Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching his own studio, Clovers Inc., and spearheading a highly anticipated Okami sequel. This article delves into the details of the upcoming game, the new studio, and Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames.
A Long-Awaited Sequel
Gaming legend Hideki Kamiya, renowned for directing iconic 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 recent interview with VGC, Kamiya revealed the creation of Clovers Inc. and the collaboration with Capcom, the original publisher, for this project. He candidly admitted his desire to complete the unfinished narratives of Okami and Viewtiful Joe, even jokingly recounting his unsuccessful attempts to secure a sequel from Capcom.
Clovers Inc.: A New Studio, A Shared Vision
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Clovers Inc., a name echoing both the original Okami developer, Clover Studio, and Kamiya's early Capcom team, is a joint venture between Kamiya and former PlatinumGames colleague, Kento Koyama. Following Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames in October 2023, Koyama's proposal to establish a new company proved pivotal. Koyama serves as president, managing the business aspects, while Kamiya focuses on game development, acknowledging his strengths lie in creation, not corporate management.
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Currently boasting 25 employees across Tokyo and Osaka, Clovers Inc. plans for measured expansion. Kamiya emphasizes the importance of shared creative vision over sheer numbers, highlighting the recruitment of passionate individuals—many former PlatinumGames employees—who share his development philosophy.
Departure from PlatinumGames
Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led creatively for two decades, surprised many. While he remains tight-lipped about specifics, he alludes to internal shifts that conflicted with his game development philosophy. He emphasizes the alignment of his vision with Koyama's, solidifying their partnership as the foundation for Clovers Inc. Despite the circumstances, Kamiya expresses immense enthusiasm for the Okami sequel, highlighting the excitement of building a company from the ground up.
A Softer Side Emerges
Beyond his celebrated game design, Kamiya is known for his sometimes blunt social media interactions. However, following the Okami 2 announcement, he publicly apologized to a fan he had previously insulted, indicating a shift towards greater empathy and engagement with his fanbase. He's actively responding to fans, unblocking previously blocked users, and sharing positive fan reactions, demonstrating a more approachable demeanor while maintaining his characteristic wit.
