Okami 2: Exclusive Creator Interview Reveals All

Our recent trip to Osaka, Japan, was filled with excitement as we had the opportunity to sit down with the creative minds behind the highly anticipated Okami sequel. In a comprehensive two-hour interview, we delved deep into discussions with Clover's director Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata. They shared insights on the sequel's development, its origins, and what fans can anticipate from this new installment.

We thoroughly enjoyed conducting the interview and believe you'll find it equally engaging, whether you choose to watch or read it in full. You can access the complete interview [ttpp]. For those seeking a quick overview, we've distilled the most significant highlights relevant to Okami enthusiasts:

The Okami sequel is being developed using RE Engine

The most thrilling news from our interview is the confirmation that Capcom's proprietary RE Engine is powering the development of the Okami sequel. For a more detailed look at this choice, you can check out our in-depth article [ttpp]. Essentially, the RE Engine's capabilities are enabling the project leads to bring to life aspects of their vision for Okami that were unattainable with previous technology. However, some at Clover are new to working with the RE Engine, which is where Capcom's partner, Machine Head Works, steps in.

Mystery ex-Platinum developers are involved, via Machine Head Works

Rumors have circulated about talent leaving PlatinumGames, including those closely associated with Hideki Kamiya and the original Okami team. During our interview, we inquired about the involvement of developers like Shinji Mikami, Abebe Tinari, or Takahisa Taura. While specifics were not disclosed, Kamiya hinted at the participation of former Platinum and Capcom staff through Machine Head Works. We'll have to wait to discover exactly who is on board.

Capcom's long-standing interest in an Okami sequel

Despite the initial commercial underperformance of Okami, Capcom has been keeping an eye on the game's growing sales across various platforms. For more on this, see our detailed article [ttpp]. Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi noted that the company has been considering a sequel for some time, but it required the alignment of key personnel. With Kamiya and Machine Head Works now involved, the project is set to move forward.

A direct sequel to the original

In an era where sequels can take unexpected turns, it's refreshing to confirm that the new Okami game is a direct continuation of the original story. Both Hirabayashi and Kamiya assured us that the sequel picks up right where the first game concluded, leaving ample room for further narrative exploration.

Amaterasu returns in the trailer

Fans will be delighted to see the return of Amaterasu, the iconic protagonist, in the trailer for the sequel.

Okamiden's place in the series

The Nintendo DS follow-up, Okamiden, has its own dedicated fanbase. Capcom acknowledges the mixed reception to its storyline. Hirabayashi explained, "We know that there are fans out there that like the game, of course. And we also know the feedback on the game out there, of how the story was taken and now how perhaps parts of the story weren’t aligning with what people were expecting. With that, we also have the sequel now that, as we explained before, is a continuation from the story of the original base Ōkami."

Okami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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Hideki Kamiya engages with fans on social media

It's no secret that Hideki Kamiya is active on social media, and he confirmed during our interview that he monitors fan feedback specifically for insights into expectations for the sequel. However, Kamiya clarified that their goal is not to create a game that's a direct response to fan demands but to deliver a fun and engaging experience that aligns with the spirit of Okami. "Our work, of course, is not to create the game that people request of us, to create the exact copy of what people want from us," he stated. "But we are working hard to achieve a game that achieves the fun that people are expecting of this Ōkami sequel. I have an idea of what I want to create. And I have no plans of throwing away the user's expectation of the games, but I always want to make the best game possible."

Rei Kondoh's contribution to the trailer

Rei Kondoh, the acclaimed composer behind tracks for games like Bayonetta and the original Okami, including the memorable "Rising Sun" final boss theme, has crafted the music for the Okami sequel trailer showcased at The Game Awards. This suggests his potential involvement in the sequel's soundtrack as well.

Early stages of development

The Okami sequel is still in its very early stages of development. The team announced it prematurely due to their enthusiasm, but they are urging fans to remain patient. "Faster isn't always the best," Hirabayashi stated. "We will not give up quality for speed, but do know that we will not drag our feet for this title. It's something that we will put our efforts into." Both Hirabayashi and Sakata hinted that it might be some time before further updates are available, but reassured fans that the project is in the hands of a dedicated team passionate about the Okami series. "It might be some time before we get to meet each other again. But do know that this project is made by staff who love this series, still love this IP, and they're working very, very hard to create it. And we're working our hardest to make something that aligns with everyone's expectations."

To catch up on our full interview with the leads of the Ōkami sequel, visit [ttpp].