Hideki Kamiya Leaves PlatinumGames: Creator of Ōkami and Bayonetta Charts New Path After Switch to Clovers

Hideki Kamiya, renowned for his creative vision across the gaming industry, has officially left PlatinumGames, the studio he co-founded, after 16 years of influential leadership.

As the director behind iconic titles like Bayonetta, Ōkami, and Devil May Cry, Kamiya's decision marks a significant turning point in the realm of Japanese game development.

His departure comes amid philosophical changes at PlatinumGames and paves the way for his new venture: forming the studio Clovers, which is currently developing the highly anticipated sequel to Ōkami. Beginning his career working alongside Shinji Mikami on the groundbreaking Resident Evil, Hideki Kamiya quickly distinguished himself as a key creative force.

Over two decades, his portfolio has defined action gaming on various platforms, including the Nintendo Switch and other major consoles.

Games like Viewtiful Joe and Bayonetta have garnered commercial and critical acclaim, establishing Kamiya as one of the industry’s most respected developers. In a recent interview with Japanese gaming outlet Game*Spark, Kamiya provided candid insights into the reasons behind his departure from PlatinumGames.

He explained, “I left PlatinumGames because the company’s approach was gradually shifting towards modern game development methods, which moved away from the personal touch and the ideals I valued most.

Making the decision to leave after 16 years was monumental, and at the time, I had no clear vision of my next steps.

I understood this choice could mean the end of my career as a creator, but I could not continue working in an environment that stifled my creative spirit.” Kamiya’s words illustrate the depth of his commitment to creative principles, even when faced with significant personal and professional uncertainty.

That PlatinumGames, which Kamiya helped establish, departed from its original spirit is not lost on long-time fans and industry observers alike.

Still, the move underscores Kamiya’s resolve to pursue innovation on his own terms, echoing patterns throughout his storied career. Now, as head of the new studio Clovers, Kamiya is once again at the forefront of game development.

The team’s first project—the sequel to the beloved Ōkami—is already generating anticipation among fans and industry peers.

Since its original release, Ōkami has become a cultural touchstone, lauded for its unique art style and gameplay.

The return of this celebrated franchise under Kamiya’s direction and Clovers’ vision promises a heartfelt continuation on modern hardware, with potential for release on platforms like the Nintendo Switch and the eShop, in line with Nintendo’s embrace of acclaimed third-party titles. Kamiya’s departure from PlatinumGames, while deeply personal, is emblematic of broader trends in the gaming industry, where creative independence and studio culture continue to shape development environments.

With a resume that includes some of the best-selling and most innovative titles in gaming, Kamiya’s new chapter at Clovers is poised to capture attention worldwide.

Fans and industry insiders alike eagerly await the next evolution in Kamiya’s celebrated career.

Switch Hideki Kamiya PlatinumGames Clovers Bayonetta Ōkami Resident Evil Devil May Cry Viewtiful Joe Game*Spark