Okami 2 Fulfills Director Hideki Kamiya's 18 Year Dream for a Sequel

Hideki Kamiya's New Okami Sequel and Clovers Inc.: A Dream 18 Years in the Making

After a remarkable 20-year tenure at PlatinumGames, Hideki Kamiya, the celebrated game director, embarks on a new chapter. He's back, helming a long-awaited Okami sequel and spearheading his own studio, Clovers Inc. This article delves into the details of this exciting new project and Kamiya's reasons for leaving PlatinumGames.

A Long-Held Aspiration Realized

Kamiya, renowned for directing iconic titles like the original Okami, Devil May Cry, Resident Evil 2, Bayonetta, and Viewtiful Joe, has consistently expressed his desire to create sequels for Okami and Viewtiful Joe. He felt their narratives were unfinished, leaving him with a sense of responsibility to resolve lingering plot points. His past attempts to convince Capcom to greenlight a sequel proved unsuccessful, as he humorously recounted in a YouTube video with Ikumi Nakamura. Now, with Clovers Inc. and Capcom's backing as publisher, his long-held ambition is finally coming to fruition.

Clovers Inc.: A New Studio, A Familiar Spirit

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya's new venture, Clovers Inc., draws inspiration from Clover Studio, the developer behind Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and pays homage to his early Capcom team responsible for Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio represents a significant milestone in his career, embodying the creative philosophy he cherishes. Clovers Inc. is a joint effort with former PlatinumGames colleague, Kento Koyama, who serves as president, allowing Kamiya to concentrate on game development. Currently employing 25 people across Tokyo and Osaka, the studio plans to expand gradually. However, Kamiya emphasizes that the focus isn't on sheer numbers, but on a shared creative vision and passion.

Departure from PlatinumGames

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led for two decades, surprised many. He attributes his decision to internal changes that conflicted with his game development philosophy. While acknowledging the tension, he expresses immense enthusiasm for the Okami sequel, highlighting the excitement of building Clovers Inc. from the ground up.

A Softer Side? Kamiya's Apology

Known for his sharp wit and sometimes blunt social media interactions, Kamiya recently issued a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted, demonstrating a newfound sensitivity. He's been actively engaging with fans, responding to requests, and sharing positive fan reactions to the Okami 2 announcement. While his personality remains strong, a shift towards greater empathy is evident.