Ōkami 2 Sequel Scoop: Capcom, Kamiya, and Machine Head Dish Insider Details

Twenty years after the original Ōkami's release, 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 is under development, helmed by Hideki Kamiya, who, having recently left PlatinumGames, established his own studio, Clovers. Capcom, the IP owner, acts as publisher, with support from Machine Head Works, a studio comprised of Capcom veterans. This collaboration brings together seasoned developers from the original Ōkami with fresh talent, promising a stellar team dedicated to realizing their vision.

While details remain scarce beyond an evocative teaser and the team's identities, IGN recently secured answers. In a two-hour interview in Osaka, Japan, director Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata shed light on the project's origins and the studio partnerships.

The following Q&A, lightly edited for clarity, reveals their insights:

IGN: Kamiya-san, you've discussed your departure from PlatinumGames, citing a divergence in development philosophies. You aimed to create games uniquely "Hideki Kamiya." What guiding principles shape your game development, and how will they influence Clovers'?

Kamiya: It's complex. Leaving Platinum after 16 years stemmed from a feeling that the company's direction clashed with my own. I can't elaborate, but a game's personality, deeply influenced by its creators, significantly impacts the player experience. My vision for Platinum differed from its trajectory, necessitating my departure and the subsequent formation of Clovers. I sought an environment where I could fully realize my creative goals.

IGN: What defines a "Hideki Kamiya game"? How would one recognize your work without prior knowledge?

Kamiya: I don't believe my games need a signature stamp. My focus is on crafting unique, unprecedented experiences. Providing players with novel and engaging gameplay is paramount.

IGN: What's the connection between Clovers and Clover Studio? Does the clover hold special significance?

Kamiya: The name Clovers is a continuation of my pride in the original Clover Studio, Capcom's fourth development division. The four-leaf clover symbolizes that legacy. Additionally, "C-lover" represents "creativity," a core value at Clovers, hence the four "C"s in our logo.

IGN: Capcom's involvement is significant. Did you envision a close relationship with Capcom even before Clovers' inception?

Hirabayashi: (Capcom) As the original Ōkami director, Kamiya's involvement was crucial. Capcom always desired a sequel, cherishing the Ōkami IP. Kamiya's departure from his previous studio initiated discussions about this project.

IGN: How did this sequel come about? Why Ōkami? Why now?

Hirabayashi: Capcom constantly sought the right opportunity, requiring key personnel and preparation. Kamiya's departure presented that opportunity.

Kamiya: I've always envisioned an Ōkami sequel. The original story felt incomplete. Discussions with Takeuchi (Capcom producer) often revolved around this possibility. Leaving Platinum finally allowed me to realize this dream.

Sakata: (Machine Head Works) As a Clover Studio alum, Ōkami holds immense significance. The timing felt right, with all the necessary elements aligning.

IGN: Introduce Machine Head Works and its role.

Sakata: Machine Head Works, a recent venture, builds upon M-Two's close collaboration with Capcom. Originating from Capcom's Division Four (Kamiya's former division), we act as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, leveraging our experience with Capcom's processes and the RE Engine, which Clovers is utilizing. Our team includes veterans from the original Ōkami.

Hirabayashi: Sakata's team assisted with the PS4 port of Ōkami, and more recently on titles like Resident Evil 3 and Resident Evil 4.

IGN: Why the RE Engine?

Hirabayashi: It's essential for realizing Kamiya-san's artistic vision.

Kamiya: The RE Engine's renowned visual capabilities meet the expectations surrounding this project.

IGN: Ōkami's commercial performance wasn't initially spectacular. Why has Capcom remained committed to the IP?

Hirabayashi: Capcom recognizes a vast and dedicated Ōkami fanbase. The game's enduring popularity, evident in consistent sales and merchandise, underscores its unique appeal.

Kamiya: While initial reach might have been limited, subsequent releases and social media feedback reveal significant ongoing player engagement. The Game Awards announcement's enthusiastic reception further solidified this.

Hirabayashi: Unlike many games, Ōkami's sales haven't declined steadily, demonstrating its enduring appeal.

Kamiya: Fan enthusiasm, coupled with our creative drive, propelled this project forward.

IGN: Will former Clover Studio members be involved?

Kamiya: Several original Ōkami developers are involved through Machine Head Works. The current team is even stronger and more experienced than the original.

IGN: You mentioned wishing for a stronger team for the original.

Kamiya: Yes, as discussed with Ikumi Nakamura. While development is unpredictable, a stronger team increases the chances of success.

IGN: Did you replay Ōkami recently?

Hirabayashi: I reviewed materials, including a DVD of cut content.

Kamiya: I didn't know that DVD existed!

Sakata: My daughter played the Switch version and enjoyed it, highlighting its accessibility.

Hirabayashi: My daughter also enjoyed the Switch version, seeing it as a beautiful and inspiring game.

IGN: What are you most proud of in the original Ōkami?

Kamiya: My love for my hometown, Nagano Prefecture, significantly influenced the game's creation. The balance of beauty, darkness, and compelling storytelling is something I want to recapture in the sequel. I aim for broad appeal, engaging players of all ages.

IGN: (Shows a picture—unspecified) Do you know the story behind this?

(No comment from the team)

IGN: How has game development changed since the original Ōkami?

Sakata: The original's hand-drawn style was technically challenging on PS2. Modern technology allows us to achieve our original vision and surpass it.

Ōkami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

IGN: Your thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2?

Hirabayashi: No comment.

Kamiya: I'd love to see a Virtual Console reboot.

IGN: Any themes from the original you want to explore further?

Kamiya: I have a detailed concept, building for years, that I'm eager to share.

Hirabayashi: The sequel is a direct continuation of the original story.

Kamiya: I monitor fan feedback, but our goal isn't to simply fulfill expectations; it's to create the best possible game.

IGN: Is that Amaterasu in the Game Awards trailer?

Kamiya: I wonder...

Hirabayashi: Yes, it is Amaterasu.

IGN: Will Ōkamiden be acknowledged?

Hirabayashi: We're aware of fan opinions on Ōkamiden. The sequel directly continues the original Ōkami's narrative.

IGN: Regarding controls, how will you balance modern expectations with fan preference for the original's style?

Kamiya: We'll consider modern control schemes while retaining Ōkami's essence. What worked in the past may not be optimal now.

IGN: The sequel is very early in development?

Hirabayashi: Yes, we began this year.

IGN: Why announce it so early?

Hirabayashi: To express our excitement and reassure fans of its feasibility.

Kamiya: The announcement solidified the project's reality and served as a promise to fans.

IGN: Do you worry about fan anticipation?

Hirabayashi: We'll work diligently to meet expectations without compromising quality for speed.

Kamiya: We'll focus on creating the best game possible.

IGN: Was the prototype video from the original Ōkami's ending an inspiration for the sequel's teaser?

Sakata: Not directly, but the similarities reflect our commitment to the original game's vision.

Hirabayashi: The trailer's music, composed by Rei Kondoh, evokes the original game's spirit.

Kamiya: Rei Kondoh's music in the trailer maintains the original spirit.

IGN: What inspires you currently?

Kamiya: Takarazuka Revue stage shows, particularly their innovative staging.

Sakata: Gekidan Shiki and smaller theatre groups, emphasizing the live performance experience.

Hirabayashi: Recent films, such as Gundam GQuuuuuuX, highlighting the creator's passion and diverse audience interpretations.

IGN: What constitutes success for the sequel?

Hirabayashi: Exceeding fan expectations.

Kamiya: Creating a game I'm personally proud of, one that fans enjoy.

Sakata: A game that both experienced and new gamers can appreciate, aligning with Kamiya-san's vision.

IGN: In 10 years, how will you measure your studios' success? Will you continue collaborating with Capcom?

Sakata: Ensuring Machine Head Works continues creating games, supporting Kamiya-san's vision.

Kamiya: For Clovers, building a collaborative team with shared creative spirit is paramount.

(Closing messages to fans from Hirabayashi, Sakata, and Kamiya expressing gratitude for their support and assuring them of the team's dedication to creating a high-quality sequel.)