PlatinumGames president Atsushi Inaba has expressed a desire to further develop the Bayonetta franchise and potentially expand the character’s universe.
During the Tokyo Game Show, Inaba engaged in a discussion with Kim Hyung-tae, CEO of Shift Up and director of the game Stellar Blade. Their conversation was part of an event introducing Bayonetta-themed costumes for Stellar Blade Complete Edition, which is set to release on Switch 2 this November. Although Inaba did not confirm a new Bayonetta game, his comments suggested an ongoing interest in growing the franchise.
Impressions and Inspirations
Kim Hyung-tae expressed his admiration for Bayonetta, describing it as a significant work in his life and listing it among his top three favourite games. His enthusiasm for the franchise was evident as he shared that he had to restrain himself while designing a Bayonetta-inspired “Black Dress” costume to prevent it from being overly extravagant. He humorously proposed his involvement in designing characters for any future Bayonetta project.
Looking Ahead
Despite being asked about a potential new Bayonetta installment, Inaba chose to keep details under wraps, suggesting fans should remain hopeful for future announcements. This interaction comes in the wake of changes within the development team; Hideki Kamiya, the series creator, departed PlatinumGames in October 2023. Kamiya had previously envisioned Bayonetta as a nine-part series, a vision he suggested might remain unrealised. Additionally, Yusuke Miyata, director of Bayonetta 3, has also left the company.
Moreover, if the Bayonetta series continues, it will be without the familiar voice of Atsuko Tanaka, who sadly passed away in August 2024 at the age of 61. She had provided the Japanese voice for the character throughout the series.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.