Overview
- Dante’s iconic “Jackpot”catchphrase makes a notable appearance in the Netflix adaptation.
- The series highlights Dante’s passion for arcade gaming, featuring a nod to Street Fighter 2 within his lair.
- Numerous Easter Eggs, including a Mega Man statue, connect the show to the larger Capcom universe.
The origin of Devil May Cry traces back to Capcom’s ambition to create a new Resident Evil title. However, it evolved into a standalone series, making its debut on the PlayStation 2 in 2001. Over the years, despite an inconsistent release pattern, it has garnered a loyal fanbase and spawned a revolutionary action genre. Therefore, it was only fitting that Netflix took on this franchise, especially after their successful adaptation of Castlevania, which received widespread acclaim over multiple seasons.
As our beloved Devil May Cry franchises celebrate over two decades, Netflix’s first season has ample lore to draw upon. Below, we explore some of the more prominent Easter Eggs found throughout the series.
This discussion contains spoilers related to Devil May Cry’s games and its anime adaptation.
1. “Jackpot!”
Dante’s Signature Move
Fans will immediately recognize one of the first Easter Eggs during Dante’s introduction in the opening episode. While dispatching skeletal foes, he proudly declares “Jackpot,”a phrase he is known for in the original games. Interestingly, this catchphrase is also engraved on a bullet, leaving viewers wondering about the source of his custom firearms.
Dante continues to invoke “Jackpot”later in the season, including a memorable instance when he inadvertently traps himself in a Darkcom truck. The term makes a striking return in the finale when Lady uses it as she lands a pivotal blow against White Rabbit. Capcom certainly enjoys highlighting glaring weak points on its bosses.
2. Dante’s Dance Moves
A Tribute To The King Of Pop
Since the release of Devil May Cry 5 in 2019, fans have fondly remembered Dante’s unique style, which included a dance that channeled Michael Jackson. While this iconic dance move is recreated within a trailer prior to the game’s launch, it finds new life in Netflix’s anime adaptation where Dante is seen engaging with a dance game reminiscent of Dance Dance Revolution.
This homage, while referencing a non-Capcom title, reflects Dante’s diverse love for all games, regardless of the publisher.
3. Ryu Vs M. Bison
Dante’s Affinity for Arcade Games
Dante’s makeshift lair resides in a dilapidated building, devoid of modern conveniences. However, his love for arcade gaming is evident in the collection of arcade cabinets cluttering the space. During a skirmish in episode two, one of the mercenaries inadvertently activates a cabinet displaying a classic Street Fighter 2 match where Ken triumphs over M. Bison with his classic Shoryuken. Notably, M. Bison sports a variant suit color, a curious change that doesn’t go unnoticed.
4. The Mega Man Statue
A Cool Amiibo on the Darkcom Driver
During an intense sequence in episode two where Dante is apprehended by Darkcom, sharp-eyed viewers will spot a vintage Mega Man figurine perched on the dashboard of the driving team in episode three. This classic rendition of Mega Man resembles the limited edition Amiibo released alongside Mega Man 11 in 2018.
As fans eagerly await new instances of Mega Man, including aspirations for future game releases beyond the Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection unveiled in 2023, this Easter Egg serves as a delightful homage, albeit brief.
5. Operation Raccoon City
Could Dante Encounter Leon?
Within the truck scene, there is a clever nod to the Resident Evil series. Dante and Enzo reminisce about their past work, leading Enzo to mention Raccoon City, the infamous setting of multiple Resident Evil titles. This city first became playable through Resident Evil 2, featuring protagonists Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield.
This raises intriguing questions: Did Dante ever cross paths with Leon or Claire during the Raccoon City incident? And will Netflix ever consider an adaptation of Resident Evil that intertwines with the Devil May Cry universe? While there was a previous attempt at a Resident Evil series, its short-lived run leaves fans dreaming of more connections.
6. Lucia
Justice For Devil May Cry 2
The divisive nature of Devil May Cry 2 still resonates with fans, as it attempted to introduce a new playstyle through its protagonist, Lucia. She originally appeared alongside Dante in this sequel and was secondarily presented in a tie-in novel for Devil May Cry 5.
7. Themes Of The War On Terror
The Impact of Red and Blue
This season also layers in historical references, particularly to the 2001 political landscape in America. President Hopper’s character bears a striking resemblance to George W. Bush, complete with his signature cowboy hat. Partnered with Vice President William Baines, the representation mirrors the perception of Cheney’s influence behind the scenes during Bush’s administration.
Throughout the season, the color themes of red and blue symbolize various elements, from Dante’s clothing to Darkcom’s uniforms, and even the environmental hues witnessed in the concluding episode. These color schemes conjure the imagery of the American flag while suggesting a thematic reflection of the U.S.’s ongoing war on terror, albeit against demons this time. Coinciding with the original video game’s release shortly after the 9/11 tragedy, this narrative framing deepens the experience’s resonance.