Twenty years after the original Ōkami's release, Amaterasu, the sun goddess and source of all goodness, makes a surprising comeback. Announced at The Game Awards, a sequel is underway, helmed by Hideki Kamiya (formerly of PlatinumGames) at his new studio, Clovers, with Capcom publishing and Machine Head Works (a Capcom veteran-staffed studio) providing support. The team boasts a blend of fresh talent and original Ōkami developers, promising a continuation of the original vision.

While details are 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 genesis and the collaborative process.

The Q&A, lightly edited for clarity, follows:

IGN: Kamiya-san, you've discussed leaving PlatinumGames, citing a divergence in development philosophies. What are your core game development beliefs, and how will they shape Clovers?

Kamiya: It's complex. Leaving Platinum after 16 years stemmed from a feeling that the company's direction clashed with my own. Crucially, I believe a game's personality is deeply tied to its creators, influencing player experience. My vision differed from Platinum's, leading me to establish Clovers, a studio fostering an environment conducive to my creative goals.

IGN: What defines a "Hideki Kamiya game?"

Kamiya: I don't strive to create a consistently recognizable "Kamiya style." My focus is on delivering unique, unprecedented gameplay experiences.

IGN: The connection between Clovers and Clover Studio? Significance of the clover?

Kamiya: The name is a tribute to my time at Capcom's fourth development division (Clover Studio). The four-leaf clover symbolizes that legacy, with the "C" in "Clovers" also representing "creativity."

IGN: Capcom's involvement? Was a close relationship envisioned before Clovers' formation?

Hirabayashi: Capcom has always wanted an Ōkami sequel, driven by our love for the IP and a desire to continue its story. Kamiya's departure from Platinum opened the door for discussions about this project.

IGN: The sequel's genesis? Why Ōkami? Why now?

Hirabayashi: The opportunity arose with Kamiya's departure. We’d been preparing for this possibility.

Kamiya: I always wanted an Ōkami sequel. The original story felt incomplete. Casual discussions with Takeuchi (Capcom producer) over the years culminated in this opportunity after leaving Platinum.

Sakata: As a Clover Studio alumnus, Ōkami holds immense significance. The timing felt right, aligning various factors.

IGN: Introduction to Machine Head Works? Its role?

Sakata: Machine Head Works, a recent venture, leverages our experience working with Capcom and Kamiya. We bridge the gap between Clovers and Capcom, utilizing our RE Engine expertise and Ōkami veteran staff to support development.

Hirabayashi: Their team assisted with the PS4 Ōkami port and other recent RE Engine titles.

IGN: Why RE Engine?

Hirabayashi: It's essential for realizing Kamiya-san's artistic vision.

Kamiya: RE Engine's expressive capabilities meet the high expectations surrounding this sequel.

IGN: Despite Ōkami's perceived initial commercial performance, why has Capcom remained invested?

Hirabayashi: Millions of Ōkami fans exist within the Capcom fanbase. Steady sales over the years demonstrate enduring appeal.

Kamiya: While initial reach may have been limited, subsequent releases and positive fan feedback highlight Ōkami's lasting impact. The Game Awards announcement and subsequent fan reactions were overwhelming.

IGN: Plans to involve other former Clover Studio members?

Kamiya: Several original Ōkami developers are involved through Machine Head Works. The current team is even stronger than the original, benefiting from modern development practices and talent.

IGN: Replaying the original Ōkami before the announcement?

Hirabayashi: I reviewed materials, including cut content.

Kamiya: I wasn't aware of that DVD.

Sakata: My daughter played the Switch version, highlighting its accessibility and engaging gameplay.

Hirabayashi: My daughter enjoyed it too, showcasing its appeal to various age groups.

IGN: What are you most proud of in the original Ōkami?

Kamiya: My love for Nagano Prefecture's natural beauty significantly influenced the game's creation. The balance of beauty, darkness, and narrative is something I want to recapture in the sequel, making it accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

IGN: Changes in game development and technology influencing the sequel?

Sakata: Modern technology allows us to realize visual elements that were previously impossible due to hardware limitations.

Ōkami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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IGN: Opinions on the Nintendo Switch 2?

Hirabayashi: No comment.

Kamiya: Personally, I'd love a Virtual Console revival.

IGN: Untold themes or stories from the first Ōkami to explore in the sequel?

Kamiya: I have a detailed vision for the sequel's overarching theme and narrative, building upon ideas conceived over several years.

Hirabayashi: The sequel is a direct continuation of the original Ōkami's story.

IGN: Confirmation that it's Amaterasu in the Game Awards trailer?

Kamiya: I wonder...

Hirabayashi: Yes, it is Amaterasu.

IGN: Acknowledging Ōkamiden?

Hirabayashi: We're aware of fan feedback regarding Ōkamiden. The sequel directly continues the original Ōkami's narrative.

IGN: Control system outlook?

Kamiya: We'll consider modern standards while respecting the original's essence. What worked then might not work now.

IGN: Early development stage? Reason for the early announcement?

Hirabayashi: Yes, development began this year. We announced early to express our excitement and demonstrate our commitment.

Kamiya: The announcement solidified the project's reality and served as a promise to fans.

IGN: Concerns about fan anticipation and development time?

Hirabayashi: We'll prioritize quality over speed.

Kamiya: We'll work diligently to meet expectations.

Sakata: We will do our best.

IGN: Inspiration for the Ōkami sequel teaser? Connection to the post-game video?

Sakata: Not direct inspiration, but it reflects the sequel's adherence to the original's core concept.

Hirabayashi: The trailer's music, composed by Rei Kondoh, evokes the original game's spirit.

Kamiya: Kondoh's involvement maintains the original's essence.

IGN: Current inspirations?

Kamiya: Takarazuka stage shows, particularly the Hana group, inspire me with their creative solutions to stage limitations.

Sakata: Smaller theatre groups like Gekidan Shiki, emphasizing the live performance experience.

Hirabayashi: Recent movies, such as Gundam GQuuuuuuX, showcasing diverse perspectives and emotional impact.

IGN: Definition of success for the Ōkami sequel?

Hirabayashi: Surpassing fan expectations.

Kamiya: Personal satisfaction and creating a game I'm proud of.

Sakata: Fan enjoyment and accessibility to a wider audience.

IGN: Long-term vision for Clovers and Machine Head Works?

Sakata: Ensuring the studios' continued game development for years to come.

Kamiya: Building a team of like-minded collaborators within Clovers.

Final messages to fans:

Hirabayashi: We're working hard to deliver the sequel. Please be patient.

Sakata: The team is dedicated to creating a game that meets your expectations.

Kamiya: Thank you for your support. We're striving to create a game you'll enjoy. Please look forward to it.