Okami 2 Insights: Exclusive Creator Interview

Our recent trip to Osaka, Japan, allowed us an exclusive opportunity to delve into the exciting world of the upcoming Okami sequel. We spent a captivating two hours interviewing Clover's director Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata. Our discussion focused on their vision for the sequel, the project's origins, and what fans can anticipate from this highly anticipated game.

The full interview is available for you to watch or read, offering a comprehensive insight into the project. For those short on time, we've summarized the key takeaways that are particularly relevant for Okami enthusiasts:

The Okami sequel is being crafted using the RE Engine

A major revelation from our discussion was that the sequel is being developed using Capcom's advanced RE Engine. This engine is chosen for its ability to bring to life elements of the original Okami vision that were previously unattainable with older technology. Although some at Clover are new to the RE Engine, Capcom's partner, Machine Head Works, is stepping in to bridge this gap.

Mystery ex-Platinum developers involved via Machine Head Works

Rumors have been circulating about talent leaving PlatinumGames, including key figures close to Hideki Kamiya and those involved with the original Okami. While specifics weren't disclosed, Kamiya hinted that former Platinum and Capcom staff are contributing to the sequel through Machine Head Works.

Capcom's long-standing interest in an Okami sequel

Despite the initial commercial underperformance of the first game, Capcom has been keen on a sequel, motivated by the growing sales with each new platform release. Yoshiaki Hirabayashi mentioned that Capcom "needed to have certain key people in place," and it took time for everything to come together. Now, with Kamiya and Machine Head Works on board, the project is moving forward.

This is a direct sequel

The sequel is indeed a continuation of the original Okami story. Both Hirabayashi and Kamiya confirmed that it picks up directly from where the first game concluded, promising to expand on the narrative without spoiling it for those yet to experience the original.

Amaterasu returns in the trailer

Fans will be thrilled to see the return of Amaterasu, the beloved protagonist, in the game's trailer.

Acknowledging Okamiden

While the Nintendo DS game Okamiden has its followers, Capcom recognizes that it didn't meet all fans' expectations. Hirabayashi noted the feedback and assured that the new sequel aims to align more closely with the original Okami's narrative.

Okami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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Hideki Kamiya engages with fans on social media

Kamiya actively reads fan posts on social media, using them to gauge expectations for the sequel. However, he emphasized that their goal isn't to create a game based solely on fan requests but to deliver a fun experience aligned with those expectations.

Rei Kondoh's musical contribution

The acclaimed composer Rei Kondoh, known for his work on games like Bayonetta and Dragon's Dogma, and who contributed to the original Okami's soundtrack, composed the song for the Okami sequel trailer showcased at The Game Awards. This suggests his involvement in the sequel's music.

Early stages of development

The team announced the sequel early out of enthusiasm but urged patience. Hirabayashi stated, "Faster isn't always the best. We will not give up quality for speed, but do know that we will not drag our feet for this title." Both he and Sakata indicated that updates may be sparse for a while, but reassured fans that the team, passionate about the series, is diligently working to meet expectations.

For a deeper dive into our conversation with the Okami sequel's leads, you can access the full interview right here.