Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching his own studio, Clovers Inc., and spearheading a highly anticipated Okami sequel. This article delves into the details of this exciting new project and Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames.
A Long-Awaited Sequel
Renowned game director Hideki Kamiya, known for his work on titles like the original Okami, Devil May Cry, Resident Evil 2, Bayonetta, and Viewtiful Joe, has finally realized his long-held ambition: a sequel to Okami. In a VGC interview, Kamiya revealed his reasons for leaving PlatinumGames and the formation of Clovers Inc. He consistently expressed his desire to complete the unfinished narratives of Okami and Viewtiful Joe, even publicly joking about his unsuccessful attempts to convince Capcom to greenlight a sequel. Now, with Clovers Inc. and Capcom as publisher, his vision is becoming a reality.
Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Clovers Inc., a joint venture between Kamiya and former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, pays homage to Clover Studio, the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and Kamiya's early Capcom team behind Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The studio currently employs 25 individuals across Tokyo and Osaka, with plans for gradual expansion. Kamiya emphasizes a shared creative vision over sheer size, prioritizing passionate individuals who align with his game development philosophy. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who followed Kamiya and Koyama, sharing their commitment to creating exceptional games.
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Departure from PlatinumGames
Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and led creatively for 20 years, surprised many. While he doesn't explicitly detail his reasons, he alludes to internal changes that conflicted with his personal approach to game development. He highlights a shared philosophy with Koyama as the catalyst for forming Clovers Inc. Despite the circumstances, Kamiya expresses immense enthusiasm for the Okami sequel, finding the collaborative process and the creation of Clovers Inc. incredibly rewarding.
A Public Apology
Kamiya, known for his sometimes blunt online interactions with fans, recently issued a public apology to a fan he previously insulted. He expressed remorse for his past behavior, demonstrating a shift towards greater empathy and engagement with his fanbase. He's actively responding to fans, unblocking users, and acknowledging their support, while still maintaining his characteristic directness.
