Bayonetta Celebrates 15 Years of Witchy Wonder

PlatinumGames is commemorating the 15th anniversary of the original Bayonetta with a year-long celebration, expressing gratitude to fans for their enduring support. The initial release, lauded for its innovative approach and exhilarating gameplay, spawned sequels exclusively on Nintendo platforms.

The iconic Bayonetta, directed by Hideki Kamiya, introduced a powerful Umbra Witch wielding guns, exceptional martial arts, and magically-enhanced hair to combat supernatural foes. Its creative premise and fast-paced action garnered critical acclaim, solidifying Bayonetta's status as a prominent female video game anti-hero. While Sega published the first installment across various platforms, Nintendo secured publishing rights for the subsequent sequels on the Wii U and Nintendo Switch. A prequel, Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, showcasing a younger Bayonetta, was released on the Switch in 2023. The adult Bayonetta also made appearances in recent Super Smash Bros. titles.

PlatinumGames recently announced a "Bayonetta 15th Anniversary Year" for 2025, promising special announcements and events throughout the year. While specifics remain scarce, the developer encourages fans to follow their social media channels for updates.

Celebrating 15 Years of Bayonetta in 2025

Wayo Records has already released a limited-edition Bayonetta music box, featuring the Super Mirror design and playing "Theme Of Bayonetta - Mysterious Destiny" composed by Masami Ueda. PlatinumGames is also distributing monthly Bayonetta-themed smartphone calendar wallpapers, with January's showcasing Bayonetta and Jeanne in kimonos under a full moon.

Even after 15 years, the original Bayonetta remains celebrated for enhancing the stylish action genre pioneered by Devil May Cry, introducing innovations like Witch Time, and influencing subsequent PlatinumGames titles such as Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance and Nier: Automata. Fans eagerly anticipate further announcements throughout the anniversary year.