Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching his own studio, Clovers Inc., and delivering a highly anticipated Okami sequel. This article delves into the details of the upcoming game and the circumstances surrounding Kamiya's departure.

A Long-Awaited Sequel

Renowned game director Hideki Kamiya, known for titles like the original Okami, Devil May Cry, Resident Evil 2, Bayonetta, and Viewtiful Joe, has finally realized his long-held ambition: a sequel to Okami. In a VGC interview, Kamiya revealed the story behind Clovers Inc., the resurrection of the Okami IP after 18 years, and his reasons for leaving PlatinumGames. He openly discussed his previous, unsuccessful attempts to secure a sequel with Capcom, highlighting his personal commitment to completing the narratives he felt were left unfinished.

The Okami sequel is now a reality, a collaboration between Kamiya's new studio and Capcom as publisher.

Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya's new venture, Clovers Inc., pays homage to Clover Studio, the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and also acknowledges his early Capcom teams behind Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio, a joint effort with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, currently employs 25 individuals across Tokyo and Osaka, with plans for gradual expansion. Kamiya emphasizes a shared creative vision as the key to the studio's success, rather than sheer size. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who followed Kamiya and Koyama, sharing their commitment to a strong creative core.

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 game development philosophy. While acknowledging past tensions, he expresses immense enthusiasm for the Okami sequel and the collaborative spirit within Clovers Inc.

A Public Apology

Beyond his celebrated career, Kamiya is known for his sometimes blunt online persona. He recently issued a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted, demonstrating a shift towards greater empathy and engagement with his fanbase. He's been actively responding to fans, unblocking users, and sharing positive fan-created content. However, his characteristic directness remains.