The Devil May Cry anime of 2007 and the new 2025 adaptation both shine in their own ways: the 2007 series captured Dante's cool charisma in a stylish monster-of-the-week format, while the 2025 Netflix reboot elevates the franchise with cinematic flair, bold storytelling, and high-octane action that rivals modern anime hits.
Devil May Cry Anime (2007)
Stylish atmosphere: The 2007 anime leaned heavily into Dante's iconic coolness—his trench coat, his witty one-liners, and his effortless demon-slaying.
Monster-of-the-week format: Each episode presented a new case, giving fans bite-sized adventures that showcased Dante's skills and personality.
Faithful tone: It captured the gothic mood of the games, with moody visuals, haunting music, and a noir-like vibe.
Positive legacy: While simple in structure, it gave fans their first taste of Dante in anime form, cementing his place as one of gaming's most stylish protagonists.
Devil May Cry Anime (2025)
Cinematic storytelling: The 2025 Netflix series, produced by Adi Shankar and Studio Mir, delivers a high-octane, punk-edged adaptation that feels like a modern action spectacle.
Critical acclaim: Reviews praise it as one of the best new animated shows of 2025, with comparisons to Castlevania for its boldness and artistry.
Dynamic pacing: Episodes unfold with kinetic energy, translating the game's hack-and-slash combat into fluid, visually stunning sequences.
Expanded character depth: Dante is portrayed with more nuance, balancing his sardonic humor with emotional weight, while the world feels richer and more interconnected.
Positive innovation: It embraces modern animation techniques, daring storytelling, and a gleefully violent edge that resonates with fans of both anime and the games.
Both adaptations celebrate Dante in their own unique ways: the 2007 anime gave fans a stylish, episodic glimpse into his demon-hunting life, while the 2025 reboot reimagines the franchise with cinematic ambition and modern artistry. Together, they show how Devil May Cry can thrive across eras, proving Dante's enduring appeal as both a gaming and anime icon.