Summary
- PlatinumGames is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary with a year-long event, thanking fans for their enduring support.
- The original game's innovative design and fast-paced gameplay garnered critical acclaim, leading to sequels on Nintendo platforms.
- Exciting Bayonetta-themed merchandise and announcements are planned for 2025, with further details promised soon.
PlatinumGames, the creative force behind the iconic Bayonetta, is commemorating the original game's 15th anniversary with a dedicated year-long celebration honoring its loyal fanbase. Initially launched on October 29, 2009, in Japan, and January 2010 globally, the original Bayonetta, directed by Hideki Kamiya (renowned for Devil May Cry and Viewtiful Joe), introduced players to the powerful Umbra Witch, Bayonetta, and her thrilling battles against supernatural foes using guns, incredible martial arts, and her magically-enhanced hair.
The first Bayonetta game received widespread praise for its inventive premise and exhilarating, Devil May Cry-inspired gameplay. Bayonetta herself quickly became a celebrated figure among female video game anti-heroes. While Sega published the original game across multiple platforms, the subsequent sequels became Nintendo first-party exclusives on the Wii U and Nintendo Switch. A prequel, Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, featuring a younger Bayonetta, was released on the Switch in 2023. Bayonetta also appears as a playable character in the latest Super Smash Bros. installments.
2025 marks the 15th anniversary of the original Bayonetta, and PlatinumGames recently expressed gratitude to fans for their unwavering support. This heartfelt message launched "Bayonetta's 15th Anniversary Year," a year-long celebration throughout 2025 featuring various special announcements. While specifics regarding PlatinumGames' 2025 Bayonetta plans remain scarce, the developer encourages fans to follow their social media channels for upcoming reveals.
2025 Marks the 15th Anniversary of Bayonetta
Wayo Records has already released a limited-edition Bayonetta music box, featuring a design inspired by Bayonetta's Super Mirror and playing "Theme of Bayonetta - Mysterious Destiny," composed by the acclaimed Masami Ueda (known for Resident Evil and Okami). PlatinumGames is also distributing exclusive Bayonetta-themed smartphone calendar wallpapers monthly, with January's featuring Bayonetta and Jeanne in kimonos under a full moon.
Even fifteen years after its release, the original Bayonetta continues to be lauded for refining the stylish action established by Devil May Cry and similar titles. Its unique mechanics, such as the slow-motion Witch Time, have influenced subsequent PlatinumGames titles like Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance and Nier: Automata. Fans eagerly anticipate further announcements throughout Bayonetta's special 15th-anniversary year.