Okami Sequel Released, Fulfilling Director's Dream

Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching his own studio, Clovers Inc., and spearheading a highly anticipated Okami sequel. This article delves into the details of this exciting new project and Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames.

A Long-Awaited Sequel

Renowned game director Hideki Kamiya, known for his work on titles like the original Okami, Devil May Cry, Resident Evil 2, Bayonetta, and Viewtiful Joe, has finally realized his long-held ambition: a sequel to Okami. In a recent interview with VGC, Kamiya revealed the details behind Clovers Inc., the revival of the Okami IP after 18 years, and his reasons for leaving PlatinumGames. He openly discussed his previous attempts to secure a sequel with Capcom, highlighting his belief that the original game's narrative remained unfinished.

The new Okami sequel will be published by Capcom, marking a reunion with Kamiya's former employer.

Clovers Inc.: A New Studio, A Shared Vision

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya's new studio, Clovers Inc., pays homage to Clover Studio, the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and also acknowledges his early Capcom teams behind Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio is a joint venture with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, who serves as president, allowing Kamiya to focus on game development. Currently boasting 25 employees across Tokyo and Osaka, Clovers Inc. plans for measured growth, prioritizing shared creative vision over sheer size. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who share Kamiya and Koyama's creative philosophy.

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Departure from PlatinumGames

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led creatively for two decades, surprised many. He cited a divergence in creative philosophies as the primary reason for his departure, emphasizing the importance of aligning with a team that shares his vision for game development. While he expressed gratitude for his time at PlatinumGames, he felt the need to pursue a project that better reflected his creative goals.

A Softer Side?

Kamiya's known for his sometimes blunt online persona. However, following the Okami 2 announcement, he publicly apologized to a fan he had previously insulted, demonstrating a shift towards greater empathy and engagement with his fanbase. He's been actively responding to fans, unblocking users, and sharing positive fan reactions to the sequel announcement. While his characteristic directness remains, a more conciliatory tone is evident.