Bayonetta Review

Game: Bayonetta
System: X360 (also PS3)
Genre: Action
Developer: Platinum Games
Release date: January 5, 2010


Pros: Brilliant combat system, beautiful art direction, good sense of humor
Cons: Some screen tearing, recycled enemies


With the sequel announced for Wii U last year, I determined it was time to play the first Bayonetta, which had been on my wish list for a few years. Like Devil May Cry and God of War before it, Bayonetta is a hack-and-slash game, heavy on combat, combos, and fast-paced action. Bayonetta first grabbed my attention with its brief commercial spot (included below) featuring "In for the Kill" by La Roux. It looked like a crazy game with incredible combat and style to spare, and that's exactly what it is.

Bayonetta takes place in Vigrid, an ancient city in Europe. Once home to demonic and angelic powers, the city has buried its supernatural origins. Or so it seems. The heroine of the game, Bayonetta, is drawn to the city in search of an ancient relic. Along the way she encounters angels who try to stop her at all costs -- that's right, in Bayonetta the angels are the bad guys -- and a few other friends and enemies.

The story in Bayonetta, while sometimes confusing and melodramatic, is told with style by director Hideki Kamiya. He infuses a great deal of comedy into the proceedings -- humorously referencing his own and others' games -- along with a surprising amount of tenderness. All the cut scenes are worth watching.

But the true star of Bayonetta -- apart from the titular character -- is the combat system, which is accessible for beginners but also demanding for veterans. The combo system makes use of close-range and projectile attacks, along with special commands that are integrated into the action; these include executions, finishes, and "torture attacks," during which Bayonetta summons antique torture devices once used against her clan. Bayonetta also possesses "Witch Time," triggered by a well-timed dodge, which allows her to slow down time and outmaneuver enemies.

Bayonetta fights against an angel.

Finally, I want to reserve some space for the leading lady of Bayonetta, who has become an instant favorite. Rarely does a character make such an impression in a single game, but Bayonetta is a rare creation. Kamiya is on record as saying that the central theme of Bayonetta the game is "sexiness," and it shows. Bayonetta is, without a doubt, the sexiest video game character I've ever seen, male or female. And it's not just her physical features. It's the way she remains cool and confident, the way she stylishly destroys all enemies without flinching, the way she moves, and talks, and oozes sexuality. Basically, she makes Lara Croft look like Laura Bush.

Bayonetta isn't a terribly long game -- maybe 15 hours in game time -- but Kamiya and company created several different difficulty levels and rankings that encourage lots of replays. Plus, only with the "halos" gathered through multiple play-throughs will players be able to afford some of the game's most expensive items and accessories. So do yourself a favor and pick up Bayonetta. And get ready for the sequel coming to Wii U in 2014.