Ōkami 2 Is Being Made in RE Engine, Confirmed

Following the exciting announcement of an Ōkami sequel at The Game Awards, speculation immediately arose regarding its game engine. IGN can exclusively confirm that the game will indeed utilize Capcom's RE Engine, based on interviews with key project leads.

In an extensive interview, Machine Head Works producer Kiyohiko Sakata confirmed the use of RE Engine, highlighting Machine Head Works' bridging role between Capcom (IP holder and director of the game's overall vision) and Clover (lead developer). Sakata emphasized Machine Head Works' prior experience collaborating with Capcom and Hideki Kamiya, and their expertise with RE Engine, which Clover lacked. He also mentioned that members of Machine Head Works with experience on the original Ōkami are contributing to the sequel's development.

Capcom producer Yoshiaki Hirabayashi succinctly stated that RE Engine was essential, explaining that without it, director Hideki Kamiya's artistic vision couldn't be realized. Kamiya himself added that RE Engine's renowned expressive capabilities are highly anticipated by fans.

Sakata further hinted that RE Engine allows the team to achieve goals unattainable with the original Ōkami's technology, exceeding their initial ambitions. He believes the current technology, coupled with RE Engine, will allow them to surpass their previous work.

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 typically associated with realistic art styles, its application to Ōkami's distinctive aesthetic is highly anticipated. Capcom's development of a successor engine, REX, and its gradual integration into RE Engine, suggests the Ōkami sequel might incorporate some of REX's features.

A complete Q&A from our interview with the Ōkami sequel's leads is available for further details.