Twenty years after the original Ōkami captivated players, Amaterasu, the sun goddess and source of all goodness, makes a surprising return in a highly anticipated sequel. Revealed at The Game Awards, this new adventure is helmed by Hideki Kamiya, who, having recently left PlatinumGames, has established his own studio, Clovers, to spearhead development. Capcom, the IP holder, acts as publisher, collaborating with Machine Head Works, a studio comprised of Capcom veterans, lending their expertise to this project, including their work on the Ōkami HD remaster. The team boasts a blend of seasoned developers from the original Ōkami and fresh talent, promising a unique and powerful collaboration.
While details remain scarce, IGN recently secured a revealing interview with Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata in Osaka, Japan. The discussion covered the sequel's genesis, the studio partnerships, and the creative vision driving the project.
The interview, lightly edited for clarity, is presented below:
IGN: Kamiya-san, you've previously discussed your departure from PlatinumGames, citing a divergence in creative philosophies. You aimed to create games uniquely yours. What core beliefs shape your game development, and how will they influence Clovers' approach?
Hideki Kamiya: It's complex. Leaving Platinum after 16 years stemmed from a feeling that the company's direction wasn't aligning with my vision. I can't elaborate, but the creator's personality heavily influences the player experience. My development goals at Platinum differed from the company's, prompting me to establish Clovers, a studio fostering an environment where I can realize my creative ambitions.
What defines a Hideki Kamiya game? How would someone identify your work without knowing the creator?
Kamiya: I don't believe my games need a signature stamp. My focus is on crafting unique, unforgettable experiences players haven't encountered before. This unique enjoyment is my priority throughout development.
What's the connection between Clovers and Clover Studio? Does the clover hold special significance?
Kamiya: The name Clovers is a continuation of my pride in the original Clover Studio, Capcom's fourth development division. The four-leaf clover symbolizes that legacy. Furthermore, "C-lover" represents "creativity," a core value of Clovers Studio, hence the four "C"s in our logo.
Capcom's significant involvement is evident. Did you envision a close relationship with Capcom even before Clovers' inception?
Yoshiaki Hirabayashi: From Capcom's perspective, we've always desired an Ōkami sequel. The IP is cherished, and we felt a continuation was essential. Kamiya's departure from his previous studio initiated discussions about this project.
How did this project materialize? Why Ōkami? Why now?
Hirabayashi: We've long sought the opportunity, and it presented itself with Kamiya's availability. Key personnel were needed, and the timing was right.
Kamiya: I've always wanted an Ōkami sequel. The original story felt incomplete. Discussions with Takeuchi (Capcom producer) frequently touched upon this possibility. Leaving Platinum made it a reality.
Kiyohiko Sakata: As a former Clover Studio member, Ōkami holds immense significance. The alignment of circumstances made this the ideal time to proceed.
Could you introduce Machine Head Works and its role?
Sakata: Machine Head Works is a new studio, building upon the foundation of M-Two, a company closely collaborating with Capcom. Our roots trace back to Capcom's Division Four, sharing Kamiya's origins. We act as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, leveraging our experience with Capcom's processes and the RE Engine, which Clovers is utilizing. Our team includes veterans from the original Ōkami.
Hirabayashi: Sakata-san's team assisted with the PS4 port of Ōkami, and they've also contributed to recent RE Engine titles like Resident Evil 3 and Resident Evil 4.
Why the RE Engine? What advantages does it offer for the Ōkami sequel?
Hirabayashi: The RE Engine is crucial for realizing Kamiya-san's artistic vision. Specific details are premature, but it's indispensable.
Kamiya: The RE Engine's expressive capabilities are renowned, and we aim to deliver that level of quality.
Despite Ōkami's perhaps less-than-stellar initial commercial performance, Capcom has long considered a sequel. Why is Ōkami so special to Capcom?
Hirabayashi: Millions of Ōkami fans exist within the Capcom community. The game's enduring popularity is evident in consistent sales figures over the years.
Kamiya: Initially, Ōkami's reach might have been limited, but subsequent releases and social media engagement reveal significant ongoing appreciation. The Game Awards announcement and fan reactions reinforced this.
What are you most proud of in the original Ōkami?
Kamiya: My love for my hometown, Nagano Prefecture, heavily influenced the game's creation. The balance of beauty and darkness, the story's emotional impact, and its accessibility to diverse audiences are key elements I aim to replicate and enhance.
(Following a question about a picture, which the interviewees declined to comment on)
How has game development and technology evolved since the original Ōkami, and how will this influence the sequel?
Sakata: The original Ōkami's hand-drawn style presented technical challenges on the PS2. Modern technology allows us to achieve the original vision and surpass it, aided by the RE Engine.
Ōkami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots
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What are your thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2?
Hirabayashi: We can't comment on the Nintendo Switch 2.
Kamiya: Personally, I'd love to see a Virtual Console revival.
Can you share any overarching themes or narrative elements you want to explore in the sequel that weren't fully developed in the first game?
Kamiya: I have a well-defined overall theme and story concept, cultivated over years.
Hirabayashi: The sequel is a direct continuation of the original Ōkami's narrative.
Is Amaterasu the protagonist in the Game Awards trailer?
Kamiya: I wonder...
Hirabayashi: Yes, it's Amaterasu.
How will Ōkamiden be addressed?
Hirabayashi: We acknowledge Ōkamiden's existence and fan reception. The sequel directly follows the original Ōkami's storyline.
Regarding controls, how will you balance modern expectations with the preferences of original fans?
Kamiya: While we haven't finalized controls, we'll consider modern standards while respecting the original's essence.
Is the sequel in very early development?
Hirabayashi: Yes, we began this year.
Why the early announcement at the Game Awards?
Hirabayashi: We were excited to share the news and confirm the project's feasibility.
Kamiya: The announcement solidified the project's reality and served as a promise to fans.
Are you concerned about fan anticipation and the development time?
Hirabayashi: We understand the excitement. We'll prioritize quality over speed.
Kamiya: We'll work diligently to meet expectations.
Was the post-Ōkami video, showing Amaterasu running, an inspiration for the sequel's teaser?
Sakata: Not directly, but it reflects the continuation of the original's vision.
Hirabayashi: The trailer's music, composed by Rei Kondoh, evokes the original game's spirit.
What inspires you currently?
Kamiya: Takarazuka stage shows, particularly the Hana group, inspire me with their creative staging and problem-solving in a live performance context.
Sakata: Gekidan Shiki and smaller theater groups, emphasizing the live performance aspect and its organic nature.
Hirabayashi: Recently, movies, particularly the Gundam GQuuuuuuX film, which showcases diverse perspectives and emotional depth.
What constitutes success for the Ōkami sequel?
Hirabayashi: Surpassing fan expectations and delivering an enjoyable experience.
Kamiya: Personal satisfaction with the final product, aligning with fan expectations as much as possible.
Sakata: Fan enjoyment and the achievement of the director's vision.
In 10 years, what will define the success of your studios? Do you foresee a continued partnership with Capcom or the development of your own IPs?
Sakata: Ensuring Machine Head Works continues creating games.
Kamiya: For Clovers, fostering a collaborative environment with like-minded individuals.
(Final messages to fans from Hirabayashi, Sakata, and Kamiya expressing gratitude and commitment to delivering a high-quality sequel.)
