Ninja Theory's Devil May Cry is set in an alternate universe

The controversial redesign of Devil May Cry's protagonist and backstory may not be canonical.

An article in Dengeki PlayStation, as reported by Siliconera, claims Ninja Theory suggested that the events of its game take place in an alternate universe.

If the reboot is set in a parallel world, then the Dante of the first four Devil may Cry games continues to exist in the canonical universe of the series, as well as in crossovers like Marvel vs Capcom 3, and may return elsewhere.

Ninja Theory's Dante is a young, dark-haired asylum escapee with demonic and angelic powers courtesy of his mixed supernatural parentage. Since reveal, the design has been subject to vocal opposition from some fans.

DmC: Devil May Cry is expected on PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2012.