Ōkami 2 in Development Using RE Engine

Following the announcement of a sequel to cult favorite Ōkami at The Game Awards last year, speculation immediately arose that Capcom would use their proprietary RE Engine for development - a theory we can now exclusively confirm through conversations with key project leads.

In our extensive interview with the team, Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata verified the engine choice while explaining his studio's collaborative role: "As the IP holder, Capcom oversees the game's core vision while Clovers leads development. Our studio bridges these teams, leveraging our experience with both Capcom's workflows and working alongside Kamiya-san previously."

The RE Engine Advantage

When asked about RE Engine's benefits for an Ōkami sequel, Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi gave a decisive response: "It's essential. Without RE Engine, we couldn't realize Kamiya-san's artistic ambitions for this project."

Director Hideki Kamiya added: "RE Engine delivers exceptional visual expression - exactly the level of quality fans expect. Players anticipate that benchmark for this game."

Sakata hinted at creative possibilities that exceeded the original game's technical limitations: "Modern technology - especially RE Engine - enables us to achieve everything we envisioned for the first Ōkami, and potentially more."

Engine Background and Future

Originally developed for Resident Evil 7, RE Engine has since powered Capcom's major franchises including Monster Hunter and Street Fighter. While typically associated with realistic graphics, its adaptation for Ōkami's distinctive art style presents exciting potential.

Interestingly, development coincides with Capcom's transition to their next-generation REX Engine. Some of its technology may appear in this sequel as RE Engine gradually integrates REX components.

For the complete discussion with the development leads, visit our full Q&A covering all aspects of the upcoming Ōkami sequel.