Ōkami 2 — Capcom, Hideki Kamiya, and Machine Head Discuss Hotly Anticipated Sequel in Exclusive Interview

Twenty years after the original Ōkami's release, Amaterasu, the sun goddess and source of all good, makes a surprising return in a highly anticipated sequel. Announced at The Game Awards, this project reunites director Hideki Kamiya (now heading his own studio, Clovers) with Capcom (publisher) and Machine Head Works (a studio of Capcom veterans). The team boasts a blend of seasoned Ōkami developers and fresh talent, promising a continuation of the original vision.

While details remain scarce, IGN recently interviewed Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata in Osaka, Japan. The interview revealed insights into the sequel's origins and development.

IGN's Q&A highlights:

• Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames: Kamiya sought creative freedom to develop games uniquely his own, leading to the formation of Clovers. He emphasizes the importance of developer personality in shaping the player experience. He defines his games not by a specific style, but by the unique experiences they offer.

• Clovers' connection to Clover Studio: The name is a nod to Kamiya's pride in his work at Capcom's fourth development division (Clover Studio), represented by the four-leaf clover. The "C" in Clovers also symbolizes creativity.

• The sequel's conception: Capcom's long-held desire to create an Ōkami sequel, coupled with Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, presented the perfect opportunity. Kamiya himself had always envisioned a sequel to complete the original story.

• Machine Head Works' role: This relatively new studio acts as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, leveraging its experience with Capcom's RE Engine and the original Ōkami team members.

• The choice of RE Engine: Capcom believes the engine is crucial for realizing Kamiya's artistic vision, offering capabilities previously unattainable.

• Ōkami's enduring appeal: Despite initial perceived commercial shortcomings, Ōkami's continued popularity and steady sales demonstrated its lasting impact on players.

• The team's composition: The sequel's development team is considered stronger and more experienced than the original Ōkami team.

• Influences on the sequel: Kamiya cites Takarazuka stage shows as a current inspiration, emphasizing their unique approach to staging and storytelling. Sakata admires the live performance aspect of Gekidan Shiki theater. Hirabayashi finds inspiration in films like Gundam GQuuuuuuX.

• The sequel's story: It's a direct continuation of the original Ōkami's narrative, featuring Amaterasu. Ōkamiden’s reception is acknowledged, but the sequel focuses on the original game's storyline.

• Control system: The team aims to modernize the controls while retaining the essence of the original Ōkami experience.

• Early announcement: The early announcement at the Game Awards served to express excitement and reassure fans of the project's viability.

• Success: Success is defined by creating a game that both the developers and fans enjoy, exceeding expectations while staying true to the spirit of the original.

The interview concludes with messages from each participant, expressing gratitude to fans and promising a sequel that honors the original while pushing boundaries.