Ōkami 2 Is Being Made in RE Engine, Confirmed

Following the exciting Ōkami sequel announcement at The Game Awards, fan speculation immediately centered on Capcom's RE Engine powering the game, given Capcom's return 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' role, Sakata explained their function as a bridge between Capcom (IP holder and director of the game's overall vision) and Clover (lead developer). Machine Head Works leverages its prior experience with both Capcom and Hideki Kamiya, providing crucial knowledge of Capcom's development needs and expertise with the RE Engine, an engine unfamiliar to Clover's developers. Additionally, Machine Head Works includes personnel with experience on the original Ōkami, further aiding development.

Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi succinctly stated the appeal of RE Engine: "Yes," elaborating that Capcom believes Kamiya's artistic vision wouldn't be achievable without it. Kamiya himself added that RE Engine's renowned expressive capabilities align perfectly with fan expectations for the sequel's visual quality.

Sakata further highlighted RE Engine's potential, suggesting it allows 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 and the capabilities of RE Engine in achieving, and potentially surpassing, their original goals.

RE Engine, Capcom's proprietary engine (originally developed for Resident Evil 7), has powered many major Capcom 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 the successor engine, REX, and its gradual integration into RE Engine, may even introduce some REX elements into the Ōkami sequel.

For a complete overview of our interview with the Ōkami sequel's leads, including further details, please see the full Q&A.