Our recent trip to Osaka, Japan, allowed us an exclusive two-hour interview with the creative minds behind the much-anticipated sequel to Okami. We sat down with Clover's director Hideki Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata to dive deep into their vision for the upcoming game. From the inception of the project to what fans can anticipate, our conversation was rich with insights and excitement. You can enjoy the full interview here, but for those eager for the key takeaways, we've summarized the highlights that Okami enthusiasts will find most intriguing.

The Okami sequel is being crafted with Capcom's RE Engine

A standout revelation from our interview is the use of Capcom's RE Engine for the development of the Okami sequel. This choice is driven by the engine's capabilities, enabling the team to bring to life aspects of their original vision that were previously unattainable with older technology. While many at Clover are new to the RE Engine, Capcom's partner, Machine Head Works, is lending their expertise to bridge this gap.

Ex-Platinum developers are contributing, thanks to Machine Head Works

Rumors of talent exodus from PlatinumGames have been circulating, particularly concerning developers close to Hideki Kamiya and those involved with the original Okami. Although specifics were not disclosed, Kamiya hinted at the involvement of former Platinum and Capcom staff through Machine Head Works, adding an intriguing layer to the project's development team.

Capcom has long desired an Okami sequel

Contrary to what some might believe, Capcom has been keen on revisiting the Okami universe. Despite the original game's initial modest sales, its consistent performance across various platforms has caught Capcom's attention. As Hirabayashi mentioned, the alignment of key personnel, including Kamiya and Machine Head Works, has finally set the stage for this sequel.

A direct continuation of the original story

The sequel is not just another game in the Okami series but a direct follow-up to the first, picking up right where it left off. This news is especially exciting for fans who are eager to see how the story unfolds from the original's cliffhanger.

Amaterasu returns in the trailer

The beloved character Amaterasu, known as the origin of all that is good and the mother to us all, makes a confirmed appearance in the sequel's trailer, stirring anticipation among the fanbase.

The Okamiden legacy

Addressing the DS sequel, Okamiden, Hirabayashi acknowledged its existence and the mixed feedback it received. The new sequel, however, aims to realign with the narrative expectations set by the original Okami, offering a more cohesive story continuation.

Okami 2 Game Awards Teaser Screenshots

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Hideki Kamiya engages with fans on social media

Hideki Kamiya's active social media presence is well-known, and he uses it to gauge fan expectations for the Okami sequel. While he values fan input, Kamiya emphasizes that the team's goal is not to create a game that merely meets these expectations but to deliver a fun and fulfilling experience that aligns with their creative vision.

Rei Kondoh's musical touch in the trailer

The talented Rei Kondoh, known for his work on games like Bayonetta and the original Okami, composed the song for the Okami sequel trailer showcased at The Game Awards. His involvement suggests a return to contribute to the sequel's soundtrack, promising fans a continuation of the iconic musical legacy.

The sequel is still in its early stages

The Okami sequel is in the very early stages of development, and the team announced it prematurely out of excitement. Hirabayashi and Sakata urge fans to remain patient, emphasizing that while speed is not their priority, they are committed to delivering a high-quality game. They hinted that it might be some time before more updates are shared, but reassured fans that the project is in the hands of dedicated staff passionate about the Okami IP.

For a comprehensive look at our discussion with the leads of the Okami sequel, you can view or read the full interview here.