Key Departures Shake Up PlatinumGames
PlatinumGames, known for titles like Bayonetta, is facing a wave of high-profile departures. Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, has left the studio to become a lead game designer at Housemarque, the developer behind Returnal. This follows the earlier departure of Hideki Kamiya, the creator of Bayonetta, who cited creative differences with the studio's direction. Kamiya's subsequent role leading development on a Capcom Okami sequel has further fueled concerns about PlatinumGames' future.
The exodus of key developers, including those who reportedly scrubbed their social media profiles of PlatinumGames affiliations, points to potential internal turmoil and uncertainty regarding the studio's trajectory. Tinari's move to Housemarque, confirmed via his LinkedIn profile, adds to this growing unease.
Tinari Joins Housemarque's New Project
Housemarque, a PlayStation-owned studio, has been developing a new, unannounced IP since the release of Returnal in 2021. Tinari's expertise is likely to be instrumental in this project, though a release date is not expected until at least 2026.
PlatinumGames' Uncertain Future
The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames' upcoming projects remains to be seen. While the studio is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment, the future of Project GG, a new IP previously led by Kamiya, is now uncertain. The studio's current direction and the success of its future endeavors are now major questions for fans.
