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{{Infobox video game
| title = Bayonetta 3
| image = Bayonetta 3 cover.webp
| developer = [[PlatinumGames]]
| publisher = [[Nintendo]]
| director = Yusuke Miyata
| producer = Yuji Nakao<br>Makoto Okazaki<br>Genki Yokota<br>Toyokazu Nonaka
| designer = Akiteru Naka
| programmer = Daichi Amano
| artist = Yuki Suda
| writer = [[Hideki Kamiya]]<br>Yusuke Miyata<br>Yuya Jin<br>Akiteru Naka
| composer = Naofumi Harada
| engine = <!-- list only engines with articles -->
| series = ''[[Bayonetta]]''
| platforms = {{ubl|[[Nintendo Switch]]}}
| released = October 28, 2022
| genre = [[Action-adventure]], [[hack and slash]]
| modes = [[Single-player]]
| caption = 
| alt = 
}}

{{Nihongo foot|'''''Bayonetta 3'''''|ベヨネッタ3|Beyonetta Surī|group=lower-alpha|lead=yes}} is a 2022 [[action-adventure game]] developed by [[PlatinumGames]] and published by [[Nintendo]] for the [[Nintendo Switch]]. The game was directed by Yusuke Miyata and produced by Yuji Nakao, with series creator [[Hideki Kamiya]] as supervising director. It was announced in December 2017, and was released on October 28, 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wales |first=Matt |date=2017-12-08 |title=Bayonetta 3 is coming exclusively to Switch |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-12-08-bayonetta-3-is-coming-exclusively-to-switch |access-date=2022-02-15 |website=Eurogamer |language=en |archive-date=November 28, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211128150242/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2017-12-08-bayonetta-3-is-coming-exclusively-to-switch |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Bayonetta 3 for Nintendo Switch - Nintendo Game Details |url=https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/bayonetta-3-switch/ |access-date=2022-02-15 |website=nintendo.com |publisher=Nintendo of America |language=en-US |archive-date=February 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220215151156/https://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/bayonetta-3-switch/ |url-status=live }}</ref> 

''Bayonetta 3'' follows the titular angel-hunting witch [[Bayonetta (character)|Bayonetta]], who must face against man-made bioweapons called Homunculi, led by an entity known as Singularity, who threatens to destroy the [[multiverse]]. She is assisted by an ensemble of characters, including a coven of alternate universe counterparts of herself; and a new witch-in-training named Viola.

Following its initial announcement at [[The Game Awards 2017]], news on ''Bayonetta 3'' went dormant while PlatinumGames worked to release games such as ''[[Astral Chain]]'', which was developed concurrently. The game had its first full reveal with gameplay in September 2021 during a [[Nintendo Direct]] presentation. Bayonetta's original voice actress, Hellena Taylor, was replaced by [[Jennifer Hale]] after a payment dispute. 

''Bayonetta 3'' received generally favorable reviews from critics. It received praise for its gameplay, presentation, and supplementary content, while receiving criticism for its story, character development, camera controls, and performance issues. The game sold 1.07 million units worldwide by March 2023.

==Gameplay==
{{See also|Bayonetta (video game)#Gameplay|Bayonetta 2#Gameplay}}
''Bayonetta 3'', like its predecessors, is an action [[hack and slash]] game in which players control the eponymous protagonist [[Bayonetta (character)|Bayonetta]] as she combats various enemies using a combination of melee attacks and gunplay. Dodging enemy attacks at the last second triggers a state known as "Witch Time", during which time and enemies slow down, allowing Bayonetta to continually attack them without interruption, or traverse in real-time to solve environmental puzzles. Unique to this game are the "Demon Slave" and "Demon Masquerade" mechanics, the former of which differs from the preceding Climax Summon and Umbran Climax features in the first two titles, and instead allows players to take direct control of one of Bayonetta's Infernal Demons to perform various attacks and special abilities, some of which are advantageous to particular scenarios depending on the demon being controlled. The latter meanwhile, allows Bayonetta to directly fuse with a summoned Infernal Demon, granting her access to magic-based abilities, including new attack and traversal options.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Miyata |first=Yusuke |date=2021-09-24 |title=A Message from Bayonetta 3 Director Yusuke Miyata |url=https://www.platinumgames.com/official-blog/article/11466 |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=PlatinumGames Official Blog |archive-date=July 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704062636/https://www.platinumgames.com/official-blog/article/11466 |url-status=live }}</ref> A new playable character, Viola, can only activate Witch Time through the use of a [[parry (fencing)|parry]] mechanic, and whose only Demon Slave Cheshire cannot be manually controlled. When Viola summons Cheshire, she switches from a sword-based fighting style to a fist-based fighting style.

In addition to the game's standard presentation, a new display mode known as the "Naive Angel Mode" is introduced. This mode conceals displays of nudity during gameplay and cinematics, such as Bayonetta's various dances to summon her Wicked Weaves using her clothing as a conduit, as well as the more graphic designs of certain enemies and demons.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gach |first=Ethan |date=2022-07-13 |title=Bayonetta 3 Is Out In October, And It's Got A Mode To Make The Game Less Sexy |url=https://kotaku.com/bayonetta-3-platinum-games-sex-mode-switch-release-date-1849172890 |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=Kotaku |language=en-us |archive-date=July 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713150425/https://kotaku.com/bayonetta-3-platinum-games-sex-mode-switch-release-date-1849172890 |url-status=live }}</ref>

==Story==
===Settings and characters===
The universe of Bayonetta is set in a location known as Trinity of Realities, which comprises Paradiso, the realm of angels; Inferno, the realm of demons; and the World of Chaos, the human world. The World of Chaos is composed of [[multiverse|multiple alternate universes]], which makes for the main setting of ''Bayonetta 3''. The titular witch [[Bayonetta (character)|Bayonetta]] — known also by her real name Cereza — returns as its protagonist, an Umbran Witch who makes contracts with demons to fight angels. She is joined by a witch-in-training Viola, who fights alongside her demon familiar Cheshire. They team up in order to fight against the forces of man-made artificial weapons called "[[Homunculi]]"; led by an artificial entity known as "Singularity", which seeks to eliminate all worlds in the multiverse to strengthen itself and conquer the Trinity of Realities. The two are assisted by Bayonetta's childhood friend and fellow Umbran witch Jeanne, the investigative reporter Luka, the information broker Enzo, and the demonic arms dealer Rodin.<ref>{{Cite web |title=BAYONETTA 3 |url=https://www.platinumgames.com/games/bayonetta-3 |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=PlatinumGames Inc. Official WebSite |archive-date=July 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220704062514/https://www.platinumgames.com/games/bayonetta-3 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=vgc-trailer>{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=2022-07-13 |title=Bayonetta 3 will release in October, new trailer confirms |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/bayonetta-3-will-release-in-october-new-trailer-confirms/ |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=Video Games Chronicle |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713131527/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/bayonetta-3-will-release-in-october-new-trailer-confirms/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2022-08-06 |title=Bayonetta 3 Rating Reveals New Story And Online Details |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/08/bayonetta-3-rating-reveals-new-story-and-online-details |access-date=2022-08-06 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=August 6, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220806234438/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/08/bayonetta-3-rating-reveals-new-story-and-online-details |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Plot===
An alternate universe Bayonetta fights against Singularity, but is killed as Viola watches and inherits the last of her power. Viola is tasked by her commanding officer Sigurd to use a world bridge to escape to another universe, and to seek help in the battle against Singularity. Viola uses the world bridge and escapes as Sigurd is killed, arriving in a universe where Bayonetta and Jeanne witness the Homunculi launching their attack on [[New York City]]. Taking refuge with Enzo in Rodin's bar the Gates of Hell, Viola explains that the Homunculi and Singularity have already destroyed countless alternate universes; Rodin confirms that if all universes collapse, Singularity will have ultimate power over the Trinity of Realities. To stop Singularity, Bayonetta and Viola must travel to the island of Thule, which serves as a gateway between universes, and collect the Chaos Gears that can lead them to the "Alphaverse" where Singularity resides. Jeanne is tasked with infiltrating a research facility to locate their universe's version of Sigurd, a doctor and scientist with knowledge about the multiverse.

Bayonetta and Viola arrive at Thule and fight across several alternate universes. During the travels, Bayonetta pursues alternate incarnations of herself who are protecting their worlds, and fights alongside them to obtain the Chaos Gears; each is ultimately killed and absorbed by a vessel of Singularity, who is pursuing each Bayonetta incarnation as the "Arch-Eve", which can influence reality. Viola ends up pursuing Luka, who has been following them throughout the multiverse. Viola discovers that the deaths of his counterparts across the multiverse has caused Luka to transform into a wolf-like beast known as Strider, influenced by the rage of the Alphaverse's incarnation dubbed Dark Adam. During the game Viola reveals she is the daughter of her universe's Bayonetta and Luka, and encounters an alternate Luka dubbed "Lukaon", king of the faeries with knowledge of the multiverse after being banished from a dying world while pursuing Strider. Jeanne manages to retrieve Sigurd and reconvenes with Bayonetta on Thule. Using the Chaos Gears, Sigurd opens up a portal into the Alphaverse, allowing Bayonetta access. Upon their arrival, they discover that Singularity's real identity was the Alphaverse's Sigurd, an artificial human who sought absolute power over the multiverse.

Singularity, who was impersonating Sigurd, kills Jeanne and traps Bayonetta in the Alphaverse. Viola and Luka reach the Alphaverse too, with Bayonetta defeating Dark Adam and Lukaon restoring Luka's mind and allowing him to become "Arch-Adam", a guide to the Arch-Eve. Bayonetta, identified by Singularity as "Arch-Eve Origin", pursues and fights Singularity, freeing the spirits of Jeanne and the other Bayonettas, who briefly aid her before vanishing. She is then aided by incarnations of herself from ''[[Bayonetta (video game)|Bayonetta]]'' and ''[[Bayonetta 2]]'', and finally kills Singularity with help from Viola, Luka and a final Demon Summoning; Singularity's death restores the multiverse. Bayonetta, wounded and exhausted, loses control of the summon and her soul is knocked from her body. Luka saves Viola from Singularity's explosive death and subdues the summon and is dragged to Inferno with Bayonetta. Post-credits sequences show Viola defeating Dark Eve, a remnant of the Alphaverse's Bayonetta, and being given the "Bayonetta" title as a final message from Bayonetta; and later going to school in New York while taking on jobs for Rodin.

==Development==
In July 2013, [[PlatinumGames]] executive and series creator [[Hideki Kamiya]] responded to a fan question on [[Twitter]] regarding the likelihood of a third game in the ''[[Bayonetta]]'' series in the event the then-upcoming ''[[Bayonetta 2]]'' was a success, stating, "I hope so".<ref>{{Cite tweet|last=Kamiya |first=Hideki |author-link=Hideki Kamiya |user=PG_kamiya |date=2013-07-17 |title=I hope so. RT @Patpadi1: if Bayonetta 2 going to be a hit would you think about it to make a third part? |number=357364545003601920 |access-date=2022-07-02}}</ref> ''Bayonetta 2'' director Yusuke Hashimoto was interviewed by the magazine outlet ''GamesMaster'', during which was asked about what game sequels he would like to work on, to which he answered that he had "all kinds of ideas" in mind for ''Bayonetta 3'' in addition to a potential [[Spin-off (media)|spin-off]] title.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-02-15 |title=Bayonetta 2 director reiterates interest in continuing the franchise |url=https://nintendoeverything.com/bayonetta-2-director-reiterates-interest-in-continuing-the-franchise/ |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Nintendo Everything |language=en |archive-date=July 30, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220730133430/https://nintendoeverything.com/bayonetta-2-director-reiterates-interest-in-continuing-the-franchise/ |url-status=live }}</ref>{{better source needed|reason=The original magazine article would be preferable.|date=July 2022}} In June 2015 following ''Bayonetta 2''{{'}}s release, Kamiya again responded to a fan inquiry regarding the character Jeanne, and what potential new hairstyles she would look good in following her appearances in the first two games. Kamiya replied, "The answer will be in ''Bayo 3".''<ref>{{Cite tweet |last=Kamiya |first=Hideki |user=PG_kamiya |author-link=Hideki Kamiya |date=2015-06-16 |title=The answer will be in Bayo 3 ;) RT @Landynetta: what other hairstyle do you think jeanne would look good with? |number=610685678041432065 |access-date=2022-07-02}}</ref>

''Bayonetta 3'' was announced by [[Nintendo]] in December 2017 during that year's [[The Game Awards 2017|The Game Awards]] alongside [[Nintendo Switch]] versions of [[Bayonetta (video game)|''Bayonetta'']] and ''Bayonetta 2'', confirming the title as in development for the Switch in addition to Nintendo's involvement as its publisher.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kuchera |first=Ben |date=2017-12-07 |title=Nintendo announces Bayonetta 3 as a Switch exclusive |url=https://www.polygon.com/2017/12/7/16749668/bayonetta-3-trailer-nintendo-switch-platinum-games-tga-2017 |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=December 8, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171208231540/https://www.polygon.com/2017/12/7/16749668/bayonetta-3-trailer-nintendo-switch-platinum-games-tga-2017 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Roemer |first=Dan |date=2017-12-08 |title=Bayonetta 1 and 2 are heading to the Switch! |url=https://www.destructoid.com/bayonetta-1-and-2-are-heading-to-the-switch/ |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Destructoid |language=en-CA |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702235830/https://www.destructoid.com/bayonetta-1-and-2-are-heading-to-the-switch/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Then-President and COO of Nintendo of America [[Reggie Fils-Aimé]] remarked on the announcement as celebratory for "the fans who love what PlatinumGames does, and are thrilled to have PlatinumGames back on a Nintendo system".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Williams |first=Mike |date=2017-12-08 |title=Bayonetta 3 In Development For Nintendo Switch, Bayonetta 1 & 2 Coming As Well |url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/bayonetta-3-in-development-for-nintendo-switch-bayonetta-12-coming-as-well |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=USgamer |language=en |archive-date=July 29, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220729173818/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/bayonetta-3-in-development-for-nintendo-switch-bayonetta-12-coming-as-well |url-status=dead }}</ref> In June 2022, Hideki Kamiya reiterated his recommendation that newcomers play the preceding two games in preparation for ''Bayonetta 3'', as despite there being "no reason why you won't be able to follow the story and enjoy it if you start with ''Bayonetta 3''", he felt that prior experience with the series would help players find the third game "more interesting".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doolan |first=Liam |date=2022-06-08 |title=Hideki Kamiya Really Wants You To Play Bayonetta 1 & 2 Before The Third Game |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/06/hideki-kamiya-really-wants-you-to-play-bayonetta-1-and-2-before-the-third-game |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703012329/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/06/hideki-kamiya-really-wants-you-to-play-bayonetta-1-and-2-before-the-third-game |url-status=live }}</ref>

In April 2018, studio head [[Atsushi Inaba]] told ''[[Eurogamer]]'' at the Reboot Develop 2018 conference that ''Bayonetta 3'' would mark a "turning point" for the developer, mentioning that the game would be a "linear core progression action game" in a similar vein to its predecessors.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Purchese |first=Robert |date=2018-04-20 |title=Hey Nintendo, PlatinumGames wants The Wonderful 101 on Switch |language=en-gb |work=Eurogamer |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/hey-nintendo-platinumgames-wants-the-wonderful-101-on-switch |access-date=2022-07-02 |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702235702/https://www.eurogamer.net/hey-nintendo-platinumgames-wants-the-wonderful-101-on-switch |url-status=live }}</ref> In February 2019 during an installment of [[Nintendo Direct]], Nintendo revealed ''[[Astral Chain]]'' (2019), another [[action-adventure]] title from PlatinumGames for the Switch that was released later that August. Despite the reveal of an additional title in development at the studio however, Nintendo Switch general producer [[Yoshiaki Koizumi]] who presented the Direct, would reassure that the game would not conflict with ''Bayonetta 3''{{'}}s development, stating that PlatinumGames were still "hard at work" on the title.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marks |first=Tom |date=2019-02-13 |title=Astral Chain is a New Switch-Exclusive Platinum Game, Bayonetta 3 Still In Development |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/02/13/astral-chain-is-a-new-switch-exclusive-platinum-game-bayonetta-3-still-in-development |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702235640/https://www.ign.com/articles/2019/02/13/astral-chain-is-a-new-switch-exclusive-platinum-game-bayonetta-3-still-in-development |url-status=live }}</ref>

Inaba was interviewed by ''[[Video Games Chronicle]]'' (VGC) in May 2019, and described the game's production as an "orthodox development process", additionally remarking that players would be able to easily observe the shifts in the studio's production mentality during gameplay, yet refusing to elaborate further.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=2019-05-03 |title=Bayonetta 3 'has an unorthodox development process', says Platinum |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/bayonetta-3-has-an-unorthodox-development-process-says-platinum/ |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Video Games Chronicle |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702235641/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/bayonetta-3-has-an-unorthodox-development-process-says-platinum/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Inaba was again interviewed by the publication during [[E3 2019]], clarifying the game's status as "going quite well".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=2019-06-12 |title=Platinum Games explains Bayonetta 3's E3 no-show |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/platinum-games-explains-bayonetta-3s-e3-no-show/ |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Video Games Chronicle |language=en-GB |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617060138/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/platinum-games-explains-bayonetta-3s-e3-no-show/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

''Bayonetta 3'' was unveiled by Nintendo during a Direct presentation in September 2021, revealing the first look at gameplay and its 2022 release window.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Whitehead |first=Thomasb |date=2021-09-23 |title=Bayonetta 3 Finally Gets A New Trailer, Out In 2022 |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/09/bayonetta_3_finally_gets_a_new_trailer_out_in_2022 |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702235828/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/09/bayonetta_3_finally_gets_a_new_trailer_out_in_2022 |url-status=live }}</ref> The trailer additionally confirmed Yusuke Miyata as the game's director while Hideki Kamiya will be executive director. Miyata's involvement prompted speculation that a mechanic revolving around individually controlling Bayonetta's Infernal Demon summons in combat, was in fact derived from a previously cancelled PlatinumGames project, ''[[Scalebound]]'', an [[action role-playing game]] published by [[Microsoft Studios]] intended to release for [[Xbox One]] and [[Microsoft Windows]], as Miyata previously served as that game's lead designer.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gilbert |first=Fraser |date=2021-09-25 |title=Scalebound's Lead Designer Is Now Directing Bayonetta 3 For Nintendo |url=https://www.purexbox.com/news/2021/09/scalebounds_lead_designer_is_now_directing_bayonetta_3_for_nintendo |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=Pure Xbox |language=en-GB |archive-date=February 6, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220206134945/https://www.purexbox.com/news/2021/09/scalebounds_lead_designer_is_now_directing_bayonetta_3_for_nintendo |url-status=live }}</ref> Fans additionally noted the resemblance between a new character masked in shadow during the end of the trailer, and ''Scalebound''{{'}}s intended playable protagonist, Drew.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Doolan |first=Liam |date=2021-09-26 |title=Bayonetta 3 Might Have Borrowed A Mechanic From Platinum's Cancelled Xbox Exclusive Scalebound |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/09/bayonetta_3_might_have_borrowed_a_mechanic_from_platinums_cancelled_xbox_exclusive_scalebound |access-date=2022-07-02 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702235644/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2021/09/bayonetta_3_might_have_borrowed_a_mechanic_from_platinums_cancelled_xbox_exclusive_scalebound |url-status=live }}</ref> A blog post on PlatinumGames' website confirmed additional staff involved in the game, including cinematic supervisors Yuji Shimomura and Masaki Suzumura, as well as artist Mari Shimazaki, all reprising their respective roles from the previous two games.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kamiya |first=Hideki |author-link=Hideki Kamiya |date=2021-09-24 |title=A Message from Bayonetta 3 Executive Director Hideki Kamiya |url=https://www.platinumgames.com/official-blog/article/11470 |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=PlatinumGames Official Blog |archive-date=June 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220620210450/https://www.platinumgames.com/official-blog/article/11470 |url-status=live }}</ref>

A second trailer was released on July 13, 2022, confirming the game's October 28 launch date, and key story and character details, notably unveiling the new character Viola, the presence of alternate versions of Bayonetta, and the return of supporting characters Luka, Enzo, Jeanne and Rodin. In commemoration of the game's launch, Nintendo announced that a physical edition of the original ''Bayonetta'' on Nintendo Switch would be available in limited quantities on September 30, 2022 via select retailers and the My Nintendo Store. This would be the first time the game was available in a standalone physical format outside the Special Edition box set collecting the first game and its sequel, which released in 2018.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=McWhertor |first1=Michael |last2=Good |first2=Owen S. |date=2022-07-13 |title=Bayonetta 3 comes to Switch this October, now with more Bayonettas |url=https://www.polygon.com/22287579/bayonetta-3-release-date-nintendo-switch |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=July 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713140635/https://www.polygon.com/22287579/bayonetta-3-release-date-nintendo-switch |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Reynolds |first=Ollie |date=2022-07-13 |title=Nintendo Confirms Physical Edition Of First Bayonetta, Launching This Year |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/07/nintendo-confirms-physical-edition-of-first-bayonetta-launching-this-year |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713145828/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/07/nintendo-confirms-physical-edition-of-first-bayonetta-launching-this-year |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Reseigh-Lincoln |first=Dom |date=2017-12-08 |title=Bayonetta 1 And 2 Are Getting A Special Edition Bundle With All The Trimmings |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/12/bayonetta_1_and_2_are_getting_a_special_edition_bundle_with_all_the_trimmings |access-date=2022-07-13 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=July 13, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220713145832/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/12/bayonetta_1_and_2_are_getting_a_special_edition_bundle_with_all_the_trimmings |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Voice acting controversy ===
Hellena Taylor, the voice actress for Bayonetta in previous games, was replaced by [[Jennifer Hale]] for ''Bayonetta 3''. Miyata said this was due to "various overlapping circumstances".<ref>{{cite magazine |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/10/05/platinum-games-confirms-jennifer-hale-as-the-new-voice-of-bayonetta |title=Platinum Games Confirms Jennifer Hale As The New Voice Of Bayonetta |last=Stewart |first=Marcus |magazine=[[Game Informer]] |date=October 5, 2022 |access-date=October 8, 2022 |archive-date=October 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007164438/https://www.gameinformer.com/2022/10/05/platinum-games-confirms-jennifer-hale-as-the-new-voice-of-bayonetta |url-status=live }}</ref> On October 15, 2022, Taylor released a series of videos in which she said she had refused an offer of {{USD|4,000}} for the role, saying it did not reflect a [[living wage]].<ref name="TG 2022-10-15">{{cite news |last1=Foster |first1=George |title=Hellena Taylor Is Asking Fans To Boycott Bayonetta 3 |url=https://www.thegamer.com/hellena-taylor-bayonetta-3-4000-offer-not-return-charity/ |access-date=October 15, 2022 |work=TheGamer |date=October 15, 2022 |archive-date=November 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221101184940/https://www.thegamer.com/hellena-taylor-bayonetta-3-4000-offer-not-return-charity/ |url-status=live }}</ref> She urged her fans to boycott the game and instead donate to charity.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/bayonetta-voice-actor-hellena-taylor-says-she-didnt-reprise-the-role-in-bayonetta-3-as-she-was-only-offered-4000|title=Bayonetta Voice Actor Hellena Taylor Says She Didn't Reprise the Role in Bayonetta 3 as She Was Only Offered $4,000|last=Bankhurst|first=Adam|date=16 October 2022|work=[[IGN]]|publisher=[[Ziff Davis]]|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20221017122033/https://www.ign.com/articles/bayonetta-voice-actor-hellena-taylor-says-she-didnt-reprise-the-role-in-bayonetta-3-as-she-was-only-offered-4000|archivedate=17 October 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

On Twitter, Kamiya said that Taylor's statements were "untrue, sad and deplorable". He blocked many Twitter users who responded to his tweet, and then temporarily deactivated his personal twitter, leading to speculation that he was suspended.<ref name="Young 2022">{{cite web |last1=Young |first1=Rorie |title=Bayonetta 3 Executive Director Hideki Kamiya Responds to Voice Actor's Call For Boycott |url=https://gamerant.com/bayonetta-3-boycott-hideki-kamiya-platinumgames-response/ |website=Game Rant |access-date=16 October 2022 |ref=Young 2022 |date=15 October 2022 |archive-date=October 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221016204837/https://gamerant.com/bayonetta-3-boycott-hideki-kamiya-platinumgames-response/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="Breslin 2022">{{cite web|last1=Breslin|first1=Richard|title=Bayonetta creator deactivated then reactivated Twitter account|url=https://www.gamebyte.com/bayonetta-creator-deactivated-then-reactivated-twitter-account/|website=GAMEBYTE|access-date=18 October 2022|ref=Breslin 2022|date=18 October 2022|archive-date=October 26, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026045401/https://www.gamebyte.com/bayonetta-creator-deactivated-then-reactivated-twitter-account/|url-status=live}}</ref> Hale stated on Twitter that while she was in a [[non-disclosure agreement]], she expressed her belief that actors should be paid well, and emphasized her past advocacy for her peers within the profession. She further urged people to keep an open mind about the amount of work that had gone into the game.<ref>{{cite news|last=Colbert|first=Isaiah|title=Jennifer Hale Speaks Out On Replacing Bayonetta's Original Voice Actor|url=https://kotaku.com/bayonetta-3-jennifer-hale-hellena-taylor-kamiya-recast-1849669425|work=Kotaku|date=18 October 2022|access-date=October 18, 2022|archive-date=October 18, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221018125036/https://kotaku.com/bayonetta-3-jennifer-hale-hellena-taylor-kamiya-recast-1849669425|url-status=live}}</ref> Hale's involvement drew responses from voice actors such as [[David Hayter]] and [[Steve Blum]], who spoke in support of her industry work and due diligence.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Steve Blum |user=blumspew |number=1582080710302527489 |date=17 October 2022 |title=I don't know anything about this game or the internal circumstances, but I do know that Jennifer does more due diligence than any other actor I've ever known and has always had the backs of everyone in our industry and in her life. (continued) |language=en |access-date=20 October 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |author=David Hayter |user=davidbhayter |number=1582461721041506304 |date=18 October 2022 |title=Absolutely right. To put the blame on another actor is unjust. And Jennifer Hale is the absolute best of us. |language=en |access-date=20 October 2022 }}</ref> PlatinumGames issued a formal response confirming that they align themselves with Hale's statement; asking people to refrain from disrespecting Hale or any of the contributors to the franchise, and stating "we give our full support to Jennifer Hale as the new Bayonetta".<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/23416027/bayonetta-3-platinum-statement-voice-actor-pay-boycott-controversy | title = Platinum steps in to try to calm Bayonetta voice acting debate | first = Oli | last = Welsh | date = October 21, 2022 | accessdate = October 21, 2022 | work = [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] | archive-date = October 21, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221021120232/https://www.polygon.com/23416027/bayonetta-3-platinum-statement-voice-actor-pay-boycott-controversy | url-status = live }}</ref>

On October 18, ''[[Bloomberg News]]'' and ''[[Video Games Chronicle]]'' reported that Platinum had been prepared to rehire Taylor, offering her between {{USD|3,000|long=no}} and {{USD|4,000|long=no}} per session for five sessions, well above the minimum [[SAG-AFTRA]] union rates. The reports said negotiations ended after Taylor requested a six-figure payment and royalties instead, and that Taylor had refused an offer to make a [[cameo appearance|cameo]] for the fee of one session once Hale was cast. Taylor called the report "an absolute lie, and a complete joke" made to "save [Platinum's] ass and the game", and said she wished to be done with the affair and the franchise.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Schreier |first=Jason |author-link=Jason Schreier |date=2022-10-18 |title=A Tense Pay Dispute Overshadows Nintendo's Upcoming Bayonetta 3 |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-10-18/bayonetta-3-voice-actor-s-pay-dispute-overshadows-nintendo-game |access-date=2022-10-18 |website=[[Bloomberg News]] |archive-date=October 19, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019020756/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-10-18/bayonetta-3-voice-actor-s-pay-dispute-overshadows-nintendo-game |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=2022-10-18 |title=Sources dispute Bayonetta voice actor's claims over pay offer |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sources-dispute-bayonetta-voice-actors-claims-over-pay-offer/ |access-date=2022-10-18 |website=Video Games Chronicle |language=en-GB |archive-date=October 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221018201725/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sources-dispute-bayonetta-voice-actors-claims-over-pay-offer/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Despite this, on October 24, Taylor made additional statements on Twitter, stating that her initial offer from Platinum was {{USD|10,000|long=no}}, and that she was later offered "an extra {{sic|5,0000}}<!-- The fourth zero is being reproduced as she originally wrote it. If you wish to remove it, also remove the "[sic]" notation. -->" after reaching out to Kamiya.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Hellena Taylor |user=hellenataylor |number=1584415580165054464 |date=24 October 2022 |title=As I posted on part three of my video thread. I explained that their first offer was too low. That offer was 10,000 dollars total. Remember, this is 450 million dollar franchise, (not counting merchandise.) I then wrote in Japanese to Hideki Kamiya, asking for what I was |language=en |access-date=24 October 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite tweet |author=Hellena Taylor |user=hellenataylor |number=1584415727171252225 |date=24 October 2022 |title=worth. I thought that as a creative, he would understand. He replied saying how much he valued my contribution to the game and how much the fans wanted me to voice the game. I was then offered an extra 5,0000! |language=en |access-date=24 October 2022 }}</ref> Taylor further stated that she did not hear from Platinum for 11 months after this, and was then given a final offer of {{USD|4,000|long=no}} to "voice some lines".<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Hellena Taylor |user=hellenataylor |number=1584415848294322177 |date=24 October 2022 |title=So, I declined to voice the game. I then heard nothing from them for 11 months. They then offered me a flat fee to voice some lines for 4,000 dollars. Any other lies, such as 4,000 for 5 sessions are total fabrications. |language=en |access-date=24 October 2022 }}</ref> [[Jason Schreier]], the reporter who wrote the October 18 article for ''Bloomberg News'', noted that these tweets from Taylor effectively corroborated the report.<ref>{{cite tweet |author=Jason Schreier |user=jasonschreier |number=1584479145274527744 |date=24 October 2022 |title=Former Bayonetta voice actor Hellena Taylor now confirms my reporting that she was offered at least $15,000 and that the final offer was for a cameo, despite the claims in a video that went viral last week |language=en |access-date=25 October 2022 }}</ref>

==Release==
''Bayonetta 3'' was released on [[Nintendo Switch]] on October 28, 2022.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Parrish |first=Ash |date=2021-09-23 |title=Bayonetta 3 finally has a new trailer |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/23/22690350/bayonetta-3-new-trailer-nintendo-direct-switch |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=July 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703004311/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/23/22690350/bayonetta-3-new-trailer-nintendo-direct-switch |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bonthuys |first=Darryn |date=2022-05-10 |title=Bayonetta 3 Still Coming In 2022, Nintendo Confirms |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/bayonetta-3-still-coming-in-2022-nintendo-confirms/1100-6503286/ |access-date=2022-07-03 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=July 3, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220703004311/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/bayonetta-3-still-coming-in-2022-nintendo-confirms/1100-6503286/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Alongside the standard physical and digital releases of the game, a special edition box set known as the "Trinity Masquerade Edition" was made available at select retailers, or online through the My Nintendo Store. It features a copy of the game, accompanied by a 200-page, full color artbook with concept illustrations of the game's various demons, and alternate physical cover sleeves for the three ''Bayonetta'' games.<ref name=vgc-trailer/>

== Reception ==
{{Video game reviews
| MC = 86/100<ref name="MC">{{Cite web|title=Bayonetta 3 for Switch|access-date=October 25, 2022|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/bayonetta-3/critic-reviews/?platform=nintendo-switch|website=[[Metacritic]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025191006/https://www.metacritic.com/game/switch/bayonetta-3|url-status=live}}</ref>
| OC = 85% recommend<ref name="opencritic">{{cite web|url=https://opencritic.com/game/13466/bayonetta-3|title=''Bayonetta 3''|publisher=[[OpenCritic]]|access-date=November 2, 2025}}</ref>
| Destruct = 10/10<ref name="Destructoid">{{Cite web|last=Carter|first=Chris|date=October 25, 2022|title=Review: Bayonetta 3|url=https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/review-bayonetta-3-switch/|access-date=October 25, 2022|website=[[Destructoid]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025131140/https://www.destructoid.com/reviews/review-bayonetta-3-switch/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| DT = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="Digital Trends">{{Cite web|url=https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/bayonetta-3-review-nintendo-switch/|title=Bayonetta 3 review: excellent action game is the true queen of the multiverse|last=Colantonio|first=Giovanni|date=October 25, 2022|website=[[Digital Trends]]|access-date=October 26, 2022|archive-date=October 26, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026071826/https://www.digitaltrends.com/gaming/bayonetta-3-review-nintendo-switch/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| EuroG = Recommended<ref>{{Cite news|last=Robinson|first=Martin|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 review - a messy melange that just about retains PlatinumGames' magic|newspaper=[[Eurogamer]]|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/bayonetta-3-review-a-messy-melange-that-just-about-retains-platinumgames-magic|access-date=October 25, 2022|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025182011/https://www.eurogamer.net/bayonetta-3-review-a-messy-melange-that-just-about-retains-platinumgames-magic|url-status=live}}</ref>
| Fam = 37/40<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2022/10/famitsu-review-scores-issue-1769|title=Famitsu Review Scores: Issue 1769|date=October 26, 2022|access-date=October 27, 2022|first=Sal|last=Romano|website=Gematsu|archive-date=October 27, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027165602/https://www.gematsu.com/2022/10/famitsu-review-scores-issue-1769|url-status=live}}</ref>
| GI = 8.25/10<ref>{{Cite magazine|last=Hester|first=Blake|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 Review - For Extravagance's Sake|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/review/bayonetta-3/for-extravagances-sake|access-date=October 25, 2022|magazine=[[Game Informer]]|publisher=[[GameStop Corp.]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025130307/https://www.gameinformer.com/review/bayonetta-3/for-extravagances-sake|url-status=live}}</ref>
| GamePro = 88/100<ref>{{Cite magazine|url=https://www.gamepro.de/artikel/bayonetta-3-im-test,3385617.html|title=Bayonetta 3 im Test: Genau der frische Wind, den die Reihe braucht|last=Reinke|first=Eleen|date=October 25, 2022|magazine=Gamepro|access-date=October 26, 2022|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025145825/https://www.gamepro.de/artikel/bayonetta-3-im-test,3385617.html|url-status=live}}</ref>
| GSpot = 9/10<ref name="GameSpot">{{Cite web|last=Howard|first=Jessica|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 Review - Real Hot Girls Hit|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bayonetta-3-review-real-hot-girls-hit/1900-6417989/|access-date=October 25, 2022|website=[[GameSpot]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025130546/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/bayonetta-3-review-real-hot-girls-hit/1900-6417989/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| GRadar = {{Rating|3.5|5}}<ref>{{Cite web|last=Taylor-Kent|first=Oscar|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 review: "When the witch takes charge, this demonic fighter is better than ever"|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/bayonetta-3-review/|access-date=October 25, 2022|website=[[GamesRadar+]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025131953/https://www.gamesradar.com/bayonetta-3-review/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| IGN = 9/10<ref name="IGN">{{Cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/bayonetta-3-review|title=Bayonetta 3 Review|first=Mitchell|last=Saltzman|date=October 25, 2022|access-date=October 25, 2022|website=[[IGN]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025185210/https://www.ign.com/articles/bayonetta-3-review|url-status=live}}</ref>
| NLife = {{Rating|10|10}}<ref name="Nintendo Life">{{Cite web|url=http://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/nintendo-switch/bayonetta-3|title=Bayonetta 3 Review (Switch)|date=October 25, 2022|access-date=November 1, 2022|first=PJ|last=O'Reilley|website=[[Gamer Network#Partnered websites|Nintendo Life]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025131143/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/nintendo-switch/bayonetta-3|url-status=live}}</ref>
| NWR = 9/10<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/61945/bayonetta-3-switch-review|title=Bayonetta 3 (Switch) Review|last=Zawodniak|first=Melanie|date=October 25, 2022|website=Nintendo World Report|access-date=October 26, 2022|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025220203/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/61945/bayonetta-3-switch-review|url-status=live}}</ref>
| PCM = {{Rating|4.5|5}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://uk.pcmag.com/nintendo-games/142849/bayonetta-3-for-nintendo-switch|title=Bayonetta 3 (for Nintendo Switch)|first=Jordan|last=Minor|date=October 25, 2022|access-date=October 26, 2022|website=[[PC Magazine]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025174643/https://uk.pcmag.com/nintendo-games/142849/bayonetta-3-for-nintendo-switch|url-status=live}}</ref>
| TELE = {{Rating|5|5}}<ref>{{Cite news|last=Hoggins|first=Tom|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 review: baroque barminess and brilliant brawling makes for a magic combination|newspaper=[[The Daily Telegraph|The Telegraph]]|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/gaming/features/bayonetta-3-review-baroque-barminess-brilliant-brawling-makes/|access-date=October 25, 2022|issn=0307-1235|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025182729/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/gaming/features/bayonetta-3-review-baroque-barminess-brilliant-brawling-makes/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| TG = {{Rating|5|5}}<ref>{{Cite web|last=Regan|first=Tom|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 review – the weirdest game you'll play this year|url=https://www.theguardian.com/games/2022/oct/25/bayonetta-3-review-the-weirdest-game-nintendo-switch|access-date=October 25, 2022|website=[[The Guardian]]|publisher=[[Guardian Media Group|Guardian Media Grouo plc]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025134555/https://www.theguardian.com/games/2022/oct/25/bayonetta-3-review-the-weirdest-game-nintendo-switch|url-status=live}}</ref>
| TR = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="TechRadar">{{Cite web|url=https://www.techradar.com/reviews/bayonetta-3|title=Bayonetta 3 review|last=Wood|first=Rhys|date=October 25, 2022|website=[[TechRadar]]|access-date=October 26, 2022|archive-date=October 26, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026071826/https://www.techradar.com/reviews/bayonetta-3|url-status=live}}</ref>
| VGC = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="VGC">{{Cite web|url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/review/bayonetta-3/|title=Review: Bayonetta 3 is a love letter to gaming's most wildly creative action star|last=Castle|first=Matthew|date=October 25, 2022|website=[[Gamer Network#Partnered websites|Video Games Chronicle]]|access-date=October 26, 2022|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025212752/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/review/bayonetta-3/|url-status=live}}</ref>
| VG247 = {{Rating|5|5}}<ref>{{Cite web|last=Peppiatt|first=Dom|date=October 25, 2022|title=Bayonetta 3 review: An instant classic that feels like a proper old-school, content-packed Nintendo adventure|url=https://www.vg247.com/bayonetta-3-review|access-date=October 25, 2022|website=[[VG247]]|archive-date=October 25, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221025130054/https://www.vg247.com/bayonetta-3-review|url-status=live}}</ref>
| rev1 = ''[[Trusted Reviews]]''
| rev1Score = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="Trusted Reviews">{{Cite web|url=https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/bayonetta-3|title=Bayonetta 3 Review|last=Ryles|first=Gemma|date=October 25, 2022|website=[[Trusted Reviews]]|publisher=[[Incisive Media]]|access-date=October 26, 2022|archive-date=October 26, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221026071826/https://www.trustedreviews.com/reviews/bayonetta-3|url-status=live}}</ref>
}}

''Bayonetta 3'' received  "generally favorable" reviews from critics, according to [[review aggregator]] website [[Metacritic]].<ref name="MC"/> Fellow review aggregator [[OpenCritic]] assessed that the game received "mighty" approval, being recommended by 85% of critics.<ref name="opencritic"/>

The combat received widespread praise from reviewers. Mitchell Saltzman, writing for ''[[IGN]]'', described it as, "one of the best combat systems in gaming".<ref name="IGN"/> ''[[GameSpot]]''{{'}}s Jessica Howard described the gameplay as being "lightning-fast and smooth yet accommodates for different playstyles and skill levels".<ref name="GameSpot"/> Chris Carter of ''[[Destructoid]]'' added how "seamless" the combat was and highlighted the game's wealth of content.<ref name="Destructoid"/> The game's levels were also noted by ''[[Nintendo Life]]'' as being larger than prior games in the series, and that the game had greater replayability through challenges, collectibles, and unlockable modes.<ref name="Nintendo Life"/>

Some reviewers criticized the game's performance and technical issues, such as an inconsistent framerate, long loading times, and occasional low-quality textures.<ref name="IGN"/><ref name="TechRadar"/><ref name="VGC"/> Negative opinions were also directed at the game's camera, being labelled as "frustrating" and "annoying".<ref name="Digital Trends"/><ref name="Trusted Reviews"/> The story and characterization of its titular protagonist in comparison to the game's predecessors drew some criticism.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Isaiah |first1=Colbert |title=Bayonetta 3: The Kotaku Review |url=https://kotaku.com/bayonetta-3-review-ending-luka-jeanne-nintendo-switch-1849735230 |website=Kotaku |access-date=7 November 2022 |date=November 3, 2022 |archive-date=November 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221104163050/https://kotaku.com/bayonetta-3-review-ending-luka-jeanne-nintendo-switch-1849735230 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Myers |first1=Maddy |title=Bayonetta 3 broke my heart |url=https://www.polygon.com/reviews/23421409/bayonetta-3-review-platinumgames-nintendo-switch |website=Polygon |access-date=7 November 2022 |date=October 25, 2022 |archive-date=November 4, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221104144357/https://www.polygon.com/reviews/23421409/bayonetta-3-review-platinumgames-nintendo-switch |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last1=Trama |first1=Andrea |title=Bayonetta 3 Erases Years of Women-Empowering Character Development and LGBTQIA+ Representation |url=https://gamerant.com/bayonetta-3-women-empowering-lgbtqia-representation-relationships-luka-jeanne-sexualization/#:~:text=Bayonetta%203%20Erases%20Years%20of%20Women%2DEmpowering%20Character%20Development%20and%20LGBTQIA%2B%20Representation,-By%20Andrea%20Trama&text=Released%20amidst%20glaring%20reviews%20and,for%20its%20sexually%2Demancipated%20protagonist |website=Game Rant |access-date=7 November 2022 |date=October 28, 2022 |archive-date=November 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107132637/https://gamerant.com/bayonetta-3-women-empowering-lgbtqia-representation-relationships-luka-jeanne-sexualization/#:~:text=Bayonetta%203%20Erases%20Years%20of%20Women%2DEmpowering%20Character%20Development%20and%20LGBTQIA%2B%20Representation,-By%20Andrea%20Trama&text=Released%20amidst%20glaring%20reviews%20and,for%20its%20sexually%2Demancipated%20protagonist |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Sales ===

''Bayonetta 3'' sold 41,285 physical units within its first week of release in Japan, making it the second best-selling retail game of the week in the country.<ref>{{cite web|last=Romano|first=Sal|date=November 3, 2022|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2022/11/famitsu-sales-10-24-22-10-30-22|title=Famitsu Sales: 10/24/22 – 10/30/22|publisher=Gematsu|accessdate=November 3, 2022|archive-date=November 3, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221103131403/https://www.gematsu.com/2022/11/famitsu-sales-10-24-22-10-30-22|url-status=live}}</ref> In the United Kingdom, ''Bayonetta 3'' was the third best-selling game in its release week behind ''[[Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II]]'' and ''[[FIFA 23]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Reynolds|first=Ollie|title=UK Charts: Bayonetta 3 Takes The Bronze In A Strong Week For Nintendo|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/10/uk-charts-bayonetta-3-takes-the-bronze-in-a-strong-week-for-nintendo|access-date=November 1, 2022|website=[[Gamer Network#Partnered websites|Nintendo Life]]|date=October 31, 2022|archive-date=October 31, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221031231308/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/10/uk-charts-bayonetta-3-takes-the-bronze-in-a-strong-week-for-nintendo|url-status=live}}</ref> According to NPD in the United States, ''Bayonetta 3'' was the second best-selling Nintendo Switch title in October 2022 under ''[[Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope]]'', as well as the ninth overall across all game platforms.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Nintendo Sales Panic: October 2022 US NPD Group Results - News |url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/62162/nintendo-sales-panic-october-2022-us-npd-group-results |access-date=2022-12-10 |website=Nintendo World Report |archive-date=December 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221210051938/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/62162/nintendo-sales-panic-october-2022-us-npd-group-results |url-status=live }}</ref> 

As of March 2023, the game had sold 1.07 million units.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/02/bayonetta-3-has-sold-over-1-million-units-since-launch|title=Bayonetta 3 Has Sold Over 1 Million Units Since Launch|author=Hagues, Alana|website=Nintendo Life|date=2023-02-07|access-date=2023-02-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230209181354/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2023/02/bayonetta-3-has-sold-over-1-million-units-since-launch|archive-date=2023-02-09|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Accolades ===
{| class="wikitable sortable plainrowheaders"
! Year !! Award !! Category !! Result !! {{Refh}}
|-
| rowspan="2"; style="text-align:center;" | 2022
| [[Golden Joystick Awards]]
| [[Ultimate Game of the Year]]
|{{Nominated}}
|style="text-align:center;" | <ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/voting-for-the-golden-joystick-awards-ultimate-game-of-the-year-is-now-open/ |title=Voting for the Golden Joystick Awards Ultimate Game of the Year is now open |date=2022-11-07 |access-date=2022-11-11 |website=[[GamesRadar+]] |last=Jones |first=Ali |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221107173542/https://www.gamesradar.com/voting-for-the-golden-joystick-awards-ultimate-game-of-the-year-is-now-open/ |archive-date=2022-11-07 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
| [[The Game Awards 2022]]
| Best Action Game
| {{won}}
| align="center"|<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-game-awards-2022-winners|title=The Game Awards 2022 Winners: The Full List|first=Logan|last=Plant|work=[[IGN]]|date=December 17, 2022|accessdate=February 7, 2023|archive-date=December 9, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221209033254/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-game-awards-2022-winners|url-status=live}}</ref>
|- 
| style="text-align:center;" | 2023
| [[26th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards]]
| [[D.I.C.E. Award for Action Game of the Year|Action Game of the Year]]
| {{nominated}}
| style="text-align:center;" | <ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/26th-annual-dice-awards-game-of-the-year-nominees-announced |title=26th Annual DICE Awards Game of the Year Nominees Announced |date=2023-01-12 |access-date=2023-01-12 |website=[[IGN]] |last=Kim |first=Matt |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230112184950/https://www.ign.com/articles/26th-annual-dice-awards-game-of-the-year-nominees-announced |archive-date=2023-01-12 |url-status=live}}</ref>
|-
|}
{{clear}}

==Notes==
{{notelist}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*{{Official website}}
*''[https://www.nintendo.com/en-us/store/products/bayonetta-3-switch/ Bayonetta 3]'' at [[Nintendo.com]]

{{Bayonetta}}
{{PlatinumGames}}

[[Category:Bayonetta]]
[[Category:Video games involved in controversies]]
[[Category:Nintendo Switch games]]
[[Category:Nintendo Switch-only games]]
[[Category:Kaiju video games]]
[[Category:2022 video games]]
[[Category:Nintendo games]]
[[Category:Video games developed in Japan]]
[[Category:Video games about demons]]
[[Category:Video games about witchcraft]]
[[Category:Video games about time travel]]
[[Category:Video games featuring female protagonists]]
[[Category:Action-adventure games]]
[[Category:Hack and slash games]]
[[Category:Science fantasy video games]]
[[Category:Dark fantasy video games]]
[[Category:Video games about parallel universes]]
[[Category:Sequel video games]]
[[Category:PlatinumGames games]]
[[Category:The Game Awards winners]]

{{Wikipedia attribution|original_title=Bayonetta 3|access_date=2026-02-26}}