Hideki Kamiya, renowned game director behind classics like Okami and Devil May Cry, embarks on a new chapter. After a 20-year tenure at PlatinumGames, he's launched Clovers Inc., a new studio dedicated to fulfilling his long-held dream: an Okami sequel.
A Sequel 18 Years in the Making
Kamiya's passion for Okami is well-documented. He felt the original's story was unfinished, a sentiment shared by fellow Okami collaborator Ikumi Nakamura. While previous attempts to secure a sequel with Capcom proved unsuccessful, this new venture, with Capcom as publisher, finally makes it a reality.
Clovers Inc.: A New Beginning
The name "Clovers Inc." pays homage to both Clover Studio (the original Okami developer) and Kamiya's early Capcom team. Partnering with former PlatinumGames colleague Kento Koyama, who manages the studio, allows Kamiya to focus on what he does best: game development. The team, currently 25 strong, prioritizes shared creative vision over sheer size.
Many former PlatinumGames employees joined Clovers Inc., drawn to Kamiya and Koyama's creative philosophy.
Departure from PlatinumGames
Kamiya's departure from PlatinumGames, where he held significant roles, surprised many. While he remained tight-lipped about specifics, he alluded to disagreements over game development philosophies. The opportunity to establish Clovers Inc. and pursue his vision for Okami 2 proved irresistible.
A Softer Side?
Kamiya's online persona is known for its bluntness. However, following the Okami 2 announcement, he expressed remorse for past harsh interactions with fans, even issuing a public apology. This shift suggests a more receptive approach, though his characteristic wit remains intact.