Hideki Kamiya, after a two-decade tenure at PlatinumGames, embarks on a new chapter, launching his own studio, Clovers Inc., and simultaneously reviving the beloved Okami franchise with a highly anticipated sequel. This article delves into the details of this exciting development, exploring Kamiya's motivations, the new studio's formation, and his departure from PlatinumGames.
A Long-Awaited Return
Gaming legend Hideki Kamiya, renowned for directing iconic titles like the original Okami, Devil May Cry, Resident Evil 2, Bayonetta, and Viewtiful Joe, has finally realized his long-held ambition: creating an Okami sequel. In a recent interview with VGC, Kamiya revealed the story behind Clovers Inc., the resurrection of the Okami IP after 18 years, and the reasons for his departure from PlatinumGames. He’s always felt a strong connection to Okami (and Viewtiful Joe), viewing their narratives as unfinished and feeling a responsibility to resolve those loose ends. His past attempts to secure a sequel at Capcom, even directly requesting it, proved unsuccessful, prompting humorous comments about the situation. Now, with his new studio and Capcom as publisher, his dream is finally becoming a reality.
Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Kamiya's new venture, Clovers Inc., pays homage to Clover Studio, the developer of the original Okami and Viewtiful Joe, and also acknowledges his early Capcom team responsible for Resident Evil 2 and Devil May Cry. The name reflects the profound impact Clover Studio had on his career. Clovers Inc. is a joint effort with former PlatinumGames colleague, Kento Koyama, who serves as president, allowing Kamiya to focus on game development. The studio currently employs 25 individuals across Tokyo and Osaka, with plans for gradual expansion. Kamiya emphasizes that the studio's success hinges not on sheer size, but on a shared creative vision and passion. Many team members are former PlatinumGames employees who previously collaborated with Kamiya or Koyama, sharing his creative philosophy.
Image from Clovers Inc. official website
Departing PlatinumGames
Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, a company he co-founded and where he served as creative leader and vice president, surprised many. He alludes to internal changes that conflicted with his game development philosophy. While he doesn't elaborate extensively, he highlights the alignment of his vision with Koyama's, leading to the creation of Clovers Inc. Despite the circumstances, he expresses immense enthusiasm for the Okami sequel, emphasizing the excitement of building something new from the ground up.
A Public Apology
Beyond his creative achievements, Kamiya is known for his sometimes blunt and humorous social media interactions. He recently issued a public apology to a fan he had previously insulted, demonstrating a shift towards greater empathy and engagement with his fanbase. He's been actively responding to fans, unblocking accounts, and sharing positive fan reactions to the Okami sequel announcement. While his characteristic directness remains, this indicates a growing willingness to connect with his audience on a more positive level.
