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Bayonetta, the brainchild of Hideki Kamiya, the creator of Devil May Cry, launched in 2009 to critical acclaim. This stylish action game quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with, standing proudly alongside genre titans like Ninja Gaiden, God of War, and even its spiritual predecessor, Devil May Cry. After years of console exclusivity, Bayonetta finally graced PCs in 2017. This review explores what makes Bayonetta a must-play, especially on PC, while also addressing its shortcomings.

Bayonetta – Review

Bayonetta has captivated gamers for years, garnering a dedicated following across various platforms. This review isn’t about re-establishing its status; it’s about guiding newcomers and those considering a replay on PC to make an informed decision.

What Makes Bayonetta Shine

Bayonetta – Review

An Unforgettable Protagonist

Bayonetta’s greatest strength lies in its titular character. As one of the last remaining Umbra Witches, she commands demonic powers to combat angelic forces, showcasing unwavering strength and a sharp, sarcastic wit, even when facing high-ranking Auditio. This confident demeanor contributes to her undeniable allure. Clad in a skin-tight black suit adorned with various accessories, Bayonetta exudes power, elegance, and sensuality in every move and word. While some might find her design over-the-top, her striking presence sets her apart from countless one-dimensional video game characters.

Bayonetta – Review

Deep and Engaging Combat

Bayonetta’s combat system is a meticulously crafted masterpiece. The core mechanics are simple: punch, kick, and shoot. However, these basic attacks can be combined into an extensive array of fluid and devastating combos. The timing and rhythm required for certain combos add a layer of complexity, preventing mindless button mashing and encouraging skillful execution.

The “Wicked Weaves” further distinguish Bayonetta from other hack-and-slash titles. These powerful attacks utilize Bayonetta’s hair to summon giant limbs for devastating blows. The ability to equip different weapons on hands and feet, along with acquired weapons, amplifies the combo potential and Wicked Weave variety.

Bayonetta – Review

The Witch Time mechanic rewards precise dodging. By evading attacks at the last moment, players trigger a slow-motion effect, allowing them to unleash stylish combos on vulnerable enemies. This encourages strategic play and observation, rewarding skill and reflexes.

Torture Attacks, activated by filling the magic gauge through combat, deliver brutal finishing blows with unique animations depending on the enemy. Certain monsters and bosses require specific strategies, enriching the combat experience further.

Finally, Bayonetta caters to various playstyles with five difficulty levels ranging from Very Easy to ∞ Climax. Lower difficulties allow casual players to enjoy the spectacle of combat without demanding precise execution, while higher difficulties challenge veterans with intricate mechanics and disabled Witch Time activation through dodging.

Bayonetta – Review

A Near-Flawless PC Port

Unlike many console ports plagued by performance issues, Bayonetta on PC shines. With enhanced graphics supporting 4K resolution and customizable settings, the game runs smoothly at a consistent 60 FPS, crucial for a fast-paced action title. While cutscenes are capped at 30 FPS, the overall experience is a testament to Platinum Games’ dedication to quality. This PC version offers a fresh and worthwhile experience, even for those who played the console versions.

Bayonetta – Review

Where Bayonetta Falls Short

A Predictable Narrative

As a hack-and-slash action game, Bayonetta’s narrative isn’t its strongest suit. The story of an amnesiac witch with special powers searching for her origins while battling angels isn’t particularly innovative. While the journey has its moments, the overall plot is relatively straightforward and lacks depth.

Conclusion

Bayonetta on PC is a must-have for action game enthusiasts. Its stylish combat, unforgettable protagonist, and excellent PC port make it a true gem. While the narrative might not be groundbreaking, the sheer thrill of the gameplay more than compensates. If you’re looking for an action-packed experience with depth and style, Bayonetta is a fantastic choice.