Okami 2 Fulfills Director Hideki Kamiya's 18 Year Dream for a Sequel

Hideki Kamiya's New Studio, Clovers Inc., Revives Okami After 18 Years

Following a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, Hideki Kamiya, renowned for directing iconic titles like the original Okami, has launched his own studio, Clovers Inc., and is spearheading a long-awaited sequel. This article delves into the details of the new studio, the Okami sequel, and Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames.

A Long-Held Dream Realized

Kamiya's return to the gaming world with an Okami sequel marks the culmination of a long-held ambition. In a recent interview with VGC, he revealed his desire to complete the unfinished narratives of both Okami and Viewtiful Joe, games he felt a strong personal connection to. He even humorously recounted his unsuccessful attempts to convince Capcom to greenlight a sequel. Now, with Clovers Inc. and Capcom as publisher, his vision is finally becoming a reality.

Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

The name "Clovers Inc." pays homage to both Clover Studio, the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and Kamiya's early Capcom team responsible for Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. This new venture is a joint effort between Kamiya and former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, who serves as president, allowing Kamiya to focus on game development. Currently employing 25 people across Tokyo and Osaka, Clovers Inc. plans for measured growth, prioritizing shared creative vision over sheer size.

Image from Clovers Inc. official website

Kamiya emphasizes the importance of a unified creative philosophy, attracting team members—many from PlatinumGames—who share his passion.

Departure from PlatinumGames

Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded, surprised many. While he remains tight-lipped about the specifics, he alludes to internal disagreements regarding game development philosophies. The opportunity to collaborate with Koyama, who shares his vision, proved pivotal in his decision to establish Clovers Inc.

A Softer Side?

Known for his sometimes blunt online interactions with fans, Kamiya recently issued a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted, demonstrating a shift towards greater empathy. He's also been engaging more positively with fans, responding to requests and acknowledging their enthusiasm for the Okami sequel.

The Okami sequel, under the direction of Kamiya and the newly formed Clovers Inc., promises to be a highly anticipated title, fulfilling a long-held dream and marking a new chapter in the celebrated director's career.