Witch Time

Witch Time is a major ability in the Bayonetta series, and is Bayonetta's down special move in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U. When used, Bayonetta does a backflip, similar to her back roll animation, though when struck during this she activates Witch Time on that opponent, slowing their movement for several seconds; the amount of time is indicated by the clock hand that appears over them. The amount of time that Witch Time lasts depends on the opponent's damage, though multiple uses also lowers the duration of the effect.

If the move is used too late before being hit, Bayonetta instead uses Bat Within, another ability from the Bayonetta series, in which she briefly turns into a swarm of bats to dodge the attack, reducing the amount of damage taken. The player can control where Bayonetta reappears by inputting on the Control Stick or Circle Pad. Bat Within is also activated if the player rolls or air dodges too late.

Interestingly, unlike with most counters, Witch Time is able to counter certain unblockable attacks, such as Little Mac's KO Uppercut and Guard Breaker, along with Meta Knight's Shield Piercer. The move can also affect Wario-Man, despite the fact that he's invincible to everything except eating explosives and going off-screen. In fact, the only thing that Witch Time can't counter is grab attacks.

A stage-wide version of Witch Time is used for the beginning of Bayonetta's Final Smash, Infernal Climax.