Capcom Confirms Ōkami 2 Development in RE Engine

Following the announcement of an Ōkami sequel at last year's Game Awards, speculation immediately arose regarding its engine. IGN exclusively confirms, after speaking with key project leads, that the game will indeed utilize Capcom's RE Engine.

In an extensive interview, Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata confirmed the use of RE Engine. He described Machine Head Works' role as bridging the gap between Capcom (IP holder and director of the game's overall vision) and Clover (lead developer). Machine Head Works' experience working with both Capcom on previous titles and Kamiya-san (the original Ōkami's director) provides valuable insight and expertise. Crucially, their familiarity with RE Engine complements Clover's lack of experience with the engine, offering essential technical support. Additionally, Machine Head Works includes personnel with experience on the original Ōkami, further bolstering development.

Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi succinctly stated the appeal of RE Engine: "Yes," elaborating that Capcom believes Kamiya-san's artistic vision for the sequel would be impossible to realize without it. Kamiya himself added that RE Engine's renowned expressive capabilities are expected by fans and crucial to achieving the desired quality.

Sakata further highlighted RE Engine's potential, suggesting it will allow the team to realize aspects of the original Ōkami's vision that were previously unattainable due to technological limitations. He emphasized the current technological advancements, combined with RE Engine, will enable them to surpass their original goals.

RE Engine, originally developed for Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, has become Capcom's flagship engine, powering major titles like the Resident Evil series, Monster Hunter, Street Fighter, and Dragon's Dogma. While many RE Engine games feature realistic art styles, the prospect of its application to Ōkami's distinctive aesthetic is intriguing. Capcom's development of a successor engine, REX, with gradual integration into RE Engine, suggests the Ōkami sequel may incorporate some of its advancements.

A full Q&A with the Ōkami sequel's leads is available for further details.