Bayonetta Origins:
Cereza and the Lost
Demon

Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon (2023) is a narrative adventure game where you explore a forbidden forest in search of the power to save your mother. A prequel to the other Bayonetta games, but rather than the over-the-top action, instead has you control two characters simultaneously to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. Its unique take on gameplay and combat and a visual and narrative style that lend it a storybook feel make it stand out.

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Long before she becomes the dark witch known as Bayonetta, you play young Cereza and her demon-imbued stuffed toy, Cheshire. When your mother becomes struck by a strange sickness, you enter the forbidden Avalon Forest, filled with deadly faeries, in the hope of uncovering the power she needs to save her. As you strive ever deeper, you encounter deadly foes and an infernal demon who promises to give you the power you so desire.

You control Cereza with the left Joy-Con and Cheshire with the right, using the unique powers of each to defeat enemies and solve puzzles to progress; Cereza uses magic to bind and hurt enemies, while Cheshire attacks with slashes and bites. Only by using them in conjunction can you progress, and mastering controlling both characters simultaneously is tricky but essential to success.

The result is a unique entry to the Bayonetta series that swaps the typical over-the-top action set pieces for the unusual mechanic of controlling two characters at the same time. With a story that fills in the gaps around the titular character's background, it makes for a novel experience.

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Our examiner, Ben Kendall, first checked Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon 16 months ago. It was re-examined by Jo Robertson and updated 8 months ago.