Witch Time
Witch Time is Bayonetta's down special in Super Smash Bros. 4. Bayonetta performs a backflip, and if struck, activates Witch Time as a counterattack, and slows down the opponent dramatically. This is accompanied with a visual effect of a purple vortex surrounding the attacker and a clock hand. The slowdown's duration is signified by the clock's hand, and upon making a full revolution, the effects wears off. Duration changes based on the damage percentage of the attacker and how frequently Bayonetta uses it.
Bat Within
If Witch Time is activated too late, Bat Within activates instead. Bayonetta will then transform into a swarm of bats and travel in any direction the player wishes, while also reducing the amount of damage taken.
Origin
Witch Time is a major mechanic in Bayonetta, where Bayonetta/Jeanne slows down time while moving freely within it. It is used to traverse terrain that would otherwise be inaccessible, such as water or rock fragments. It can be activated in a variety of ways, primarily by dodging enemy attacks, as well as being activated by various accessories. Lumen Sages possess a similar ability called Light Speed, which also lets them slow down time. Various other games made by Platinum and its predecessor Clover Studios also use slowdown powers, such as the Bangle of Time in Devil May Cry, the "Slow" VFX ability in Viewtiful Joe or Veil of Mist in Okami.
Bat Within is a technique purchasable from the Gates of Hell. By dodging at the last second, Bayonetta instead activates Bat Within, transforming her into a swarm of bats to escape, while also healing the damage taken from the attack and slowing down time for an extended duration.
