Okami 2: Kamiya's Sequel Dream Realized After 18 Years

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 this exciting new project and Kamiya's reasons for leaving PlatinumGames.

A Long-Held Dream Realized

Gaming legend Hideki Kamiya, renowned for his work on 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 has openly expressed his desire for sequels to Okami and Viewtiful Joe, citing unfinished narratives and a personal responsibility to conclude their stories. His previous attempts to convince Capcom to greenlight a sequel were unsuccessful, leading to humorous anecdotes shared with fellow game director Ikumi Nakamura.

Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Clovers Inc., a name inspired by the original Okami developer, Clover Studio, and his early Capcom teams behind Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry, represents a significant step for Kamiya. The studio, a joint venture with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, currently employs 25 people across Tokyo and Osaka. While expansion is planned, Kamiya emphasizes a shared creative vision over sheer numbers. He seeks passionate individuals who align with his game development philosophy. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who followed Kamiya and Koyama, sharing their commitment to creating exceptional games.

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Departure from PlatinumGames

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led creatively for two decades, surprised many. He attributes his decision to internal changes that conflicted with his personal game development philosophy. While he doesn't elaborate on specifics, he highlights the shared vision he found with Koyama as the catalyst for starting Clovers Inc.

A Public Apology and a Softer Side

Beyond his directorial prowess, Kamiya is known for his sometimes blunt online interactions with fans. Recently, he publicly apologized to a fan he previously insulted, showcasing a more conciliatory approach. He's been seen responding to fan requests, reposting positive reactions to the Okami 2 announcement, and even complimenting fan art and cosplay. While his direct communication style remains, a shift towards greater empathy is evident.