Okami Sequel Now a Reality After 18-Year Dream

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

A Long-Awaited Sequel

Gaming legend Hideki Kamiya, renowned for directing iconic 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 story behind Clovers Inc., the resurgence of the Okami IP after 18 years, and his departure from PlatinumGames. He's consistently expressed his desire to complete the narratives of Okami and Viewtiful Joe, feeling a responsibility to resolve their unfinished storylines. His past attempts to secure a sequel with Capcom, even joking about his pleas falling on deaf ears, highlight the significance of this new development. Now, with his own studio and Capcom as publisher, his vision is becoming reality.

Clovers Inc.: A New Studio, A New Beginning

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya's new venture, Clovers Inc., pays homage to Clover Studio, the developer behind Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and also acknowledges his early Capcom team responsible for Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio represents a continuation of his creative philosophy, rooted in the values instilled during his time at Clover Studio. A joint venture with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, Clovers Inc. sees Koyama managing the business side as president, allowing Kamiya to focus on game development. Currently employing 25 people across Tokyo and Osaka, the studio plans for measured growth, prioritizing a shared creative vision over sheer size. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who share Kamiya and Koyama's passion and creative vision.

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

The PlatinumGames Departure

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led creatively for two decades, surprised many. While he remains tight-lipped about the specifics, he alludes to internal conflicts and differing philosophies on game development as the driving force behind his decision. He emphasizes the importance of shared creative vision and a harmonious work environment, factors that ultimately led him to establish Clovers Inc.

A Softer Side?

Beyond his celebrated directorial work, Kamiya is known for his sometimes blunt and humorous online interactions. Recently, however, he showed a more empathetic side, issuing a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted, highlighting a potential shift in his online persona. He's been actively engaging with fans, responding to requests, and sharing positive fan reactions to the Okami 2 announcement. While his characteristic directness remains, a more conciliatory tone seems to be emerging.