Clovers Studio Launches New Okami Game with Hideki Kamiya

Summary:

Clovers Studio, founded by renowned game designer Hideki Kamiya and CEO Kento Koyama, is making waves in the gaming industry with its upcoming entry in the beloved Okami franchise. After Kamiya’s departure from PlatinumGames due to contractual restrictions, Clovers has swiftly established bases in Tokyo and Osaka, attracting talented individuals eager to contribute to the studio’s vision. The collaboration with Capcom promises to deliver a fresh yet faithful continuation of the Okami series. As Clovers plans to expand its team and move into new offices by spring 2025, the studio is actively recruiting passionate developers to join their creative journey. This strategic move not only highlights Clovers’ commitment to quality game development but also positions them as a significant player in the indie gaming scene.

Meet Clovers Studio

Clovers Studio is the brainchild of Hideki Kamiya, a legendary game designer known for his work on titles like Bayonetta and Bloodborne, alongside Kento Koyama, the seasoned CEO of the company. Established in late 2023, Clovers aims to blend innovative gameplay with compelling storytelling, carving out a unique space in the competitive gaming landscape.

Founding of Clovers Studio

Hideki Kamiya departed from PlatinumGames on October 12, 2023, due to a restrictive non-compete agreement that limited his creative pursuits for a year. This hiatus allowed Kamiya and Koyama to lay the groundwork for Clovers, ensuring they could fully realize their vision without constraints. The studio officially commenced operations with Kamiya as the studio head and Koyama overseeing the company’s strategic direction.

Hideki Kamiya’s Departure from PlatinumGames

Kamiya’s exit from PlatinumGames marked a significant shift in the industry. His departure was driven by a desire for creative freedom and the ability to pursue new projects without external limitations. While his leaving was seen as a loss by many, it also opened the door for new and exciting ventures under the Clovers banner.

Kento Koyama’s Vision for Clovers

As CEO, Kento Koyama brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for Clovers. He emphasizes building a company culture that fosters creativity, collaboration, and innovation. Koyama believes that by creating a supportive environment, Clovers can attract top talent and produce games that resonate with players worldwide.

Current Team and Office Locations

Clovers currently operates out of two primary locations: Tokyo and Osaka. The team comprises skilled professionals who previously worked with Kamiya at PlatinumGames, ensuring a strong foundation of expertise and passion. Initially housed in small rental offices, the company’s rapid growth has outpaced their current spaces, prompting plans for larger, permanent offices in both cities.

The Tokyo office is slated to move to a new, larger space by spring 2025. This move will provide the team with the resources and environment needed to scale their operations and take on more ambitious projects.

Similarly, the Osaka office is scheduled for relocation in February 2025. This expansion will accommodate the growing team and support Clovers’ increasing project demands.

With the upcoming office moves, Clovers is actively seeking to expand its team. The studio is recruiting for various roles, including game designers, programmers, artists, and more. The goal is to grow the company to approximately 70 employees, ensuring they have the talent necessary to bring their projects to fruition.

Collaboration with Capcom on Okami

One of Clovers’ most exciting ventures is their collaboration with Capcom to develop a new entry in the Okami franchise. Okami, a beloved action-adventure game, has a dedicated fan base eager for its return. Clovers aims to honor the original while introducing fresh elements to engage both longtime fans and new players.

The new Okami game is expected to build upon the original’s strengths, such as its unique art style and engaging gameplay mechanics. Clovers and Capcom are focused on delivering a high-quality experience that stays true to the series’ roots while exploring new narratives and gameplay innovations.

Challenges Faced During Transition

Transitioning from PlatinumGames to establishing Clovers presented several challenges. From overcoming contractual restrictions to building a new company culture, Kamiya and Koyama had to navigate uncharted territory. However, their combined expertise and shared vision have been instrumental in overcoming these hurdles.

Looking ahead, Clovers aims to continue producing high-quality games that push the boundaries of creativity and technology. Beyond the Okami project, the studio plans to explore various genres and platforms, ensuring a diverse portfolio that appeals to a broad audience.

Community and Fan Engagement

Clovers is committed to engaging with its community and fans. Through regular updates, interactive events, and transparent communication, the studio seeks to build a loyal fan base that feels connected to their projects and invested in their success.

Utilizing social media and other digital platforms, Clovers plans to maintain an active online presence. This strategy will help them share their development journey, gather feedback, and foster a sense of community among fans.

Incorporating fan feedback is a key aspect of Clovers’ development process. By listening to their audience, the studio can refine their games to better meet player expectations and create experiences that resonate on a deeper level.

Conclusion

Clovers Studio represents a bold new chapter in the gaming industry, combining the creative prowess of Hideki Kamiya with the strategic vision of Kento Koyama. As they embark on developing a new Okami game in collaboration with Capcom, Clovers is poised to make a significant impact. With plans for expansion and a commitment to quality, the studio is well-equipped to deliver memorable gaming experiences that honor the past while embracing the future.

FAQs

Q1: When was Clovers Studio founded?
- A: Clovers Studio was founded in October 2023 by Hideki Kamiya and Kento Koyama.
Q2: What is the first project Clovers Studio is working on?
- A: The studio is developing a new entry in the Okami franchise in collaboration with Capcom.
Q3: Where are Clovers Studio’s offices located?
- A: Clovers has offices in Tokyo and Osaka, with plans to move to larger spaces in both cities by 2025.
Q4: Is Clovers Studio hiring?
- A: Yes, Clovers is actively recruiting for various positions and aims to expand its team to around 70 employees.
Q5: Why did Hideki Kamiya leave PlatinumGames?
- A: Kamiya left PlatinumGames due to a year-long non-compete agreement that restricted his ability to create games.