Okami Sequel Fulfills Director's Dream

Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching Clovers Inc. and helming the long-awaited Okami sequel. This article delves into the details of the upcoming game, his new studio, and his departure from PlatinumGames.

A Long-Held Aspiration Realized

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 announced a sequel to Okami. His new studio, Clovers Inc., will produce the game, with Capcom serving as publisher. Kamiya had previously expressed his desire to complete the narratives of Okami and Viewtiful Joe, feeling a responsibility to resolve unfinished storylines. His attempts to secure a sequel from Capcom proved unsuccessful, until now.

Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Clovers Inc., a name echoing both Clover Studio (the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe) and Kamiya's early Capcom team (behind Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry), is a joint venture between Kamiya and former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama. Following Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames in October 2023, Koyama convinced him to establish the new studio. Koyama serves as president, managing the business aspects, while Kamiya focuses on game development. The studio currently employs 25 people, with plans for gradual expansion. Kamiya emphasizes a shared creative vision over sheer size.

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

The team comprises several former PlatinumGames employees who share Kamiya and Koyama's creative philosophy.

Departure from PlatinumGames

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded, surprised many. He attributes his decision to internal changes that conflicted with his game development philosophy. While he doesn't elaborate on specifics, he stresses the alignment of his vision with Koyama's, a key factor in forming Clovers Inc.

Despite the circumstances, Kamiya expresses immense excitement for the Okami sequel, highlighting the thrill of building a company from the ground up.

A Public Apology

Kamiya, known for his sometimes blunt online interactions with fans, recently issued a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted. He expressed remorse, attributing his actions to impatience. This gesture suggests a shift towards more positive engagement with his fanbase, although his characteristic directness remains.