Nintendo To Release Stand-Alone Physical Version Of 'Bayonetta 2'

In a somewhat surprising turn of events, Nintendo has announced that it will be releasing a stand-alone physical version of Bayonetta 2 for the Wii U in North America.

Previously, Bayonetta 2 had been available physically in a bundle with the original Bayonetta for Wii U. When it came out in October 2014, there were two discs in the box — one for Bayonetta and one for Bayonetta 2. Basically, there was a whole lot of game there for $59.99.

Both games have also been available digitally in the Nintendo eShop, with Bayonetta 2 running $49.99 and Bayonetta clocking in at $29.99. Previously, a promotion allowed folks to purchase both for effectively the same cost as the physical two-pack. There was, however, no way to purchase one or the other as a stand-alone version.

Why come out with a stand-alone Bayonetta 2 now, you might ask? According to the Nintendo of America Twitter account, it’s a pretty obvious attempt at capitalizing on the character’s addition to the immensely popular Super Smash Bros. fighting game series. Bayonetta, the character, won an official poll to add her to the game. Well, she didn’t necessarily win so much as she was the top result that was feasible (sorry, Goku fans).

Bayonetta 2 is scheduled to launch as a stand-alone physical version on Feb. 19 for $29.99.