Ōkami 2 — Capcom, Hideki Kamiya, and Machine Head Discuss Hotly Anticipated Sequel in Exclusive Interview

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 last year's Game Awards, this new Ōkami adventure is currently in development under the direction of Hideki Kamiya, who, having recently left PlatinumGames, established his own studio, Clovers. Capcom, the IP owner, acts as publisher, collaborating with Machine Head Works, a studio comprised of Capcom veterans, who previously supported the Ōkami HD remake. This collaboration brings together seasoned developers from the original Ōkami team with fresh talent, promising a stellar development lineup.

While details remain scarce, IGN recently secured an exclusive interview with Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata in Osaka, Japan. This two-hour conversation delved into the genesis of the sequel, the studio partnerships, and the unique vision driving this project.

The interview revealed Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames stemmed from a divergence in creative philosophies. He sought to create games uniquely his own, emphasizing the importance of the developer's personality in shaping the player experience. While he refrained from specifying the differences, he clarified that his aim is to craft distinctive gaming experiences unlike any other. The name "Clovers," a nod to his previous studio, Clover Studio, reflects his commitment to creativity, symbolized by the four-leaf clover logo representing the four C's of creativity.

Capcom's involvement stemmed from a long-held desire to create an Ōkami sequel, fueled by the enduring popularity of the original title and the belief in its untapped potential. Kamiya himself harbored a similar ambition, finally realizing it after leaving PlatinumGames. Machine Head Works serves as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, leveraging its experience with the RE Engine and its familiarity with both Capcom's needs and Kamiya's creative vision. The RE Engine was chosen for its expressive capabilities, vital to realizing Kamiya’s artistic vision.

The interview addressed the commercial performance of the original Ōkami, acknowledging that while initial expectations weren't fully met, its enduring popularity and consistent sales over the years solidified its place as a beloved IP. The team expressed gratitude for the passionate fanbase, whose continued enthusiasm played a pivotal role in the sequel's development.

The discussion touched upon the sequel's development team, confirming the involvement of several veterans from the original Ōkami team through Machine Head Works. Kamiya expressed satisfaction with the current team's enhanced capabilities compared to the original Ōkami development, highlighting the advancements in technology and the addition of highly skilled individuals.

Regarding gameplay, the team acknowledged the need to balance nostalgia with modern gaming expectations, promising to refine the control scheme while preserving the spirit of the original. The early announcement at the Game Awards was driven by excitement and a desire to share the news with fans.

Finally, the interview concluded with personal insights into the team's inspirations, ranging from Takarazuka stage shows and Gekidan Shiki theatre performances to the latest Gundam film. The team defined success not solely by sales figures, but also by creating a game that both they and the fans could cherish, a game that transcends generational boundaries, offering enjoyment to both seasoned gamers and newcomers alike.

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