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

Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching a fresh studio and developing an Okami sequel. This article delves into his new venture, Clovers Inc., the highly anticipated sequel, and his departure from PlatinumGames.

A Long-Awaited Sequel

Renowned game director Hideki Kamiya, known for titles like the original Okami, Devil May Cry, and Bayonetta, has finally realized his long-held ambition: creating an Okami sequel. In a recent interview with VGC, Kamiya discussed his new studio, Clovers Inc., the revival of the beloved Okami franchise after 18 years, and the reasons behind his departure from PlatinumGames. He's consistently expressed his desire to complete the narratives of Okami and Viewtiful Joe, feeling a responsibility to resolve unfinished storylines. His previous attempts to secure a sequel at Capcom proved unsuccessful, leading to humorous anecdotes shared online with fellow game director Ikumi Nakamura. Now, with his own studio and Capcom as publisher, his vision is becoming reality.

Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya's new studio, Clovers Inc., pays homage to both Clover Studio (the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe) and his early Capcom team responsible for Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio represents a return to the creative principles he values deeply, principles forged during his time at Clover Studio. Clovers Inc. is a joint venture with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, who serves as president, allowing Kamiya to focus on game development. The studio currently employs 25 people across Tokyo and Osaka, with plans for gradual expansion. Kamiya emphasizes a shared creative vision over sheer size, aiming to collaborate with passionate individuals who share his commitment to game development. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who followed Kamiya and Koyama, reflecting their shared creative philosophy.

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Leaving PlatinumGames

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led creatively for two decades, surprised many. While he doesn't elaborate extensively, he alludes to internal changes that conflicted with his game development philosophy. He highlights the shared vision he and Koyama possess as a key factor in establishing Clovers Inc.

A Public Apology

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