Bayonetta (PS3)

Bayonetta: trademark of SEGA Corporation. Developed by PlatinumGames Inc. 

One of the most ancient game types is the today called “hack-and-slash”. In the beginning, it was called “beat ‘em up”, and it was one of the most addictive in the videogames history. The basic structure is the same in every title: find a new area, defeat all the enemies and upgrade your abilities. And keep this up until the end of the game.

With this simple structure, this type of game must have other elements to become really enjoyable. Things as smart puzzles, great songs, and good game mechanics are essential, besides the absolutely necessary good story and remarkable characters. Few games were able to fulfill these needs, but one of them is the spectacular Bayonetta.

The Umbra Witch Bayonetta

Developed by PlatinumGames and directed/written by Hideki Kamiya, the game tells the story of the witch Bayonetta, which uses firearms, spell attacks, combat skills and a shape-shifting magical hair (it sounds weird, but actually it’s awesome) to fight against angels and other divine creatures. Yes, in this game, the divine beings aren’t necessarily the good ones.

Shooting some devil... I mean, angels

The main story is focused in the relation of the witches with the sages, each one with its respective element: darkness and light. Bayonetta’s past is connected with the complicated relationship between these two groups, and as she doesn’t remember her previous years, the gamer discovers everything along with the character.

The graphics of the game are amazing, especially the work with the lights: they are really convincing, and create an immersive universe of brilliant and dark creatures, scenarios and characters.  The sound effects are also very enjoyable, as well the soundtrack during the fights and the quick-time events.

There are a plenty number of different moves, weapons and items for Bayonetta, allowing the player to adapt its style easily. Each combination has different combos, requiring new play methods. And more than fight, you must learn how to dodge enemy attacks. This ability is the key for a more competitive (and healthier) gameplay, as special moves are unlocked when you evade attacks, besides the witch’s life save.

Si, muchos armas... yes, many weapons

Besides the main character, there are other interesting people in the game story: Cereza, a lovely and loudly girl; Jeanne, a mysterious and powerful witch; Luka, a young and skillful man. All three are connected to Bayonetta’s past, and play an important part of the game plot. The relationship between the characters is a good relief on the frenetic gameplay, in great animation sequences.

Sometimes, the game can get very difficult and challenging (mostly if you don’t master the dodge system, or miss some fast quick time events), almost leading you to throw you controller away. Another thing that may be considered a problem is the soundtrack: as I said before, it’s good, but can get boring in the final of the game, after you heard it thousands of times (or maybe you can get more addictive as you listen, just as me).

Remember to complete all the combos

Bayonetta is an exciting (for many, in many ways) and funny game, that will deliver you a lot of challenging fights, customization's, an interesting narrative and… more challenging fights. Everything is brightly (or darkly) designed and structured, making this title one of the best of the hack-and-slash game type.