Capcom's "Zelda clone" is on its way to Zelda's console. Updated with official announcement
As reported by European website Eurogamer, this week Capcom held a media event in London, England and revealed that their stellar PS2 title Okami is coming to Wii in Spring 2008. Ready at Dawn Studios, developers of the upcoming God of War: Chains of Olympus for PSP, has confirmed on their website that they are handling the port. Okami is a natural fit for Nintendo's console, as its signature gameplay mechanic is the use of a magical paintbrush for fighting and puzzle-solving. The Wii version promises to turn your Wii Remote into the legendary "Celestial Brush", and incorporate new motion-based attacks as well.
The final production out of Capcom's defunct Clover Studio (also known for the Viewtiful Joe series), Okami garnered widespread acclaim upon release and is generally known as "the best Zelda game that isn't a Zelda game". Whether or not the Wii version of the title will have any extra content beyond motion control is currently unknown, but a title of this caliber - especially one that never got the exposure it deserved - coming to Wii is something for fans to be excited about.
The press release from Capcom is below.
CAPCOM® TO BRING THE AWARD-WINNING ŌKAMI™ TO THE Wii™
A Stroke of Genius Brings the Incredible Action/Adventure Game To Life Using the Wii Remote
London — October 17, 2007 It’s finally time to experience the magic of Ōkami™ as it was always meant to be played. Capcom’s award winning game -- hailed as “Game of the Year"for 2006 by multiple magazines and websites including Associated Press, PSM, Village Voice, IGN.com, Game Revolution and more -- is set for release on the Wii™ home video game system in Spring 2008. Featuring a re-imagined control scheme built around the intuitive Wii Remote™, Ōkami offers players an unparalleled level of control and an opportunity to rediscover a critically-acclaimed and beautifully crafted adventure.
Ōkami tells the story of a mythical sun god who sets out to restore a dismal world, decimating the forces of evil who stand in the way by commanding the elements and mythical abilities the deity possesses. Mixing Japanese folklore and a stunning traditional Japanese art style, players must utilize an inventive control scheme to overcome the challenges and evil that await. By enhancing the unique gameplay, visual style and story line of Ōkami with the control of the Wii Remote, it is sure to be the ultimate version of the game.
Originally designed for the PlayStation®2 computer entertainment system and released in 2006, Ōkami now comes alive in an entirely new way on the Wii with its visually stunning art style and beautiful scenic 3D levels that have the appearance and texture of paper scrolls brushed with watercolor-like calligraphy art. Throughout the vibrant and distinctive surroundings, players must use the Wii remote to interact with a dynamic world and cast of characters. The blend of stylized graphics, movements and unique gameplay will result in a rich and dynamic experience never seen before.
Ōkami includes the following features:
Innovative gameplay and control scheme optimized for the Wii - Defeating monsters requires both motion-controlled physical attacks, but also use of the Wii Remote as Amaterasu’s ‘Celestial Brush’ to paint the desired powers for decimating enemies and solving puzzles.
Create and destroy at will - Play as a god to re-establish order and beauty to a world laid barren by evil.
Intense action-packed battles – Rooted in Japanese folklore, fight against a diverse line-up of demons and monsters.
Utilize various gameplay styles – In addition to the Celestial Brush, Amaterasu can wield three types of offensive weaponry, each with their own unique abilities and effects. Depending on how a weapon is equipped, it can be used as the main or sub weapon:
Reflectors – These well-balanced weapons are suited for close range combat
Rosaries– Sacred magatama beads are great for quick long range attacks
Glaives – These can be charged up to unleash powerful close range attacks
Intriguing main character – Assume the role of the sun god, Amaterasu, who descends upon the earth in the form of a wolf. The Japanese translation of the word wolf is “Ōkami".
Original visuals and revolutionary design– Vibrant and inspiring graphics, reminiscent of traditional Japanese art created on paper scrolls, produce a large variety of stages with a watercolour-esque appearance.
Interact with a unique and dynamic cast of characters.