PlatinumGames Loses Key Director to Housemarque
The departure of Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, from PlatinumGames to Housemarque, adds to the growing concerns surrounding PlatinumGames' future. This follows the high-profile exit of Hideki Kamiya, the creator of Bayonetta, in September 2023, who cited creative differences with the studio's direction. Kamiya's subsequent announcement as the lead developer for Capcom's Okami sequel further fueled speculation about PlatinumGames' internal struggles.
Rumors of additional key developer departures from PlatinumGames, confirmed by the social media silence of several individuals, heightened the uncertainty. Tinari's move to Helsinki, Finland, and his recent LinkedIn update revealing his new role as a lead game designer at Housemarque solidify these concerns.
Tinari Joins Housemarque's Unannounced Project
Housemarque, the PlayStation-owned studio behind the acclaimed Returnal, has been developing a new, unannounced IP since 2021. Tinari's expertise is likely to contribute significantly to this project. While a release date remains undisclosed, a 2026 reveal is considered a realistic expectation by many.
PlatinumGames' Uncertain Future
The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames' upcoming projects remains to be seen. While the studio is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment, the future of Project GG, a new IP spearheaded by the now-departed Kamiya, is uncertain. The project's development timeline is likely to be affected by this leadership change. The situation underscores a period of significant transition and uncertainty for the once-prominent Japanese studio.
