Bayonetta 3: Creator Hideki Kamiya Reflects on Mixed Fan Reactions and Looks Ahead to Okami Sequel

Bayonetta 3: Creator Hideki Kamiya Reflects on Mixed Fan Reactions and Looks Ahead to Okami Sequel Bayonetta 3, developed by PlatinumGames, made its much-anticipated debut on Nintendo Switch in October 2022 and quickly garnered acclaim from critics for its dynamic combat and inventive set pieces.

Yet, while reviewers praised the third entry in the iconic action series, long-time fans voiced more divided opinions.

Some cited more accessible gameplay, underwhelming stealth segments, and visual shortcomings as reasons for their mixed feelings, despite the game's robust feature set and creative direction. Launching exclusively on the Nintendo Switch, Bayonetta 3 continued PlatinumGames' reputation for delivering fast-paced action, but it also sparked discussion about the evolving nature of beloved franchises.

During an interview with Video Games Chronicle (VGC), series creator Hideki Kamiya offered frank insight into his experiences with the game's reception.

Kamiya stated that observing the community's response to Bayonetta 3 was "perplexing," explaining that fans have developed increasingly strong ideas about what a Bayonetta sequel should embody—a vision that, at times, diverged from his own ambitions for the series. "With every game in the series, I noticed the fans' expectations became more defined regarding what Bayonetta represents and what a sequel should deliver," Kamiya shared.

"This divergence between our creative goals at PlatinumGames and the firmly established image of Bayonetta among the fanbase was challenging for me as the latest installment was released." As Hideki Kamiya turns his attention to the highly anticipated Okami sequel, currently in development at the new studio CLOVERS, he acknowledges a shift in his approach.

Kamiya is now more considerate of player expectations, recognizing the unique challenges of expanding a well-loved franchise compared to crafting an original title. "When developing the new Okami game, I’m making a conscious effort to think more deeply about what players might be looking for," Kamiya noted, highlighting the collaborative enthusiasm within the team.

"Creating this sequel is an incredibly enjoyable process, and judging from the office atmosphere, it’s clear that everyone feels the same way." Details about the Okami sequel’s target platforms remain unannounced, though the enduring popularity of Nintendo hardware, such as the Switch and the highly anticipated Switch 2, positions them as likely candidates.

Capcom, as the Okami IP holder, will be working alongside CLOVERS on the new title, aiming to recapture the magic of the celebrated 2006 original. Meanwhile, PlatinumGames continues to make its mark in the action genre, recently finalizing work on Ninja Gaiden 4 for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.

With both Bayonetta 3 and the future Okami sequel, PlatinumGames, Hideki Kamiya, and their partners demonstrate a commitment to evolving their legacy while keeping fan perspectives firmly in mind. Bayonetta 3’s launch is a reminder of the delicate balance developers must strike between creative evolution and the expectations of an established fanbase.

As the gaming community awaits further news on the Okami sequel and future projects from both PlatinumGames and CLOVERS, the dialogue between creators and players continues to shape some of the industry’s beloved franchises.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch Hideki Kamiya PlatinumGames Okami Bayonetta Bayonetta 3 CLOVERS Capcom VGC Switch 2