*Confirmed in PSM Mag.*
Yes, Dante's taking a step away from the spotlight....so of course Nero will probably be the one that they show throughout most of the game. Nero has a red vest, blue coat, and white hair (of course). Nero has a "Devil Bringer", or a "Devil Right Hand" instead of a so-called "Devil Trigger", which can be used to pull enimies closer or push them away. Or even throw them into the air and start juggling them! It is unknown if it will have to be used to solve puzzles....but probably. (PSM never said anything about the arm being possessed....so it's anyone's guess). But there is also something up with Nero's sword, Red Queen, but the developers won't reveal how it works other than the fact that it uses what's referred to as the "Acceleration" system, and that it somehow works like a motorcycle's clutch and throttle. Sounds odd, but that's what PSM thought.
You shouldn't count out Dante just yet. He'll definitely be back, but it's unkown to what capacity, or even if he'll be a playable character (they say yes). The basic story has Dante visiting a city called Fortuna, where he's wiping out members of a religious order that worships Sparda! Why is he doing this? They don't know, but NEro's mission is to stop Dante, no matter what it takes (however, given the fact that this game takes place after DMC1 and DMC2...Dante will ultimately survive his encounter with Nero.....)
Actually, it reminds us of Metal Gear Solid 2...doesn't it? Which also had a pretty-boy newcomer (Raiden) on a mission to hunt down the series' protagonist (Solid Snake). In fact, thos who look carefully should note that Dante, like Solid Snake, is now sporting a beard. No mullet though (thank goodness!).
One of the primary concerns fans have about the series is the difficulty: DMC2 was too easy for alot of players; DMC3 was too hard for alot of players.But....expect a DMC3 level of difficulty for DMC4. However, the developers want to have the difficulty to ramp up as the game goes on, so don't worry too much-you won't be immediately thrown into a situation you can't handle. Hopefully, like all of the other DMC's...you'll most likely be able to choose your own difficulty. So it will be manageable for most gamers.
Fair fight? Haha! Not quite. And just think: this is only the first boss! Imagine what else is in store for you.....;)