Platinum Games is renowned for creating some of the most iconic action games in the gaming industry. Formerly a part of Capcom, they developed unique IPs such as Okami. Their latest project, a spin-off based on the Bayonetta franchise, contains shades of Okami.
Fans of the famous Umbra witch will be delighted to see a prequel to their favorite game with Bayonetta Origins. Set several years before the first game, it offers a more in-depth insight into the life of Cereza. While it may not feature the same heart-pumping action that fans are accustomed to, it has plenty of gameplay twists.
Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon takes players on a journey through the early years of the iconic Umbra witch, exploring her childhood and the events leading up to her memory loss. As a puzzle platformer with a top-down perspective, the game offers a refreshing change from the fast-paced action of the main series. Its whimsical and charming art style provides a stark contrast to the dark and violent tone that fans of the series have come to appreciate.
One of the game’s major strengths is its stunning visuals, accompanied by a captivating soundtrack that blends orchestral, rock, pop, and jazz elements. The visuals offer a comic book-style appearance that evokes memories of Okami. It is also an efficient way to utilize the Nintendo Switch hardware since they are not too demanding on the system. At times, the game transforms into a living painting with fancy lighting and dynamic shadows.
The game’s imaginative gameplay provides players with a dynamic combat system, allowing Cereza to use her hair as a weapon, summon demons, slow down time, and dodge attacks. Moreover, the game’s puzzles offer an enjoyable challenge that encourages exploration and discovery. The ability to switch between Cereza and Cheshire, the first demon companion for the Umbra witch, adds an interesting dimension to the gameplay. Cereza can use her witch powers to attack enemies from a distance while Cheshire is used for up-close and personal attacks. Numerous puzzles rely on their abilities, and it is possible to combine their unique powers in combat for potent attacks.
One of the game’s distinctive features is its emphasis on the relationship between Cereza and Cheshire, her first demon companion. As the two work together to overcome obstacles and enemies, they grow closer and develop a charming rapport that adds depth to the story. This emotional aspect of the game is a refreshing change from the typically straightforward action of the main series. It is not only humorous, like most of the Bayonetta games that use humor during critical story moments to provide some relief, but it also has numerous heartwarming moments. Despite its seemingly simplistic appearance, the game has plenty of twists and turns in its story to keep the player hooked.
The world in Bayonetta Origins feels refreshing to explore. There is an abundance of side content, secrets, and collectibles, so while the primary story may seem brief, there is still a lot of enjoyable content to explore in the game. There are plenty of costumes to unlock for Cereza as well, which is a pleasant distraction. If you are a big fan of the franchise, there are many nods and throwbacks to the main series that will please the fans.
However, the game is not without its flaws. Firstly, it is relatively short, with a playtime of approximately 8 to 10 hours for most players. Additionally, experienced players may find the game less challenging than the main series, and it has some technical issues such as frame drops, loading times, and glitches. Finally, the game’s focus on puzzle-solving may not appeal to fans of the main series who prefer fast-paced action.
Overall, Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon is a well-crafted adventure that offers players a fresh and original take on the Bayonetta universe. Its charming relationship between Cereza and Cheshire, imaginative gameplay, and beautiful visuals make it a game worth playing for fans of the series and newcomers alike. Although it may not be perfect, it offers an enjoyable experience that is both entertaining and emotionally engaging.
Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon offers a delightful and emotionally compelling adventure with creative gameplay, stunning graphics, and a charming portrayal of the relationship between Cereza and Cheshire, making it worth playing for both fans and newcomers to the Bayonetta series.