Bayonetta is a "stylish action game" from PlatinumGames.  The titular character is a witch who can use hair-based magic, as well as firearms attached to her feet, to battle fallen angels and other foes.

<h2>Overview</h2><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238294-bayo_duel.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238294" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.56301369863014" data-width="730" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 730px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238294-bayo_duel.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238294"><img alt="Duel between rivals" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238294-bayo_duel.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238294-bayo_duel.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238294-bayo_duel.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></a><figcaption>Duel between rivals</figcaption></figure><p>Bayonetta is an action game developed by <a href="../../platinumgames/65-6319/" rel="nofollow">PlatinumGames</a> and directed by <a href="../../hideki-kamiya/72-60123/" rel="nofollow">Hideki Kamiya</a> whose previous titles include <a href="../../devil-may-cry/61-13072/" rel="nofollow">Devil May Cry</a>, <a href="../../viewtiful-joe/61-15876/" rel="nofollow">Viewtiful Joe</a>, and <a href="../../okami/61-20555/" rel="nofollow">Ōkami</a>. Like Devil May Cry, the game focuses on “Stylish Action” with over-the-top moves which the developer hopes will break new ground in the genre. Bayonetta was released on January 5, 2010 in the US and was Platinum Games's first release on the <a href="../../playstation-3/60-35/" rel="nofollow">PlayStation 3</a> and the <a href="../../xbox-360/60-20/" rel="nofollow">Xbox 360</a>.</p><p>Bayonetta is a third-person action adventure in the same vein as <a href="../../devil-may-cry/62-147/" rel="nofollow">Devil May Cry</a> with many apparent influences used within its gameplay design owing to the the fact that several of those that have worked on the title, including Hideki Kamiya, have also worked on the first <a href="../../devil-may-cry/61-13072/" rel="nofollow">DMC</a>. It spans sixteen chapters along with the epilogue. The game is named after its chief protagonist, Bayonetta, who is looking to discover her lost memories some twenty years after awakening from a deep sleep of over five centuries. This is exacerbated by the Lumen Angels that seem to be intent on killing her.</p><p>A currency system is also used in the game based on "halos" dropped by slain enemies or found in breakables. The title also uses a series of combination attacks which can be further enhanced by purchasing techniques that can expand the versatility of Bayonetta's skill set. Special attacks, such as Torture Attacks and Climax events, are also used as a part of Bayonetta's offensive arsenal.</p><p>Bayonetta also features a number of naming conventions based on a mix of Latin (notably for the Lumen Angels), Nordic (Ithavoll and Balder), and even Old English (Scarborough Fair). Unusual for a Japanese title, all of the lines in the game were recorded in English (aside from the language spoken by several of the main bosses) with the appropriately localized subtitles provided for each region.</p><h2>Wii U Version</h2><p>A <a href="/wii-u/3045-139/" data-ref-id="3045-139">Wii U</a> port of Bayonetta, developed by Osaka-based studio Bee Tribe and overseen by Kamiya himself, is being included for free with both the physical and eShop release version of its sequel, <a href="/bayonetta-2/3030-39764/" data-ref-id="3030-39764">Bayonetta 2</a> in North America and as part of a Special Edition in Europe and Japan. The physical version of the game is a separate disc packaged with the Bayonetta 2 disc. The European Special Edition of Bayonetta 2 that includes Bayonetta receives a higher age rating than the standalone Bayonetta 2 (rated PEGI 16/USK 16) release due to the first game being rated PEGI 18/USK 18.</p><p>This port will feature updated elements including bonus costumes for Bayonetta based on <a href="/link/3005-191/" data-ref-id="3005-191">Link</a>, <a href="/princess-peach/3005-709/" data-ref-id="3005-709">Princess Peach</a>, <a href="/princess-daisy/3005-807/" data-ref-id="3005-807">Princess Daisy </a>and <a href="/samus-aran/3005-99/" data-ref-id="3005-99">Samus Aran</a>.The costumes also come with character appropriate weapons such as the <a href="/master-sword/3055-16/" data-ref-id="3055-16">Master Sword</a> and change certain sound effects (such as the famous door unlock jingle) to those from <a href="/the-legend-of-zelda-a-link-to-the-past/3030-10276/" data-ref-id="3030-10276">The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past</a> as per Hideki Kamiya's personal request.</p><p>Additionally, Bayonetta will include English and Japanese dual-audio tracks, run at 60 frames-per-second, support <a href="/off-tv-play/3015-7482/" data-ref-id="3015-7482">Off-TV Play</a> and feature the touch-controlled stylus mode from Bayonetta 2 for some casual novice play. The motivation behind the port is the fact that the original game had not been released on a Nintendo platform while the sequel is a Wii U exclusive published by Nintendo.</p><h2>Story</h2><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/2488/584795-bayonetta_2.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-584795" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.5625" data-width="1280" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 1280px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/2488/584795-bayonetta_2.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-584795"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/2488/584795-bayonetta_2.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/2488/584795-bayonetta_2.jpg 1280w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/0/2488/584795-bayonetta_2.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/2488/584795-bayonetta_2.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></a></figure><p>Five hundred years ago, two orders watched over the destiny of the world: the Lumen Sages and the Umbran Witches, light and dark. Together they ensured that the passage of history unfolded as it should, watching over it with two great treasures known only as the Eyes of the World. However, a grave transgression pit both sides against each other in a terrible war. Eventually, the Umbran Witches proved victorious over the Lumen Sages, but the hatred and superstition sown among the people of the world against their kind soon led to persecution and death for all but one of them.</p><p>Five hundred years later, Bayonetta is awakened from her sleep within a coffin that had been sealed and left at the bottom of a lake, far from the war and from the notice of anyone else. However, she awakens without the memories of her past. To make things worse, angels have noticed her awakening and have descended to destroy her. Unfortunately for them, she proves more than able to hold her own. With her favorite weapons in hand and with the help of several unlikely allies, she sets out to discover the truth of her origins and bring an end to the destruction.</p><h2>Characters</h2><p>Many different characters make up the game and not all of them will have Bayonetta's best interests at heart.</p><h3>Bayonetta</h3><p>Voiced By: <a href="/hellena-taylor/3040-80010/" data-ref-id="3040-80010">Hellena Taylor</a></p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238292" data-size="small" data-ratio="0.56729131175468" data-width="587" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 587px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.7%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238292"><img alt="Bayonetta" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg 587w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="Bayonetta" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg 587w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238292-bayo_bayonetta.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a><figcaption>Bayonetta</figcaption></figure><p><i>"I'm sorry. I forgot to mention one of the reasons I hunt your kind. You're much too ugly not to put you out of your misery."</i></p><p>The protagonist is <a href="../94-5599/" rel="nofollow">Bayonetta</a>, a powerful witch who has been asleep for the past five hundred years. Twenty years before the game begins, however, she was awakened from her sleep from the bottom of a lake and has begun a quest to recover the lost memories of her past. She possesses long, black magical hair that also acts to covers her body in the form of her outfit making it appear to be leather. She also wields a variety of weapons as well as guns attached to the heels of her shoes. Her favorite handguns are a set called Scarborough Fair, an old English ballad focusing on four herbs - Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme. Each gun bears the name of one of these herbs.</p><p>She has both ranged attacks thanks to her pistols as well as close combat skill with the use of her katana, although the number of weapons that she can use within the game offer many other opportunities for special attacks. For example, she has shown an ability to use the weapons that angels drop upon being defeated.</p><p>In Bayonetta's case, unlike the traditional perception and tradition of a Western witch, witches in the game are considered to have been tasked with protecting the world alongside their counterparts, the Lumen Sages. Neither side represented "good" or "evil" in the most obvious sense as both were required to hold the balance of the world in check. Witches also possess incredible powers granted to them by their deal with the Devil and when they die, are consigned to Hell whereas the Lumen Sages are claimed by the angels.</p><h3>Jeanne</h3><p>Voiced By: <a href="/grey-delisle/3040-10654/" data-ref-id="3040-10654">Grey DeLisle</a></p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238296" data-size="small" data-ratio="0.56301369863014" data-width="730" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 730px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238296"><img alt="Jeanne" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="Jeanne" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238296-bayo_jeanne.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a><figcaption>Jeanne</figcaption></figure><p><i>"What's the matter, sweetie? Afraid of something, are you!?"</i></p><p>Bayonetta's rival, <a href="../../jeanne/94-13625/" rel="nofollow">Jeanne</a>. Their relationship is shrouded in mystery, but as a witch, she is also as skilled with weapons and magic placing her at equal or better terms than Bayonetta. She appears in the second half of the PS3 demo as Bayonetta's opponent during the Cathedral duel. She also has a set of four handguns similar to Bayonetta's and is determined to confront her at nearly every turn. Her role in the game is intertwined with both the mysterious angels and Bayonetta's quest to discover the truth about her past. She is adept at using the same magic as Bayonetta.</p><h3>Rodin</h3><p>Voiced By: <a href="/khary-payton/3040-85169/" data-ref-id="3040-85169">Khary Payton</a></p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238291" data-size="small" data-ratio="0.56899488926746" data-width="587" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 587px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.9%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238291"><img alt="Rodin" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg 587w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="Rodin" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg 587w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238291-bayo_rodin_1.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a><figcaption>Rodin</figcaption></figure><p><i>"Your fights are yours alone. I'm only here to watch my handiwork in action."</i></p><p>He runs a bar in the game and appears to be an ally of Bayonetta's. He has been described by character designer, Mari Shimazaki, as "a demon gunsmith who plays a big-brother role to Bayonetta". He has also been described by Bayonetta concept designer, Ikumi Nakamura as being "-bald as the night is long" with "a real presence about him". The menu for his bar was offered with a selection of soundtracks slipped into its cover as a pre-order incentive in Japan.</p><p><a href="../../rodin/94-13736/" rel="nofollow">Rodin</a> also creates upgraded weapons or items for Bayonetta depending on whether she can bring back Angel LPs, golden records that allow Rodin to call forth angels. In doing so, he uses their souls to forge the weapons and items that he provides to Bayonetta, often emerging bloody and out-of-breath from mid-air after leaving with an LP to go work on them.</p><h3>Enzo</h3><p>Voiced By: Allan Groves</p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238295" data-size="small" data-ratio="1" data-width="730" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 730px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:100.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238295"><img alt="Enzo" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" data-width="640" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg 640w"><noscript><img alt="Enzo" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238295-bayo_enzo.jpg 640w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" data-width="640"></noscript></a><figcaption>Enzo</figcaption></figure><p><i>"At least get me a drink at Rodin's before you start drilling me."</i></p><p>He's the underground informant tapping into a vast network of sources to get what he needs. He helps Bayonetta out with what he does, helping her to unravel her past. Character designer, Mari Shimazaki, describes him as a person that "adores the Italian Mafia" but that "his personal hobbies are decidedly more bourgeois".</p><p>He initially accompanies Bayonetta to a funeral where she reads from a bible in the hopes of bringing down the angels that are there to retrieve a dead person's soul. At first, he is skeptical of the whole operation until the attack actually happens. Even after nearly crushing his car as an accident, <a href="../../enzo/94-13737/" rel="nofollow">Enzo</a> agrees to help her with a tip on a European "whale" that is trying to sell a large gem that may be the matching pair to the one that Bayonetta bears on her amulet.</p><h3>Luka</h3><p>Voiced By: <a href="/yuri-lowenthal/3040-81915/" data-ref-id="3040-81915">Yuri Lowenthal</a></p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238297" data-size="small" data-ratio="0.56301369863014" data-width="730" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 730px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238297"><img alt="Luka" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="Luka" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg 730w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1238297-bayo_luka.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a><figcaption>Luka</figcaption></figure><p><i>"I'm not your pet. The name is Luka. A name you better remember!"</i></p><p>A freelance journalist following Bayonetta's exploits. He's also got a grapple hook built into his sleeve to help him get to where he needs to stay ahead of the competition as well as in the midst of the action. He turns up in the most surprising places and is in pursuit of Bayonetta for deeply personal reasons that have to do with the death of his father. He also fancies himself something of a ladies man and never hesitates in pouring on the charm whenever the opportunity presents itself. However, his silver tongue is consistently tied whenever Bayonetta decides to play along.</p><h3>Cereza</h3><p>Voiced By: <a href="/stephanie-sheh/3040-89892/" data-ref-id="3040-89892">Stephanie Sheh</a></p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238293-bayo_cereza.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238293" data-size="small" data-ratio="2.3179487179487" data-width="195" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 195px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:231.8%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238293-bayo_cereza.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1238293"><img alt="Cereza" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 195px) 100vw, 195px" data-width="195" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238293-bayo_cereza.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238293-bayo_cereza.jpg 195w"><noscript><img alt="Cereza" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238293-bayo_cereza.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1238293-bayo_cereza.jpg 195w" sizes="(max-width: 195px) 100vw, 195px" data-width="195"></noscript></a><figcaption>Cereza</figcaption></figure><p><i>"Mummy is a witch, and witches protect people and are very strong."</i></p><p>She does not appear to belong where she is found and, as a result, is a very mysterious girl. She meets Bayonetta during the adventure and refers to her as "Mummy" much to Bayonetta's chagrin. She tells her that she will help her find her home as long as she doesn't cry and despite telling her otherwise, Cereza continues to call her Mummy. Whether or not the two are actually bound by blood is still something of a puzzle that must be unraveled.</p><h3>Balder</h3><p>Voiced By: <a href="/liam-obrien/3040-97533/" data-ref-id="3040-97533">Liam O'Brien</a></p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/5370/1258684-father_balder.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1258684" data-size="medium" data-ratio="1.2377622377622" data-width="286" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 286px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:123.8%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/5370/1258684-father_balder.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1258684"><img alt="Balder" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px" data-width="286" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/5370/1258684-father_balder.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/5370/1258684-father_balder.jpg 286w"><noscript><img alt="Balder" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/5370/1258684-father_balder.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/5370/1258684-father_balder.jpg 286w" sizes="(max-width: 286px) 100vw, 286px" data-width="286"></noscript></a><figcaption>Balder</figcaption></figure><p><i>"The time has come to awaken 'The Eyes of the World'."</i></p><p>A mysterious, white robed figure who is the CEO of the mighty Ithavoll Corporation that runs the city of <a href="../../vigrid/95-2694/" rel="nofollow">Vigrid</a> and has extended its control over the entire country, restricting travel across its borders, and making it the most powerful force in the world today. The Ithavoll Corporation had first started out as an IT company until its transformation beneath the watchful eyes of its CEO. Balder regards both Bayonetta and Cereza as integral to his plans, although in what capacity remains to be seen. He is also rumored to have descended from the last of the Lumen Sages granting him incredible powers.</p><h2>Gameplay</h2><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/1/12482/262690-bayonetta.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-262690" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.565" data-width="400" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 400px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.5%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/1/12482/262690-bayonetta.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-262690"><img alt="Bayonetta's bullet storm." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" data-width="400" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/12482/262690-bayonetta.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/12482/262690-bayonetta.jpg 400w"><noscript><img alt="Bayonetta's bullet storm." src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/12482/262690-bayonetta.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/12482/262690-bayonetta.jpg 400w" sizes="(max-width: 400px) 100vw, 400px" data-width="400"></noscript></a><figcaption>Bayonetta's bullet storm.</figcaption></figure><p>Bayonetta has many different methods of attack including hand to hand combat, her pink double barrel handguns and heelguns, and a number of unique powers that manifest as devastating Torture Attacks and Climax events.</p><p>During Climax events, her hair can morph into objects such as feet, hands and even a dragon-like beast to kill enemies in what is also known as a Weave Attack. This hair morphing ability is also used to perform double jumps and morphs around her to form her outfit. Finishing moves, also known as Torture Attacks, are performed against minor enemies as she summons various torture devices including an “iron maiden” and guillotine to completely destroy them. Performing moves such as these will remove hair off her body, the more powerful attacks (such as Climax events) rendering her nearly naked.</p><figure data-align="left" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1239152" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.5625" data-width="960" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 960px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1239152"><img alt="One of Bayonetta's finishing moves, the guillotine" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg 480w"><noscript><img alt="One of Bayonetta's finishing moves, the guillotine" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239152-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_159.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></noscript></a><figcaption>One of Bayonetta's finishing moves, the guillotine</figcaption></figure><p>Like <a href="../../viewtiful-joe/61-15876/" rel="nofollow">Viewtiful Joe</a>, slow-motion (dubbed Witch Time) is used in both cinematic events and combat. Using these attacks she will fight “Angels” that appear to be inspired by European mythology with cherub style faces and ornate armor and wings. The player can also temporarily wield weapons dropped by enemies, such as a tuba that is used as a <a href="../../bazooka/93-2394/" rel="nofollow">bazooka</a>. Bayonetta has a special bar under her health bar, this bar allows you to preform special magical attacks, like summoning torture devices, you can fill it by doing combos with out being hit, in a similar way to the "Stylish" bar in the <a href="../../devil-may-cry/62-147/" rel="nofollow">DMC</a> series.</p><p>Despite earlier reports to the contrary, Bosses have a health bar in the final version in addition to showing visible damage. For example, the mini-boss in the E3 presentation had layers of armor on him, Bayonetta destroyed his armor and then summoned a giant dragon and finished him off. The boss dropped a gold record, another 60's music reference. These records unlock new weapons when taken to Rodin. Defeated enemies drop angel halos that is used as currency to power-up your weapons, unlock skills, and buy items in said place. Gameplay is not only crazy and over the top but it's like Devil May Cry on speed. The action is blazingly fast as you pull off combo after combo in lightning speed. Many of these combos are so fast that you barely notice that Bayonetta is de-robed when doing her powerful finishing moves.</p><h3>Cosmology: Trinity of Realities</h3><p>The world of Bayonetta is divided into what is known as the Trinity of Realities: Purgatorio, Inferno, and Paradiso. It is hinted that it wasn't always this way until the First Armageddon in which Jubileus, as the manifestation of the Divine Will, was forced to govern Paradiso.</p><p>Umbran Witches had the ablity to traverse between Purgatorio (which stands between Paradiso and Inferno) and the 'real' world. While in Purgatorio, they can affect objects in the real world, although no one can see them aside from the destruction that they cause which can cause them to flee. From their perspective, a park bench had just exploded for no apparent reason. Humans and other living things are represented as distortions to those in Purgatorio and are completely unaffected by any attack unless the Witch decides to drop into their reality.</p><h3>Difficulty</h3><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1239174" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.5625" data-width="960" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 960px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1239174"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg 480w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/669/1239174-t_bayonetta_vp_gt_hd_212.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></noscript></a></figure><p>Bayonetta includes 5 difficulty settings:</p><ul><li>Very Easy</li><li>Easy</li><li>Normal</li><li>Hard</li><li>Non-Stop ∞ Climax</li></ul><p>Very Easy, Easy, and Normal are the only difficulty choices available initially. Hard is unlocked after beating the game once on Normal, while Non-Stop ∞ Climax is unlocked after beating the game once on Hard.</p><p>On Very Easy or Easy, a special additional mode called Automatic Mode can be enabled, which automates some aspects of gameplay, including moving Bayonetta in front of enemies on screen and condensing all attacks and dodging to a single button, so that pressing that one button will perform all necessary combat actions. Hideki Kamiya jokingly called this mode "Mommy Mode" and said it is like having the assistance of "a helping hand from an incredible skilled expert in the game".</p><p>Other differences between difficulties:</p><ul><li>Very Easy adds Vitality regeneration</li><li>Hard and Non-Stop ∞ Climax change the placement of enemies</li><li>Non-Stop ∞ Climax also disables Witch Time from triggering via dodging and using Bat Within</li><li>in general, enemy speed, damage, and health scale up on higher difficulty settings and down on lower difficulty settings</li></ul><h3>Weapons</h3><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-728158" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.5625" data-width="1280" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 1280px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-728158"><img alt="One of Bayonetta's most powerful finishing moves where a dragon bites an enemy in half and turns her almost completely nude" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg 1280w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg 480w"><noscript><img alt="One of Bayonetta's most powerful finishing moves where a dragon bites an enemy in half and turns her almost completely nude" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg 1280w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/26/728158-bayo002.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></noscript></a><figcaption>One of Bayonetta's most powerful finishing moves where a dragon bites an enemy in half and turns her almost completely nude</figcaption></figure><p>Bayonetta's weapons will include four guns named Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme (A reference to the English ballad: "Scarborough Fair"). She can also equip dual shotguns on her legs and wield a <a href="../../katana/93-690/" rel="nofollow">Katana</a>. Platinum games has stated that each weapon will contain a "monster" spirit and that they are designing weapons that "you could hardly imagine". Bayonetta will be able to equip Weapons on her hands, legs, or both, and you can charge the katana for more powerful attacks.</p><p>This will cause a heart to appear on screen that beats when you charge it up and dark fumes billow from the sword. Bayonetta also has a huge chain and sickle that she uses for both ground and air attacks. You can equip all 4 guns at once or you can opt to swap out the pistols in her hands for a sword and use the guns on her feet as well. Certain weapons are designed to be equipped for the hands, feet, or both. You can even upgrade or buy new weapons or use the ones that enemies drop.</p><h3>Concoctions</h3><p>Bayonetta also has the ability to mix together concoctions that can create special lollipop candies that she can use as healing aids or enhancements to her abilities. The ingredients can be found by breaking items throughout the game and a maximum limit of 99 items of each type can be stocked. The ingredients required for mixing together different concoctions are:</p><ul><li>Baked Gecko</li><li>Mandragora Root</li><li>Unicorn Horn</li></ul><h3>Angel Attack</h3><p>Special bullets can also be collected in each stage allowing Bayonetta to play an arcade shooter called "Angel Attack" at the end of the stage. The points earned during the game can be swapped out for different lollipops or other items. Halos can also be purchased with whatever is left over.</p><h3>Locations</h3><p>Bayonetta will feature a large variety of locations to fight through. The demo had included two areas, Little Big City and a Cathedral where she would face off against her rival, Jeanne.</p><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/1/11423/739165-14.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-739165" data-size="small" data-ratio="0.56222222222222" data-width="900" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 900px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.2%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/1/11423/739165-14.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-739165"><img alt="Preserved Vigrid Ruins" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/1/11423/739165-14.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/11423/739165-14.jpg 900w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/1/11423/739165-14.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/1/11423/739165-14.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="Preserved Vigrid Ruins" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/1/11423/739165-14.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/11423/739165-14.jpg 900w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/1/11423/739165-14.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/1/11423/739165-14.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a><figcaption>Preserved Vigrid Ruins</figcaption></figure><ul><li><b>Vigrid</b><br />An early location in the game. You see glowing translucent pedestrians walking around, but these people are in a parallel reality. Bayonetta can see them but they can't see her. What they CAN see is the damage that Bayonetta and the enemies are causing during battle, making the civilians flee.<br />When Bayonetta start out in Big Little City, you see a cut scene where she walks into a field of flowers (sparkles rise from the ground signifying angel power) with pillars and fountains in the background. A number of angels appear in front of her meaning a battle is about to ensue. Angels are Bayonetta's main adversaries through out the game. There is a formidable angelic foe at the end of the Big Little City zone.<br />It's not a boss but it's wields a giant <a href="../../axe/93-437/" rel="nofollow">two-handed axe</a>. Bayonetta can jump over the attacks even without "Witch Time". Humorously, this giant miniboss has pathetically tiny wings, gold piercings, and the famous angel halo. A fine mist appears as you battle this miniboss, which is designed to create a holy atmosphere. The battle ends with an onscreen prompt that summons a giant hair dragon who bites the miniboss angel in half!</li></ul><h2>Graphics</h2><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png" data-ref-id="1300-771300" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.5655253837072" data-width="847" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 847px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:56.6%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png" data-ref-id="1300-771300"><img alt="Boss battles will be impressive in scope and visuals." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png 847w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png 480w"><noscript><img alt="Boss battles will be impressive in scope and visuals." src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png 847w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/1/12482/771300-picture_18.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></noscript></a><figcaption>Boss battles will be impressive in scope and visuals.</figcaption></figure><p>Previews of the game have praised the game's overall look and crazy over the top cinematics like blowing a tuba to make angels explode with music or picking up a staff and pole dancing guys to death. They say that every inch of the environment is well detailed and animated. In one preview it describes a battle with a creature that blasts from the ground hand first and starts rattling the stone cobbled bridge that Bayonetta is on with a stick. This shows that the game will be using highly polished set-piece battles.The game runs all the action without any problems with the camera obscuring the action, which is a common problem in similar games like the <a href="../../ninja-gaiden/61-21876/" rel="nofollow">Ninja Gaiden</a> and <a href="../../devil-may-cry/62-147/" rel="nofollow">Devil May Cry</a> series. One scene is described as "a riot of color". They even went as far as to say the game is one of the most visually impressive games in the last five years.</p><h2>Limited Edition</h2><h3>Collector's Edition (Xbox 360)</h3><figure data-align="right" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1242496" data-size="small" data-ratio="0.928" data-width="750" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 750px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:92.8%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1242496"><img alt="Climax Edition - Xbox 360" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg 750w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="Climax Edition - Xbox 360" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg 750w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/2/20618/1242496-bayonetta_climax_360.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a><figcaption>Climax Edition - Xbox 360</figcaption></figure><p>An extensive Collector's Edition was also provided as a pre-order incentive for Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. Both the Australia and New Zealand versions received a replica of one of the Scarborough Fair pistols that Bayonetta uses. All of the editions, however, contain the following items:</p><ul><li>A premium slipcase containing the game and the other included extras</li><li>A 36 page hardcover art book</li><li>A CD soundtrack featuring selected music from the game</li></ul><p>Japan's pre-order incentive took the form of a custom menu based on a what might be found at the Gates of Hell, a bar in the game, with a CD containing selected tracks from the title.</p><h3>Special Edition (Wii U)</h3><p>The Special Edition only available in Japan, Europe and Australia includes physical disc copies of both Bayonetta and Bayonetta 2 in a special cardboard packaging.</p><h3>First Print Edition (Wii U)</h3><figure data-ref-id="1300-2678636" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg" data-size="small" data-align="right" data-ratio="0.62283384301733" data-width="981" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 981px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:62.3%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2678636"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 981w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 981w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/8/82063/2678636-b2fpe.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>The First Print Edition is available in Europe (not in Australia) in limited quantities of 15,300 copies. This edition also includes Bayonetta and Bayonetta 2 each in its own separate Wii U game case. Together they are packaged inside a faithful recreation of the Book of Angels with an embossed foldout-design.</p><h3>Special Edition / Climax Edition (Switch)</h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2990343" data-ratio="1.4101123595506" data-width="712" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 712px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:141.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2990343"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" data-width="712" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg 712w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg 680w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg 712w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/8/82063/2990343-bayose.jpg 680w" sizes="(max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" data-width="712"></noscript></a></figure><p>For the Nintendo Switch release, the original Bayonetta was available together again with Bayonetta 2 in a Special Edition (PAL) or Climax Edition (Japan). This edition contains both games, a steelbook featuring key art from both games but represented with the respectively other game's version of Bayonetta. Additionally, it contains six Verse Cards and a set of stickers.</p><p>Notably, the copy of the original Bayonetta is only available via a download code in the Bayonetta 2 case in the PAL Special Edition whereas the Japanese Climax Edition does include Bayonetta in its own separate case on a game card.</p><p>All standard retail copies of Bayonetta 2 on Nintendo Switch (all regions) come with a download code for Bayonetta as well.</p><p> </p><h2>Trivia:</h2><ul><li>Sometimes when you enter Rodin's "Gates of Hell" Bar he'll say: "Check this out: 'Whadya buyin?' He he heh. Heard that in a game once." A reference to <a href="../../the-merchant/94-1411/" rel="nofollow">The Merchant</a> in <a href="../../resident-evil-4/61-1578/" rel="nofollow">Resident Evil 4</a>.</li><li>In a cutscene on Chapter 3, Bayonetta rides an angel on a lava wave and says, "Dancin' a go-go, baby!" which is a nod to Viewtiful Joe.</li><li>The missile ride section of Chapter 14 is an homage to <a href="/space-harrier/3030-6036/" data-ref-id="3030-6036">Space Harrier</a>, complete with gunfire and the Space Harrier music playing in the background. The achievement for getting a platinum in both of the missile ride sections is also called "Fire up the Afterburners" in a nod to <a href="/after-burner/3030-3629/" data-ref-id="3030-3629">After Burner</a> another Sega arcade classic.</li><li>The music playing during the motorcycle chase sequence in Route 666 is the theme from <a href="/after-burner-ii/3030-2139/" data-ref-id="3030-2139">After Burner II</a>.</li><li>In panther form, Bayonetta leaves a trail of blossoming skull flowers, similar to the flowers and plants that spring up at Amaterasu's feet in Okami.</li><li>In a cutscene on Chapter 5 where Bayonetta finds her lipstick, she draws a pattern on Luka's face which closely resembles the markings that can be found on Amaterasu's face in the game Okami.</li><li>Also during the same cutscene in Chapter 5 Luka mentions his past girlfriends. Their names are Claire, Trish, Silvia and Ammy. This is a reference towards <a href="/claire-redfield/3005-628/" data-ref-id="3005-628">Claire Redfield</a> from Resident Evil, Trish from Devil May Cry, Silvia from Viewtiful Joe and Amaterasu from Okami.</li><li>Jeanne's character design closely resembles that of Dante from Devil May Cry, red coat and white hair.</li><li>During the Prologue, Bayonetta and Rodin mention a "Mr. Eggman". This is a reference to <a href="/dr-robotnik/3005-293/" data-ref-id="3005-293">Dr. Robotnik</a> from <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog/3025-383/" data-ref-id="3025-383">Sonic The Hedgehog</a>, who's name is Dr. Eggman in Japan.</li><li>In the Prologue cutscene in the graveyard, Rodin makes two angels hold a casket and then knocks them into outer space with a bat, in a nod to <a href="/god-hand/3030-5888/" data-ref-id="3030-5888">God Hand's</a> "Home Run God" God Reel.</li><li>For the Wii U version, <a href="https://twitter.com/PG_kamiya/status/482357663028625408" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Platinum adjusted Jeanne's chest size</a> to be more representative of Kamiya's preferences, making it a bit smaller. Platinum's <a href="/jean-pierre-kellams/3040-91273/" data-ref-id="3040-91273">JP Kellams</a> later <a href="https://twitter.com/PG_jp/status/515806555703218177" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">joked on Twitter</a> that this is the most important difference that was overlooked in the Digital Foundry comparison between the new and original versions.</li></ul><h2>Patches</h2><h3>Version 1.01</h3><p>The patch was released for the PS3 version of the game on January 28, 2010. It allows players to install assets to the hard drive, which decreases load times and has also been reported to reduce screen tearing. After installing the patch, an "Install" option will appear in the middle of the game's main menu. While Sega announced the patch release, neither Sega nor Platinum Games had anything to do with the patch; it was in fact Sony who put it together. The patch is 138MB and the install is about 4.5GB.</p><h2>Useful links</h2><ul><li><a href="http://www.sega.co.uk/platinumgames/bayonetta" rel="nofollow">Official website (NA)</a></li><li><a href="http://platinumgames.com/" rel="nofollow">Platinum Games Community Website</a></li><li><a href="http://bayonetta.jp/main.html" rel="nofollow">Bayonetta website (Japanese)</a></li></ul><h2>Soundtrack</h2><p>The soundtrack is only released in japan, but every single track in the CD are in the US and EU games. The soundtrack has 150 tracks in it.</p><p>Disc One</p><table><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>"Opening Demo"</td><td>0:41</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>"One of A Kind"</td><td>5:00</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>"EV01 Beginning"</td><td>0:43</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>"GM01 Chapter Start"</td><td>1:20</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>"EV02-1 Prologue"</td><td>0:44</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>"EV02-2 Angel Advent A"</td><td>1:35</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>"Riders Of The Light"</td><td>2:27</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>" <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fly_Me_To_The_Moon" rel="nofollow">Fly Me To The Moon</a> (∞ Climax Mix)"</td><td>5:19</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>"EV03-1 Enzo and Drive"</td><td>4:02</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>"EV03-2 Jeanne Enters"</td><td>1:37</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>"ST01 The Falling Military Transport"</td><td>3:11</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>"EV04-1 Dance With Jeanne"</td><td>0:28</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>"EV04-2 Signs of Unrest"</td><td>0:13</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>"The Gates Of Hell"</td><td>4:00</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>"EV05 Scarborough Fair Equipped"</td><td>0:29</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>"ST02 Vigrid—Station Home"</td><td>5:08</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>"Theme Of Bayonetta—Mysterious Destiny"</td><td>2:52</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>"ST03 Vigrid: Town Areas"</td><td>5:45</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>"EV06-1 Angel Advent B"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>20.</td><td>"EV06-2 Bayonetta Preparing for Battle A"</td><td>0:15</td></tr><tr><td>21.</td><td>"The Heavies"</td><td>2:16</td></tr><tr><td>22.</td><td>"Demonic Beast Summon"</td><td>2:06</td></tr><tr><td>23.</td><td>"Fortitudo—In labors And Dangers (Movement 1)"</td><td>2:59</td></tr><tr><td>24.</td><td>"GM02 Chapter Clear"</td><td>1:52</td></tr><tr><td>25.</td><td>"EV07-1 Jeanne: Bike Action"</td><td>0:53</td></tr><tr><td>26.</td><td>"EV07-2 Conversation with Jeanne"</td><td>1:19</td></tr><tr><td>27.</td><td>"EV07-3 In the Shambles Inside the Memories A"</td><td>0:37</td></tr><tr><td>28.</td><td>"Battle For The Umbra Throne"</td><td>2:24</td></tr><tr><td>29.</td><td>"EV08 Angel Advent C"</td><td>0:22</td></tr><tr><td>30.</td><td>"EV09-1 Luka Enters"</td><td>0:49</td></tr><tr><td>31.</td><td>"EV09-2 Conversation with Luka A"</td><td>1:31</td></tr><tr><td>32.</td><td>"EV09-3 Conversation with Luka B"</td><td>0:34</td></tr><tr><td>33.</td><td>"EV09-4 Angel Advent D"</td><td>0:30</td></tr><tr><td>34.</td><td>"EV09-5 Bayonetta Preparing for Battle B"</td><td>0:29</td></tr><tr><td>35.</td><td>"In a Pinch!"</td><td>2:24</td></tr><tr><td>36.</td><td>"EV10-1 Mysterious Girl, Cereza Enters"</td><td>0:47</td></tr><tr><td>37.</td><td>"EV10-2 Fortitudo Appears"</td><td>0:21</td></tr><tr><td>38.</td><td>"EV11 Conversation with Fortitudo"</td><td>1:30</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Disc Two</p><table><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>"ST04 Town Areas Swallowed by Lava"</td><td>3:23</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>"EV12-1 A Close Call!"</td><td>0:09</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>"EV12-2 Action!"</td><td>2:30</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>"ST05 Underground Cave"</td><td>2:33</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>"Paradiso—Paradise of Light"</td><td>3:00</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>"God's Voice A"</td><td>1:17</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>"God's Voice B"</td><td>2:02</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>"EV13 Fortitudo Again"</td><td>1:07</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>"Fortitudo—In Labors And Dangers"</td><td>4:58</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>"Climatic Battle"</td><td>1:18</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>"Let's Hit The Climax!"</td><td>1:36</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>"ST06 Moonlit Valley"</td><td>3:44</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>"EV14-1 Confrontation with Jeanne A"</td><td>0:47</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>"EV14-2 Confrontation with Jeanne B"</td><td>0:23</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>"Red &amp; Black"</td><td>5:16</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>"ST07 The Witches's Forge"</td><td>3:21</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>"EV15 Cereza"</td><td>2:03</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>"First Love"</td><td>0:29</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>"Broken Heart"</td><td>0:12</td></tr><tr><td>20.</td><td>"EV16 Sexy Battle"</td><td>0:57</td></tr><tr><td>21.</td><td>"EV17 Deceitful"</td><td>0:32</td></tr><tr><td>22.</td><td>"EV18 Temperantia Enters"</td><td>1:50</td></tr><tr><td>23.</td><td>"Temperantia—In Foregoing Pleasures"</td><td>3:41</td></tr><tr><td>24.</td><td>"Splash Wave (∞ Climax Mix)"</td><td>4:36</td></tr><tr><td>25.</td><td>"After Burner (∞ Climax Mix)"</td><td>5:27</td></tr><tr><td>26.</td><td>"Magnificent 7 (∞ Climax Mix)"</td><td>3:22</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Disc Three</p><table><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>"ST08 Paradiso—Graveyard of the Memories of Time"</td><td>6:05</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>"EV19-1 In the Shambles Inside the Memories B"</td><td>0:40</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>"EV19-2 In the Shambles Inside the Memories, Assault"</td><td>1:08</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>"ST09 Paradiso—Star Ocean"</td><td>5:57</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>"EV20 Luka Glances Bayonetta's Battle"</td><td>1:36</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>"EV21-1 Iustitia Enters A"</td><td>0:08</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>"EV21-2 Luka's Delusion A"</td><td>0:19</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>"EV21-3 Iustitia Enters B"</td><td>0:37</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>"EV21-4 Iustitia Enters C"</td><td>0:42</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>"Iustitia—In Giving Every Man His Due"</td><td>4:09</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>"EV22-1 At the Airport, Talking with Luka A"</td><td>0:30</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>"EV22-2 Eyes of the World"</td><td>4:18</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>"EV22-3 At the Airport, Talking with Luka B"</td><td>2:02</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>"EV22-4 At the Airport, Assault"</td><td>0:56</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>"ST10 Giant Military Transport: Valkyria"</td><td>3:41</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>"EV23-1 Confrontation with Jeanne C"</td><td>2:04</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>"EV23-2 The Falling Valkyria"</td><td>1:25</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>"ST11 Save Cereza!"</td><td>2:34</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>"EV24-1 Sapientia Enters A"</td><td>0:41</td></tr><tr><td>20.</td><td>"EV24-2 Sapientia Enters B"</td><td>1:13</td></tr><tr><td>21.</td><td>"Sapientia—In The Choice Between Good And Evil"</td><td>4:03</td></tr><tr><td>22.</td><td>"EV25 Luka's Delusion B"</td><td>0:22</td></tr><tr><td>23.</td><td>"Space Harrier (∞ Climax Mix)"</td><td>5:51</td></tr><tr><td>24.</td><td>"Wiwi Jumbo (Heaven Sent Mix)"</td><td>0:32</td></tr><tr><td>25.</td><td>"EV26-1 Before the Final Battle with Jeanne A"</td><td>1:59</td></tr><tr><td>26.</td><td>"EV26-2 Before the Final Battle with Jeanne B"</td><td>0:29</td></tr><tr><td>27.</td><td>"EV26-3 Before the Final Battle with Jeanne C"</td><td>1:22</td></tr><tr><td>28.</td><td>"Blood &amp; Darkness"</td><td>5:34</td></tr><tr><td>29.</td><td>"EV27-1 Jeanne A"</td><td>1:21</td></tr><tr><td>30.</td><td>"EV27-2 Truth"</td><td>0:48</td></tr><tr><td>31.</td><td>"EV27-3 Jeanne B"</td><td>1:03</td></tr><tr><td>32.</td><td>"EV27-4 Miraculous Revival!?"</td><td>0:14</td></tr><tr><td>33.</td><td>"EV27-5 Bayonetta and Luka"</td><td>0:57</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Disc Four</p><table><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>"EV28 To Isabel Building"</td><td>0:27</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>"ST12 Isabel Building—Lower Floors"</td><td>2:44</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>"ST13 Isabel Building—Upper Floors"</td><td>4:51</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>"EV29-1 Talking with Balder A"</td><td>1:12</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>"EV29-2 Talking with Balder B"</td><td>1:52</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>"EV29-3 Talking with Balder C"</td><td>2:11</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>"EV29-4 Talking with Balder D"</td><td>1:33</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>"EV29-5 Luka, Deceased"</td><td>1:26</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>"EV29-6 Balder"</td><td>1:01</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>"You May Call Me Father"</td><td>5:26</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>"EV30-1 The Journey Ends"</td><td>2:06</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>"EV30-2 Bayonetta Captured by the Statue of God"</td><td>3:31</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>"EV31-1 Jeanne—To the Space A"</td><td>0:31</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>"EV31-2 Jeanne—To the Space B"</td><td>0:41</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>"Friend"</td><td>3:43</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>"EV32 Jeanne, Dead"</td><td>2:07</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>"The Greatest Jubilee"</td><td>7:37</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>"EV33 Staff Roll...?"</td><td>0:41</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>"EV34 Luka Admires the Night Sky"</td><td>0:50</td></tr><tr><td>20.</td><td>"EV35-1 Epilogue"</td><td>1:52</td></tr><tr><td>21.</td><td>"EV35-2 Romance"</td><td>1:04</td></tr><tr><td>22.</td><td>"Let's Dance Boys!"</td><td>3:39</td></tr><tr><td>23.</td><td>"Fly Me To The Moon"</td><td>2:24</td></tr><tr><td>24.</td><td>"Memory"</td><td>2:58</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Disc Five</p><table><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>"Magical Sound Shower/Out Run"</td><td>5:30</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>"Splash Wave/Out Run"</td><td>5:55</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>"After Burner/After Burner"</td><td>5:03</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>"After Burner/After Burner II"</td><td>5:23</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>"After Burner With Melody Ver./After Burner II"</td><td>5:23</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>"Boss/Fantasy Zone"</td><td>1:43</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>"Theme/Space Harrier"</td><td>4:05</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>"GM03 Angel Attack"</td><td>3:01</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>"GM04 Versus Result Jingle"</td><td>0:09</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>"GM05 Silver Medal Acquisition Jingle"</td><td>0:07</td></tr><tr><td>11.</td><td>"GM06 Gold Medal Acquisition"</td><td>0:07</td></tr><tr><td>12.</td><td>"GM07 Platinum Medal Acquisition Jingle"</td><td>0:08</td></tr><tr><td>13.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Military March"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>14.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Moonlight"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>15.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Fantaisie Impromptu"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>16.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Sonata for Two Pianos"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>17.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Skaters' Waltz"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>18.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: The Ride of the Valkyries"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>19.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Hallelujah"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>20.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Jupiter"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>21.</td><td>"Angel's Voice: Mars"</td><td>0:33</td></tr><tr><td>22.</td><td>"2008 Tokyo Game Show Promotion"</td><td>1:17</td></tr><tr><td>23.</td><td>"Bayonetta Image Song: Prototype A"</td><td>1:10</td></tr><tr><td>24.</td><td>"Mysterious Destiny: Prototype"</td><td>2:47</td></tr><tr><td>25.</td><td>"Bayonetta Image Song: Prototype B"</td><td>5:00</td></tr><tr><td>26.</td><td>"Bayonetta Image Song: Prototype C"</td><td>3:28</td></tr><tr><td>27.</td><td>"In a Pinch!: Prototype"</td><td>4:39</td></tr><tr><td>28.</td><td>"Mysterious Destiny: Retro Version"</td><td>2:39</td></tr><tr><td>29.</td><td>"One Of A Kind: Retro Version"</td><td>5:19</td></tr></tbody></table><h2>System Requirements</h2><h3>PC</h3><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col">PC Minimum</th><th scope="col">PC Recommended</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 / 8 (8.1)/ 10</li><li>Processor: Core i3 3220</li><li>Memory: 4 GB RAM</li><li>Graphics: Radeon HD6950 / GeForce GTX 570 (VRAM 768MB)</li><li>DirectX: Version 9.0c</li><li>Storage: 20 GB available space</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Operating System: Windows 7 / 8 (8.1)/ 10</li><li>Processor: Core i5 4460</li><li>Memory: 8 GB RAM</li><li>Graphics: Radeon HD7870 / Geforce GTX 760 or more (VRAM 2GB or more)</li><li>DirectX: Version 9.0c</li><li>Storage: 20 GB available space</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>

Giraffe and Annika is an action-adventure game starring an amnesic cat girl exploring an island of mysteries.

Hunt: Showdown is an online multiplayer bounty hunting game with PvE elements.

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Hunt: Showdown is an online action game developed and published by <a href="/crytek-gmbh/3010-268/" data-ref-id="3010-268">Crytek GmbH</a> for <a href="/pc/3045-94/" data-ref-id="3045-94">PC</a>, <a href="/xbox-one/3045-145/" data-ref-id="3045-145">Xbox One</a>, and <a href="/playstation-4/3045-146/" data-ref-id="3045-146">PlayStation 4</a>.</p><h2>System Requirements</h2><h3>PC</h3><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col">PC Minimum</th><th scope="col">PC Recommended</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system</li><li>Operating System: Windows 7 64bit</li><li>Processor: Intel i5-4590 @ 3.3GHz (4th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 3 1200</li><li>Memory: 8 GB RAM</li><li>Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 660 TI or AMD Radeon R7 370</li><li>DirectX: Version 11</li><li>Network: Broadband Internet connection</li><li>Storage: 20 GB available space</li><li>Sound Card: DirectX compatible audio card</li><li>Additional Notes: Best experienced with headphones</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system</li><li>Operating System: Windows 10 64 bit</li><li>Processor: Intel i5-6600 @ 3.3Ghz (6th Generation) or AMD Ryzen 5 1400</li><li>Memory: 12 GB RAM</li><li>Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 970 4 GB or AMD Radeon R9 390X</li><li>DirectX: Version 11</li><li>Network: Broadband Internet connection</li><li>Storage: 20 GB available space</li><li>Sound Card: DirectX compatible audio card</li><li>Additional Notes: Best experienced with headphones</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><h2>External Links</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.huntshowdown.com/" data-target="true" data-nofollow="true" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hunt: Showdown Official Site</a></li></ul>

Final Kingdom Hearts HD Compilation containing an HD version of Dream Drop Distance and two brand new episodes. Unlike the two previous compilations, which were on Playstation 3, this one is for Playstation 4.

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Kingdom Hearts HD II.8: Final Chapter Prologue follows <a href="/kingdom-hearts-hd-1-5-remix/3030-39815/" data-ref-id="3030-39815">HD 1.5 ReMIX</a> &amp; <a href="/kingdom-hearts-hd-ii-5-remix/3030-44229/" data-ref-id="3030-44229">HD 2.5 ReMIX</a> on Playstation 3. Those contained two full games and an HD movie based on a DS game. This compilation follows the same formula but is slightly different in execution.</p><p>On November 26th, 2016, HD II.8 was made available for pre-order on the <a href="http://kh13.com/news/kingdom-hearts-hd-28-final-chapter-prologue-available-for-pre-order-on-playstation-store-us" rel="nofollow">Playstation Store</a>. This marks the first <a href="/kingdom-hearts/3025-414/" data-ref-id="3025-414">Kingdom Hearts</a> game to be available digitally.</p><h2>Contents</h2><h3><a href="/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance/3030-31740/" data-ref-id="3030-31740">Dream Drop Distance</a> HD</h3><p><a href="/kingdom-hearts-3d-dream-drop-distance/3030-31740/" data-ref-id="3030-31740">Dream Drop Distance</a> was originally released for the Nintendo 3DS, this is a full playable edition of the game. It takes place after <a href="/kingdom-hearts-ii/3030-4763/" data-ref-id="3030-4763">Kingdom Hearts II</a> &amp; <a href="/kingdom-hearts-recoded/3030-31644/" data-ref-id="3030-31644">Re: Coded</a> and leads into <a href="/kingdom-hearts-iii/3030-42926/" data-ref-id="3030-42926">Kingdom Hearts III</a>. It appears to be a straight port of the game with no new content, though touch screen mechanics will be altered to play on a single screen. This version will mark the first time a <a href="/kingdom-hearts/3025-414/" data-ref-id="3025-414">Kingdom Hearts</a> game will run at 60 fps.</p><h3><a href="/kingdom-hearts-unchained-kh/3030-41679/" data-ref-id="3030-41679">χ [chi]</a> Back Cover</h3><p><a href="/kingdom-hearts-unchained-kh/3030-41679/" data-ref-id="3030-41679">Kingdom Hearts χ [chi]</a> started out available in Japan as a browser game before being remade as Unchained χ [chi] for mobile, which was released worldwide. Back Cover is an HD movie, about 80 minutes in length, that will trend over some territory as the previous versions but will expand on the previous versions with new content as well. While the playable versions tell the story from the player's perspective, Back Cover tells the story from the perspective of the major characters The Foretellers. It takes place the farthest back in the timeline the series has gone to date.</p><h3>0.2 <a href="/kingdom-hearts-birth-by-sleep/3030-21447/" data-ref-id="3030-21447">Birth by Sleep</a> – A Fragmentary Passage –</h3><p><a href="/kingdom-hearts-birth-by-sleep/3030-21447/" data-ref-id="3030-21447">Birth by Sleep</a> is a prequel that takes place 10 years before <a href="/kingdom-hearts/3030-10983/" data-ref-id="3030-10983">Kingdom Hearts.</a> It was originally released for the PSP and was also included in HD 2.5 ReMIX. The Final Mix version contains a playable secret ending starring Aqua fighting the Heartless. This is a brand new playable episode (series director <a href="/tetsuya-nomura/3040-637/" data-ref-id="3040-637">Tetsuya Nomura</a> <a href="http://www.khinsider.com/news/Famitsu-Interview-with-Nomura-Kingdom-Hearts-2-8-to-use-KH3-tech-6067" rel="nofollow">stated</a> it's about the length of a single Kingdom Hearts world), that takes place some time after the original secret ending but still before Kingdom Hearts. It will combine gameplay systems from Birth by Sleep and Kingdom Hearts III.</p><p>Unlike all other new content in the previous Kingdom Hearts HD compilations, Back Cover &amp; A Fragmentary Passage are being made in <a href="/unreal-engine-4/3015-2551/" data-ref-id="3015-2551">Unreal Engine 4</a>, the same engine that Kingdom Hearts III is using.</p><p> </p>

Kingdom Hearts HD II.8: Final Chapter Prologue (Limited Edition)

Psikyo Shooting Stars Bravo includes Samurai Aces, TENGAI, [SENGOKU CANNON/SAMURAI ACES 3], GUNBIRD, GUNBIRD2, and GUNBARICH.

Take the fight to evil Russian robots using a rocket-powered self-adapting battlesuit in this innovative third-person shooter from Resident Evil creator Shinji Mikami.

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Announced via a trailer on Spike TV's GameTrailers TV, Vanquish was developed by <a href="/platinumgames/3010-6319/" data-ref-id="3010-6319">PlatinumGames</a>. <a href="/shinji-mikami/3040-32999/" data-ref-id="3040-32999">Shinji Mikami</a>, creator of <a href="/resident-evil/3025-397/" data-ref-id="3025-397">Resident Evil</a> and <a href="/god-hand/3030-5888/" data-ref-id="3030-5888">God Hand</a>, directed the game, while <a href="/atsushi-inaba/3040-40595/" data-ref-id="3040-40595">Atsushi Inaba</a> worked on production. The game was released on October 19 in North America, October 21 in Japan and October 22 in Europe for <a href="/xbox-360/3045-20/" data-ref-id="3045-20">Xbox 360</a> and <a href="/playstation-3/3045-35/" data-ref-id="3045-35">PlayStation 3</a>. A demo was released on Xbox Live and Playstation Network early in September.</p><p>The game was unveiled at Tokyo Game Show. It does not feature any co-operative or competitive multiplayer modes.</p><p>The game was innovative in several ways, much like <a href="/resident-evil-4/3030-1578/" data-ref-id="3030-1578">Resident Evil 4</a> before it. It improved upon the <a title="Cover system" href="/cover-system/3015-55/" data-ref-id="3015-55">cover system</a>, where in contrast to previous cover-based shooters, the cover in Vanquish is easily <a title="Destructible environment" href="/destructible-cover/3015-112/" data-ref-id="3015-112">destructible</a>. The game also penalizes the player's ranking for the number of times they have taken cover, though its most important innovation is the <a href="/knee-sliding/3015-5921/" data-ref-id="3015-5921">power-slide </a>mechanic that allows the player to slide into and out of cover at high speeds, or in <a title="Bullet time" href="/bullet-time/3015-78/" data-ref-id="3015-78">bullet time</a>.</p><h2>Gameplay</h2><p>The gameplay in Vanquish resembles closely that of Gears of War 2 from a mechanical standpoint. Where it differs is that it runs at a much faster pace, everything players can do in Gears they can do in Vanquish, but at about 100 times the speed. The <a href="/augmented-reaction-suit/3055-3952/" data-ref-id="3055-3952">Augmented Reaction Suit</a> (ARS) offers three main abilities to aid players in taking down enemies, these are as follows:</p><ul><li><b>Power Slide:</b> Use the ARS energy to <a href="/knee-sliding/3015-5921/" data-ref-id="3015-5921">slide</a> at rocket speeds while shooting enemies, using melee during this move will execute a deadly melee attack that kills most enemies in one hit and significantly damages those it doesn’t.</li><li><b>Melee Attacks</b>: Depending on what weapon have equipped, Sam will do different melee attacks. If players successfully land a melee attack of any kind, it will completely drain their ARS energy and overheat the suit.</li><li><b>AR Mode</b>: Augmented Reality is Vanquish’s way of saying slow motion. When using slow, the suit's energy will drain, if drained completely while using AR mode, the suit will overheat.</li></ul><h3>Weapons</h3><p>Sam carries the Battlefield Logic ADaptable Electronic (BLADE) Weapons System that is capable of duplicating any weapon found on the battlefield. Players can hold three weapons at any time in Vanquish along with the two grenade types, explosive and EMP. Grenades instantly detonate when thrown while power sliding. Every weapon can be upgraded, by collecting an upgrade chip that will instantly upgrade whatever weapon is currently equipped. The other way to upgrade weapons is to collect weapons players have when they have full ammo for them, this method is the only way to upgrade grenades. Below is a list of the weapons found in the game.</p><ul><li>Assault Rifle: A great all round weapon, the accuracy over long distances makes an ideal weapon for all situations and the high magazine capacity makes it very useful for boss enemies that require a body part to be damaged first as it allows ammo in more powerful weapons to be saved.</li><li>Heavy Machine Gun: Has a slower rate of fire than the standard assault rifle but is far stronger bullet-for-bullet. It loses a significant amount of accuracy over long range, it is extremely effective against bosses when used in AR mode as the player can deal huge damage very quickly.</li><li>Shotgun: Absolutely devastating at close range and stuns Romanovs, allowing the player to easily move around the back and attack the weak point. A great trick when using a machine gun in AR mode is to swap quickly to the shotgun to deal massive damage then quickly swap back to the machine gun to cancel the pump of the shotgun.</li><li>LFE gun: A single shot weapon the deals massive damage if used correctly, the centre of the energy ball needs to connect with an enemy in order for it to be most effective. The LFE gun can also knock Romanovs off their feet and send them backwards to create distance between them and the player.</li><li>Lock on Laser: This weapon has a delay in order to lock on to a target, once locked it will fire 4 shots at once which can target four separate enemies or be used to deal more damage to a single target which makes it a great choice for enemies with a lot of health.</li><li>Sniper Rifle: This only really serves its intended purpose, it must be reloaded every after shot but each bullet is very powerful. A headshot can take out grunt enemies instantly and it is especially useful for taking down turret using enemies.</li><li>Rocket Launcher: A single shot weapon that can lock on to a target and the rocket will track it. The lock on and reload speed will be significantly improved once the weapon is upgraded. It can be used to deal huge damage to bosses although it is very useful against groups of dangerous enemies.</li><li>Disk Launcher: This weapon is extremely effective against Romanovs as it can dismember their head and arms with a single shot. Its melee attack is also devastating and can expose the unknown boss’s weak point instantly.</li><li>Grenade: Are very effective against groups of enemies, they can also be triggered manually if the player shoots them. Triggering AR mode then shooting the grenade can make better use of its blast radius.</li><li>EMP: Will disable enemies momentarily, allowing the player to deal massive damage to a single foe. EMPs will instantly kill the flying enemies if thrown while they are airborne, they are also extremely useful against the bogey's.</li></ul><h3>Tri Weapon Pack</h3><p>For pre-ordering the game players gained access to an exclusive pack of three weapons which were later made available for download for 160 Microsoft Points. The three weapons are:</p><ul><li>Boost Machine Gun: A perfect blend of the heavy machine guns firepower and the assault rifles accuracy, this is compensated by a much smaller clip. It only has 15 shots until forcing players to reload.</li><li>Anti - Armour Pistol: This pistol has the power of the shotgun and the accuracy of the sniper rifle. One shot will cripple most grunt enemies if not kill them and the rounds will stun larger enemies such as the Romanovs.</li><li>Laser Cannon: An extremely powerful energy based weapon, requires a small delay until the beam is fired. This weapon is fueld by the ARS energy, so using it too much at once will overheat the suit, but it essentially has infinite ammo as long the ARS has energy.</li><li>All of these weapons are upgradable in the same manner as the standard weapons, the Laser Cannon's charge and suit drain replace the standard ammo upgrades that other weapons have.</li></ul><h2>Story</h2><p>Vanquish is set on far-future Earth where its populations has reached critical levels, creating a shortage of resources and real estate. To solve this problem, United States of America has launched SC-01 Providence, a self-sustaining space station that harnesses solar energy and is capable of supporting millions of people inside a fully functional eco-system. Meanwhile, <a href="/victor-zaitsev/3005-15960/" data-ref-id="3005-15960">Victor Zaitsev</a> of the Order of the Russian Star leads a coup in Russia. His first act as their new leader is to promptly declare war on USA by capturing Providence and turning its solar generators into a giant death ray. He destroys San Francisco with the warning shot, threatening to destroy New York next unless the USA surrenders unconditionally.</p><p>America responds by sending <a href="/sam-gideon/3005-15661/" data-ref-id="3005-15661">Sam Gideon</a>, a DARPA agent and the game's protagonist with a battalion of US marines, led by <a href="/robert-burns/3005-15663/" data-ref-id="3005-15663">Robert Burns</a>, to take back the station and stop Victor. Sam is also entrusted with a secret mission to rescue the scientist responsible for the space-station, <a href="/francois-candide/3005-15962/" data-ref-id="3005-15962">Dr. Francois Candide</a> and help him disable the death ray before it could be used again. The storyline is treated with a playful tone, often satirizing the events of other popular sci-fi shooters and delving into cliches from an ironic point of view.</p><h2>Development</h2><p>Vanquish was the result of the poorly received game called <a href="/god-hand/3030-5888/" data-ref-id="3030-5888">God Hand</a> that was created by the now defunct <a href="/clover-studio/3010-3345/" data-ref-id="3010-3345">Clover Studio</a>. Although it was considered to be a cult classic by many, God Hand did not sell well and Mikami believed that it was because he had too much creative freedom. As a result, he decided to make a game that will appeal to a wider audience by making a mainstream action game. This attempt at broader appeal is partially evident in the fact that <a href="http://platinumgames.com/2010/10/25/narrative-design-in-vanquish/" rel="nofollow">English is the lead language on Vanquish</a>, even though the developers fully acknowledge the fact that many of their fans have "a preset bias towards the Japanese language track for whatever reason."</p><p>The game is confirmed by Mikami to be a <a href="http://s1.zetaboards.com/The_Board_2/topic/3694998/1/" rel="nofollow">spiritual successor</a> to <a href="/pn03/3030-16637/" data-ref-id="3030-16637">P.N.03</a>, a stylish sci-fi action game that received lukewarm reviews. Mikami said the reason P.N.03 was considered inferior was because of time constraints from Capcom and he couldn't design the gunplay the way he originally intended to. He added by saying that one of the reasons he loves partnering with <a href="/sega/3010-62/" data-ref-id="3010-62">Sega</a> (publisher of Vanquish) is due to to the freedom the Sega gives him. The result of Platinum's departure from Capcom and relationship with Sega can be seen in Vanquish. The graphics of Vanquish were partially inspired by the Casshern animated television series.</p><p>Game development started in 2007, and the game was released on October 19th, 2010.</p><h3>Demo</h3><p>A playable demo was released for Vanquish on August 31st in North America and September 2nd in Japan and Europe for both the Xbox 360 and Playstation 3. The demo puts the player in the shoes of Sam Gideon and his suit as the American troops battle Russian forces in Act 1, Scene 3 of the full game, and ends with a boss battle against a large, transforming, prototype mech called the Argus.</p><h2>Reception</h2><p>Vanquish was widely acclaimed by critics, with many reviewers praising the game's visuals, gameplay, innovation, fast pace, and over-the-top style, though some also criticized its short length, lack of multiplayer, mediocre plot, and corny dialogue.</p><p>Vanquish has received <a title="Game of the Year" href="http://gaming.wikia.com/wiki/Game_of_the_Year" rel="nofollow" data-ref-id="false">Game of the Year</a> awards from the Classic Game Room, Zavvi, and <i>TGN Times</i>. <i>X360</i> gave it the "Best Shooter" award, and GamesRadar gave it an award for Most "Oh Shit" Moments Per Minute. IGN gave it the "Best Sci-Fi Game" award. GameSpot gave the game the awards for "Best Game No One Played" and "Best Original Game Mechanic" for its <a href="/knee-sliding/3015-5921/" data-ref-id="3015-5921">rocket-sliding</a> game mechanic, which acts as both a defensive escape and an offensive setup, opening up new gameplay possibilities for action games.</p><p>The game has set a new trend, with its influence seen in recent shooter games that have incorporated similar sliding-boost mechanics. Some of the games that appear to have incorporated similar mechanics include <a href="/first-person-perspective/3015-330/" data-ref-id="3015-330">first-person</a> shooters such as <a title="Bulletstorm" href="/bulletstorm/3030-30088/" data-ref-id="3030-30088">Bulletstorm</a>, <a title="Crysis 2" href="/crysis-2/3030-26754/" data-ref-id="3030-26754">Crysis 2</a>, <a title="Killzone 3" href="/killzone-3/3030-30431/" data-ref-id="3030-30431">Killzone 3</a>, and <a href="/titanfall/3030-42860/" data-ref-id="3030-42860">Titanfall</a>, and third-person shooters such as <a href="/gunslinger-stratos/3025-2891/" data-ref-id="3025-2891">Gunslinger Stratos</a> and Sega's own <a title="Binary Domain" href="/binary-domain/3030-33304/" data-ref-id="3030-33304">Binary Domain</a>.</p><p> </p><h2>System Requirements</h2><h3>PC</h3><table data-max-width="true"><thead><tr><th scope="col">PC Minimum</th><th scope="col">PC Recommended</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><ul><li>Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 / 8 (8.1)/ 10</li><li>Processor: Intel Core i3 (2.9 GHz) or AMD equivalent</li><li>Memory: 4 GB RAM</li><li>Graphics: Dx9 compliant video card with 1 GB VRAM (Nvidia GeForce 460 or AMD Radeon 5670)</li><li>DirectX: Version 9.0c</li><li>Storage: 20 GB available space</li></ul></td><td><ul><li>Operating System: Windows 7 / 8 (8.1)/ 10</li><li>Processor: Intel Core i5 (3.4 GHz) or AMD equivalent</li><li>Memory: 8 GB RAM</li><li>Graphics: Dx11 compliant video card with 2 GB RAM (Nvidia GeForce 660 Ti or AMD Radeon R9 270)</li><li>DirectX: Version 9.0c</li><li>Storage: 20 GB available space</li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table>

Unusual 3d parking puzzle with kicking mechanics. Kicking is fun! Kick a car from the parking lot alone or with friends. And don't think that it will be easy. 

The Suicide of Rachel Foster is a first-person, narrative horror game.

All Images, Daedalic Entertainment, PAX West 2019 Booth, PAX West 2019

All Images, Daedalic Entertainment, PAX East 2019 Booth, PAX East 2019

Latest version to the Under Night In-Birth franchise with numerous characters, mechanic tweaks, and new character Lonrekia.

Under Night In-Birth Exe:Late[cl-r] (Physical Collector's Edition)

Violent 2D top down racing game with procedurally genrated race tracks, inspired by old classics

<p>Defend Them ! is a tower-defense-action-rpg, developed by Butter Fly Games, a one-man-indie-game-developer from germany.</p><p>First release was on 10th october 2019 on itch.io.</p><p>Second and main release is planned for 20 february 2020.</p>

A re-release of Devil May Cry 3: Dante's Awakening, featuring a more accessible level of difficulty, a survival mode titled Bloody Palace, and the playable debut of Dante's twin brother, Vergil.

<h2>New Features</h2><ul><li><strong>Difficulty Adjustment:</strong> Due to criticisms concerning the original Devil May Cry 3's level of difficulty, DMC3: SE adjusted its Normal mode to be much more accessible, with the original version's Normal mode now taking the place of the Hard difficulty, and the original's Hard mode taking the place of a new 'Very Hard' mode. Dante Must Die mode, however, was left untouched.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>Turbo:</strong> A modifier separate from the difficulty settings was added, called Turbo, which would speed up the gameplay by 20%.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>Bloody Palace:</strong> Originally introduced in <a href="/devil-may-cry-2/3030-16741/" data-ref-id="3030-16741">Devil May Cry 2</a>, the survival mode Bloody Palace was absent from DMC3, but made its return in DMC3: SE.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>New Character:</strong> What is perhaps its biggest addition is the playable inclusion of Vergil, twin brother to Dante and main antagonist of the game. Besides a unique opening cutscene, however, Vergil's story simply follows Dante's though while also removing the cutscenes. He must even face against himself as to where Dante would face Vergil, only he is shown to be wearing a red outfit as opposed to blue. Beyond his default DMC3 attire, Vergil also has a couple of unlockable costumes.</li></ul><ul><li><strong>New Boss:</strong> Jester, who is eventually revealed to be the alter-ego of <a href="/arkham/3005-3195/" data-ref-id="3005-3195">Arkham</a>, makes multiple appearances in the original game but is never fought. In DMC3: SE he can now be fought up to three times as an optional boss, though there is no introductory cutscene nor does it have any bearing on the story.</li></ul>

Double Dragon & Kunio-kun: Retro Brawler Bundle is a compilation of the eleven Famicom games available on the earlier Kunio-Kun Nekketsu: Complete Famicom-Hen, and adds four English-release versions as well, and also includes the three NES Double Dragon titles.

<p>Games included in this compilation:</p><ul><li><a href="/renegade/3030-18293/" data-ref-id="3030-18293">Nekketsu Kōha Kunio-kun</a></li><li><a href="/super-dodge-ball/3030-3552/" data-ref-id="3030-3552">Nekketsu Kōkō Dodgeball Bu</a></li><li><a href="/river-city-ransom/3030-6608/" data-ref-id="3030-6608">Downtown Nekketsu Monogatari</a></li><li><a href="/nintendo-world-cup/3030-17062/" data-ref-id="3030-17062">Nekketsu Koukou Dodgeball Bu: World Cup Hen</a></li><li><a href="/downtown-nekketsu-koushinkyoku-soreyuke-daiundouka/3030-20154/" data-ref-id="3030-20154">Downtown Nekketsu Koushinkyoku: Soreyuke Daiundoukai</a></li><li><a href="/downtown-special-kunio-kun-no-jidaigeki-da-yo-zeni/3030-19674/" data-ref-id="3030-19674">Downtown Special: Kunio-kun no Jidaigeki da yo - Zenin Shuugou!</a></li><li><a href="/ike-ike-nekketsu-hockey-bu-subete-koronde-dairanto/3030-14072/" data-ref-id="3030-14072">Ike Ike! Nekketsu Hockey-bu: Subete Koronde Dairantou</a></li><li><a href="/crash-n-the-boys-street-challenge/3030-8109/" data-ref-id="3030-8109">Bikkuri Nekketsu Shin Kiroku! Harukanaru Kin Medal</a></li><li><a href="/nekketsu-kakuto-densetsu/3030-9278/" data-ref-id="3030-9278">Nekketsu Kakutō Densetsu</a></li><li><a href="/kunio-kun-no-nekketsu-soccer-league/3030-2433/" data-ref-id="3030-2433">Kunio-kun no Nekketsu Soccer League</a></li><li><a href="/nekketsu-street-basket-ganbare-dunk-heroes/3030-2383/" data-ref-id="3030-2383">Nekketsu Street Basket: Ganbare Dunk Heroes</a></li><li>Renegade</li><li>Super Dodge Ball</li><li>River City Ransom</li><li>Crash 'n the Boys Street Challenge</li><li><a href="/double-dragon/3030-20752/" data-ref-id="3030-20752">Double Dragon</a></li><li><a href="/double-dragon-ii-the-revenge/3030-4816/" data-ref-id="3030-4816">Double Dragon II</a></li><li><a href="/double-dragon-iii-the-sacred-stones/3030-12741/" data-ref-id="3030-12741">Double Dragon III</a></li></ul><h2>Trivia</h2><p>This is the first official Kunio-kun/Nekketsu entry to be released on an Xbox system.</p>

Sonic 2
Knuckles the Echidna in Sonic the Hedgehog 2
3D Sonic the Hedgehog 2
Sega Ages Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Run, jump and spin through levels as Sonic and Tails, in order to thwart the plans of the nefarious Dr. Robotnik and free the kidnapped animals! Released by Sega in 1992, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is often considered one of the greatest platformers of all time.

<h2>Overview</h2><p>A year after the original <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog/3030-2465/" data-ref-id="3030-2465">Sonic the Hedgehog</a>, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 burst on to the scene. Sonic 2 is very similar to the original, but builds on many of the concepts and ideas introduced in the first title while piling on nearly twice the number of levels. The most drastic change was the introduction of a sidekick, <a href="/tails/3005-45/" data-ref-id="3005-45">Miles "Tails" Prower</a>. The new character allowed a simple 2-player competitive mode, borrowing levels from the single player to add a much needed multi-player component. Tails could also follow Sonic around in single player mode, and could be controlled by plugging in a second Genesis gamepad.</p><figure data-align="right" data-size="medium" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269131-sonic2.png" data-ref-id="1300-269131" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269131-sonic2.png" data-ref-id="1300-269131"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269131-sonic2.png" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269131-sonic2.png 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></a></figure><p>Arguably the most dramatic improvement is the implementation of the Spin-dash. By ducking and pressing the jump button, Sonic would rev up in ball form. After revving up enough, the player could stop pressing down to get a burst of speed while staying rolled into a ball. Beyond those two additions, however, gameplay for Sonic the Hedgehog 2 remains relatively the same; the goal is still to get to the end of a level as quickly as possible, while destroying as many enemies and collecting as many rings as possible. Rather than having three acts and a boss fight (as in Sonic 1), Sonic 2 features only two acts per level, with some exceptions (Metropolis Zone features three acts, Sky Chase, Wing Fortress, and Death Egg all feature a single act each).</p><p>Chaos Emeralds also returned from the original, offering up an additional 7th Emerald (instead of the original game's 6). The special stages were done on a endless half-pipe which Sonic ran forward on collecting rings and avoiding enemies. If he had enough rings when he hit the checkpoint then he would continue until eventually obtaining a Chaos Emerald. Collect all 7 and Sonic would be able to transform into Super Sonic. In this form Sonic becomes even faster and rather than his usual blue is colored a bright yellow.</p><h2>Plot</h2><p>Not content just exploring his home of South Island, <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog/3005-73/" data-ref-id="3005-73">Sonic the Hedgehog</a>'s adventures took him all over the globe. It was eventually he found himself at West-side Island, said to be home to a lost civilization. This civilization were given seven "Chaos Emeralds" of great power as a gift from the Gods. Eventually, this power corrupted the civilization, and this angered the Gods greatly. As punishment, they sealed the emeralds away in an alternate dimension called "The Special Zone".</p><p>Intrigued, Sonic lands his biplane, the Tornado, on the island. It's here Sonic runs in to a shy, two-tailed fox named Miles - Sonic nicknames him "Tails" for obvious reasons. Tails, as it turns out, loves machinery, and he is fascinated by Sonic's plane. Before the two can get too acquainted, however, they hear an explosion in the distance. <a href="/dr-robotnik/3005-293/" data-ref-id="3005-293">Doctor Ivo 'Eggman' Robotnik</a> has followed Sonic to this island, and is tearing it apart looking for the Chaos Emeralds. He hopes they will act as an energy source for his greatest, most deadly creation: a giant, weaponized space station called the "Death Egg." Together, Sonic and Tails agree that Robotnik has to be stopped at all costs.</p><h2>Special Stage</h2><figure data-align="left" data-size="medium" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269133-sonic_2_specialstage.gif" data-ref-id="1300-269133" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269133-sonic_2_specialstage.gif" data-ref-id="1300-269133"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269133-sonic_2_specialstage.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/9949/269133-sonic_2_specialstage.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></a></figure><p>The Special Stage is played from behind Sonic in a 3D half-pipe. The player is given a target of the number of rings they have to collect as Sonic runs through the pipe whist avoiding the bombs. If the target is met then the stage continues, if not then the player returns to the level where they entered the Special Stage with a total of no rings. By meeting all the targets in the Special Stage, the stage is cleared and the player unlocks a Chaos Emerald. Each new Special Stage is harder than the one which preceded it and they have to be completed in order with no way to skip to the next one without completing the one previous.</p><p>After collecting all 7 Chaos Emeralds, compared to the total of 6 found in the Master System version, Sonic gains the ability to change into Super Sonic after collecting 50 rings. When Sonic becomes his super form he is virtually invincible, running and jumping much higher than normal, only able to be killed by drowning, being crushed, falling off the screen or by running out of time in the level. This added speed comes at a price as it makes it almost impossible to do precise jumps due to the increased speed as well as loosing 1 ring a second whilst in super form; with Sonic reverting back to his normal self when the rings reach zero and effectively making him a sitting duck to enemies.</p><h2>Two Player Versus Mode</h2><figure data-align="right" data-size="medium" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-718487" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="640" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 640px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-718487"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg 640w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg 480w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg 640w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/3068/718487-sonic_2.jpg 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></noscript></a></figure><p>Sonic 2 also included a two versus player mode where, playing as either Sonic or Tails, two players can have a split screen race on one of 3 different zones or a Special Stage. In the regular zone races, on either Emerald Hill Zone, Casino Night Zone or Mystic Cave Zone, players are ranked in 5 different areas with the highest score winning the round. On the Special Stage the winner is the one who collects the most rings. In the case of a tie in the regular zones a Special Stage is then ran to determine a winner. Two player mode also added a couple of new item boxes. One being a teleporter which switched the two players around, the other being a Dr. Robotnik item which damaged the player that found it.</p><h2>Compatibility with Sonic &amp; Knuckles</h2><p>By slotting the Sonic the Hedgehog 2 cartridge into the top of the <a href="/sonic-knuckles/3030-18115/" data-ref-id="3030-18115">Sonic &amp; Knuckles</a> cartridge, the player will play as <a href="/knuckles/3005-204/" data-ref-id="3005-204">Knuckles</a> instead of either Sonic or Tails. He can glide and climb walls but due to his inferior jumping ability some boss fights are more difficult as Knuckles.</p><p>There are a few minor differences in the way Star Post checkpoints are handled however as when returning to a level after a Special Stage the player would keep the rings they had before they went in, whereas in the default game all rings were lost. The same applies when a life is lost.</p><p>Some minor changes to levels were also made so the player could find extra secrets or shortcuts using Knuckles climbing and gliding abilities.</p><h2>Re-Releases</h2><p>The Genesis version of this game was re-released on:</p><ul><li><a href="/sonic-classics/3030-5929/" data-ref-id="3030-5929">Sonic Compilation</a> on the Mega Drive in <a href="/europe/3035-289/" data-ref-id="3035-289">Europe</a></li><li>Sonic 3-in-1 on the <a href="/genesis/3045-6/" data-ref-id="3045-6">Genesis</a> in <a href="/north-america/3035-1664/" data-ref-id="3035-1664">North America</a></li><li><a href="/sega-smash-pack-2/3030-14658/" data-ref-id="3030-14658">Sega Smash Pack 2</a> on the <a href="/pc/3045-94/" data-ref-id="3045-94">PC</a></li><li>Real Arcade on the PC</li><li><a href="/sonic-mega-collection/3030-17691/" data-ref-id="3030-17691">Sonic Mega Collection</a> on the <a href="/gamecube/3045-23/" data-ref-id="3045-23">Nintendo Gamecube</a></li><li><a href="/sonic-mega-collection-plus/3030-12297/" data-ref-id="3030-12297">Sonic Mega Collection Plus</a> on the <a href="/playstation-2/3045-19/" data-ref-id="3045-19">PS2</a>, <a href="/xbox/3045-32/" data-ref-id="3045-32">Xbox</a> and PC</li><li><a href="/sonics-ultimate-genesis-collection/3030-24218/" data-ref-id="3030-24218">Sonic Genesis Collection</a> on the PS2 and <a href="/psp/3045-18/" data-ref-id="3045-18">PSP</a></li><li>Wii <a href="/virtual-console/3015-2925/" data-ref-id="3015-2925">Virtual Console</a></li><li><a href="/xbox-live-marketplace/3045-86/" data-ref-id="3045-86">Xbox Live Arcade Marketplace</a></li><li><a href="/sonics-ultimate-genesis-collection/3030-24218/" data-ref-id="3030-24218">Sonic's Ultimate Genesis Collection</a> for <a href="/xbox-360/3045-20/" data-ref-id="3045-20">Xbox 360</a> and <a href="/playstation-3/3045-35/" data-ref-id="3045-35">PS3</a></li><li><a href="/sega-mega-drive-and-genesis-classics/3030-58967/" data-ref-id="3030-58967">Sega Mega Drive and Genesis Classics Collection</a> for PC</li><li><a href="/sega-3d-classics-collection/3030-50806/" data-ref-id="3030-50806">Sega 3D Classics</a> for the <a href="/nintendo-3ds/3045-117/" data-ref-id="3045-117">Nintendo 3DS</a></li><li><a href="/sega-forever/3015-9045/" data-ref-id="3015-9045">Sega Forever</a> for <a href="/cell-phone/3055-342/" data-ref-id="3055-342">Mobile Platforms</a></li><li><a href="/sega-genesis-classics/3030-67193/" data-ref-id="3030-67193">Sega Genesis Classics</a> for <a href="/playstation-4/3045-146/" data-ref-id="3045-146">Playstation 4</a> and <a href="/xbox-one/3045-145/" data-ref-id="3045-145">Xbox One</a></li></ul><h2>Zones</h2><p>Sonic the Hedgehog 2 has 11 zones, plus one special stage. This is twice as many as the original Sonic, which had 6 zones. However, a big difference this time around is that most of the zones have two acts instead of three. This is not a hard and fast rule though, as the Metropolis Zone has 3 acts and towards the end of the game Sky Chase Zone, Wing Fortress Zone and Death Egg Zone all have a single act.</p><h3><strong>Emerald Hill Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-220059" data-ratio="0.6905311778291" data-width="433" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 433px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:69.1%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-220059"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg 433w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg 433w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/4187/220059-sonic202.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>The first zone of Sonic 2 bares more than a passing resemblance to <a href="/green-hill-zone/3035-144/" data-ref-id="3035-144">Green Hill Zone</a> from the previous game. Emerald Hill is set inside a tropical resort, featuring palm trees, rolling green hills, and wildlife-themed enemies like monkeys, fish and bees. Dr. Robotnik appears here, driving a drill-based machine that he tries to ram in to Sonic.</p><h3><strong>Chemical Plant Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246856-1117362942_00.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-246856" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246856-1117362942_00.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-246856"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246856-1117362942_00.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246856-1117362942_00.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246856-1117362942_00.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246856-1117362942_00.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This zone is set in a bustling industrial city that is flooded with a neon pink liquid. Sonic can survive while submerged in this, but only for a limited time since there are no air bubbles. Dr. Robotnik makes his appearance with a suction tube clipped onto the bottom of his ship, which he uses to extract toxic materials from the liquid below. The player must avoid his attacks while remaining on a series of platforms, which feature panels that will successively rotate.</p><h3><strong>Aquatic Ruin Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199878-son2_10.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199878" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199878-son2_10.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199878"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199878-son2_10.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199878-son2_10.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199878-son2_10.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199878-son2_10.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This zone is set in the ruins of a sinking city as it succumbs to the depths of a lake. The low routes lead deep under the surface and features a significantly higher level of challenge, so players are advised to keep their heads above water whenever possible. Robotnik appears here with a giant mallet attached to his ship, he will hit down on two columns that flank the player on either side of street, causing them to shoot out arrows. The player must use these arrows as platforms in order to be able to reach Robotnik and bring him down.</p><h3><strong>Casino Night Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199571-son2_15.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199571" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199571-son2_15.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199571"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199571-son2_15.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199571-son2_15.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199571-son2_15.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199571-son2_15.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This zone is set in a series of giant pinball tables, featuring flippers, bumpers and a number of slot machines. Dr. Robotnik appears here at the bottom of the last pinball table, with a set of electric pincers on the bottom of his ship. He uses this to drop bombs on the player, so staying on the ground is inadvisable. Instead, the player must spin dash up to, and utilize, the bumpers in order to hurl themselves at Robotnik.</p><h3><strong>Hill Top Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199576-son2_19.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199576" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199576-son2_19.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199576"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199576-son2_19.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199576-son2_19.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199576-son2_19.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199576-son2_19.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>Set in a mountain range high above the clouds, Sonic and Tails must face earthquakes and rising magma as they traverse this treacherous summit. Here, the doctor emerges from the lava in a heat proof submarine with a flamethrower attached on top. He will repeatedly emerge from the lava and attempt to shoot the player with flames, which also sets the ground on fire. The player must strike out at Robotnik once he emerges from the lava, while avoiding the jet stream of flames.</p><h3><strong>Mystic Cave Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199579-son2_22.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199579" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199579-son2_22.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199579"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199579-son2_22.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199579-son2_22.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199579-son2_22.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199579-son2_22.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This underground zone is set in a deep cave, which is covered in crystals. Sonic must swing from vines and avoid being crushed by crystals while they progress on their way to Dr. Robotnik. If the player manages to get through this stage, they are greeted at the end by Robotnik, who has a pair of drills attached on either side of ship. He uses these to drill into the ceiling and create sharp debris that will fall on the player if they’re not careful.</p><p> </p><h3><strong>Oil Ocean Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199585-son2_26.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199585" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199585-son2_26.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199585"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199585-son2_26.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199585-son2_26.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199585-son2_26.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199585-son2_26.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This zone is a giant oil refinery which features pools of thick oil that that the player can skim across. The oil is a double-edged sword, however, as while players can use it, if they are not careful they can sink into it and lose a life. Robotnik appears here in a submarine similar to the one he uses in the Hill Top Zone, but instead of a flamethrower, he now has a laser cannon that is much more lethal. Another new tactic he uses is that when submerged, he will send out a claw that travels over one of the platforms on the screen.</p><h3><strong>Metropolis Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246850-1117362728_00.gif" data-ref-id="1300-246850" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246850-1117362728_00.gif" data-ref-id="1300-246850"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246850-1117362728_00.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246850-1117362728_00.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246850-1117362728_00.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246850-1117362728_00.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This is the only stage in the game to contain three distinct acts. This massive, construction themed, zone features corkscrews, copious spikes, magma and, of course, industrial themed moving platforms. After players make the lengthy excursion to the end of act three, they will predictably find Dr. Robotnik there. This time, he is surrounded by seven shaped pods, which rotate around him, creating a protective shield. Every time the player hits Robotnik, one of the pods will break off and transform into an inflatable copy of him, but these don’t pose a problem as they can be destroyed with a single hit. After all the pods have been destroyed, Robotnik will strafe across the screen with a laser beam. He is vulnerable in this state, however, as one more hit will send him packing.</p><h3><strong>Sky Chase Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246851-1117362807_00.gif" data-ref-id="1300-246851" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246851-1117362807_00.gif" data-ref-id="1300-246851"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246851-1117362807_00.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246851-1117362807_00.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246851-1117362807_00.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/6494/246851-1117362807_00.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>This one act zone is set in the sky, as Sonic rides on top of Tail’s plane, the Tornado. Throughout the stage, Sonic’s partner will remain under Sonic wherever he goes, so falling isn’t a problem here. The player comes up against a variety of aerial themed enemies, but when they get to the end they will find that there is no boss in this stage.</p><h3><b>Wing Fortress Zone</b></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199598-son2_36.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199598" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199598-son2_36.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199598"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199598-son2_36.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199598-son2_36.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199598-son2_36.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199598-son2_36.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>Tails' plane, the Tornado, takes a hit and begins to fall to the ground. Sonic bails out and lands on Robotnik’s Wing Fortress. This flying citadel has many different traps and enemies, but the biggest threat to the player is falling off the screen, as this can be done a little too easily. Here, Robotnik has built a contraption to do the fighting for him. He locks Sonic within an energy field, and along with Sonic there is a laser cannon which strafes to and fro across the top of the screen, attempting to periodically fry the player. Along with the cannon, there are three flying spike platforms that bounce off the walls. The player must use these as a platform in order to reach and damage the sensitive cannon, while avoid their spiked sides.</p><h3><strong>Death Egg Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199603-son2_39.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199603" data-ratio="0.7" data-width="320" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 320px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199603-son2_39.gif" data-ref-id="1300-199603"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199603-son2_39.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199603-son2_39.gif 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199603-son2_39.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1264/199603-son2_39.gif 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>After the fight in the Wing Fortress Zone, Sonic chases Dr. Robotnik into the Death Egg. This, ringless, zone consists of two separate bosses. The first is Mecha Sonic, this doppelganger has some of Sonic’s moves, as he jumps and spin dashes across the stage. The player must hit him in the head while he stands still in order to damage him.</p><p>After a few hits, Mecha Sonic goes down, and Sonic progresses into the next room for his final confrontation with Dr. Robotnik. The giant robot he appears in lumbers slowly around the arena, but the lower half of said monstrosity is invulnerable. The only way the player can reach the breakable upper half is to wait for the right moment. After trudging around for a bit, Robotnik rockets off the top of the screen, causing a target to appear over Sonic. When the target begins flashing, the giant egg bot is about to come crashing down. Immediately after landing, the machine lurches forward presenting the only safe opportunity to attack. But the player has to be careful as every other fall, he'll fire off his spiked arms which are near impossible to avoid unless Sonic is out of reach. After twelve hits Robotnik will go down, and the ending of the game begins.</p><h3><strong>Hidden Palace Zone</strong></h3><figure data-align="left" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1486/827744-mag_compare7a.gif" data-ref-id="1300-827744" data-size="medium" data-ratio="0.75378787878788" data-width="264" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 264px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:75.4%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1486/827744-mag_compare7a.gif" data-ref-id="1300-827744"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 264px) 100vw, 264px" data-width="264" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1486/827744-mag_compare7a.gif" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1486/827744-mag_compare7a.gif 264w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1486/827744-mag_compare7a.gif" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1486/827744-mag_compare7a.gif 264w" sizes="(max-width: 264px) 100vw, 264px" data-width="264"></noscript></a></figure><p>By using a Game Genie, it is in fact possible to get into the Hidden Palace Zone, an incomplete level which was scrapped during development.</p><p>The code to unlock it is ACLA-ATD4 and then going into level select and pressing A and Start together when highlighting the Death Egg Zone.</p><p>The level is obviously unfinished and cannot be completed without creating the Egg Prison item in debug mode. Bits of the level design seen in the numerous Beta versions of the game are still there including the infamous 'Master Emerald' block. All level art seen in previous Betas have been deleted presumably to save cartridge space and most of the textures as a result are just a glitched mess. In the background however, art from the Oil Ocean Zone can be seen.</p><p>In the 2013 iOS and Android release of the game, this level was added as an easter egg.</p><h2>Soundtrack</h2><p>Sonic the Hedgehog 2's soundtrack was composed by returning musician <a href="/masato-nakamura/3040-16805/" data-ref-id="3040-16805">Masato Nakamura</a>, bass guitarist for Japanese Pop-music band Dreams Come True. The song that plays after Sonic defeats the final boss (but before the credits roll) is in fact a karaoke version of a Dreams Come True song known as "Sweet Sweet Sweet" (or, as its known in America, "Sweet Dream"), from their triple-platinum album "The Swinging Star."</p><h2>Development History</h2><p>Sonic the Hedgehog 2 nearly did not happen. After completing <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog/3030-2465/" data-ref-id="3030-2465">Sonic the Hedgehog</a>, <a href="/yuji-naka/3040-33662/" data-ref-id="3040-33662">Yuji Naka</a> resigned from Sega of Japan. At this time, Sega of Japan paid its employees based purely on how long they had been working with the company, and Yuji Naka was a comparatively fresh face. Feeling his talents were being undervalued, he quit Sega and intended to move on, and many of the other members of Sonic Team were beginning to look for other projects as well. Naka was lured to America by <a href="/mark-cerny/3040-18965/" data-ref-id="3040-18965">Mark Cerny</a>, who worked for the <a href="/sega-technical-institute/3010-1391/" data-ref-id="3010-1391">Sega Technical Institute</a> (STI). STI was formed to help bridge the gap between the relatively new American game developers and the seasoned pros living in Japan. Yuji Naka along with a number of other key members of Sonic Team agreed to take part in this, and officially, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was started at STI, featuring a mixture of Japanese and American developers and designers.</p><figure data-align="left" data-size="medium" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png" data-ref-id="1300-3023926" data-ratio="0.70487106017192" data-width="1396" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 1396px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:70.5%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png" data-ref-id="1300-3023926"><img alt="Sonic 2's proposed map, as it would be reconfigured throughout the ages." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png 1396w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png 480w"><noscript><img alt="Sonic 2's proposed map, as it would be reconfigured throughout the ages." src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png 1396w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png 960w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/1486/3023926-sonic2maps.png 480w" sizes="(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px" data-width="480"></noscript></a><figcaption>Sonic 2's proposed map, as it would be reconfigured throughout the ages.</figcaption></figure><p>Like the original Sonic the Hedgehog, a character design contest was held, this time to give Sonic a sidekick. The winner was Yasushi Yamaguchi's "<a href="/tails/3005-45/" data-ref-id="3005-45">Miles Prower</a>" design. However, the name "Miles" was not very favorable among the American side of the team, who felt he needed a more allegorical name, similar to "Sonic." Some among the Japanese, however, liked the pun of "Miles Prower," which, when said out loud (and with a Japanese accent), sounded similar to "Miles Per-Hour." In the end, the name of "Tails" won out -- but Yasushi Yamaguchi still snuck in references to "Miles Prower" in secret wherever possible. This ultimately lead to everybody getting what they wanted: the character's full name being Miles, with "Tails" serving as a nickname.</p><p>With a larger-than-average team working on the game, Sonic 2 was planned to be a significantly larger game than the original Sonic, with nearly three times as many levels, a world map screen, and a time travel mechanic. As you'd progress through the game, the island you were on would transform as the timeline was altered, revealing new levels to access. This idea was started completely separately from <a href="/sonic-cd/3030-14433/" data-ref-id="3030-14433">Sonic CD</a> for the <a href="/sega-cd/3045-29/" data-ref-id="3045-29">Sega CD</a>, which also featured its own take on the time travel concept; both games merely happened to hit on a similar idea at the exact same time, despite being developed more than 8,000 miles away from each other.</p><p>Sega wanted to strike while the iron was hot however, and Sonic 2's ambitious design document had to be trimmed in favor of a shorter, tighter game. Many levels were cut, as was its time traveling storyline. As a result of this, Sonic 2 was developed very quickly, releasing less than 17 months after the original <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog/3030-2465/" data-ref-id="3030-2465">Sonic the Hedgehog</a>.</p><p>Following the success of Sonic 2, Sega of Japan re-hired Yuji Naka at a better rate, establishing a more consistent Sonic Team for the production of <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog-3/3030-4628/" data-ref-id="3030-4628">Sonic the Hedgehog 3</a>.</p><h2>Trivia</h2><ul><li>The design for The <a href="/death-egg/3035-3884/" data-ref-id="3035-3884">Death Egg</a> in this game most likely came from a Japanese TV commercial for the original <a href="//www.giantbomb.com/sonic-the-hedgehog/3030-2465/" data-ref-id="3030-2465">Sonic the Hedgehog</a>, wherein Sonic pilots a space ship to destroy a massive space station similar to <a href="/star-wars/3025-551/" data-ref-id="3025-551">Star Wars</a>' own <a href="/death-star/3035-205/" data-ref-id="3035-205">Death Star,</a> but modified to look like <a href="/dr-robotnik/3005-293/" data-ref-id="3005-293">Dr. Eggman</a>'s face.</li><li>Early beta versions of the game reveal a number of levels that had to be cut from the final release of Sonic 2, including Wood Zone, a stage set in leafy tree tops, and Dust Hill Zone, a western-themed stage full of cacti and desert-dwelling robots. Hidden Palace Zone, not to be confused with the <a href="/sonic-knuckles/3030-18115/" data-ref-id="3030-18115">Sonic &amp; Knuckles</a> stage of the same name, also exists in the beta version, along side an unplayable entry for a "Genocide City Zone". The stage "Neo Green Hill Zone" also exists, though selecting it from a stage-select menu takes Sonic to Aquatic Ruin Zone, possibly suggesting it originally went by a different name earlier in development.</li><li>Interviews with various Sonic 2 graphics and level designers reveal even more cut levels never seen publicly: A recolored version of Dust Hill Zone to transform the sand in to snow, a Rock Zone, and a level called Cyber City Zone. According to these developers, the name "Genocide City" was chosen because Sonic Team wanted a name that sounded aggressive. After some explanation of what the word "Genocide" meant, it was renamed to Cyber City Zone. Cyber City was supposed to take place between Metropolis Zone and Sky Chase. Enough preliminary work was completed that the remnants of Cyber City Zone were turned in to Metropolis Zone Act 3.</li><li>Level layouts from the cut level Wood Zone match up with level layouts for Metropolis Zone, hinting at Sonic 2's lost <a href="/time-travel/3015-73/" data-ref-id="3015-73">time travel</a> feature. This suggests that Wood Zone would have possibly been what Metropolis Zone looked like in the distant past.</li><li>In another strange coincidence between Sonic 2 and Sonic CD, artwork exists of Sonic CD's "Little Planet" (where that game takes place) showing a desert region with cacti. Sonic CD's desert level never made it in to the final game, just like Sonic 2's lost Dust Hill Zone.</li><li>Many of the resources made for deleted Sonic 2 levels eventually made it in to <a href="/sonic-the-hedgehog-spinball/3030-18592/" data-ref-id="3030-18592">Sonic Spinball</a>, another Sega Technical Institute game. Tiles for Hidden Palace Zone can be seen in the background for Toxic Caves, and graphics for a level called "The Machine" match up with concept art drawn for Cyber City Zone.</li><li>By collecting all seven chaos emeralds and fifty rings in a level, Sonic can transform in to the invincible Super Sonic form. Super Sonic is a bright golden yellow color with up-turned spikes, an obvious reference to Dragon Ball Z's <a href="/saiyan/3015-58/" data-ref-id="3015-58">Super Saiyan</a> form. Yuji Naka was reportedly a big fan of Dragon Ball, and during his stay in America, even instructed a friend to record and ship VHS tapes with the latest episodes to him overseas.</li><li>Tails is no ordinary fox. In Japanese folklore, some foxes can be mischievous mythological beings referred to as "Kitsune" (pronounced "Kit-Sue-Ney"). As a Kitsune ages, it grows additional tails, up to a maximum of nine. Additional tails on a Kitsune represent the level of knowledge and mystical energy within the being. Some stories say that a Kitsune will only grow a new tail every 1,000 years. A Kitsune with 9 tails is said to have infinite wisdom, and usually has fur that appears golden in color.</li></ul><p> </p><h2>8-bit Master System/Game Gear Game</h2><figure data-align="right" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2363033" data-ratio="1.3888888888889" data-width="1512" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 1512px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:138.9%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-2363033"><img alt="Master System Box Shot" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 460px) 100vw, 460px" data-width="460" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 1512w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 1382w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 691w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 460w"><noscript><img alt="Master System Box Shot" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 1512w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_super/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 1382w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 691w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/9/93770/2363033-sms_sonicthehedgehog2_au.jpg 460w" sizes="(max-width: 460px) 100vw, 460px" data-width="460"></noscript></a><figcaption>Master System Box Shot</figcaption></figure><p>A month before the release of its console big brother, the 8-bit version of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 was released for the Sega Master System on October 16, 1992. It was exclusive for PAL territories, such as Europe and South America, regions where the Master System was popular. It was followed by a port to the Sega Game Gear handheld, in PAL regions on October 29, 1992, followed by a North American release in November 1992.</p><p>Sega outsourced its development to <a href="/aspect-co-ltd/3010-1541/" data-ref-id="3010-1541">Aspect Co. Ltd</a>,which created a very different game from similar concepts.</p><p>Being released before the 16-bit version for the Mega Drive/Genesis, the 8-bit editions of Sonic the Hedgehog 2 represented the debut of character <a href="/tails/3005-45/" data-ref-id="3005-45">Miles "Tails" Prower</a>, who became a recurring character in the series.</p><p>The Master System version was released for the Nintendo Wii's Virtual Console on November 18, 2008 in Japan, in North America on December 8, 2008 and in the PAL regions on December 26, 2008.</p><h4><strong>Storyline</strong></h4><p>South Island has been peaceful since Dr. Robotnik's defeat. Sonic, bored, decides to go on a journey in search of other adventures. Upon his return, he is shocked to find the island nearly abandoned. The only clue as to where all his friends might have disappeared to is a single note, written by his two-tailed fox buddy, Miles "Tails" Prower. In the note, Tails explains that he's been kidnapped by Dr. Robotnik and is being held in a place called Crystal Egg. The price for Tails' safe return are the 6 Chaos Emeralds, to be delivered to 6 new boss robots. Thus, Sonic goes on a quest to find the Chaos Emeralds and rescue Tails.</p><h4><strong>Gameplay</strong></h4><figure data-align="left" data-size="small" data-img-src="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1251596" data-ratio="0.75" data-width="640" data-embed-type="image" style="width: 640px"><a class="fluid-height" style="padding-bottom:75.0%" href="https://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg" data-ref-id="1300-1251596"><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAAAAACH5BAEKAAEALAAAAAABAAEAAAICTAEAOw==" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320" class="js-lazy-load-image" data-src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg" data-srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg 640w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg 320w"><noscript><img alt="No Caption Provided" src="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg" srcset="https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/original/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg 640w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_medium/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg 480w, https://giantbomb1.cbsistatic.com/uploads/scale_small/0/329/1251596-fusion_2010_01_20_14_13_47_34.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 320px) 100vw, 320px" data-width="320"></noscript></a></figure><p>The 8-bit Sonic 2 seems to be very similar to the 16-bit version on the surface, but is a considerably different feeling game. It features its own unique roster of levels, completely separate from the console version, with unique bosses and themes. Many gameplay elements carried over from the 8-bit version of Sonic 1 also see improvements, like the ability to recollect dropped rings (similar to the 16-bit version).</p><p>If the player manages to collect all of the Chaos Emeralds hidden in the game's previous levels, upon defeating Silver Sonic at the end of the Scrambled Egg Zone, they will move on to the game's final showdown with Dr. Robotnik and the game's true ending. Failure to collect the Chaos Emeralds before the encounter with Silver Sonic will result in the game ending after his destruction and the player receiving the "Bad Ending," in which it is implied that Tails has been lost forever.</p><h4><strong>Development</strong></h4><p><i>Sonic the Hedgehog 2</i> received preview coverage in the October 1992 issue of <i>GamePro.</i></p><p>The Game Gear's lower screen resolution results in the Game Gear version having a smaller visible screen area than the Master System edition, causing some fans to consider the Game Gear version the more challenging title. For example, when facing the boss of the Underground Zone, the reduced screen area either side of Sonic gives the player less time to react to hazards moving onto the screen. Other bosses were also affected: the Green Hills Zone battle takes place in a smaller, steeper arena; there is a 3rd chute which cannot be seen while fighting Robotnik in the final Crystal Egg stage. The music for the <a title="Intro sequence" href="/cutscene/3015-22/" data-ref-id="3015-22">intro sequence</a> is also different. The Game Gear version uses the Scrambled Egg Zone music for the scene showing Robotnik escaping with the captive Tails and the Master System intro music for the title. The boss music is also different between the two versions. The Master System version used a single theme for the endings while a new good ending theme was added for the Game Gear version.</p><p>The Game Gear version also features dark blue (instead of green) water in the second Act of the Aqua Lake Zone, and omits the game's only "Speed Shoes" item box, which may be found only in the Master System version of this stage. In the Game Gear version in power-up's original location is a Ring item box instead, thus rendering the item unused in said port.</p><h4><strong>Soundtrack</strong></h4><p>The music for Green Hills Zone was later used as the theme song for the Japanese and European versions of <i><a title="Sonic the Hedgehog CD" href="/sonic-cd/3030-14433/" data-ref-id="3030-14433">Sonic the Hedgehog CD</a></i>, where it is called "Sonic: You Can Do Anything". A remix of the tune is also used for Mecha Green Hill Zone in <i><a title="Sonic the Hedgehog Chaos" href="/sonic-the-hedgehog-chaos/3030-9649/" data-ref-id="3030-9649">Sonic the Hedgehog Chaos</a></i>.</p><h4><strong>Re-releases</strong></h4><p>The Sega Master System/Game Gear game was re-released on:</p><ul><li><a href="/sonic-mega-collection/3030-17691/" data-ref-id="3030-17691">Sonic Mega Collection</a> (2002) (GameCube, PS2, Xbox, PC)</li><li><a href="/sonic-adventure-dx-directors-cut/3030-13158/" data-ref-id="3030-13158">Sonic Adventure DX</a> (2003) (GameCube, PC)</li><li><a href="/sonic-gems-collection/3030-14113/" data-ref-id="3030-14113">Sonic Gems Collection</a> (2005) (GameCube, PS2)</li></ul><p>The game was later re-released on <a title="Nintendo" href="/nintendo/3010-90/" data-ref-id="3010-90">Nintendo</a>'s <a title="Virtual Console" href="/virtual-console/3015-2925/" data-ref-id="3015-2925">Virtual Console</a> service, with the Master System version released for the <a title="Wii" href="/wii/3045-36/" data-ref-id="3045-36">Wii</a> Virtual Console in December 2008 and the Game Gear version released for the <a title="Nintendo 3DS" href="/nintendo-3ds/3045-117/" data-ref-id="3045-117">Nintendo 3DS</a> <a title="Nintendo eShop" href="/nintendo-3ds-eshop/3045-138/" data-ref-id="3045-138">eShop</a> in June 2013.</p><p> </p>

A surreal monochrome adventure-RPG combining Japanese and Lovecraftian horror themes.

<p>Brief Battles is a one to four player party, arena fighting game, where players battle using super-powered underpants as arsenal. </p><p>Brief Battles offers competitive local multiplayer matches, solo, and cooperative play. Crossover character mash-ups are unlockable by completing solo and cooperative challenges. Crossovers characters of include Yooka-Laylee, World of Goo, Machinarium, Bit.Trip Runner, Toto Temple Deluxe, and the Stumpt Gamers YouTube mascot. </p>

A first-person survival horror adventure amongst the mountains and fjords of the Norwegian west coast in the 1920s.

<h2>Overview</h2><p>Draugen is a journey into the pitch black heart of Norwegian national romanticism, as seen through the eyes of an American nature photographer, botanist and entomologist.</p><p><em>Draugen (Norwegian; meaning "the Draug") is an undead creature from Norse mythology. The original Norse meaning of the word is ghost, but unlike traditional ghosts the Draug has a corporeal body and physical abilities. Draug reside in their watery graves, guarding the treasures and secrets that were buried with them. And they will protect those secrets at any cost.</em></p><p> </p><h2><em><br /></em>Story</h2><p>The story is inspired by Scandinavian literature, legends and fairytales, as well as Norse mythology and the Icelandic sagas. The game is set in the early 1920s, and delves into the deepest, darkest secrets of a remote fishing community where every single soul has mysteriously vanished.</p>

Dungeon Defenders: Awakened is a game with all the Core Features and gameplay of Dungeon Defenders, with some new Add-Ons to modernize the gameplay.