By: RJ (@rga_02)

• Bayonetta 
• Developer - PlatinumGames
• Publisher - SEGA
• PlayStation 4
• Rating - M

It would be hard to mess up a game such as Bayonetta unless your name is the PlayStation 3. Plagued with frame-rate drops and longer loading times than a scratched PlayStation 2 disc, it was truly a botched release. 

Ten years late, the Bayonetta name once again graces the PlayStation gaming landscape, but does it live up to the caliber set by its other platform release?

For those you haven’t played the game here is a quick synopsis. You play as Bayonetta who has awakened after a 500-year nap. As with any nonsensical plot involving long naps, she finds herself devoid of a lot of memories. Her “Father” did some evil stuff and she then finds herself mowing down angels and anyone who gets in her way to do what is right. You’ll quickly find out that you aren’t here for the plot, but for the experience.

As the spiritual successor to Devil May Cry 3, the gameplay in Bayonetta continues that tradition of being stylish, fast-paced and borderline brilliant. And it is no different with this remaster.  For those who first experienced the game on the PlayStation 3, you will weep with joy knowing that you will finally get to experience that gameplay in its full glory. This remaster boasts a buttery smooth 60FPS. Those slowdowns you had to endure during certain segments in previous iterations of the game are long gone now. 

This remaster also features extremely short loading times. In previous iterations of this game, you would be able to practice your combos while waiting. In this version the wait equates to a blink of an eye. This shows well during the transition between a cut scene and a fight. You no longer have to witness an awkward transition that ruins your groove.

Apart from performance upgrades, the resolution was bumped to 4K. This exposes how dark and drab the game truly looks. However, like the plot, you aren’t here for the surroundings and it won’t deter you from playing. 

But what else is there with this remaster? Nothing, absolutely nothing. Don’t expect to see additional costumes, extra missions, etc. You can finish the game in about nine to 12 hours and the only the only incentive to play the game is if you want to beat it in a higher difficulty. This release is a straight forward remaster with no added bells and whistles.

So to answer the earlier question of this review. Does it hold up to the caliber of its previous releases. Yes, and it does it well. Would I recommend it it? For first-time or previous PlayStation 3 owners, this remaster is a way to go. For those have previously played this game, it is the same Bayonetta that you’ve played in the past decade. Take that as you will.