Ōkami 2 Returns with REnaissance Engine

Following the Game Awards announcement of an Ōkami sequel, fan speculation immediately centered on Capcom's RE Engine powering the game, given Capcom's role as publisher. IGN can exclusively confirm this, based on interviews with key project leads.

In an extensive interview, Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata confirmed the use of RE Engine. Regarding Machine Head Works' involvement, Sakata explained their role as a bridge between Capcom (IP holder and director of the game's overall vision) and Clover (lead developer). Machine Head Works’ experience working with Capcom and Hideki Kamiya (director of the original Ōkami) provides valuable insight and expertise. Crucially, their familiarity with RE Engine is assisting Clover, who lacked prior experience with the engine. Additionally, Machine Head Works includes personnel who worked on the original Ōkami, further contributing to the sequel's development.

When asked about RE Engine's appeal, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi succinctly replied, "Yes," elaborating that Capcom believes Kamiya's artistic vision couldn't be realized without it. Kamiya added that RE Engine's renowned expressive capabilities are anticipated by fans.

Sakata further highlighted RE Engine's potential, suggesting it allows the team to achieve goals unattainable with the original Ōkami's technology. He stated that current technology, coupled with RE Engine, enables them to surpass their initial ambitions.

RE Engine (Reach for the Moon Engine), initially developed for Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, has powered many of Capcom's major titles, including the Resident Evil series, Monster Hunter, Street Fighter, and Dragon's Dogma. While most RE Engine games feature realistic art styles, the prospect of its application to Ōkami's unique aesthetic is particularly intriguing. Capcom's development of a successor engine, REX, with gradual integration into RE Engine, might even introduce some REX elements to the Ōkami sequel.

A complete Q&A from our interview with the Ōkami sequel's leads is available for further details.