedly superior sound quality made possible by the next-gen console’s Tempest audio processing engine. Pay attention, and you can detect the position of demons through audio alone, which actually aids gameplay.

Devil May Cry 5 Special Edition PS5 PlayStation 5 6

One feature we’re less sure about is how the title leverages the DualSense controller. The haptic feedback is fine – although obviously not as involved as Astro’s Playroom – but it’s the adaptive triggers that have us scratching our chin. Playing as Nero, one of his mechanics involves charging his sword like you’re revving a motorbike. On the PS5’s pad, this really does feel like you’re twisting a motorbike handle, which in concept is awesome – it’s just difficult to do mid-combat.

It’s a minor niggle overall, though, and we’re generally satisfied with what we’ve played. We reckon the presentation with raytracing enabled is pretty stunning overall, but Capcom’s provided more than enough options for you to tinker with the experience if you want a better framerate. As this is a paid remaster, the title’s true test rests with its new content, and we’ll have a review soon. Based on our first impressions, though, this looks like another sturdy addition to the PS5’s launch lineup.

Is your Devil's Trigger itching to hack through Devil May Cry 5 once again? Set your demon attack dog on us in the comments section below.