Twenty years after the original Ōkami's release, Amaterasu, the sun goddess and source of all goodness, makes a surprising return. Announced at The Game Awards, a sequel is underway, helmed by Hideki Kamiya (newly independent from PlatinumGames and leading his new studio, Clovers) with Capcom publishing and support from Machine Head Works (a Capcom veteran-staffed studio). The team boasts a blend of fresh talent and original Ōkami developers.

While details are scarce, IGN interviewed Kamiya, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi, and Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata in Osaka. The interview revealed the sequel's genesis, development process, and team dynamics.

IGN: Kamiya-san, you've discussed leaving PlatinumGames. You sought to create games uniquely yours. What guiding principles shape Clovers' development?

Kamiya: My departure stemmed from a divergence in creative vision. A game's personality heavily influences the player experience; my vision differed from Platinum's. Clovers was formed to realize my creative goals.

IGN: What defines a "Hideki Kamiya game"?

Kamiya: I don't strive for a consistent "Kamiya style." My focus is on crafting unique, unprecedented gaming experiences.

IGN: The connection between Clovers and Clover Studio?

Kamiya: The name is a tribute to my time at Clover Studio (Capcom's fourth development division), represented by the four-leaf clover, symbolizing creativity (C-lover).

IGN: Capcom's significant involvement?

Hirabayashi: Capcom has always desired an Ōkami sequel. Kamiya's departure presented the opportunity, fueled by a shared love for the IP and Takeuchi-san's vision.

IGN: The sequel's origin story?

Hirabayashi: The opportunity arose with Kamiya's departure. We'd always sought the right moment and personnel.

Kamiya: I've always wanted an Ōkami sequel. The original's story felt incomplete. Casual discussions with Takeuchi-san over years culminated in this project.

Sakata: As Clover Studio alumni, Ōkami holds immense significance. The timing felt perfect.

IGN: Machine Head Works' role?

Sakata: Machine Head Works, a recent Capcom-affiliated studio, acts as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom. Our experience with Capcom and the RE Engine supports Clovers' development. We also have Ōkami veterans on our team.

Hirabayashi: They assisted with the PS4 Ōkami port and other RE Engine titles.

IGN: Why the RE Engine?

Hirabayashi: It's essential for realizing Kamiya-san's artistic vision.

Kamiya: The RE Engine's expressive capabilities meet expectations for the sequel's quality.

IGN: Ōkami's commercial performance wasn't initially stellar. Why Capcom's enduring interest?

Hirabayashi: Millions of fans exist, evidenced by consistent sales over the years. The game's enduring appeal and fan anticipation drove the sequel's development.

Kamiya: Initial concerns about reach were unfounded. Later versions' success and overwhelming fan support solidified the sequel's viability.

IGN: Reuniting the original Ōkami team?

Kamiya: Machine Head Works includes several original Ōkami developers. The current team is even stronger than the original.

IGN: Addressing past team limitations?

Kamiya: Yes, a stronger team increases the chances of success.

IGN: Replaying Ōkami recently?

Hirabayashi: I reviewed supplementary materials.

Kamiya: I wasn't aware of those materials.

Sakata: My daughter played the Switch version, highlighting its accessibility for younger players.

Hirabayashi: My daughter also enjoyed it, showcasing its appeal across age groups.

IGN: What are you most proud of in the original Ōkami?

Kamiya: My love for my hometown and nature heavily influenced the game. The sequel will retain that spirit, balancing beauty and darkness within the narrative.

IGN: Changes in game development influencing the sequel?

Sakata: Modern technology allows us to realize the original's artistic vision fully, overcoming limitations of the PS2 era.

IGN: Opinions on the Nintendo Switch 2?

Hirabayashi: No comment.

Kamiya: Personally, I'd love a Virtual Console revival.

IGN: Themes for the sequel?

Kamiya: I have a detailed concept, building on the original story.

Hirabayashi: It's a direct continuation.

IGN: Amaterasu's presence in the trailer?

Kamiya: I wonder...

Hirabayashi: Yes, it's Amaterasu.

IGN: Acknowledging Ōkamiden?

Hirabayashi: We acknowledge its existence and fan reception, but the sequel directly continues the original Ōkami's story.

IGN: Control scheme?

Kamiya: We'll balance respecting the original while adapting to modern gaming conventions.

IGN: Early development stage?

Hirabayashi: Yes, started this year.

IGN: Reason for the early announcement?

Hirabayashi: To express excitement and confirm the project's viability.

Kamiya: It solidified the project's reality and served as a promise to fans.

IGN: Concerns about fan anticipation?

Hirabayashi: We'll prioritize quality over speed.

Kamiya: We'll work diligently to meet expectations.

Sakata: We'll do our best.

IGN: Inspiration for the trailer?

Sakata: Not a direct inspiration, but it reflects the original game's spirit.

Hirabayashi: The music was inspired by the original.

Kamiya: The composer, Rei Kondoh, also worked on the trailer's music.

IGN: Current inspirations?

Kamiya: Takarazuka stage shows, particularly the Hana group, inspire me with their creative stagecraft.

Sakata: Smaller theater groups like Gekidan Shiki, emphasizing the live performance experience.

Hirabayashi: Recently, movies like Gundam GQuuuuuuX, highlighting the power of diverse perspectives and emotional depth.

IGN: Defining success for the sequel?

Hirabayashi: Exceeding fan expectations.

Kamiya: Personal satisfaction and creating a game I'm proud of.

Sakata: Fan enjoyment and accessibility to a wider audience.

IGN: Studios' long-term vision?

Sakata: Continuing game development, regardless of size or specific IP.

Kamiya: Building a collaborative team at Clovers, prioritizing shared creative vision.

Final Messages to Fans:

Hirabayashi: We're working hard; please be patient.

Sakata: We're dedicated to creating a game that meets your expectations.

Kamiya: Thank you for your support; we'll deliver a game you'll enjoy.