Capcom's new action strategy game, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, launched July 19th, and to celebrate this unique title steeped in Japanese folklore, they've produced a stunning Bunraku puppet theater performance. This collaboration showcases both the game and Japan's rich cultural heritage to a global audience.

Capcom Celebrates Kunitsu-Gami Launch with Traditional Japanese Theater

Showcasing Kunitsu-Gami's Cultural Heart Through Traditional Arts

"Bunraku is an art form born and raised in Osaka, just as Capcom has thrived here," Kiritake shared. "I felt a strong connection to the idea of sharing our work beyond Osaka, with the world."

A Bunraku Prequel to Kunitsu-Gami

This Bunraku performance serves as a prequel to the game's story. Capcom describes this as a "new form of Bunraku," blending tradition with modern technology, using computer-generated (CG) backdrops of the game world. Capcom aimed to share the captivating world of Bunraku with a global audience, highlighting the game's Japanese cultural influences through this traditional art form.

Kunitsu-Gami's Deep Bunraku Inspiration

Producer Tairoku Nozoe revealed in an Xbox interview that game director Shuichi Kawata's passion for Bunraku, specifically "Ningyo Joruri Bunraku," heavily influenced the game's development. Even before the collaboration, Kunitsu-Gami already incorporated many Bunraku elements.

Nozoe explained, "Kawata's enthusiasm led us to see a performance together. We were deeply moved, realizing the enduring power of this art form. This inspired us to collaborate with the National Bunraku Theatre."

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess unfolds on Mt. Kafuku, once blessed but now corrupted by "defilement." Players purify villages by day and protect the Maiden by night, using sacred masks to restore peace.

The game launched July 19th for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles, and is available with Xbox Game Pass. A free demo is also available on all platforms.