Bayonetta is a series of fantasy action games that take place in the modern world (called Purgatorio) which is kept in balance by the Umbra Witches and Lumen Sages (angels). A truce and set of rules that had previously allowed the two to coexist peacefully was broken with the birth of the half-witch, half-angel Bayonetta. A war broke out in which the Lumen Sages (angels) were nearly obliterated, but humanities growing fear of the witches power led to the "witch hunts"' and the eventual annihilation of all the witches except Bayonetta and her friend Jeanne.
The series has become recognized for it's flashy over-the-top combat and witty dialogue. The main character and game as a whole dose not take itself too seriously and features several moments of light-hearted humor similar to Okami or the Devil May Cry series.