That doesn't give me any hope. Makes me want to just quit now and forever.
Learn how to dodge and then attack. The Golden rule of DMC is to A&A (Avoid and Attack). There's also a method to farming orbs early on which can make the game A LOT easier.
And yes like TheRealTruth mentioned the best way to damage enemies efficiently is to unleash Inferno with Ifrit. Don't spam though or you'll be in for a very rude beat down. Play smart and safe.
Normal mode isn't that difficult once you start getting the hang of the game mechanics. Just be prepared for the challenge and DON'T take this game lightly and you should be fine. Hard mode however can be unmerciful to many beginners of the DMC genre. The camera somehow always gets used to the enemy's advantage.
I'm glad I'm done playing DMD on DMC1, that's one of my most insane accomplishments and If I had to do it all over again I probably can't and ever will.
Are you actually forced to play on Hard?
Yes you are. On your next play through you have to beat the game on hard and then you can play Normal, Hard or DMD on the 3rd cycle.
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Rock n' Roll and Glam Metal... It never died