Ōkami Returns: Exclusive Interview Explores Anticipated Sequel

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, the project reunites director Hideki Kamiya (newly independent from PlatinumGames and heading his own studio, Clovers) with Capcom (publisher) and Machine Head Works (a Capcom veteran-staffed studio instrumental in recent Capcom titles, including the Ōkami HD remake). This collaboration boasts an impressive team, blending new talent with original Ōkami veterans.

While initial details were scarce, IGN recently interviewed Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata in Osaka, Japan. The two-hour discussion covered the sequel's development, the studio partnerships, and the teams' histories.

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

Kamiya: It's complex. Leaving Platinum after 16 years stemmed from a divergence in our development approaches. I believe a game creator's personality heavily influences the player experience. My vision for Platinum differed from the company's direction, prompting me to establish Clovers, a studio fostering an environment where I can realize my creative goals.

IGN: What defines a "Hideki Kamiya game?"

Kamiya: I don't believe my games need a signature stamp. My focus is on crafting unique, unprecedented player experiences.

IGN: What's the connection between Clovers and Clover Studio?

Kamiya: Clovers continues the legacy of the original Clover Studio (Capcom's fourth development division). The four-leaf clover symbolizes that heritage, and the "C" in our logo (appearing four times) represents creativity.

IGN: Capcom's involvement is significant. Was a close relationship with Capcom envisioned even before Clovers' formation?

Hirabayashi: (Capcom) We've always wanted an Ōkami sequel. Kamiya's departure from his previous studio presented the perfect opportunity, especially with the shared desire from [Capcom producer Jun] Takeuchi.

IGN: How did the sequel's development begin?

Hirabayashi: The opportunity arose with Kamiya's departure. We'd always sought the right moment and the right people.

Kamiya: I've always wanted an Ōkami sequel. The original story felt incomplete. Casual discussions with Takeuchi over the years finally led to this.

Sakata: (Machine Head Works) As a Clover Studio alum, Ōkami holds immense importance. The timing felt right for a sequel.

IGN: Introduce Machine Head Works.

Sakata: A recent company, stemming from Capcom Division Four (Kamiya's roots). We bridge Clovers and Capcom, leveraging our experience with Capcom and the RE Engine (which Clovers lacks experience with). We also have Ōkami veterans on our team.

Hirabayashi: Sakata's team assisted with the PS4 port of Ōkami. Their RE Engine experience is invaluable.

IGN: Why the RE Engine?

Hirabayashi: It's essential for realizing Kamiya's vision.

Kamiya: RE Engine's expressive capabilities are renowned, meeting expectations for this project.

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

Hirabayashi: Capcom recognizes a vast, loyal Ōkami fanbase. The game's enduring popularity, evidenced by consistent sales, demonstrates its unique appeal.

Kamiya: Initial development challenges might have limited reach, but later versions and social media feedback show significant ongoing appreciation. The Game Awards announcement and fan reactions were incredibly heartwarming.

IGN: Will former Clover Studio members be involved?

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

IGN: You mentioned wanting a stronger team for the original Ōkami.

Kamiya: Yes (referencing an interview with Ikumi Nakamura). While development is unpredictable, a stronger team increases our chances of success.

IGN: Did you replay Ōkami recently?

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

Kamiya: I didn't know that DVD existed!

Sakata: My daughter played the Switch version. Its intuitive guidance makes it accessible even to younger players.

Hirabayashi: My daughter also enjoyed the Switch version, highlighting its universal appeal.

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

Kamiya: My love for my hometown (Nagano Prefecture) and its natural beauty heavily influenced the game. The sequel will retain that spirit, balancing beauty with darker elements and a compelling narrative.

IGN: What technological advancements will influence the sequel?

Sakata: The PS2's limitations forced compromises on the original's artistic vision. Modern technology, especially the RE Engine, allows us to realize those original ambitions.

Okami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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IGN: Thoughts on the Nintendo Switch 2?

Hirabayashi: No comment.

Kamiya: Personally, I'd love a Virtual Console revival.

IGN: Untold themes or stories from the original Ōkami?

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

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

IGN: Is it Amaterasu in the Game Awards trailer?

Kamiya: I wonder...

Hirabayashi: Yes, it's Amaterasu.

IGN: Will Ōkamiden be acknowledged?

Hirabayashi: We're aware of fan feedback regarding Ōkamiden. The sequel directly follows the original Ōkami's narrative.

IGN: Control scheme considerations?

Kamiya: We'll balance respecting the original while adapting to modern gaming conventions.

IGN: The sequel is very early in development?

Hirabayashi: Yes, we started this year.

IGN: Why the early Game Awards announcement?

Hirabayashi: To express our excitement and confirm the project's viability.

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

IGN: Concerns about fan anticipation?

Hirabayashi: We'll prioritize quality over speed.

Kamiya: We'll work diligently to meet expectations.

Sakata: We'll do our best.

IGN: The post-game video in the original Ōkami—was that inspiration for the sequel's teaser?

Sakata: Not direct inspiration, but it reflects our commitment to the original's spirit.

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

Kamiya: Kondoh's music maintains the original's spirit.

IGN: Current inspirations?

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

Sakata: Smaller-scale theatre productions, emphasizing the live performance aspect.

Hirabayashi: Recent films, particularly the emotional depth of Gundam GQuuuuuuX.

IGN: What constitutes success for the sequel?

Hirabayashi: Exceeding fan expectations.

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

Sakata: A game that both experienced and new gamers appreciate.

IGN: Your studios' 10-year vision? Future collaborations with Capcom? Original IPs?

Sakata: Ensuring Machine Head Works' continued game development.

Kamiya: Building Clovers by attracting like-minded collaborators.

Final Messages to Fans:

Hirabayashi: We're working hard to deliver the sequel. Please be patient.

Sakata: The team is passionate and dedicated. We aim to meet your expectations.

Kamiya: Thank you for your support. We couldn't have done this without you. We'll create a game you'll enjoy. Please look forward to it.