Ōkami 2: Capcom, Kamiya, and Machine Head on Sequel in Exclusive Interview

Two decades after the enchanting release of the original Ōkami, the revered deity Amaterasu, the embodiment of all that is benevolent and nurturing, is poised for a majestic comeback. Announced at The Game Awards, the much-anticipated sequel to Ōkami is in the works under the guidance of Hideki Kamiya, who, after parting ways with PlatinumGames, has established his own studio, Clovers. With the backing of Capcom, the IP's owner, and the assistance of Machine Head Works, a studio filled with Capcom alumni, the project promises a stellar reunion of talent committed to expanding the Ōkami universe.

While the emotional teaser and the impressive team behind the project have stirred excitement, specifics about the sequel remain scarce. Is it a direct continuation, or something new? What inspired this revival, and who are the key players? Is the wolf in the trailer Amaterasu or a new character? To shed light on these questions, IGN visited Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata at their studio in Osaka, Japan, for an insightful interview.

Full Q&A Interview

IGN: Kamiya-san, you've discussed your departure from PlatinumGames, citing a shift in direction that diverged from your vision. What core beliefs about game development are you bringing to Clovers?

Hideki Kamiya: After 16 years with Platinum, I left in September 2023, feeling the company was moving away from my vision. While I can't delve into specifics, I believe the personality of game creators profoundly impacts the user experience. Clovers was conceived post-departure as a space where I could pursue my creative ideals.

IGN: How can someone identify a game as distinctly yours?

Kamiya: It's not about branding a game as 'Kamiya's.' My focus is on crafting unique experiences that players haven't encountered before. That's my signature.

IGN: Is there a connection between Clovers and Clover Studio? What's the significance of the clover?

Kamiya: Clovers continues the legacy of Clover, which was Capcom's fourth development division. The clover represents creativity, symbolized by the 'C' in our logo, reflecting our dedication to imaginative game development.

IGN: Was a close relationship with Capcom part of Clovers' founding vision, even before the Ōkami sequel?

Yoshiaki Hirabayashi: From Capcom's perspective, we've always wanted to continue the Ōkami legacy. When Kamiya left Platinum, it sparked the discussions that led to this project.

IGN: How did the idea for the Ōkami sequel come about, and why now?

Hirabayashi: We've always sought an opportunity to revive Ōkami. The timing was right when Kamiya left Platinum.

Kamiya: I've longed to complete the Ōkami story, which I felt was unfinished. Leaving Platinum gave me the chance to work with Capcom again and bring this vision to life.

Kiyohiko Sakata: As former Clover members, Ōkami holds a special place for us. The current alignment of circumstances made it the perfect time to proceed.

IGN: Can you tell us more about Machine Head Works?

Sakata: Machine Head Works is a new studio with roots in Capcom's Division Four. We act as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, leveraging our experience with both and the RE Engine to support the sequel's development.

Hirabayashi: Machine Head Works was instrumental in the Ōkami HD remake and other recent Capcom titles, bringing valuable experience to the table.

IGN: Why choose the RE Engine for the sequel?

Hirabayashi: The RE Engine is essential for realizing Kamiya's artistic vision for the project.

Kamiya: It's renowned for its expressive capabilities, meeting the high-quality expectations set by fans.

IGN: Given Ōkami's initial commercial performance, why has Capcom remained committed to it?

Hirabayashi: Ōkami has a dedicated fanbase within Capcom's community. Its consistent sales over the years demonstrate its enduring appeal.

Kamiya: The fan response to later versions and the announcement at TGA overwhelmed me with joy. The support from fans has been crucial in pushing this project forward.

IGN: Have any former Clover team members been recruited for the sequel?

Kamiya: Yes, through Machine Head Works, we've brought back some of the original Ōkami team members. The current team is even more capable than before.

IGN: Have you replayed the original Ōkami recently?

Hirabayashi: I reviewed the DVD included with the artbooks rather than replaying the game.

Kamiya: I was unaware of that DVD's existence.

Sakata: My daughter played the Switch version recently and enjoyed it, highlighting Ōkami's accessibility.

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

Kamiya: My hometown's natural beauty inspired Ōkami. The game's story, encompassing both beauty and evil, resonates with players of all ages.

IGN: How has game development technology evolved since the original Ōkami, and how will it affect the sequel?

Sakata: The original's hand-drawn style was challenging on the PS2. Today's technology, especially the RE Engine, allows us to achieve our initial vision and more.

Ōkami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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IGN: What are the main themes or stories you want to explore in the sequel?

Kamiya: I have a clear vision for the sequel's theme and story, which I've been developing for years. It's a continuation of the original's narrative.

Hirabayashi: The sequel directly follows the story from the original game.

IGN: Is the wolf in the trailer Amaterasu?

Hirabayashi: Yes, it is Amaterasu.

IGN: How will you approach the control system for the sequel?

Kamiya: We're in the early stages, but we'll consider modern gaming standards while respecting the original's controls.

IGN: Why announce the sequel so early?

Hirabayashi: We were excited and wanted to share our commitment to making this game a reality.

Kamiya: Announcing it made the project tangible and a promise to fans.

IGN: How do you define success for the Ōkami sequel?

Hirabayashi: Personally, success means exceeding fan expectations.

Kamiya: If I'm proud of the game, I consider it successful, though aligning with fan expectations is also crucial.

Sakata: Success is when players, both seasoned and new, enjoy the game, and when the director's vision is realized.

IGN: What are your long-term goals for your studios?

Sakata: For Machine Head Works, it's about continuing to create games in the future, even as we approach retirement.

Kamiya: Clovers aims to grow and gather a team aligned with my creative vision.

Final Messages to Fans:

Hirabayashi: We're working hard to realize our dream of creating the Ōkami sequel. Please be patient as we bring it to life.

Sakata: This project is driven by our love for the series. We're dedicated to meeting everyone's expectations.

Kamiya: Your cheers made this project possible. Thank you for your support. We're committed to creating a game that everyone can enjoy. Please look forward to it.