In a universe of light and dark where perception is reality...
Version played: Xbox 360What is Bayonetta?
Bayonetta is a fast-paced, third-person, arcade-style combat game with a bonkers storyline and a sexy lead character that uses her special powers, melee attacks and weapons to dispatch dozens of angelic foes on a journey to uncover her lost memories.
Bayonetta is a long-legged, voluptuous witch who is unable to remember her past after waking up from a 20 year slumber, however, she does remember that she has a host of deadly powers at her fingertips. Wearing clothes woven out of her magical hair, and possessing a wide range of combo attacks and finishing moves, Bayonetta has pistols strapped to her stilettos and some devastating fighting moves, including the ability to summon up devices, such as guillotines to decapitate her foes. She'll even use her wicked weave as a conduit to summon forth demonic entities or transform her "barnet" into a giant fist or boot capable of pummeling enemies into submission.
Bayonetta is over-the-top and in your face in terms of its bright visual style, wacky characters, fantastical enemies and range of crazy combat moves, so it should come as no suprise that it is directed by Hideki Kamiya, whose previous projects include the visually and creatively outstanding Okami and Viewtiful Joe.
Bayonetta, however, bears more than a passing resemblance to Kamiya's most revered game, Devil May Cry. Gameplay largely consists of tackling waves of enemies, sub-bosses and big bosses as you battle your way across the fictional city of Vigrid, adjusting your eyes to the bright and colourful animations of some frenetic combat. There's also plenty of opportunity to unlock upgrades and enjoy getting to grips with the comprehensive command list.
The currency in the game is spiritual metal which contains the essence of angel's life force and comes in the form of gold hoops similar to what you'd see in a Sonic The Hedgehog game. The award system allows you to earn medals for speed and accuracy as you unlock more combos and get to purchase items and upgrades.
There are plenty of collectibles to look out for so there's an element of exploration in the city as you search for files that provide background information to this fantasy world. There's also some platforming sections where you can test out Bayonetta's flexible and acrobatic move set. There are plenty of cut-scenes to relay the crazy story and break up the high octane action and Kamiya has even thrown in the occasional Quick Time Event during some scenes to try and keep you on your toes.
The lollipop-sucking Bayonetta certainly looks like a lady you wouldn't like to mess with, but is her bark worse than her bite?
Gameplay Impressions overleaf…
