Hideki Kamiya, renowned game director behind classics like Okami and Devil May Cry, embarks on a new chapter. After a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, he's launched Clovers Inc., a new studio dedicated to fulfilling a long-held dream: an Okami sequel.
A Sequel 18 Years in the Making
Kamiya's passion for Okami is well-documented. He's publicly expressed his desire to complete the game's unfinished narrative for years, even jokingly recounting his unsuccessful attempts to convince Capcom to greenlight a sequel. Now, with Clovers Inc. and Capcom's backing as publisher, that dream is finally a reality.
Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning
The name "Clovers Inc." pays homage to both Clover Studio, the developer of the original Okami, and Kamiya's early Capcom teams. It's a joint venture with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, who handles the business side, allowing Kamiya to focus on what he does best: game development. The studio currently boasts 25 employees, a number Kamiya emphasizes is less important than maintaining a shared creative vision.
Many Clovers Inc. team members are former PlatinumGames employees who share Kamiya and Koyama's creative philosophy.
Departure from PlatinumGames
Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded, surprised many. He attributes his decision to internal changes that conflicted with his game development philosophy. While he remains tight-lipped about specifics, he stresses the alignment of his vision with Koyama's as a key factor in starting Clovers Inc.
A Softer Side?
Kamiya is known for his sometimes blunt online persona. However, the Okami 2 announcement seems to have softened his approach. He recently apologized to a fan he previously insulted, demonstrating a newfound sensitivity and engagement with his fanbase. While his signature wit remains, there's a noticeable shift towards greater appreciation for his supporters.