For years, it seemed like it would never happen, but it’s finally official:Okamiis back, and every video game fan owes it to themselves to play it. TheZelda-like adventure game originally released byCapcomin 2006 to rave reviews but lackluster sales, seemingly dooming it to be remembered as an obscure cult classic for the rest of its days. Then something amazing happened- -a sequel toOkamiwas announced at The Game Awards 2024, and with that comes an opportunity for fans to rediscover what was almost a lost classic.
The announcement of anOkamisequelwas a shock for many, though a very welcome one. Coming almost 20 years after the release of the original, the very thought of a sequel felt like the most far-fetched of dreams, despite the outpouring of support from devoted fans. To mark the occasion,the originalOkamiis currently available at a steep discount, making it easier than ever for new players to experience what makes this game so dearly beloved.
Why You Should Play Okami
An Unforgettable Classic Fighting To Be Remembered
Originally released as a PlayStation 2 exclusive in 2006,Okamiis an action-adventure game with a style and gameplay inspired by classical Japanese art. The game’s beautiful, painterly visuals were unlike anything else at the time, earningOkamipraise from critics and a slew of awards for its achievements. It was a common entry on many publications' year-end “best of” lists, and in the years afterOkamiwould become widely regarded as one of thePS2’s best games ever.
Okami 2 Is The Game I’ve Been Waiting For Since 2006 (& Here’s Why You Should Play The First One Now)
The first Okami left a mark on the industry with its impeccable game design and, with the sequel looming on the horizon, you should play it.
Okamiwas, unfortunately, a financial disappointment for Capcom despite its incredibly strong reviews, and any plans for a sequel were scrapped. The game’s director, Hideki Kamiya, would leave Capcom shortly after, leading to his studio, Clover, being dissolved. Aside from a follow-up game calledOkamidendeveloped without the input of Kamiya,Okamilooked to be dead in the water as a potential franchise.
Despite taking place after the events ofOkami,Okamidenwas officially labeled as a “spiritual successor” by Capcom rather than a true sequel.
History would prove to be on the side ofOkami, however, as the game would receive a number of re-releases over the years. Starting with a port for the Nintendo Wii and eventually expanding into an HD remaster for modern consoles and PC, and even receivingcrossover content in other Capcom games,Okamiwas able to eventually find its audience and continue living on in the hearts of fans.The core experience has never been compromised, as evidenced by its strong 93/100 onMetacritic(and 90/100 for the HD version), cementingOkamias a true classic.
Why It’s The Best Time To Play
A Big Sale To Celebrate A Big Announcement
Despite rumors swirling for years about apotentialOkamisequel, seeing a trailer for it at The Game Awards was still a monumental moment. It immediately captured the same spirit as the original, from the lush watercolor aesthetic to the iconic image of the game’s protagonist, the wolf god Amaterasu, dashing across a field of flowers. Perhaps most encouraging was the reveal thatKamiya would be returning to work with Capcom as the game’s director, bringing everything full circle once again.
The Game Awards 2024: 15 Biggest Announcements, Trailers & New Game Reveals
Although The Game Awards are all about celebrating outstanding games from the preceding year, they’re also a platform for announcing new releases.
To celebrate the sequel’s announcement, theSteamversion ofOkami HDhas been marked down to 75% off, creating a prime opportunity for new players to experience the first game for only a few dollars.The sale only lasts until Thursday, December 19, so fans will have to act fast to capitalize on this amazing deal. It’s worth it though, as much like the paintings it resembles,Okamiis a work of art that deserves to be appreciated.
