PlatinumGames Loses Key Director to Housemarque
The departure of Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, from PlatinumGames to Housemarque, adds to the growing concerns surrounding PlatinumGames' future. Tinari's move to a lead game designer role at the Returnal developer follows a period of significant upheaval at PlatinumGames.
This follows the high-profile exit of Hideki Kamiya, the renowned creator of Bayonetta, in September 2023. Kamiya cited creative differences with the studio's direction as his reason for leaving. His subsequent announcement as the lead developer for Capcom's Okami sequel at The Game Awards 2024, reigniting the Clover Studio, further fueled speculation about PlatinumGames' trajectory.
Following Kamiya's departure, rumors circulated about other key developers leaving PlatinumGames, evidenced by the removal of all studio mentions from their social media. Tinari's relocation to Helsinki, Finland, and his new role at Housemarque, confirmed via his LinkedIn profile, solidifies these concerns.
Tinari's Expertise Joins Housemarque's Next Project
Housemarque, acquired by PlayStation after the successful launch of Returnal in May 2021, has been developing a new, unannounced IP. Tinari is highly likely to contribute his expertise to this project. While a reveal is not anticipated before 2026, Tinari's addition strengthens Housemarque's development team.
PlatinumGames' Uncertain Future
The impact of these high-profile departures on PlatinumGames' future projects remains uncertain. While the studio announced a year-long celebration for Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment, the status of Project GG, a new IP in development since 2020 under Kamiya's direction, is now questionable. The departure of Kamiya and other key developers raises significant questions about the project's timeline and overall direction.