In a thrilling turn of events for gaming aficionados, it has been confirmed that the highly anticipated sequel to Ōkami will be developed using Capcom’s powerful RE Engine. Announced at The Game Awards 2024, this revelation has sparked widespread excitement. IGN secured an exclusive interview with the key figures behind the project, uncovering details that promise a groundbreaking fusion of technology and artistry. A Collaborative Symphony The creative forces behind Ōkami 2 include a collaboration between Capcom, Clovers, and Machine Head Works. Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata highlights their integral role: “We’re acting as a bridge between Clovers and Capcom, bringing our extensive experience with Capcom and our history with Kamiya-san to this project.” Sakata emphasizes Machine Head Works’ familiarity with the RE Engine as a crucial asset. While Clovers’ developers are new to this tool, Machine Head Works is guiding them, leveraging their deep understanding and past experiences with the software. Unlocking New Horizons with RE Engine The transition to RE Engine represents more than a technological upgrade—it embodies a leap towards fulfilling director Hideki Kamiya’s artistic dreams. Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi succinctly described the engine’s impact: “Without RE Engine, we wouldn’t be able to realize Kamiya-san’s artistic dreams for this project.” Adding to the anticipation, Kamiya praised RE Engine’s expressive capabilities and hinted at audience expectations for its high-quality output. Sakata also teased that the engine might allow them to accomplish feats they aspired to during development of the original Ōkami, asserting that today’s technology—enhanced by RE Engine—could surpass past limits. A New Artistry in Gaming RE Engine, renowned for its use in major Capcom franchises like Resident Evil and Monster Hunter, typically showcases realistic art styles. However, its application in Ōkami 2 opens up exciting possibilities to marry its expressive power with the series’ unique aesthetics. Capcom’s ongoing work on a new successor, the REX engine, might also enrich this sequel with its emerging technologies. This landmark project holds the promise of not just a visual spectacle but also an opportunity to expand the storytelling canvas of Ōkami. By marrying this beloved IP with cutting-edge technology, fans worldwide are keenly anticipating what lies ahead. For an in-depth dive into the upcoming Ōkami sequel, read our full interview here. Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. Catch her posts on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. For tips, email rvalentine@ign.com.