Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching Clovers Inc. and helming a highly anticipated Okami sequel. This article delves into the details of this exciting new project and Kamiya's reasons for leaving PlatinumGames.
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, he revealed the story behind Clovers Inc., the revival of the Okami IP after 18 years, and his departure from PlatinumGames. Kamiya has openly expressed his desire for sequels to Okami and Viewtiful Joe, citing unfinished narratives and a personal responsibility to conclude their storylines. His previous attempts to convince Capcom to develop a sequel proved unsuccessful, leading to humorous anecdotes shared on YouTube with Ikumi Nakamura. Now, with his own studio and Capcom as publisher, his vision is becoming a reality.
Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Kamiya's new studio, Clovers Inc., pays homage to Clover Studio, the developer of Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and his early Capcom team behind Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio, a joint venture with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, reflects Kamiya's commitment to the creative principles he values. Koyama manages Clovers Inc. as president, allowing Kamiya to focus on game development. Currently employing 25 people across Tokyo and Osaka, Clovers Inc. prioritizes a shared creative vision over sheer size.
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
The team includes former PlatinumGames employees who share Kamiya and Koyama's passion for game development.
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 he doesn't elaborate on specifics, he emphasizes the shared vision he found with Koyama as the catalyst for starting Clovers Inc. Despite the circumstances, he expresses immense enthusiasm for the Okami sequel, highlighting the excitement of building something new from the ground up.
An Apology and a Softer Side
Kamiya, known for his sharp online persona, recently issued a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted. This unexpected display of remorse, coupled with unblocking fans and engaging positively with fan creations, suggests a shift in his online interactions, though his characteristic directness remains.
