OKAMI 2: Creator Shares Exclusive Details

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During our recent trip to Osaka, Japan, we secured an exclusive interview with the development team behind the highly anticipated Ōkami sequel. In this revealing two-hour discussion, we spoke with Clover Studio director Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata about the sequel's origins, development approach, and exciting new features.

We thoroughly enjoyed conducting this interview, and we're confident you'll find it equally engaging whether you watch or read the complete version available here. For those seeking key takeaways, we've distilled the most noteworthy insights that will particularly interest Ōkami enthusiasts:

The Ōkami sequel is being developed using RE Engine

The most significant revelation from our discussion was confirmation that Capcom's proprietary RE Engine powers the sequel. While we've published a detailed technical analysis elsewhere, the crucial takeaway is that this technology enables the team to realize creative visions that were previously technologically impossible during the original Ōkami's development. Interestingly, many Clover Studio members lack prior experience with RE Engine, which explains their collaboration with technical partner Machine Head Works.

Former PlatinumGames developers are contributing through Machine Head Works

Persistent industry rumors have suggested an exodus of talent from PlatinumGames, including several creatives with connections to Hideki Kamiya and the original Ōkami team. When pressed about potential involvement from figures like Shinji Mikami, Abebe Tinari, or Takahisa Taura, Kamiya hinted at participation from former Platinum and Capcom personnel via Machine Head Works, though specific names remain undisclosed for now.

Capcom has long contemplated an Ōkami sequel

Contrary to popular perception, Capcom maintained interest in the Ōkami franchise despite the original game's underwhelming initial sales. As explained by producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, the publisher recognized the title's growing commercial performance across successive platform releases and had been considering a sequel for years. However, as Hirabayashi noted, "We needed to have certain key people in place" and "it took time for the necessary elements to align." With Kamiya's return and Machine Head Works' involvement, these conditions have finally been met.

This is a canonical continuation of the original story

In an era of ambiguous franchise continuations, the developers confirmed this project serves as a direct narrative sequel to the first Ōkami. While avoiding spoilers for new players, both Kamiya and Hirabayashi emphasized that the new installment will directly follow the original game's conclusion, acknowledging the rich storytelling opportunities this presents.

Rei Kondoh's musical return hints at full soundtrack involvement

The celebrated composer behind iconic Ōkami tracks like "Rising Sun" has already contributed to the sequel's development, having arranged the Game Awards trailer music. This strongly suggests Kondoh's full return for the sequel's soundtrack, bringing his distinctive musical style that so memorably complemented the original game.

Early development phase requires patience

The developers acknowledged announcing the project during its conceptual stages, requesting fan understanding regarding the extended development timeline. As Hirabayashi emphasized, "Quality takes precedence over speed, but we're fully committed to this project." Sakata added that while updates may be infrequent, fans can rest assured the team comprises passionate creators dedicated to meeting expectations: "Though it may be some time before our next update, please know this project is in the hands of developers who genuinely love this franchise and are working tirelessly to create something extraordinary."

For the complete interview with the Ōkami sequel's creative leads, including additional insights and development anecdotes, please visit our full coverage here.