Twenty years after the original Ōkami's release, Amaterasu, the sun goddess and source of all goodness, makes a surprising return in a highly anticipated sequel. Revealed at last year's Game Awards, this new Ōkami is under development, helmed by Hideki Kamiya, who, having recently left PlatinumGames, founded his own studio, Clovers. Capcom, the IP owner, acts as publisher, collaborating with Machine Head Works, a studio comprised of Capcom veterans, who previously worked on the Ōkami HD remake. The team boasts a blend of experienced developers from the original and talented newcomers, promising a stellar collaboration.
While details remain scarce, IGN recently interviewed Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata in Osaka, Japan, uncovering some insights into the project's origins and development.
The interview revealed that the desire for a sequel existed within Capcom for years, fueled by the enduring popularity of the original game. Kamiya himself had always envisioned a continuation of the story, a desire finally realized after leaving PlatinumGames. Machine Head Works serves as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, leveraging their experience with the RE Engine, a crucial element in realizing Kamiya's artistic vision. The team confirmed Amaterasu's presence in the Game Awards trailer and emphasized their commitment to creating a game that surpasses expectations while staying true to the original's spirit. They also discussed the evolution of game development technology and its influence on the sequel's design, hinting at improvements in visuals and controls.
The discussion touched upon the sequel's themes, confirming it as a direct continuation of the original Ōkami's storyline. While specific details remain under wraps, the team expressed their excitement and gratitude for the enthusiastic fan response, promising a game that will meet and hopefully exceed expectations.
The interview concluded with personal reflections from each member on their current inspirations, ranging from Takarazuka stage shows to Gekidan Shiki performances and the Gundam GQuuuuuuX movie. They expressed their shared vision for the sequel's success, emphasizing fan enjoyment and their commitment to delivering a high-quality game that honors the legacy of the original Ōkami.
