‘It’s Better if You Don’t Have Many Expectations’ — Hideki Kamiya Opens Up on Okami Sequel
Hideki Kamiya, the legendary director of the original Okami, spoke at Lucca Comics and Games Festival 2026 about the highly anticipated Okami sequel that was officially announced in December 2024—nearly two decades after the cult-classic game first launched. Through his new studio, Clovers, which brings together former Clover staff and industry veterans, Kamiya is leading development on the sequel.
In the interview, Kamiya opened up about his creative process and addressed fans’ expectations for the upcoming title. When discussing the project, he advised that “it’s better if you don’t have many expectations,” suggesting a measured approach to what the game might deliver. This candid comment reflects the pressure of creating a sequel to such a beloved and critically acclaimed game, especially after such a lengthy gap between releases.
The formation of Clovers represents Kamiya’s next chapter following his departure from PlatinumGames, establishing a new creative home where he can pursue his vision for Okami’s future. The involvement of former Clover staff underscores the commitment to maintaining the spirit of the original while bringing fresh perspectives to the franchise.