Bullet Witch
- April 25, 2018
- Marvelous, Inc.
- 26h median play time
Before Bayonetta came onto the scene with her slick moves and naughty innuendo, there was another witch who tried her best to engage us gamers.
In Bullet Witch, play as a powerful witch with a giant gun, battling against hordes of enemies in a post-apocalyptic world. Use magical abilities and firepower to strategically fight through levels, and wield a variety of weapons and spells to save humanity. Experience a dark and atmospheric story filled with intense action and challenging enemies.
Reviews
- The game features a unique concept of a witch wielding a gun, which is both intriguing and entertaining.
- The destructible environments and powerful magic spells provide satisfying gameplay moments.
- The nostalgic value for players who enjoyed the original Xbox 360 version adds to its charm.
- The game suffers from poor graphics and outdated mechanics, making it feel clunky and unpolished.
- The voice acting and dialogue are often cringe-worthy, detracting from the overall experience.
- The enemy AI is simplistic, leading to repetitive gameplay and a lack of challenge.
- story128 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- 77 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The story of "Bullet Witch" is widely criticized for being short, simplistic, and often nonsensical, with many reviewers noting its cliché elements and poor voice acting. While some players found charm in its campy nature and appreciated the potential for deeper storytelling, the overall consensus is that the narrative lacks depth and coherence, making it forgettable. Despite its flaws, the game offers extra content through concept missions, but these do little to enhance the overall story experience.
“The story is an angsty teenager's dream, demons have invaded the world and you, a goth witch with a gun that looks like a broomstick and dark magic, are the only one that can save it.”
“The story is pretty interesting (if you're paying attention to it) and the characters are too, but the voice acting makes any relationship building a bit awkward.”
“Bullet Witch is a flawed, but good game, with a good simple story, two likeable characters, and fun gameplay.”
“The story had potential, but the game leaves much to be desired as far as game mechanics and story depth.”
“The story is almost absent with just some bits thrown in for world-building.”
“The writing is terrible, the story is terrible, the graphics are terrible, the action... (is not that bad honestly) this is the kind of game that was made on a $500 budget and a mountain of cocaine.”
- gameplay109 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 61 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Bullet Witch" receives mixed reviews, with some players appreciating its unique mechanics and fun moments, while others criticize its clunky controls, repetitive combat, and technical issues. Many note that despite its dated design and lack of polish, the game can still provide enjoyable experiences, particularly for those who lower their expectations. Overall, it is seen as a basic third-person shooter with interesting elements that may appeal to fans of the genre, but it suffers from significant flaws that hinder its overall enjoyment.
“However, I think that it probably has some of the coolest mechanics I've seen in any game.”
“Some game mechanics are pretty cool; there are a lot of destroyable objects and even buildings, which is impressive for a 2006 game.”
“Unique gameplay mechanics make this game worthwhile.”
“The gameplay is dull, the enemy variety and AI is lacking, and the voice acting is just cringy.”
“Its clunky gameplay, frustrating design, and technical issues make it hard to recommend.”
“Sadly, the gameplay becomes very repetitive and boring quickly, and even the variety in weapon and magic makes no difference.”
- graphics76 mentions
- 13 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely criticized as outdated and rudimentary, often described as reminiscent of early PS2 or Xbox 360 titles, with issues such as flickering textures, pop-in, and a lack of visual diversity. While some players appreciate the nostalgic charm and occasional decent visuals, the overall consensus is that the graphics are poor, even for the time of release, and have not aged well, leading to a generally disappointing visual experience.
“The visuals for the time in certain areas were shockingly pretty; there's ragdoll physics at least for Alicia, which I had fun with even if it was me dying. The story was a little basic but not in a bad way; it ended up rather interesting with an 'ohhhh!' moment to it.”
“If you can handle all of these old 2006 graphics and a damn fun game, then this game is for you.”
“The graphics look better and it runs in silky smooth 60 fps (though you can put it at 120 or even unlimited).”
“Graphics are pretty rudimentary and something is either horribly wrong with the post processing on some levels or someone's idea of fog needs help.”
“The graphics are horrendous, excluding the main character who just happens to be the most detailed out of everything.”
“The ai is beyond pathetic, the visuals are awful even by standards of 2006 (the flickering grass shadows and insane pop-in are particularly funny), the voice acting is incredibly cheesy, and the physics are hilariously over-the-top.”
- music43 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally considered mediocre and repetitive, often cutting out unexpectedly when the game is paused, which disrupts the overall experience. While some tracks are noted for their suitability to the game's atmosphere, many players find the soundtrack lacks memorability and variety, leaving areas feeling empty and silent at times. Overall, the music does not significantly enhance the gameplay and is often overshadowed by other technical issues.
“The music works well for the game, and Alicia is a likable character, unlike most characters we see these days.”
“What music is present, while not particularly memorable, is of significantly higher quality and by all means suitable to the game's atmosphere.”
“The game's soundtrack is fairly typical of the genre: big, dramatic, synthesized orchestral tracks.”
“The music isn't anything special, and it just randomly stops at times, leaving you wandering in silence while you scavenge for the next enemy to tell you where to go.”
“Music stops permanently if the game is paused at any point.”
“The last big complaint is the complete lack of music in some of the levels.”
- humor24 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a mix of intentional and unintentional comedy, with players finding amusement in its janky gameplay, cheesy voice acting, and absurd enemy designs. Many reviews highlight the hilarity of the game's serious moments juxtaposed with its ridiculous mechanics, such as laughable AI behavior and over-the-top physics. Overall, while the game may not be polished, its quirky charm and comedic elements provide a fun experience, especially for those who appreciate irony and nostalgia.
“It's hilarious and quite scary.”
“The monster designs are cool, there's funny newspapers between levels that change depending on a couple of things you do, it's just fun!”
“Some of the cutscenes and enemies are unintentionally hilarious.”
- optimization22 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 36 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has received mixed reviews, with some players experiencing significant stuttering issues, particularly when using mouse and keyboard, which can be mitigated by using a controller. While the PC port is generally praised for its performance and stability, many users report that the game feels poorly optimized overall, with some even describing it as "shovelware" in terms of sound and visual design. Despite some positive notes on framerate and control customization, the presence of bugs and inconsistent performance detracts from the overall experience.
“Optimization - 8/10”
“The most important thing here is that this game is well optimized (even a dinosaur can run it) and the support for keyboard and mouse is great.”
“- PC port is great for performance and stability.”
“I wouldn't recommend turning v-sync on, for example, to avoid very silly stuttering that harms the gameplay.”
“There is an annoying stuttering issue that can only be fixed by plugging in a controller to your PC or disabling all the HID devices in Device Manager.”
“On the other hand, the port is totally broken because you cannot play it without it stuttering all the time unless you plug in a controller.”
- stability16 mentions
- 19 % positive mentions
- -12 % neutral mentions
- 94 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with some players reporting a smooth experience, particularly when using a controller, while others have encountered numerous bugs and graphical glitches. Although the game runs well for many, issues such as physics engine bugs, frame drops during cutscenes, and rendering problems have been noted, especially in the ported version. Overall, while some players enjoy a stable experience, others find the game's stability lacking and riddled with issues.
“The game works and runs great from launch, especially with a controller plugged in.”
“I haven't experienced any crashes or bugs; the stability is impressive.”
“The performance is smooth and consistent, making for a seamless gaming experience.”
“Super dull, terrible experience, very buggy.”
“The game is buggy and it is a port after all, immediately the lag disappears after connecting a controller input, even if you play using keyboard.”
“That, and new glitches appearing, there is simply no reason for a 'un-asked for' port from 2006 (jp) to have been delivered so miserably.”
- grinding10 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and frustrating, often describing it as a slog due to poor design choices and lackluster execution. The gameplay is marred by slow movement, tedious combat, and unnecessary backtracking, leading to a lack of satisfaction in progression and overall experience. Many reviewers express disappointment with the repetitive nature of grinding, particularly in relation to achievements and boss fights.
“It's a frustrating, tedious slog marred by poor design choices and lackluster execution.”
“Huge maps with frustrating barriers and tedious progression.”
“There are some stupid grinding achievements.”
- replayability9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
Overall, the game offers a mixed bag of replayability. While many players appreciate the inclusion of new difficulties, unlockable challenges, and bonus modes that enhance replay value, some express disappointment over the lack of collectible elements and the necessity to replay the entire campaign for leveling up. This results in a varied experience, with some players finding significant replay potential and others feeling limited.
“Massive amounts of replay value; from a ranking system at the end of each stage to unlockable difficulties, challenge missions, and remixed campaign levels.”
“It does have some bonus modes and stages after you beat it, which is a pretty nice gesture for replayability.”
“The game has decent replayability due to the achievements and the bonus of all purchased skill-ups carrying over.”
“Massive amounts of replay value; from a ranking system at the end of each stage to unlockable difficulties to challenge missions and remixed campaign levels.”
“It took me over the course of the weekend to beat, and there's some replay value in getting all of the S ranks (though I wished that there were some collectibles), but I'd definitely recommend that you check it out when it's on sale.”
“Very little replay value; you can't level up by stage select mode, you have to do the campaign all over again from the start.”
- character development7 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is generally viewed as lacking, with players noting that while character design, particularly for Alicia, is impressive, it does not translate into a compelling personality or growth throughout the story. The narrative is described as simple and leaves many questions unanswered, resulting in minimal character evolution despite the potential for deeper storytelling. Overall, while the visual aspects are praised, the depth of character development falls short.
“A solid 7/10 from me and 10/10 for Alicia's character design and her special outfits.”
“The positives are less damning and far more notable in comparison; a game with superb character design and chilling, desolate set pieces, its particular blend of third person shooting and strategic spellcasting simply unmatched, even to this day.”
“While the story is overall simple and has potential, the story still left a lot of questions and character development is very slightly changed.”
“In this game, there is absolutely no character development or intrigue.”
“While the story is overall simple and has potential, it still leaves a lot of questions, and character development is very slightly changed.”
“The personal histories and character development are pale, and you have to spend a little time rebinding keys and getting your resolutions right.”
- atmosphere6 mentions
- 83 % positive mentions
- -33 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is described as atmospheric and moody, effectively capturing a post-apocalyptic setting that feels authentic and immersive. While the level design excels in creating a sense of foreboding, some chapters, particularly the village, stand out for their ability to enhance mood through environmental obscurity. Although the enemy AI detracts from the experience, the overall ambiance, supported by quality music, contributes significantly to the game's unique atmosphere.
“It is an atmospheric, moody, and somewhat slow trek laden with Cavia-isms (this game was developed by Cavia, who also made Drakengard and Nier).”
“The atmosphere in some chapters is kind of neat; I loved the village chapter the most because it actually tries its best to set a mood and does a lot with obscuring the player's surroundings and vision.”
“They don't feel like video game levels; they feel like real post-apocalyptic places that are flowing with eerie, foreboding atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere is so bland and uninspired that it fails to immerse you in the game world.”
“Despite the setting, the atmosphere lacks any real tension or excitement, making exploration feel dull.”
- emotional4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users express a mixed emotional response to the game, with some feeling a deep attachment to the characters and story, leading to intense feelings during key moments, while others found the emotional impact lacking and described their experience as indifferent.
“That was when my heart felt like it had stopped beating, my lungs could not take a breath in or out, and my eyes felt heavy and kind of too wet.”
“I was really emotionally attached to the characters and the story, even though there is some extra content included which I won't bother touching (extra missions).”
“It made me feel basically nothing and was just kind of there.”
Critic Reviews
Bullet Witch’s Destruction Still Impresses
Before Bayonetta came onto the scene with her slick moves and naughty innuendo, there was another witch who tried her best to engage us gamers.
60%Bullet Witch Review
Even though it's been over a decade, Bullet Witch hasn't aged as badly as might be expected. There is some creativity in Alicia's skill-set. Summoning ravens and rose spikes lends a pleasing dynamic to combat. Also, reducing an entire city block to rubble just to kill a few demons never gets old. A typical play-through will only take about two-and-a-half hours, but the extra missions and harder difficulties are sufficient reasons to keep playing. Keep in mind, however, that this game is a product of its time, and its most appealing aspects run counter to what gamers take for granted today. Some simply aren't going to enjoy goofing around with physics or explosions, and that's fine.
60%Bullet Witch Remastered Review
Despite a few neat gameplay touches Bullet Witch ultimately fails to impress and this remaster only goes to show that this game should have stayed in the past. What could have been an interesting third-person shooter is let down at almost every point by frustrating game design and bland level design.
30%