Game Dev Veteran Joins Sony Studio

Key Departures Shake Up PlatinumGames

The departure of Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, from PlatinumGames to Housemarque, adds to the recent upheaval at the Osaka-based studio. This follows the high-profile exit of Hideki Kamiya, creator of the Bayonetta series, in September 2023. Kamiya's departure, citing creative differences, and subsequent role leading development on Capcom's Okami sequel, fueled concerns about PlatinumGames' future.

Further adding to the uncertainty, several other key PlatinumGames developers have reportedly left the studio, deleting all references to their employment on social media. Tinari's move to Housemarque in Helsinki, Finland, and his new role as Lead Game Designer, was confirmed via his LinkedIn profile.

Tinari's Expertise Joins Housemarque's New Project

Housemarque, acquired by PlayStation after the success of Returnal (May 2021), is currently developing a new, unannounced IP. Tinari's involvement strongly suggests he'll contribute to this project. However, an official reveal from Housemarque isn't expected before 2026.

PlatinumGames' Uncertain Future

The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames' upcoming projects remains to be seen. While the studio announced a year-long celebration for Bayonetta's 15th anniversary – potentially hinting at a new installment – the future of Project GG, a new IP previously overseen by Kamiya, is now uncertain. The departure of so many key figures raises questions about the studio's ongoing projects and overall trajectory.