Former Bayonetta Origins Director Teams Up with Sony's Housemarque

Key Departures at PlatinumGames and Housemarque's New Project

PlatinumGames, known for its action titles like Bayonetta, has experienced a significant exodus of key developers recently, raising concerns about its future direction. This follows the September 2023 departure of Hideki Kamiya, the creator of Bayonetta, who cited creative differences with the studio's trajectory. Kamiya's subsequent involvement with a Capcom Okami sequel further fueled speculation.

Adding to the uncertainty, several top developers, including Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, have reportedly left PlatinumGames. Tinari's LinkedIn profile confirms his move to Housemarque, the Returnal developer, where he's assumed a lead game designer position.

Tinari's Transition to Housemarque

Housemarque, acquired by PlayStation in 2021, has been developing a new, unannounced IP since the release of Returnal. Tinari's expertise is likely to contribute significantly to this project. While a release date remains undisclosed, a 2026 unveiling is widely anticipated.

PlatinumGames' Future Uncertain

The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames' upcoming projects remains to be seen. The studio is currently celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, hinting at a potential new installment in the franchise. Additionally, Project GG, a new IP in development since 2020, is now without its original director, Hideki Kamiya, potentially impacting its progress. The future of both projects is now shrouded in uncertainty.