Okami 2 Insights: Exclusive Creator Interview

Recently, we had the exciting opportunity to visit Osaka, Japan, where we conducted an in-depth, two-hour interview with the creative minds behind the highly anticipated sequel to Okami. We sat down with Clover Studio's director Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata to discuss their vision for the new game, the project's origins, and what fans can look forward to.

The interview was not only informative but also a lot of fun, and we're confident you'll enjoy it as much as we did. You can access the full interview here. For those short on time, we've summarized the key points below that are sure to excite Okami enthusiasts.

The Okami Sequel is Being Developed in RE Engine

One of the most significant revelations from our discussion was that the upcoming Okami sequel will be built using Capcom's advanced RE Engine. For more detailed insights into why this choice was made, you can check out our extended article. In essence, the RE Engine was selected for its ability to bring to life elements of the original Okami's vision that were previously unattainable due to technological limitations. However, some Clover team members are new to this engine, which is where the expertise of Capcom's partner, Machine Head Works, becomes invaluable.

Ex-Platinum Developers at Machine Head Works

Rumors have circulated about talent departing PlatinumGames, including key figures like Shinji Mikami, Abebe Tinari, and Takahisa Taura, who were associated with Hideki Kamiya and the original Okami. While our interviewees didn't confirm specifics, Kamiya hinted at the involvement of some former Platinum and Capcom staff through Machine Head Works. We're eager to learn more about who will be contributing to this project.

Capcom's Longstanding Interest in an Okami Sequel

Despite the initial underperformance of Okami, Capcom has been keenly interested in developing a sequel due to the game's growing sales across various platforms. For a more comprehensive look at this topic, see our detailed article. Hirabayashi explained that Capcom needed the right team in place, and with Kamiya and Machine Head Works on board, the timing is finally right.

A Direct Sequel to the Original Okami

There was some uncertainty about whether this new project would be a true sequel to Okami. However, Hirabayashi and Kamiya clarified that it is indeed a direct continuation of the original game's story, picking up right where it left off. This news is particularly exciting for those who have experienced the first game and are eager to see the story evolve.

Confirmation of Amaterasu in the Trailer

The iconic character Amaterasu, beloved by fans, is confirmed to appear in the sequel's trailer, reinforcing the connection to the original game.

Addressing Okamiden's Legacy

The conversation also touched on Okamiden, the Nintendo DS follow-up to Okami. While it has its dedicated fanbase, Hirabayashi acknowledged the mixed feedback regarding its story alignment with fan expectations. He emphasized that the new sequel will continue directly from the original Okami, aiming to meet and exceed fan expectations.

Okami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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Hideki Kamiya's Engagement with Fans on Social Media

Hideki Kamiya is known for his active social media presence, and he confirmed that he reads fan posts about Okami. While he values fan expectations, Kamiya emphasized that the team's goal is to create a fun and engaging sequel, not just to fulfill specific fan requests. He aims to balance fan desires with his creative vision to produce the best possible game.

Rei Kondoh's Contribution to the Sequel's Soundtrack

Rei Kondoh, the acclaimed composer behind tracks for games like Bayonetta and the original Okami, including the memorable "Rising Sun," has crafted the arrangement featured in the Okami sequel's trailer at The Game Awards. This suggests his involvement in the sequel's soundtrack, which is exciting news for fans of the series' music.

Early Stages of Development

The Okami sequel is still in its very early stages of development. The team announced it prematurely out of enthusiasm but urged fans to remain patient. Hirabayashi stressed that while they won't rush the process, they are committed to delivering a high-quality game. Sakata added that it might be some time before further updates are shared, but reassured fans that the project is in the hands of a team passionate about the Okami series.

For a deeper dive into our conversation with the Okami sequel's leads, you can watch or read the full interview here.