Following the exciting Ōkami sequel announcement at The Game Awards, speculation immediately arose regarding its development engine. IGN exclusively confirms that Capcom's proprietary RE Engine will power the game, based on interviews with key project leads.
Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata confirmed the use of RE Engine, highlighting their role as a bridge between Capcom (IP holder and director) and Clover (development lead). Sakata emphasized Machine Head Works' experience with both Capcom and the RE Engine, providing crucial support to Clover, who lacked prior experience with the engine. Furthermore, Machine Head Works also has team members with experience on the original Ōkami, contributing to the sequel's development.
Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi succinctly stated that RE Engine was essential, explaining that it's crucial for realizing director Hideki Kamiya's artistic vision. Kamiya himself added that RE Engine's renowned expressive capabilities are expected by fans, setting a high bar for the sequel's visual quality.
Sakata further hinted that RE Engine might allow the team to achieve goals unattainable with the original Ōkami's technology. He suggested that current technology and the RE Engine will enable them to surpass their initial ambitions.
RE 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 intriguing. Capcom's development of the REX engine, a potential successor, and its gradual integration into RE Engine, may also influence the Ōkami sequel.
For a comprehensive look at the interview with the Ōkami sequel's leads, including further details, please refer to the full Q&A.
