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{{DISPLAYTITLE:''Ōkami''}}
{{featured art}}<span class="plainlinks">{{OkamiGame
 
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{{infobox game
|name = Ōkami
 
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|image = Okami PS2 front cover.png
|colorscheme = okami
 
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|developer = [[wikipedia:Clover Studio|Clover Studio]] <small>(PlayStation 2)</small> <br> [[wikipedia:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]] <br> [[wikipedia:Tose Co., Ltd.|Tose Co., Ltd.]] <small>(Wii)</small> <br> [[wikipedia:HexaDrive|HexaDrive]]<small>(PlayStation 4, XBox One, Microsoft Windows)</small>
|bordercolorscheme = okami
 
 
|publisher = [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]]
|boxart = Okami_box_art.jpg
 
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|release date = '''PlayStation 2'''{{clear}}
|size = 250px
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Japan|JP]]</small> April 20, 2006{{clear}}
|caption = North American box art
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:North America|NA]]</small> September 19, 2006{{clear}}
|platform = (PlayStation 2)<br>(Wii)<br>(PlayStation 3)
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Europe|EU]]</small> February 9, 2007{{clear}}
|developer = [[Clover Studio]] <small>(PlayStation 2)</small><br>[[Ready at Dawn]]<br>[[Tose (company)|Tose]] <small>(Wii)</small>
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Australia|AU]]</small> February 14, 2007{{clear}}
|publisher = [[Capcom]]
 
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'''Nintendo Wii'''{{clear}}
|website_ja = ???
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:North America|NA]]</small> April 15, 2008{{clear}}
|website_en = <!--Can someone please add this?-->
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Australasia|AU]]</small> June 12, 2008{{clear}}
|cero = A
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Europe|EU]]</small> June 13, 2008{{clear}}
|esrb = T
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Japan|JP]]</small> October 15, 2009{{clear}}
|release_date_eu = 9 February 2007<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20080617120807/]</ref> <small>(PlayStation 2)</small><br>13 June 2008<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/okami-wii-gets-euro-date Ōkami Wii gets Euro date]</ref> <small>(Wii)</small><br>31 October 2012<ref>[http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2012-09-20-okami-hd-slated-for-halloween-release Ōkami HD slated for Halloween release.]</ref> <small>(PlayStation 3)</small>
 
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'''PlayStation 3'''{{clear}}
|release_date_ja = 20 April 2006<ref>[http://ps2.ign.com/articles/678/678013p1.html Ōkami Dated in Japan]</ref> <small>(PlayStation 2)</small><br>15 October 2009<ref>[http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/08/07/okami_bonus_soundtrack/ Wii Okami Gets a Bonus Soundtrack]</ref> <small>(Wii)</small><br>1 November 2012{{Cite}} <small>(PlayStation 3)
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:North America|NA]]</small> October 30, 2012{{clear}}
|release_date_na = 19 September 2006<ref>[http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/okami/ Ōkami (PS2)]</ref> <small>(PlayStation 2)</small><br>15 April 2008<ref>[http://www.gamespot.com/news/6187105.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews Wii Ōkami bumped to 15 April]</ref><small>(Wii)</small><br>30 October 2012{{Cite}} <small>(PlayStation 3)</small>
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Europe|EU]]</small> October 31, 2012{{clear}}
|release_date_au = 14 February 2007<ref>[http://palgn.com.au/6011/updated-australian-release-list-27-11-06/ Updated Australian release list, 27/11/06]</ref> <small>(PlayStation 2)</small><br>12 June 2008<ref>[http://palgn.com.au/11783/this-weeks-releases-9-6-08/ This Week's Releases – 9/6/08]</ref> <small>(Wii)</small>
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Japan|JP]]</small> November 1, 2012{{clear}}
|pegi = 12+
 
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'''Microsoft Windows'''{{clear}}
|grb =
 
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<small>Worldwide</small> December 12, 2017{{clear}}
|composer = Masami Ueda<br>Hiroshi Yamaguchi<br>Hiroyuki Hamada<br>Rei Kondo<br>{{wp|Akari Groves}}
 
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'''PlayStation 4, XBox One'''{{clear}}
|writer = [[Hideki Kamiya]]
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Japan|JP]]</small> December 21, 2017{{clear}}
|artist =
 
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<small>Worldwide</small> December 12, 2017{{clear}}
|designer =
 
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'''Nintendo Switch'''{{clear}}
}}<!--{{OkamiGame
 
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<small>[[wikipedia:Europe|EU]]</small> August 9, 2018{{clear}}
|title =
 
|image = [[File:|250px]]
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|genre = Action-Adventure
|caption = North American box art
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|modes = Singleplayer
|developer = '''(PlayStation 2)'''
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|rating =
 
|platforms = PlayStation 2 <br> Wii <br> PlayStation 3 <br> XBox One <br> PlayStation 4 <br> Microsoft Windows
[[Clover Studio]]
 
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|media = DVD-ROM<br>Blu-ray, digital <small>[HD]</small>
 
|followed by = [[Ōkamiden]]
 
}}
 
'''''Ōkami''''' {{nihongo|大神|</i>.lit'' "great god"''}} is an action-adventure video game developed by [[wikipedia:Clover Studio|Clover Studio]] and published by [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]]. It was released for Sony's [[wikipedia:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]] video game console in 2006 in Japan and North America, and 2007 in Europe and Australia.
   
 
Set sometime in classical Japanese history, ''Ōkami'' combines several Japanese mythology and folklore to tell the story of how the land was saved from darkness by the Shinto sun goddess named [[Amaterasu]], who took the form of a white wolf with celestial markings covering its fur. It features a distinct [[wikipedia:sumi-e|sumi-e]]-inspired cel-shaded visual style and the [[Celestial Brush]], a gesture-system used to perform miracles.
'''(Wii)'''
 
<br>[[Ready at Dawn]]<br>[[Tose (company)|Tose]]<ref name="jpwiicredits" />
 
|publisher = [[Capcom]]
 
|distributor = {{vgrelease|AUS=[[wikipedia:Activision|Activision]]<ref>{{cite web | author=Kolan, Patrick | date=12 November 2006 | title=Capcom Splits From THQ in Australia | url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/745/745473p1.html | publisher=IGN | accessdate=21 February 2010}}</ref>}}
 
|designer =
 
|writer = [[Hideki Kamiya]]<ref name="jpwiicredits">{{cite video game |title=Ōkami |developer=[[Clover Studio|Clover Studio Co., Ltd.]], [[Ready at Dawn Studios LLC]], [[Tose Co., Ltd.]] |publisher=[[Capcom Co., Ltd.]] |date=15 October 2009 |language=Japanese |platform=[[Wii]] |scene=staff credits}}</ref>
 
|designer = [[Hideki Kamiya]]<br>[[wikipedia:Hiroshi Shibata|Hiroshi Shibata]]<br>[[wikipedia:Joesuke Kaji|Joesuke Kaji]]<br>[[wikipedia:Dai Oba|Dai Oba]]
 
|platforms = [[PlayStation 2]]<br>[[Wii]]<br>PlayStation 3
 
|released = '''PlayStation 2'''<br>{{vgrelease|JP=April 20, 2006<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/678/678013p1.html| title=Ōkami Dated in Japan|work=IGN PS2|publisher=IGN Entertainment|accessdate=9 August 2007|date=5 December 2005|last=Gantayat|first=Anoop}}</ref>|NA=September 19, 2006<ref>{{cite web|url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/okami/|title=Ōkami (PS2)|publisher=GameSpy|accessdate=9 August 2007}}</ref>|EU=February 9, 2007<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.capcom-europe.com/games/Okami/125.aspx|title=Gamesheet for Ōkami| publisher=Capcom Europe|accessdate=9 August 2007|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20080617120807/http://www.capcom-europe.com/games/Okami/125.aspx |archivedate = June 17, 2008|deadurl=yes}}</ref>|AUS=February 14, 2007<ref>{{cite web|url=http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=6011|title=Updated Australian release list, 27/11/06|publisher=PalGN.com.au|date=26 November 2006|accessdate=9 August 2007| last=Jastrzab|first=Jeremy}}</ref>}}'''Wii'''<br>{{vgrelease|NA=April 15, 2008<ref name="okami delay">{{cite web|url= http://www.gamespot.com/news/6187105.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews;title;3|title=Wii Okami bumped to 15 April|publisher=GameSpot|accessdate=3 March 2008|date=3 March 2008|first=Tom|last=Magrino}}</ref>|AUS=June 12, 2008<ref>{{cite web|url = http://palgn.com.au/article.php?title=This+Week%27s+Releases+-+9%2F6%2F08&id=11783&sid=8ba63adc6ff12e240c46c603bb38944d|title=This Week's Releases - 9/6/08|publisher=PalGN|first=Anthony|last=Capone|date=8 June 2008|accessdate=8 June 2008}}</ref>}}{{vgrelease|EU=June 13, 2008<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=134946|title=Ōkami Wii gets Euro date|publisher=Eurogamer|accessdate=30 April 2008|date=29 April 2008|first=Tom|last=Bradwell}}</ref>}}{{vgrelease|JP=October 15, 2009<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.andriasang.com/e/blog/2009/08/07/okami_bonus_soundtrack/|title=Wii Okami Gets a Bonus Soundtrack|publisher=andriasang.com|accessdate=11 August 2009|date=7 August 2009|first=Anoop|last=Gantayat}}</ref>}}
 
|genre = [[Wikipedia:Action-adventure game|Action-adventure]]
 
|modes = [[Wikipedia:Single-player video game|Single-player]]
 
|ratings = {{vgratings|CERO=A|ESRB=T|PEGI=12+|OFLCA=M}}
 
|distribution = [[Digital media|Physical]]
 
|prvgame = N/A
 
|nxtgame = ''[[Ōkamiden]]''
 
}}-->'''''Ōkami''''' (大神{{?}}) is an action-adventure video game developed by [[Clover Studio]] and published by [[Capcom]]. It was released for Sony's [[PlayStation 2]] video game console in 2006 in Japan and North America, and 2007 in Europe and Australia.
 
   
 
''Ōkami'' was one of the last PlayStation 2 games selected for release prior to the release of the PlayStation 3. Although it suffered from poor sales, ''Ōkami'' earned high acclaim from reviewers and earned, among other awards, the title of IGN's 2006 Game of the Year.<ref>[http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/39.html Okami Game of the Year 2006, in IGN]</ref> The [[wikipedia:Wii|Wii]] version has earned similar praise, though the motion control scheme has received mixed reviews from both critics and gamers.
Set sometime in classical Japanese history, ''Ōkami'' combines several Japanese mythology and folklore to tell the story of how the land was saved from darkness by the Shinto sun goddess named [[Amaterasu]], who took the form of a white wolf with celestial markings covering its fur. It features a distinct {{wp|sumi-e|sumi-e}}-inspired cel-shaded visual style and the [[Celestial Brush]], a gesture-system used to perform miracles.
 
   
 
An HD version of the game was released for the PlayStation 3 on October 30, 2012 and is available for download on [[wikipedia:PlayStation Network|PlayStation Network]]. It contains PlayStation Move support as well as use of the normal controller.<ref>[http://us.playstation.com/games-and-media/games/okami-hd-ps3.html]</ref> An even further improved port was released for Xbox One, PS4 and on the Steam platform for Windows PC in December 2017.
''Ōkami'' was one of the last PlayStation 2 games selected for release prior to the release of the PlayStation 3. Although it suffered from poor sales, ''Ōkami'' earned high acclaim from reviewers and earned, among other awards, the title of IGN's 2006 Game of the Year. <ref>[http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/39.html Okami Game of the Year 2006, in IGN]</ref> The [[Wii]] version has earned similar praise, though the motion control scheme has received mixed reviews from both critics and gamers.
 
 
An HD version of the game was released for the PlayStation 3 on October 30, 2012 and is available for download on {{wp|PlayStation Network|PSN}}. It contains PlayStation Move support as well as use of the normal controller<ref>[http://us.playstation.com/games-and-media/games/okami-hd-ps3.html]</ref>.
 
   
 
==Gameplay==
 
==Gameplay==
''Ōkami'' has the player controlling the main character, [[Amaterasu]], in a woodcut, watercolor style, cel-shaded environment, which looks like an animated Japanese ink-illustration (known as sumi-e) with other styles of art. The gameplay style is a mix of action, platform, and puzzle gaming genres, and has been noted by many reviewers to have numerous similarities in overall gameplay style to ''The Legend of Zelda'' series,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1542741/20070131/index.jhtml | title = GameFile: 'Ōkami' Goes Green; Official Wii Word; 'Idol' Launch And More | publisher = MTV | date = 10 October 2006 | last = Totilo | first = Stephen | accessdate = 10 August 2007 }}</ref> an inspiration that director [[Hideki Kamiya]], a self-proclaimed Zelda-fan, has admitted has influenced his general game design.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152880 | title = The Kamiya Touch: An Interview with Clover's Hideki Kamiya | publisher = 1up | last = Mielke | first = James | date = 18 August 2006 | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref> The main story is primarily linear, directed through by Amaterasu's guide [[Issun]], though numerous side quests and optional activities allow for players to explore the game world and take the story at their own pace.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=13–14 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref> By completing quests, side quests and small additional activities (such as making trees bloom into life or feeding wild animals), Amaterasu earns Praise, which can then be spent to increase various statistics of the character, such as the amount of health and number of ink wells for Celestial Brush techniques.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=25–26 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref>
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''Ōkami'' has the player controlling the main character, [[Amaterasu]], in a woodcut, watercolor style, cel-shaded environment, which looks like an animated Japanese ink-illustration (known as sumi-e) with other styles of art. The gameplay style is a mix of action, platform, and puzzle gaming genres, and has been noted by many reviewers to have numerous similarities in overall gameplay style to ''The Legend of Zelda'' series,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1542741/20070131/index.jhtml | title = GameFile: 'Ōkami' Goes Green; Official Wii Word; 'Idol' Launch And More | publisher = MTV | date = 10 October 2006 | last = Totilo | first = Stephen | accessdate = 10 August 2007 }}</ref> an inspiration that director [[wikipedia:Hideki Kamiya|Hideki Kamiya]], a self-proclaimed Zelda-fan, has admitted has influenced his general game design.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152880 | title = The Kamiya Touch: An Interview with Clover's Hideki Kamiya | publisher = 1up | last = Mielke | first = James | date = 18 August 2006 | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref> The main story is primarily linear, directed through by Amaterasu's guide [[Issun]], though numerous side quests and optional activities allow for players to explore the game world and take the story at their own pace.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=13–14 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref> By completing quests, side quests and small additional activities (such as making trees bloom into life or feeding wild animals), Amaterasu earns Praise, which can then be spent to increase various statistics of the character, such as the amount of health and number of ink wells for Celestial Brush techniques.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=25–26 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref>
 
Combat is staged in a ghostly virtual arena, and Amaterasu can fight enemies using a combination of weapons, fighting techniques and Brush methods to dispatch the foes.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=19–20 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref> At the end of combat, money (as [[yen]]) is rewarded to Amaterasu, with bonuses for completing a battle quickly and without taking damage. The money can be spent on numerous items from merchants across the land, including healing goods, better weapons, tools and key items for completing quests. The money can also be used to buy new combat techniques at [[dojo]]s throughout the land.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=30}}</ref> Additionally, rare [[Demon Fangs]] can be earned through combat which can be traded for additional, unique items that are beneficial in gameplay but not required to complete the game.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=31}}</ref> Weapons inspired by the [[Imperial Regalia of Japan]], the [[Reflector]], the [[Rosaries]] and the [[Glaive]] can be equipped on Amaterasu as either a main or sub-weapon, and used in addition to other melee attacks that the player can have Amaterasu learn through the course of the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/723/723168p1.html | title = The Weapons of Ōkami | date = 11 August 2006 | accessdate = 10 August 2007 | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=22}}</ref>
 
   
 
Combat is staged in a ghostly virtual arena, and Amaterasu can fight enemies using a combination of weapons, fighting techniques and Brush methods to dispatch the foes.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=19–20 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref> At the end of combat, money (as [[yen]]) is rewarded to Amaterasu, with bonuses for completing a battle quickly and without taking damage. The money can be spent on numerous items from merchants across the land, including healing goods, better weapons, tools and key items for completing quests. The money can also be used to buy new combat techniques at [[dojo]]s throughout the land.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=30}}</ref> Additionally, rare [[Demon Fang]]s can be earned through combat which can be traded for additional, unique items that are beneficial in gameplay but not required to complete the game.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=31}}</ref> Weapons inspired by the [[wikipedia:Imperial Regalia of Japan|Imperial Regalia of Japan]], the [[Reflector]], the [[Rosaries]] and the [[Glaive]] can be equipped on Amaterasu as either a main or sub-weapon, and used in addition to other melee attacks that the player can have Amaterasu learn through the course of the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/723/723168p1.html | title = The Weapons of Ōkami | date = 11 August 2006 | accessdate = 10 August 2007 | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=22}}</ref>
 
===Celestial Brush===
 
===Celestial Brush===
[[File:Okami-brush.jpg|left|thumb|Amaterasu uses the ''Celestial Brush'' to rejuvenate wilted plants (as shown), repair bridges, slash foes or create elemental effects.]]
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[[File:Okami-brush.jpg|right|thumb|Amaterasu uses the ''Celestial Brush'' to rejuvenate wilted plants (as shown), repair bridges, slash foes or create elemental effects.]]
Unique to ''Ōkami'' is the ''Celestial Brush''. Players can bring the game to a pause and call up a canvas, where the player can draw onto the screen, either using the left analog stick on the [[PlayStation 2]]'s DualShock controller or pointing with the [[Wii]] Remote.<ref name="ign handson wii"/> This feature is used in combat, puzzles and as general gameplay.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=16–18 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref> For example, the player can create strong wind by drawing a loop, cut enemies by drawing a line through them or create bridges by painting one, amongst many other abilities. These techniques are learned through the course of the game by completing [[constellations]] to release the Celestial Brush gods (inspired by the [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_zodiac Chinese zodiac]) from their hiding spots.<ref name="ign-review"/> It is also possible to upgrade or modify certain Brush powers later in the game. For example, the Celestial Brush power [[Inferno]] can gain a new power called [[Fireburst]], which has a different drawing pattern, and allows players to create flames without relying on torches or other related items. The player's ink for drawing is limited by the amount available in special ink wells (unless an [[Inkfinity Stone]] is used), preventing the player from solely using Brush techniques to defeat enemies. [[Ink Pot|Ink ]]is restored in the wells over time when the Brush is not used.<ref name="ign-review"/>
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Unique to ''Ōkami'' is the ''Celestial Brush''. Players can bring the game to a pause and call up a canvas, where the player can draw onto the screen, either using the left analog stick on the [[wikipedia:PlayStation 2|PlayStation 2]]'s DualShock controller or pointing with the [[wikipedia:Wii|Wii]] Remote.<ref name="ign handson wii"/> This feature is used in combat, puzzles and as general gameplay.<ref>{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=16–18 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref> For example, the player can create strong wind by drawing a loop, cut enemies by drawing a line through them or create bridges by painting one, amongst many other abilities. These techniques are learned through the course of the game by completing [[constellation]]s to release the Celestial Brush gods (inspired by the [[wikipedia:East Asia zodiac|East Asia zodiac]]) from their hiding spots.<ref name="ign-review"/> It is also possible to upgrade or modify certain Brush powers later in the game. For example, the Celestial Brush power [[Inferno]] can gain a new power called [[Fireburst]], which has a different drawing pattern, and allows players to create flames without relying on torches or other related items. The player's ink for drawing is limited by the amount available in special ink wells (unless an [[Items#Inkfinity Stone|Inkfinity Stone]] is used), preventing the player from solely using Brush techniques to defeat enemies. [[Ink Pot|Ink]] is restored in the wells over time when the Brush is not used.<ref name="ign-review"/>
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==Plot==
 
== Plot ==
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===Story===
 
=== Story ===
 
 
[[File:Okami-issun.jpg|thumb|right|[[Amaterasu]], the game's protagonist, with Issun, her inch-high guide, atop her snout]]
 
[[File:Okami-issun.jpg|thumb|right|[[Amaterasu]], the game's protagonist, with Issun, her inch-high guide, atop her snout]]
The game is set in [[Nippon]] based on Japanese classic history, and begins with a flashback to events 100 years prior to the game's present, and describes how [[Shiranui]], a pure white wolf, and [[Nagi]], a swordsman, together fought the eight-headed demon [[Orochi]] to save [[Kamiki Village]] and the maiden [[Nami]], Nagi's beloved. Shiranui and Nagi are unable to defeat Orochi but manage to seal the demon away. In the game's present, [[Susano]], a descendant of Nagi and self-proclaimed greatest warrior, breaks Orochi's seal due to the fact that he does not believe in the legend, and Orochi escapes and curses the lands, sapping the life from every living being. [[Sakuya]], the wood sprite and guardian of Kamiki Village, calls forth Amaterasu, the sun goddess, known to the villagers as the reincarnation of the white wolf Shiranui, and pleads her to remove the curse that covers the land. Accompanied by the artist Issun (an inch-high Poncle), Amaterasu is able to restore the land to its former beauty.<ref name="playtm-review">{{cite web | url = http://play.tm/story/9446 | title = Ōkami - Review | publisher = Play.tm | date = 27 February 2007 | last = Smith | first = Steve | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref> Throughout the journey, Amaterasu is hounded by [[Waka]], a strange but powerful individual that seems to have the gift of foresight, and further teases Amaterasu and Issun to his own mysterious ends. Additionally, Amaterasu locates several [[Celestial Gods]] who have hidden in the constellations that bestow upon the goddess powers of the Celestial Brush to aid in her quest.
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The game is set in [[Nippon]] based on Japanese classic history, and begins with a flashback to events 100 years prior to the game's present, and describes how [[Shiranui]], a pure white wolf, and [[Nagi]], a swordsman, together fought the eight-headed demon [[Orochi]] to save [[Kamiki Village]] and the maiden [[Nami]], Nagi's beloved. Shiranui and Nagi are unable to defeat Orochi but manage to seal the demon away. In the game's present, [[Susano]], a descendant of Nagi and self-proclaimed greatest warrior, breaks Orochi's seal due to the fact that he does not believe in the legend, and Orochi escapes and curses the lands, sapping the life from every living being. [[Sakuya]], the wood sprite and guardian of Kamiki Village, calls forth Amaterasu, the sun goddess, known to the villagers as the reincarnation of the white wolf Shiranui, and pleads her to remove the curse that covers the land. Accompanied by the artist Issun (an inch-high Poncle), Amaterasu is able to restore the land to its former beauty.<ref name="playtm-review">{{cite web | url = http://play.tm/story/9446 | title = Ōkami - Review | publisher = Play.tm | date = 27 February 2007 | last = Smith | first = Steve | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref> Throughout the journey, Amaterasu is hounded by [[Waka]], a strange but powerful individual that seems to have the gift of foresight, and further teases Amaterasu and Issun to his own mysterious ends. Additionally, Amaterasu locates several [[Celestial Brush gods]] who have hidden in the constellations that bestow upon the goddess powers of the Celestial Brush to aid in her quest.
 
Soon, Amaterasu, along with Susano, must battle Orochi to protect Kamiki Village and rescue Susano's beloved, [[Kushi]], recreating events from 100 years prior. This time, the duo are able to fully conquer the demon, causing a black, evil spirit to float northward. Amaterasu and Issun then embark on a journey across Nippon, befriending many people along the way through their good deeds, and continue to remove Orochi's curse on the land, through defeating other demons that release similar dark presences floating northward. As Amaterasu travels to find the source of these evil spirits, she is brought to the wreckage of a ship able to travel through the stars: the "[[Ark of Yamato]]". Waka appears and reveals himself as a member of the [[Moon Tribe]], a race that had supplied the Ark of Yamato to the [[Celestial Beings|Celestials]], who used it to escape from Orochi's assault on the [[Celestial Plain]] and sail the heavens, unaware of the evil spirits imprisoned on the Ark which attacked and killed all but himself, resulting in the Ark crashing to earth. [[Yami]], the demon controlling all of the evil spirits, appears and strips Amaterasu of her Celestial Brush powers before entering battle with her. Issun takes up his role as the [[Celestial Envoy]] and encourages all those they have helped to send their thoughts to Amaterasu, causing her to regain her powers and defeat Yami, ridding both the Ark and Nippon of these evil beings forever. With her mission done, Amaterasu departs with Waka on the Ark to sail back to the Celestial Plain together.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/ps2/file/920500/48479 | title = Ōkami Story Guide | author = ahojed | date = 21 May 2007 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | publisher = GameFAQs}}</ref>
 
   
 
Soon, Amaterasu, along with Susano, must battle Orochi to protect Kamiki Village and rescue Susano's beloved, [[Kushi]], recreating events from 100 years prior. This time, the duo are able to fully conquer the demon, causing a black, evil spirit to float northward. Amaterasu and Issun then embark on a journey across Nippon, befriending many people along the way through their good deeds, and continue to remove Orochi's curse on the land, through defeating other demons that release similar dark presences floating northward. As Amaterasu travels to find the source of these evil spirits, she is brought to the wreckage of a ship able to travel through the stars: the "[[Ark of Yamato]]". Waka appears and reveals himself as a member of the [[Moon Tribe]], a race that had supplied the Ark of Yamato to the [[Celestials]], who used it to escape from Orochi's assault on the [[Celestial Plain]] and sail the heavens, unaware of the evil spirits imprisoned on the Ark which attacked and killed all but himself, resulting in the Ark crashing to earth. [[Yami]], the demon controlling all of the evil spirits, appears and strips Amaterasu of her Celestial Brush powers before entering battle with her. Issun takes up his role as the [[Celestial Envoy]] and encourages all those they have helped to send their thoughts to Amaterasu, causing her to regain her powers and defeat Yami, ridding both the Ark and Nippon of these evil beings forever. With her mission done, Amaterasu departs with Waka on the Ark to sail back to the Celestial Plain together.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamefaqs.com/console/ps2/file/920500/48479 | title = Ōkami Story Guide | author = ahojed | date = 21 May 2007 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | publisher = GameFAQs}}</ref>
=== Characters ===
+
===Characters===
 
The player controls Ōkami Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun, in the form of a white wolf.<ref name="manual-characters"/> While Amaterasu is referred to in the Japanese and European version of the game as a female, the North American version never states Amaterasu as a specific sex.<ref name="manual-characters"/><ref name="1up localization"/> Some characters, however, will refer to Amaterasu in either a feminine or masculine method, but neither are shown to be correct nor incorrect. While Amaterasu, when endowed with ink power, is seen by the player with red markings, cloud-like fur on her shoulders, and weapons on her back, most of the human characters in the game only see her as a plain white wolf; some believe Amaterasu to be the reincarnation of Shiranui (the white wolf that fought Orochi 100 years prior to the game's present), and do not recognize her spiritual nature. If the player depletes their power by overuse of the celestial brush, Amaterasu will temporarily revert to this mundane white form. Issun, an arrogant, inch-tall "wandering artist" seeking out the 13 Celestial Brush techniques for himself, accompanies Amaterasu (whom he calls "Ammy" or "furball") and serves as a guide, dialogue [[wikt:proxy|proxy]], and as comic relief. He grows in character along with Amaterasu throughout the game, eventually becoming her true friend, inspiration, and eventually her savior.<ref name="manual-characters">{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=6}}</ref>
 
The player controls Ōkami Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun, in the form of a white wolf.<ref name="manual-characters"/> While Amaterasu is referred to in the Japanese and European version of the game as a female, the North American version never states Amaterasu as a specific sex.<ref name="manual-characters"/><ref name="1up localization"/> Some characters, however, will refer to Amaterasu in either a feminine or masculine method, but neither are shown to be correct nor incorrect. While Amaterasu, when endowed with ink power, is seen by the player with red markings, cloud-like fur on her shoulders, and weapons on her back, most of the human characters in the game only see her as a plain white wolf; some believe Amaterasu to be the reincarnation of Shiranui (the white wolf that fought Orochi 100 years prior to the game's present), and do not recognize her spiritual nature. If the player depletes their power by overuse of the celestial brush, Amaterasu will temporarily revert to this mundane white form. Issun, an arrogant, inch-tall "wandering artist" seeking out the 13 Celestial Brush techniques for himself, accompanies Amaterasu (whom he calls "Ammy" or "furball") and serves as a guide, dialogue [[wikt:proxy|proxy]], and as comic relief. He grows in character along with Amaterasu throughout the game, eventually becoming her true friend, inspiration, and eventually her savior.<ref name="manual-characters">{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | publisher=Capcom | page=6}}</ref>
   
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Throughout the game, the player encounters several other characters that are inspired from Japanese folklore.<ref name="Folklore">{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=34–35 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref>
 
Throughout the game, the player encounters several other characters that are inspired from Japanese folklore.<ref name="Folklore">{{cite book | year=2006 | editor=Capcom Entertainment, Inc. | title=Ōkami instruction manual | pages=34–35 | publisher=Capcom }}</ref>
 
==Development==
 
''Ōkami'' resulted from the combined ideas of Clover Studio.<ref name="gamespy-inaba"/> The game was originally built around "depict[ing] a lot of nature", but had no central concept or theme, according to lead designer [[wikipedia:Hideki Kamiya|Hideki Kamiya]].<ref name="okami prototype">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3176767 | title = Platinum Games' Kamiya Reflects on Bayonetta, Okami | first = Kevin | last = Grifford | date = 4 November 2009 | accessdate = 5 November 2009 | publisher = 1UP.com }}</ref> Kamiya eventually created a minute-long demonstration movie showing a wolf running about a forest, with flowers blossoming in its wake, but still lacked any gameplay. Kamiya and other members of the team introduced ideas around the nature aspect and eventually led to the game's initial prototype, which Kamiya admitted was "incredibly boring to play".<ref name="okami prototype"/> Kamiya suggested that he allowed so many ideas from the team that resulted in the development moving off-target, including creating more of a simulation. Eventually, they settled onto the gameplay found in the final product.<ref name="okami prototype"/>
   
 
[[File:Okami-compare.jpg|thumb|250px|right|Side-by-side comparison of the original realistic (left) and the final sumi-e (right) style used in ''Ōkami'']]
== Development ==
 
 
The art in ''Ōkami'' is highly inspired by Japanese watercolor and wood carving art of the Ukiyo-e style, such as the work of Hokusai. ''Ōkami'' was originally planned to be rendered in a more photorealistic 3D style.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/5057 | title = Ōkami old/new comparison | date = 14 August 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | publisher = Gamevideos.com}}</ref> However, Clover Studio determined that the more colorful sumi-e style allowed them to better convey Amaterasu's association with nature and the task of restoring it.<ref name="1up-inaba">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152846 | title = All the King's Men | publisher = 1up | date = 16 August 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Mielke | first = James }}</ref> The change was also influenced by limitations in the PS2 hardware to render the photorealistic 3D graphics.<ref name="ign-art">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/759/759997p1.html | title = Okami Interview AU | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment | last = Shea | first = Cam | date = 30 January 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref> As a result of the switch to the watercolor style, the idea of the Celestial Brush came about.<ref name="gamespy-inaba">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/okami/690940p1.html | title = Running with the Wolves: Atsushi Inaba talks Ōkami | publisher = Gamespy | date = 23 February 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = McGarvey | first = Sterling}}</ref> [[wikipedia:Atsushi Inaba|Atsushi Inaba]], CEO of Clover, noted that "Once we fixed ourselves on a graphical style and got down to the brushwork, we thought 'Wouldn't it be great if we could somehow get the player involved and participate in this artwork instead of just watching it?' That's how the idea of the Celestial Brush was born". Original concepts for [[enemies]] included the use of dinosaurs, but the designs settled onto more demon-like characters.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |pages=158–159}}</ref>
''Ōkami'' resulted from the combined ideas of Clover Studio.<ref name="gamespy-inaba"/> The game was originally built around "depict[ing] a lot of nature", but had no central concept or theme, according to lead designer [[Hideki Kamiya]].<ref name="okami prototype">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3176767 | title = Platinum Games' Kamiya Reflects on Bayonetta, Okami | first = Kevin | last = Grifford | date = 4 November 2009 | accessdate = 5 November 2009 | publisher = [[1UP.com]] }}</ref> Kamiya eventually created a minute-long demonstration movie showing a wolf running about a forest, with flowers blossoming in its wake, but still lacked any gameplay. Kamiya and other members of the team introduced ideas around the nature aspect and eventually led to the game's initial prototype, which Kamiya admitted was "incredibly boring to play".<ref name="okami prototype"/> Kamiya suggested that he allowed so many ideas from the team that resulted in the development moving off-target, including creating more of a simulation. Eventually, they settled onto the gameplay found in the final product.<ref name="okami prototype"/>
 
 
[[File:Okami-compare.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Side-by-side comparison of the original realistic (left) and the final sumi-e (right) style used in ''Ōkami'']]
 
The art in ''Ōkami'' is highly inspired by Japanese watercolor and wood carving art of the Ukiyo-e style, such as the work of Hokusai. ''Ōkami'' was originally planned to be rendered in a more photorealistic 3D style.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamevideos.com/video/id/5057 | title = Ōkami old/new comparison | date = 14 August 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | publisher = Gamevideos.com}}</ref> However, Clover Studio determined that the more colorful sumi-e style allowed them to better convey Amaterasu's association with nature and the task of restoring it.<ref name="1up-inaba">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152846 | title = All the King's Men | publisher = 1up | date = 16 August 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Mielke | first = James }}</ref> The change was also influenced by limitations in the PS2 hardware to render the photorealistic 3D graphics.<ref name="ign-art">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/759/759997p1.html | title = Okami Interview AU | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment | last = Shea | first = Cam | date = 30 January 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref> As a result of the switch to the watercolor style, the idea of the Celestial Brush came about.<ref name="gamespy-inaba">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/okami/690940p1.html | title = Running with the Wolves: Atsushi Inaba talks Ōkami | publisher = Gamespy | date = 23 February 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = McGarvey | first = Sterling}}</ref> [[Atsushi Inaba]], CEO of Clover, noted that "Once we fixed ourselves on a graphical style and got down to the brushwork, we thought 'Wouldn't it be great if we could somehow get the player involved and participate in this artwork instead of just watching it?' That's how the idea of the Celestial Brush was born". Original concepts for [[enemies]] included the use of dinosaurs, but the designs settled onto more demon-like characters.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |pages=158–159}}</ref>
 
   
 
Amaterasu's initial designs were aimed to avoid having the character look like "your pet wearing clothing".<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 | page = 109}}</ref> The developers had considered having Amaterasu change into a dolphin when in the water and a falcon when jumping off a cliff, but dropped these ideas.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 | page = 112}}</ref> Sakuya, designed around a peach motif, was envisioned with what were called "level 2" and "level 3" designs where the character would wear less clothing as the story progressed, but the "level 3" appearance, effectively naked, was vetoed by Inaba.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |page=115}}</ref> Waka's character was aimed to be a Tatsunoko-like character, with the hood designed to be reminiscent of those worn by the Gatchaman.<ref name="waka design">{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |page=123}}</ref> Orochi in Japanese mythology is a gigantic creature, so lead character designer Takeyasu Sawaki designed the back of the demon to include a garden and palace; this inspired the game designers to include a bell in those structures that would be Orochi's fatal weakness in the game.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |page=174}}</ref>
 
Amaterasu's initial designs were aimed to avoid having the character look like "your pet wearing clothing".<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 | page = 109}}</ref> The developers had considered having Amaterasu change into a dolphin when in the water and a falcon when jumping off a cliff, but dropped these ideas.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 | page = 112}}</ref> Sakuya, designed around a peach motif, was envisioned with what were called "level 2" and "level 3" designs where the character would wear less clothing as the story progressed, but the "level 3" appearance, effectively naked, was vetoed by Inaba.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |page=115}}</ref> Waka's character was aimed to be a Tatsunoko-like character, with the hood designed to be reminiscent of those worn by the Gatchaman.<ref name="waka design">{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |page=123}}</ref> Orochi in Japanese mythology is a gigantic creature, so lead character designer Takeyasu Sawaki designed the back of the demon to include a garden and palace; this inspired the game designers to include a bell in those structures that would be Orochi's fatal weakness in the game.<ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7 |page=174}}</ref>
Line 90: Line 72:
   
 
The ''Ōkami: Official Complete Works'' art book was published by Udon in May 2008.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.udonentertainment.com/okami/ | title = ŌKAMI: OFFICIAL COMPLETE WORKS | publisher = Udon | accessdate = 3 April 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7}}</ref> The game was re-released under Sony's "Greatest Hits" in Japan in August 2008.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.siliconera.com/2008/08/07/okami-odin-sphere-and-disgaea-joining-ps2-greatest-hits/ | title = Ōkami, Odin Sphere and Disgaea joining PS2 Greatest Hits? | publisher = Siliconera | author = Spenser | date = 7 August 2008 | accessdate = 8 August 2008}}</ref>
 
The ''Ōkami: Official Complete Works'' art book was published by Udon in May 2008.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.udonentertainment.com/okami/ | title = ŌKAMI: OFFICIAL COMPLETE WORKS | publisher = Udon | accessdate = 3 April 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite book | title = Ōkami: Official Complete Works | publisher = Udon | year = 2008 | isbn = 978-1-897376-02-7}}</ref> The game was re-released under Sony's "Greatest Hits" in Japan in August 2008.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.siliconera.com/2008/08/07/okami-odin-sphere-and-disgaea-joining-ps2-greatest-hits/ | title = Ōkami, Odin Sphere and Disgaea joining PS2 Greatest Hits? | publisher = Siliconera | author = Spenser | date = 7 August 2008 | accessdate = 8 August 2008}}</ref>
 
===Naming and allusions===
 
 
The title of the game is a pun; the word ''ōkami'' (狼) in Japanese means "wolf" or "great god". However, the kanji characters used as the title of this game (大神), pronounced identically, mean "great deity", so the main character is a great wolf deity. The same characters (大神) are also used to write the full name of the sun goddess [[wikipedia:Amaterasu (Shinto deity)|Amaterasu Ōmikami]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.idlethumbs.net/display.php?id=262 | title = Ōkami | publisher = Idle Thumbs | date =15 February 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Bishop | first = Lawrence}}</ref> <!--''Ōkami'' can also be read to mean "big paper", hinting at the game's sumi-e-inspired visual style.{{Citation needed|date=May 2009}}--> The localization team opted to use shorter versions of Japanese names (for example, a boy named "Mushikai" was localized as "Mushi") instead of replacing the names with Western-style ones.<ref name="1up localization">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152879 | title = The Wolf Whisperer | publisher = 1UP | first = James | last = Mielke | date = 17 August 2006 | accessdate = 22 April 2008}}</ref> Issun's informal name for Amaterasu in the Western translation, "Ammy", was inspired by Kamiya, and is similar in tone with the Japanese informal name, "Ammako".<ref name="1up localization"/>
=== Naming and allusions ===
 
The title of the game is a pun; the word ''ōkami'' (狼) in Japanese means "wolf" or "great god". However, the kanji characters used as the title of this game (大神), pronounced identically, mean "great deity", so the main character is a great wolf deity. The same characters (大神) are also used to write the full name of the sun goddess [[Amaterasu Omikami|Amaterasu Ōmikami]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.idlethumbs.net/display.php?id=262 | title = Ōkami | publisher = Idle Thumbs | date =15 February 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Bishop | first = Lawrence}}</ref> <!--''Ōkami'' can also be read to mean "big paper", hinting at the game's sumi-e-inspired visual style.{{Citation needed|date=May 2009}}--> The localization team opted to use shorter versions of Japanese names (for example, a boy named "Mushikai" was localized as "Mushi") instead of replacing the names with Western-style ones.<ref name="1up localization">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3152879 | title = The Wolf Whisperer | publisher = 1UP | first = James | last = Mielke | date = 17 August 2006 | accessdate = 22 April 2008}}</ref> Issun's informal name for Amaterasu in the Western translation, "Ammy", was inspired by Kamiya, and is similar in tone with the Japanese informal name, "Ammako".<ref name="1up localization"/>
 
   
 
Throughout the game, ''Ōkami'' includes several references (in visual effects, animation, or dialogue) to other Capcom titles such as ''Viewtiful Joe'', which Clover Studios also developed.<ref name="1up localization"/> For example, Mrs. Orange's technique for making cherry cake parodies ''Street Fighter's'' Akuma's Shun Goku Satsu, complete with a kanji word displayed on screen with her back facing the screen.<ref name="1up localization"/> There are also in-jokes regarding the Clover staff. For example, an NPC aptly named "Animal Lover" lost his rabbit named "Inaba", also the last name of the head producer Atsushi Inaba. Also, to further convey the joke, Inaba the rabbit can be seen falling out of a tree directly underneath Atsushi Inaba's name during the closing credits.
 
Throughout the game, ''Ōkami'' includes several references (in visual effects, animation, or dialogue) to other Capcom titles such as ''Viewtiful Joe'', which Clover Studios also developed.<ref name="1up localization"/> For example, Mrs. Orange's technique for making cherry cake parodies ''Street Fighter's'' Akuma's Shun Goku Satsu, complete with a kanji word displayed on screen with her back facing the screen.<ref name="1up localization"/> There are also in-jokes regarding the Clover staff. For example, an NPC aptly named "Animal Lover" lost his rabbit named "Inaba", also the last name of the head producer Atsushi Inaba. Also, to further convey the joke, Inaba the rabbit can be seen falling out of a tree directly underneath Atsushi Inaba's name during the closing credits.
 
===Audio===
 
 
All of the music in ''Ōkami'' is original and inspired by classical Japanese works.<ref name="playtm-review"/> The final song, played over the credit sequence, "Reset", is sung by [[wikipedia:Ayaka Hirahara|Ayaka Hirahara]]. Capcom has released an official 5-disc soundtrack for ''Ōkami'', which is available exclusively in the Japanese market.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://squarehaven.com/features/albums/?id=CPCA-10166 | title = Okami Original Soundtrack | publisher = Square Haven | date = 31 May 2005 | accessdate = 10 August 2007 }}</ref> In the US and European release, the player can unlock a jukebox to hear the in-game music upon completion of the game. At the 2008 BAFTA Video Games Awards ''Ōkami'' won Best Score.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/829/829790p1.html | title = BAFTA Video Games Awards Winners Revealed | first = Matt | last = Wales | date = 24 October 2007 | accessdate = 9 June 2009 | publisher = IGN }}</ref>
=== Audio ===
 
All of the music in ''Ōkami'' is original and inspired by classical Japanese works.<ref name="playtm-review"/> The final song, played over the credit sequence, "Reset", is sung by [[Ayaka Hirahara]]. Capcom has released an official 5-disc soundtrack for ''Ōkami'', which is available exclusively in the Japanese market.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://squarehaven.com/features/albums/?id=CPCA-10166 | title = Okami Original Soundtrack | publisher = Square Haven | date = 31 May 2005 | accessdate = 10 August 2007 }}</ref> In the US and European release, the player can unlock a jukebox to hear the in-game music upon completion of the game. At the 2008 BAFTA Video Games Awards ''Ōkami'' won Best Score.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/829/829790p1.html | title = BAFTA Video Games Awards Winners Revealed | first = Matt | last = Wales | date = 24 October 2007 | accessdate = 9 June 2009 | publisher = [[IGN]] }}</ref>
 
   
 
Suleputer has also published another album, a piano arrangement, entitled ''Ōkami Piano Arrange''. It was released on 30 March 2007. Mika Matsūra both arranged the 10 songs, and performed it on the piano.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/gaming/music/okami-the-music-cd-244046.php | title = Ōkami the Music CD | date = 14 March 2007 | accessdate = 10 August 2007 | last = Ashcraft | first = Brian | publisher = Kotaku }}</ref>
 
Suleputer has also published another album, a piano arrangement, entitled ''Ōkami Piano Arrange''. It was released on 30 March 2007. Mika Matsūra both arranged the 10 songs, and performed it on the piano.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/gaming/music/okami-the-music-cd-244046.php | title = Ōkami the Music CD | date = 14 March 2007 | accessdate = 10 August 2007 | last = Ashcraft | first = Brian | publisher = Kotaku }}</ref>
   
 
The characters' speech in the game is actually created by scrambling samples of voice actors' speech, with more emotional lines being created from voice work given in that emotion.<ref name="1up localization"/>
 
The characters' speech in the game is actually created by scrambling samples of voice actors' speech, with more emotional lines being created from voice work given in that emotion.<ref name="1up localization"/>
 
===Wii version===
 
[[File:Okami Wii front cover.png|right|thumb|The cover of the North American Wii version of ''Ōkami''. A watermark from IGN can be seen by Amaterasu's mouth.<ref name="ign watermark"/>]]
 
The gameplay function of "drawing" or "painting" strokes on the screen led several journalists and gamers alike to believe that ''Ōkami'' would be well-suited for the [[wikipedia:Nintendo DS|Nintendo DS]] or [[wikipedia:Wii|Wii]], both of which feature controls capable of creating drawing motions freely. After the game's release, industry rumors of the game being ported to either console persisted, despite Atsushi Inaba of Clover Studio feeling that the game's action-based gameplay would not translate well to the console<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3154407 | title = Clover Studio's Final Interview? | date = 13 October 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Kennedy | first = Sam | publisher = 1up}}</ref> and statements from Capcom that there were "no plans for ''Ōkami'' on Wii".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/764/764007p1.html | title = Ōkami Leaping Onto Wii? | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | last = Burman | first = Rob | date = 13 February 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref>
   
 
However, at the 2007 UK Gamers Day, Capcom announced that [[wikipedia:Ready at Dawn|Ready at Dawn]] would oversee porting and development of a Wii version of ''Ōkami'' originally scheduled for release in March 2008<ref>{{cite web | url = http://news.spong.com/article/14055 | title = Okami For Wii - Confirmed | publisher = SPOnG | accessdate = 18 October 2007 | date = 18 October 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=85578 | title = Ōkami confirmed for Wii | first = Tom | last = Bramwell | publisher = Eurogamer | date = 18 October 2007 | accessdate = 18 October 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.readyatdawn.com/news.php?offset=0&news_toc=0&pr_toc=0 | title = Ōkami for the Wii. It's true. | date = 18 October 2007 | accessdate = 18 October 2007 | publisher = Ready At Dawn Studios}}</ref> but subsequently pushed back to April 2008.<ref name="okami delay"/> Christian Svensson, Capcom's Vice-President of Strategic Planning and Business Development, stated that Capcom had received numerous requests from fans for the development of the Wii version,<ref name="ign second chance"/> and that the ported game "specifically exists because of that direct communication, especially those we receive on our message boards (even if they're sometimes mean to us)."<ref name="svensson blog">{{cite web | url = http://blog.capcom.com/archives/565 | title = Bringing Back the Wolf (or How Ōkami Wii Came to Be) | date = 15 November 2007 | accessdate = 16 November 2007 | publisher = Capcom USA }}</ref> Ready at Dawn president Didier Malenfant has stated that, aside from the control scheme, the Wii version will be "an exact port of the PS2 version."<ref>{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/828/828620p1.html | title = Ōkami Wii Interview | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | accessdate = 19 October 2007 | date =19 October 2007 | author =IGN UK Staff}}</ref> The lack of enhancements for the game caused several complaints from gamers, which Svensson addressed, stating that
=== Wii version ===
 
 
"''...we're getting the game up and running first. The game is enormous. If after we have every thing working correctly, cleanly and as desired so as not to "break" the amazing experience that is ''Ōkami'', we will worry about potential enhancements. As we are NOT at that point in the process yet, we are loathe to even mention any potential changes or enhancements for fear of disappointing the fans/media.''"<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/gaming/okami/capcom-exec-defends-okami-on-wii-hints-at-enhancements-314801.php | title = Capcom Exec Defends Ōkami On Wii, Hints At Enhancements | publisher = Kotaku | accessdate = 25 October 2007 | date = 24 October 2007 | first = Luke | last = Plunkett }}</ref> Svensson reported that the original game assets given to them from Capcom Japan were incomplete, and even after requesting old hard drives and computers to recover more assets, Ready at Dawn was still required to recreate some from scratch.<ref name="ign second chance"/> Furthermore, the game had to be recoded to change optimizations that were made for the PlayStation 2 version; Svensson stated that "part of the reason we didn't show it until we started showing it was because, if we showed it in a form that was anything less than near-perfect, people were going to freak out".<ref name="ign second chance"/> Ready at Dawn's creative director Ru Weerasuriya later reflected that porting ''Ōkami'' to the Wii was a challenging task&mdash;"we started with no assets and literally reverse-engineered the whole thing back onto Wii"&mdash;they did out of love for the game, but the level of effort would preclude them from attempting such a port again.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.vg247.com/2010/10/26/building-or-porting-a-wii-game-not-something-we-would-do-again-says-ready-at-dawn/ | title = Building or porting a Wii game "not something we would do again", says Ready at Dawn | first = Johnny | last = Cullen | date = 2010-10-26 | accessdate = 2010-10-26 | publisher = VG247 }}</ref>
[[File:Okami-wii.jpg|right|thumb|The cover of the North American Wii version of ''Ōkami''. A watermark from IGN can be seen by Amaterasu's mouth.<ref name="ign watermark"/>]]
 
The gameplay function of "drawing" or "painting" strokes on the screen led several journalists and gamers alike to believe that ''Ōkami'' would be well-suited for the [[Nintendo DS]] or [[Wii]], both of which feature controls capable of creating drawing motions freely. After the game's release, industry rumors of the game being ported to either console persisted, despite Atsushi Inaba of Clover Studio feeling that ''Ōkami'''s action-based gameplay would not translate well to the console<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/newsStory?cId=3154407 | title = Clover Studio's Final Interview? | date = 13 October 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Kennedy | first = Sam | publisher = 1up}}</ref> and statements from Capcom that there were "no plans for ''Ōkami'' on Wii".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/764/764007p1.html | title = Ōkami Leaping Onto Wii? | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | last = Burman | first = Rob | date = 13 February 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref>
 
 
However, at the 2007 UK Gamers Day, Capcom announced that [[Ready at Dawn]] would oversee porting and development of a Wii version of ''Ōkami'' originally scheduled for release in March 2008<ref>{{cite web | url = http://news.spong.com/article/14055 | title = Okami For Wii - Confirmed | publisher = SPOnG | accessdate = 18 October 2007 | date = 18 October 2007}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=85578 | title = Ōkami confirmed for Wii | first = Tom | last = Bramwell | publisher = Eurogamer | date = 18 October 2007 | accessdate = 18 October 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.readyatdawn.com/news.php?offset=0&news_toc=0&pr_toc=0 | title = Ōkami for the Wii. It's true. | date = 18 October 2007 | accessdate = 18 October 2007 | publisher = Ready At Dawn Studios}}</ref> but subsequently pushed back to April 2008.<ref name="okami delay"/> Christian Svensson, Capcom's Vice-President of Strategic Planning and Business Development, stated that Capcom had received numerous requests from fans for the development of the Wii version,<ref name="ign second chance"/> and that the ported game "specifically exists because of that direct communication, especially those we receive on our message boards (even if they're sometimes mean to us)."<ref name="svensson blog">{{cite web | url = http://blog.capcom.com/archives/565 | title = Bringing Back the Wolf (or How Ōkami Wii Came to Be) | date = 15 November 2007 | accessdate = 16 November 2007 | publisher = Capcom USA }}</ref> Ready at Dawn president Didier Malenfant has stated that, aside from the control scheme, the Wii version will be "an exact port of the PS2 version."<ref>{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/828/828620p1.html | title = Ōkami Wii Interview | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | accessdate = 19 October 2007 | date =19 October 2007 | author =IGN UK Staff}}</ref> The lack of enhancements for the game caused several complaints from gamers, which Svensson addressed, stating that
 
"''...we're getting the game up and running first. The game is enormous. If after we have every thing working correctly, cleanly and as desired so as not to "break" the amazing experience that is ''Ōkami'', we will worry about potential enhancements. As we are NOT at that point in the process yet, we are loathe to even mention any potential changes or enhancements for fear of disappointing the fans/media.''"<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/gaming/okami/capcom-exec-defends-okami-on-wii-hints-at-enhancements-314801.php | title = Capcom Exec Defends Ōkami On Wii, Hints At Enhancements | publisher = Kotaku | accessdate = 25 October 2007 | date = 24 October 2007 | first = Luke | last = Plunkett }}</ref>}} Svensson reported that the original game assets given to them from Capcom Japan were incomplete, and even after requesting old hard drives and computers to recover more assets, Ready at Dawn was still required to recreate some from scratch.<ref name="ign second chance"/> Furthermore, the game had to be recoded to change optimizations that were made for the PlayStation 2 version; Svensson stated that "part of the reason we didn't show it until we started showing it was because, if we showed it in a form that was anything less than near-perfect, people were going to freak out".<ref name="ign second chance"/> Ready at Dawn's creative director Ru Weerasuriya later reflected that porting ''Ōkami'' to the Wii was a challenging task&mdash;"we started with no assets and literally reverse-engineered the whole thing back onto Wii"&mdash;they did out of love for the game, but the level of effort would preclude them from attempting such a port again.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.vg247.com/2010/10/26/building-or-porting-a-wii-game-not-something-we-would-do-again-says-ready-at-dawn/ | title = Building or porting a Wii game “not something we would do again”, says Ready at Dawn | first = Johnny | last = Cullen | date = 2010-10-26 | accessdate = 2010-10-26 | publisher = VG247 }}</ref>
 
   
 
On 15 November 2007, Svensson noted that the engine had been ported to the Wii, writing that "There are still several systems getting set up properly but there's most definitely a Wii-driven Amaterasu running around Wii-rendered environments as we speak."<ref name="svensson blog"/> <!--He also confirmed that unlike in the PlayStation 2 version, all of the text will be skipable.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.capcom.com/BBS/showpost.php?p=465383&postcount=12 | title = Ōkami Wii - 25 March? and other questions! | date = 19 January 2008 | accessdate = 22 January 2008 | last = Svensson | first = Christian | publisher = Capcom BBS}}</ref>--> A listing posted at Capcom's website for the game on 15 February 2008 revealed that the Wii version would support 480p and widescreen output,<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.gamingtarget.com/article.php?artid=8292 |title = Ōkami for Wii to support 480p and widescreens | publisher = Gaming Target | first = Kris | last = Rosado | date = 15 February 2008 | accessdate = 15 February 2008}}</ref> and IGN confirmed that the motion sensing of the Wii Remote would be used to perform the Celestial Brush features within the game.<ref name="ign handson wii">{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/852/852530p1.html | title = Hands-on Ōkami | date = 15 February 2008 | accessdate = 18 February 2008 | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment }}</ref> IGN's hands-on also cited small changes to the game such as additional motion-sensing controls using both the Wii Remote and Nunchuck attachment, and the ability to skip cutscenes, but reported no other changes in content of the game.<ref name="ign handson wii"/>
 
On 15 November 2007, Svensson noted that the engine had been ported to the Wii, writing that "There are still several systems getting set up properly but there's most definitely a Wii-driven Amaterasu running around Wii-rendered environments as we speak."<ref name="svensson blog"/> <!--He also confirmed that unlike in the PlayStation 2 version, all of the text will be skipable.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.capcom.com/BBS/showpost.php?p=465383&postcount=12 | title = Ōkami Wii - 25 March? and other questions! | date = 19 January 2008 | accessdate = 22 January 2008 | last = Svensson | first = Christian | publisher = Capcom BBS}}</ref>--> A listing posted at Capcom's website for the game on 15 February 2008 revealed that the Wii version would support 480p and widescreen output,<ref>{{cite web |url = http://www.gamingtarget.com/article.php?artid=8292 |title = Ōkami for Wii to support 480p and widescreens | publisher = Gaming Target | first = Kris | last = Rosado | date = 15 February 2008 | accessdate = 15 February 2008}}</ref> and IGN confirmed that the motion sensing of the Wii Remote would be used to perform the Celestial Brush features within the game.<ref name="ign handson wii">{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/852/852530p1.html | title = Hands-on Ōkami | date = 15 February 2008 | accessdate = 18 February 2008 | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment }}</ref> IGN's hands-on also cited small changes to the game such as additional motion-sensing controls using both the Wii Remote and Nunchuck attachment, and the ability to skip cutscenes, but reported no other changes in content of the game.<ref name="ign handson wii"/>
Line 114: Line 93:
 
Svennson noted that Capcom would not use television advertising for ''Ōkami'' on the Wii, but would use online marketing, including art contests and a new website with "all sorts of things for fans to use to make stuff".<ref name="ign second chance"/> This site was made live on 3 April 2008, featuring wallpapers, character artwork and fan-created art for the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/52064 | title= Capcom Releases Metric Ton of Ōkami Artwork | date = 3 April 2008 | accessdate =3 April 2008 | publisher = Shacknews | first = Aaron | last = Linde}}</ref> Svennson further noted that "If ''Ōkami'' for the Wii did the numbers that we did on the PS2, I'd be very happy. This doesn't need to be a mainstream success for this to be a success for the company."<ref name="ign second chance"/>
 
Svennson noted that Capcom would not use television advertising for ''Ōkami'' on the Wii, but would use online marketing, including art contests and a new website with "all sorts of things for fans to use to make stuff".<ref name="ign second chance"/> This site was made live on 3 April 2008, featuring wallpapers, character artwork and fan-created art for the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/52064 | title= Capcom Releases Metric Ton of Ōkami Artwork | date = 3 April 2008 | accessdate =3 April 2008 | publisher = Shacknews | first = Aaron | last = Linde}}</ref> Svennson further noted that "If ''Ōkami'' for the Wii did the numbers that we did on the PS2, I'd be very happy. This doesn't need to be a mainstream success for this to be a success for the company."<ref name="ign second chance"/>
   
A "paper parchment" filter applied to all on-screen elements that was readily apparent in the PlayStation 2 version was still included in the Wii port, but the effect was made much less significant.<ref name="ign wii review"/><ref name="gamespot wii review"/><ref name="gt ps2 wii compare">{{cite web | url = http://www.gametrailers.com/player/32960.html | title = Ōkami - PS2/Wii Comparison | date = 17 April 2008 | accessdate = 17 April 2008 | publisher = [[Game Trailers]]}}</ref> To help with drawing with the Celestial Brush, two different buttons on the Wii controllers were given brush functionality; one button was assigned to provide free-form strokes, while the other was set to draw a straight line from the starting point.<ref name="xplay wii review"/>
+
A "paper parchment" filter applied to all on-screen elements that was readily apparent in the PlayStation 2 version was still included in the Wii port, but the effect was made much less significant.<ref name="ign wii review"/><ref name="gamespot wii review"/><ref name="gt ps2 wii compare">{{cite web | url = http://www.gametrailers.com/player/32960.html | title = Ōkami - PS2/Wii Comparison | date = 17 April 2008 | accessdate = 17 April 2008 | publisher = Game Trailers}}</ref> To help with drawing with the Celestial Brush, two different buttons on the Wii controllers were given brush functionality; one button was assigned to provide free-form strokes, while the other was set to draw a straight line from the starting point.<ref name="xplay wii review"/>
   
The final credits movie that was in the PlayStation 2 version of the game was removed from the Wii version, much to Kamiya's regret as it removed the ''omoi''—"a combination of thoughts, emotions, and messages" — from the game: "(The staff roll was) the ''omoi'' of everyone who worked on the project, put together in a moment of bliss held out just for those who completed the journey. It was a special staff roll for a special moment. And now it is gone. All of it. ...It's incredibly disappointing and sad."<ref name="wii no credits">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=18469 | title = Platinum's Kamiya Voices Concern Over Missing Ōkami Credits | publisher = [[Gamasutra]] | date = 1 May 2008 | accessdate = 2 May 2008 | first = Chris | last = Remo }}</ref> A Capcom representative noted that the credits, a pre-rendered movie, had the Clover Studio logo within it, and they had "no legal right to use the Clover logo in a game they were not involved with directly". Since they also lacked the source to the credits, they opted to remove them entirely from the game.<ref name="wii no credits"/> Ready at Dawn's co-founder Didier Malenfant stated that the Wii version of ''Ōkami'' took up much more space on the game media than the PlayStation 2 version, and that the movie was cut in order to fit everything on a single game disk.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=135271 | title = Clover removed from Ōkami Wii credits | first = Rob | last = Purchese | publisher = Eurogamer | date = 2 May 2008 | accessdate = 4 May 2008 }}</ref> Despite this claim, the credit sequence was restored in the Japanese release of the Wii version<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.e-capcom.com/puchicap/puchi_capu_034/index.html | title = Okami | publisher = [[Capcom]] | accessdate =3 October 2009 | language = [[Japanese language|Japanese]] }}</ref> and revealed that the port was co-developed by [[Tose (company)|Tose]], having provided additional planners, designers, programmers and test players.<ref name="jpwiicredits" /> The images from the credits, although not the credits themselves, are still available as unlockable art.
+
The final credits movie that was in the PlayStation 2 version of the game was removed from the Wii version, much to Kamiya's regret as it removed the ''omoi''—"a combination of thoughts, emotions, and messages" — from the game: "(The staff roll was) the ''omoi'' of everyone who worked on the project, put together in a moment of bliss held out just for those who completed the journey. It was a special staff roll for a special moment. And now it is gone. All of it. ...It's incredibly disappointing and sad."<ref name="wii no credits">{{Cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=18469 | title = Platinum's Kamiya Voices Concern Over Missing Ōkami Credits | publisher = Gamasutra | date = 1 May 2008 | accessdate = 2 May 2008 | first = Chris | last = Remo }}</ref> A Capcom representative noted that the credits, a pre-rendered movie, had the Clover Studio logo within it, and they had "no legal right to use the Clover logo in a game they were not involved with directly". Since they also lacked the source to the credits, they opted to remove them entirely from the game.<ref name="wii no credits"/> Ready at Dawn's co-founder Didier Malenfant stated that the Wii version of ''Ōkami'' took up much more space on the game media than the PlayStation 2 version, and that the movie was cut in order to fit everything on a single game disk.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=135271 | title = Clover removed from Ōkami Wii credits | first = Rob | last = Purchese | publisher = Eurogamer | date = 2 May 2008 | accessdate = 4 May 2008 }}</ref> Despite this claim, the credit sequence was restored in the Japanese release of the Wii version<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.e-capcom.com/puchicap/puchi_capu_034/index.html | title = Okami | publisher = [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]] | accessdate =3 October 2009 | language = Japanese }}</ref> and revealed that the port was co-developed by [[wikipedia:Tose Co., Ltd.|Tose Co., Ltd.]], having provided additional planners, designers, programmers and test players.<ref name="jpwiicredits" /> The images from the credits, although not the credits themselves, are still available as unlockable art. Due to the removal of the credits there is no point in speaking with Mrs. Seal in [[Ponc'tan]], as the seal the player creates never appears in this version of the game.
   
Players have discovered that the cover of the North American Wii version of ''Ōkami'' includes a watermark from IGN, and traced the source to an image taken from IGN's site.<ref name="ign watermark">{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/381846/ign-watermark-in-okami-cover-art | title = IGN Watermark in Ōkami Cover Art | date = 20 April 2008 | accessdate = 21 April 2008 | publisher = Kotaku | first = Owen | last = Good}}</ref> To make up for the error, Capcom offered for a limited time to replace the cover with one of three high-resolution covers free of charge to users in North America.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080424.WBwgtgameblog030120080424102752/WBStory/WBwgtgameblog0301 | title = Capcom acknowledges Ōkami cover kafuffle, makes good | date = 24 April 2008 | accessdate = 25 April 2008 | publisher = Globe and Mail | first = Chad | last = Sapieha}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://blog.capcom.com/archives/1154 | title = Ōkami box art: now with 100% less IGN watermarks | publisher = [[Capcom]] | date = 23 April 2008 | accessdate = 24 April 2008 | author = Colin}}</ref> Due to delays in fulfilling the offer, Capcom shipped copies of all three covers to those that registered.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.capcom-unity.com/cferris/blog/2008/08/22/okami_wii_special_covers__final_update | title = Ōkami Wii special covers - Final Update! | date = 22 August 2008 | accessdate = 25 August 2008 | publisher = [[Capcom]] | author = Colin}}</ref> They have since discontinued the offer, but have made the cover images available worldwide in high-quality PDF files for users to download and print themselves.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.capcom.com/artredemption/ | title = Cover Artwork Redemption | publisher = [[Capcom]] | accessdate = 25 August 2008}}</ref> The European PAL version of the cover has no such error.
+
Players have discovered that the cover of the North American Wii version of ''Ōkami'' includes a watermark from IGN, and traced the source to an image taken from IGN's site.<ref name="ign watermark">{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/381846/ign-watermark-in-okami-cover-art | title = IGN Watermark in Ōkami Cover Art | date = 20 April 2008 | accessdate = 21 April 2008 | publisher = Kotaku | first = Owen | last = Good}}</ref> To make up for the error, Capcom offered for a limited time to replace the cover with one of three high-resolution covers free of charge to users in North America.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080424.WBwgtgameblog030120080424102752/WBStory/WBwgtgameblog0301 | title = Capcom acknowledges Ōkami cover kafuffle, makes good | date = 24 April 2008 | accessdate = 25 April 2008 | publisher = Globe and Mail | first = Chad | last = Sapieha}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://blog.capcom.com/archives/1154 | title = Ōkami box art: now with 100% less IGN watermarks | publisher = [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]] | date = 23 April 2008 | accessdate = 24 April 2008 | author = Colin}}</ref> Due to delays in fulfilling the offer, Capcom shipped copies of all three covers to those that registered.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.capcom-unity.com/cferris/blog/2008/08/22/okami_wii_special_covers__final_update | title = Ōkami Wii special covers - Final Update! | date = 22 August 2008 | accessdate = 25 August 2008 | publisher = [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]] | author = Colin}}</ref> They have since discontinued the offer, but have made the cover images available worldwide in high-quality PDF files for users to download and print themselves.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.capcom.com/artredemption/ | title = Cover Artwork Redemption | publisher = [[wikipedia:Capcom|Capcom]] | accessdate = 25 August 2008}}</ref> The European PAL version of the cover has no such error.
   
=== Sequel ===
+
===HD version===
  +
[[File:Okami hd boxart.png|right|thumb|The boxart of ''Ōkami HD''.]]
  +
In June 2012, Capcom announced that a high-definition remastering of the game, ''Ōkami'' HD (''Ōkami Zekkei-ban'', roughly ''Ōkami Magnificent Version'') was released worldwide for PlayStation 3 on 30 October 2012; a retail product was released in Japan, while the game was made available for download only through the PlayStation Network in Europe and North America. The remastered edition supports both the Dualshock 3 controller and the PlayStation Move motion controller, and PlayStation Network trophy achievements have been added. The remastering was done between Capcom and HexaDrive. This version of the game, unlike the Wii, retained all elements of the original PS2 version including the parchment filter and full credits.
 
===Sequel===
 
{{Main|Ōkamiden}}
 
{{Main|Ōkamiden}}
Sales of ''Ōkami'' were considered poor for justifying a sequel; in July 2008, in response to users' questions on the possibility of a sequel, Svensson stated that "I think we need a lot more people buying the current version before we seriously consider a sequel".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=202539 | title = Ōkami needs to sell or no sequel | publisher = Eurogamer | date= 29 July 2008 | accessdate = 29 July 2008 | first = Tom | last = Bramwell }}</ref> However, after the appearance of a Japanese trademark by Capcom on the word "Ōkamiden" a few months before the Wii version of ''Ōkami'' in Japan, many speculated that a sequel was pending.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2009/08/25/okami-2-rumored-mysterious-trademark-discovered/ | title = 'Okami 2' Rumored, Mysterious Trademark Discovered | publisher = MTV | first = John | last = Constantine | date = 25 August 2009 | accessdate= 25 August 2009 }}</ref> The September 2009 issue of ''Famitsu'' announced that ''Ōkamiden'' was indeed a sequel to ''Ōkami'' for the [[Nintendo DS]], to be released by Capcom in Japan in 2010. The game takes place nine months after the end of ''Ōkami'', with the player in control of Chibiterasu, another wolf like Amaterasu, and features the same style of gameplay, including the Celestial Brush using the DS's touchscreen controls.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/5349980/new-okami-is-coming-to-the-nintendo-ds | title = New Okami Is Coming To The Nintendo DS | first = Brian | last = Ashcroft | date = 1 September 2009 | accessdate = 1 September 2009 | publisher = Kotaku }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://ds.ign.com/articles/102/1020328p1.html | title = Okami Set for DS | first = John | last = Tanaka | date = 1 September 2009 | accessdate = 1 September 2009 | publisher = IGN }}</ref>
+
Sales of ''Ōkami'' were considered poor for justifying a sequel; in July 2008, in response to users' questions on the possibility of a sequel, Svensson stated that "I think we need a lot more people buying the current version before we seriously consider a sequel".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=202539 | title = Ōkami needs to sell or no sequel | publisher = Eurogamer | date= 29 July 2008 | accessdate = 29 July 2008 | first = Tom | last = Bramwell }}</ref> However, after the appearance of a Japanese trademark by Capcom on the word "Ōkamiden" a few months before the Wii version of ''Ōkami'' in Japan, many speculated that a sequel was pending.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2009/08/25/okami-2-rumored-mysterious-trademark-discovered/ | title = 'Okami 2' Rumored, Mysterious Trademark Discovered | publisher = MTV | first = John | last = Constantine | date = 25 August 2009 | accessdate= 25 August 2009 }}</ref> The September 2009 issue of ''Famitsu'' announced that ''Ōkamiden'' was indeed a sequel to ''Ōkami'' for the [[wikipedia:Nintendo DS|Nintendo DS]], to be released by Capcom in Japan in 2010. The game takes place nine months after the end of ''Ōkami'', with the player in control of Chibiterasu, another wolf like Amaterasu, and features the same style of gameplay, including the Celestial Brush using the DS's touchscreen controls.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/5349980/new-okami-is-coming-to-the-nintendo-ds | title = New Okami Is Coming To The Nintendo DS | first = Brian | last = Ashcroft | date = 1 September 2009 | accessdate = 1 September 2009 | publisher = Kotaku }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://ds.ign.com/articles/102/1020328p1.html | title = Okami Set for DS | first = John | last = Tanaka | date = 1 September 2009 | accessdate = 1 September 2009 | publisher = IGN }}</ref>
  +
===''Ōkami'' Retro Festival===
{{-}}
 
  +
{{main|Ōkami Retro Festival}}
  +
[[File:Retro festival startup.png|thumb|180px|right|The startup screen of the flash.]]
  +
Around the time of the release on the PlayStation 2, Clover Studio created an 8-bit flash that is a parody of the game,<ref name="The Save Room Mini Bar">{{cite web|url=http://saveroomminibar.tumblr.com/post/23737502880/okami-8-bit-around-the-time-of-okamis-release|title=''Ōkami'' (8-Bit)|date=26 May 2012|accessdate=13 February 2013|publisher=The Save Room Mini Bar}}</ref> located in Kamiki Village that is populated by many characters from different parts of the game's storyline, all done in 8-bit graphic that consists of large pixels, with the background music of [[Kamiki Village II]] played in a <span class="plainlinks">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8v_DIzAF33A retro]<!--Please note that the external link here is not the name of the track, but a part of the whole text that has to be seamlessly linked, so please leave the span class="plainlinks" in its place.--> style, consisting of mostly blips on different tones and heights. Released alongside the flash is a retro soundtrack, consisting of the 8-bit versions of several original tracks from ''Ōkami''. The map of the retro flash can be found on page 277 of the ''[[Ōkami Official Complete Works]]'', with a note from Issun. On page 278 and 279 is the sheet music for the [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xOS_1i8iisc&list=PLAC9F25006BA26A64 8-bit version]<!--Please note that the external link here is not the name of the track, but a part of the whole text that has to be seamlessly linked, so please leave the <span class="plainlinks" in its place.--> of [[The Sun Rises]]. The 8-bit flash can be found [http://www.capcom.co.jp/o-kami/ps2/main.html <span class="explain" title="Accessed by clicking the 8-bit sprite of Amaterasu">here]</span>.
  +
<!-- "and the entire of the 8-bit soundtrack can be found [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQv2ppRTNu4&list=PLAC9F25006BA26A64 here" - This is only a link to the first song; the new Retro Festival article here is more detailed and will soon have all the tracks. Replace this if necessary, but it's best removed at this point-->
   
== Reception ==
+
==Development==
  +
As shown in the Video Treasure Chest section of Issun's Present, several footages of the beta are revealed. These beta have some differences from the final game:
{{VG Reviews
 
  +
*The plot is altered, with [[Kushi]] and [[Susano]] at [[Sei'an City]], [[Himiko]] walking the streets of the capital, a strange male character being sacrificed to [[Orochi]], etc.
|1UP = A<ref name="1up-review">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3153760&did=1 | title = Reviews: Ōkami | publisher = 1UP | last = Pfister | first = Andrew | date = 19 September 2006 | accessdate = 15 April 2008 }}</ref> (PS2)<br />A<ref name="1up wii review">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3167381&p=44 | title = Reviews: Okami | date = 14 April 2008 | accessdate =15 April 2008 | first = Nick | last = Suttner | publisher = 1UP}}</ref> (Wii)
 
  +
*[[Waka]] has a house, and can be talked to outside.
|GI = 9.5/10<ref name="GameInformer-review">{{cite news | title = Okami Review | work = Game Informer | date = October 2006 | pages = 90–115 | first = Matt | last = Helgeson }}</ref> (PS2)
 
  +
*There is a meter which fills when [[Amaterasu]] barks outside of someone's home at night, disturbing their sleep. If the meter is full, they will be annoyed, and will jump out to attack her.
9.25/10<ref name="GameInformer-wii-review">{{cite news | title = Okami Review | work = Game Informer | date = May 2008 | pages=78–99 | first = Matt | last = Helgeson }}</ref> (Wii)
 
  +
*There is also a similar meter for dragging people, and they will chase Amaterasu if it is filled.
|XPlay = 5/5 (PS2)<br />5/5<ref name="xplay wii review">{{cite web | url = http://www.g4tv.com/xplay/reviews/1764/Okami.html | title = Okami | first = Rob | last = Manual | publisher = G4TV | date = 15 April 2008 | accessdate = 18 April 2008}}</ref>(Wii)
 
  +
*The towns of <span class="explain" title="Referred to as ''City Peninsula'' in the Ōkami Official Complete Works.">Deshima</span> and Dragon Palace Town are present in the demo, as well as the <span class="explain" title="Originally used as a mean of reaching the Dragon Palace.">Turtle Submarine</span> and the Shrine of Rejuvenation. Additionally, the [[Tao Troopers]]' headquarter is on the ground and has a significantly different design. Concept arts of these locations can still be seen in the Ōkami section of Issun's Present and in the ''[[Ōkami Official Complete Works]]''.
|GSpot = 9.0/10<ref name="gamespot-review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/okami/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=gssummary | title = Ōkami Review | title = Gamespot | last = Kasavin | first = Greg | date = 16 July 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> (PS2)<br />9.0/10<ref name="gamespot wii review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/wii/action/okami/review.html | title = Wii Ōkami Review | title = Gamespot | last = VanOrd | first = Kevin | date = 15 April 2008 | accessdate = 16 April 2008 }}</ref> (Wii)
 
  +
<gallery captionalign=left>
|IGN = 9.1/10<ref name="ign-review">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/733/733122p1.html | title = Ōkami Review | work = IGN PS2 | publisher=IGN Entertainment | last = Roper | first = Chris | date = 16 September 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> (PS2)<br />9.0/10<ref name="ign wii review">{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/865/865958p1.html | title = Okami Review | date = 11 April 2008 | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | accessdate =12 April 2008 | first = Matt | last = Casamassina}}</ref> (Wii)
 
  +
Reju shrine.jpg|Artwork of the Shrine of Rejuvenation.
|Fam = 39/40<ref>[http://fs.finalfantasytr.com/search.asp?query=okami Okami - Famitsu Scores Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> (PS2)
 
  +
Tao hq.jpg|Artwork of the Tao Troopers' headquarter.
|EuroG = 10/10<ref name="eurogreview">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=72840 | title = Ōkami Review | publisher = Eurogamer | last = Reed | first = Kristan | date = 9 February 2007 | accessdate = 16 February 2008 }}</ref> (PS2)<br />10/10<ref name="eurogamer wii">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=137861 | title = Okami | date = 8 May 2008 | accessdate = 19 May 2008 | publisher = Eurogamer | first = Keza | last = MacDonald}}</ref> (Wii)
 
  +
</gallery>
|NP = 7.5/10<ref name="nintendo power review">{{cite news |title=Okami |page=88 |publisher=''Nintendo Power'' |date=May 2008}}</ref> (Wii)
 
|GR = 93% (77 reviews)<ref name="gamerankings">{{cite web | url = http://gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/920500.asp | title = Ōkami | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | publisher = GameRankings.com }}</ref> (PS2)<br />90% (42 reviews)<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/943732.asp?q=okami | title = Okami Reviews | publisher = Game Rankings | accessdate =15 April 2008}}</ref> (Wii)
 
|MC = 93/100 (68 reviews)<ref name="metacritic">{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/okami?q=okami | title = Ōkami Reviews | publisher = MetaCritic | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref> (PS2)<br />90/100 (41 reviews)<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/wii/okami | title = Okami (wii: 2007) | publisher = Metacritic | accessdate = 12 April 2008}}</ref> (Wii)
 
|MG = 92/100<ref name="mobygames">{{cite web | url = http://www.mobygames.com/game/ps2/kami/mobyrank | title = Ōkami for PlayStation 2 | publisher = MobyGames | accessdate = 29 October 2008}}</ref> (PS2)<br />90/100<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.mobygames.com/game/wii/kami/mobyrank | title = Ōkami for Wii | publisher = MobyGames | accessdate = 29 October 2008}}</ref> (Wii)
 
}}
 
   
=== Reviews ===
+
==Reception==
  +
{| class="article-table align-right" width="200px"
  +
!Aggregator
  +
!colspan="2" | Score
  +
|-
  +
|[[wikipedia:GameRankings|GameRankings]] (PS2)
  +
|colspan="2" | 93% (77 reviews)<ref name="gamerankings">{{cite web | url = http://gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/920500.asp | title = Ōkami | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | publisher = GameRankings.com }}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
|[[wikipedia:GameRankings|GameRankings]] (Wii)
 
|colspan="2" | 90% (42 reviews)<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamerankings.com/htmlpages2/943732.asp?q=okami | title = Okami Reviews | publisher = Game Rankings | accessdate =15 April 2008}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
|[[wikipedia:Metacritic|Metacritic]] (PS2)
 
|colspan="2" | 93/100 (68 reviews)<ref name="metacritic">{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/okami?q=okami | title = Ōkami Reviews | publisher = MetaCritic | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
|[[wikipedia:Metacritic|Metacritic]] (Wii)
  +
|colspan="2" | 90/100 (41 reviews)<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/wii/okami | title = Okami (wii: 2007) | publisher = Metacritic | accessdate = 12 April 2008}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
!rowspan="2" | Publication
  +
!colspan="2" | Score
  +
|-
  +
! PS2
  +
! Wii
  +
|-
  +
| 1UP
 
| A<ref name="1up-review">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3153760&did=1 | title = Reviews: Ōkami | publisher = 1UP | last = Pfister | first = Andrew | date = 19 September 2006 | accessdate = 15 April 2008 }}</ref>
  +
| A<ref name="1up wii review">{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3167381&p=44 | title = Reviews: Okami | date = 14 April 2008 | accessdate =15 April 2008 | first = Nick | last = Suttner | publisher = 1UP}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| Game Informer
 
| 9.5/10<ref name="GameInformer-review">{{cite book | title = Okami Review | work = Game Informer | date = October 2006 | pages = 90–115 | first = Matt | last = Helgeson }}</ref>
 
| 9.25/10<ref name="GameInformer-wii-review">{{cite book | title = Okami Review | work = Game Informer | date = May 2008 | pages=78–99 | first = Matt | last = Helgeson }}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| XPlay
  +
| 5/5
 
| 5/5<ref name="xplay wii review">{{cite web | url = http://www.g4tv.com/xplay/reviews/1764/Okami.html | title = Okami | first = Rob | last = Manual | publisher = G4TV | date = 15 April 2008 | accessdate = 18 April 2008}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| Gamespot
 
| 9.0/10<ref name="gamespot-review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/action/okami/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=gssummary | title = Ōkami Review | title = Gamespot | last = Kasavin | first = Greg | date = 16 July 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref>
  +
| 9.0/10<ref name="gamespot wii review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/wii/action/okami/review.html | title = Wii Ōkami Review | title = Gamespot | last = VanOrd | first = Kevin | date = 15 April 2008 | accessdate = 16 April 2008 }}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| IGN
  +
| 9.1/10<ref name="ign-review">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/733/733122p1.html | title = Ōkami Review | work = IGN PS2 | publisher=IGN Entertainment | last = Roper | first = Chris | date = 16 September 2006 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref>
 
| 9.0/10<ref name="ign wii review">{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/865/865958p1.html | title = Okami Review | date = 11 April 2008 | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | accessdate =12 April 2008 | first = Matt | last = Casamassina}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| Famitsu
 
| 39/40<ref>[http://fs.finalfantasytr.com/search.asp?query=okami Okami - Famitsu Scores Archive<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
  +
| —
  +
|-
  +
| EuroGamer
 
| 10/10<ref name="eurogreview">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=72840 | title = Ōkami Review | publisher = Eurogamer | last = Reed | first = Kristan | date = 9 February 2007 | accessdate = 16 February 2008 }}</ref>
  +
| 10/10<ref name="eurogamer wii">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/article.php?article_id=137861 | title = Okami | date = 8 May 2008 | accessdate = 19 May 2008 | publisher = Eurogamer | first = Keza | last = MacDonald}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| Nintendo Power
  +
| —
 
| 7.5/10<ref name="nintendo power review">{{cite book |title=Okami |page=88 |publisher=''Nintendo Power'' |date=May 2008}}</ref>
  +
|-
  +
| MobyGames
 
| 92/100<ref name="mobygames">{{cite web | url = http://www.mobygames.com/game/ps2/kami/mobyrank | title = Ōkami for PlayStation 2 | publisher = MobyGames | accessdate = 29 October 2008}}</ref>
  +
| 90/100<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.mobygames.com/game/wii/kami/mobyrank | title = Ōkami for Wii | publisher = MobyGames | accessdate = 29 October 2008}}</ref>
  +
|}
 
===Reviews===
 
''Ōkami'' was acclaimed by critics, with a score of 93 percent on Game Rankings, making it the eighth highest overall game of 2006 and second for the PS2, behind Konami's ''Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamerankings.com/itemrankings/simpleratings.asp | title = Rankings | publisher = GameRankings | accessdate = 10 August 2007 }}</ref>
 
''Ōkami'' was acclaimed by critics, with a score of 93 percent on Game Rankings, making it the eighth highest overall game of 2006 and second for the PS2, behind Konami's ''Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamerankings.com/itemrankings/simpleratings.asp | title = Rankings | publisher = GameRankings | accessdate = 10 August 2007 }}</ref>
   
Line 148: Line 189:
 
However, the game was noted to have some flaws. Many reviews commented on the lack of difficulty within the game.<ref name="ign-review"/><ref name="gamespot-review"/> Reviewers have also noted some difficulty in getting the game to recognize the correct Celestial Brush patterns,<ref name="1up-review"/> as well as excessive amounts of dialog, particularly at the introduction, which was also hampered by the computer-generated voices used in lieu of voice acting.<ref name="gamespot-review"/>
 
However, the game was noted to have some flaws. Many reviews commented on the lack of difficulty within the game.<ref name="ign-review"/><ref name="gamespot-review"/> Reviewers have also noted some difficulty in getting the game to recognize the correct Celestial Brush patterns,<ref name="1up-review"/> as well as excessive amounts of dialog, particularly at the introduction, which was also hampered by the computer-generated voices used in lieu of voice acting.<ref name="gamespot-review"/>
   
The Wii version of ''Ōkami'' has received generally similar praise to the PlayStation 2 version, with GameSpot stating that the support for widescreen and the Wii controls "make it even more relevant today than it was in 2006".<ref name="gamespot wii review"/> The use of the Wii Remote for the Celestial Brush was well received;<ref name="ign wii review"/> in GameSpot{{'}}s review, they noted that the Wii functionality with the Brush "improves the pace of the game".<ref name="gamespot wii review"/> However, other aspects to the controls were found to be weaker, particularly in combat.<ref name="gamespot wii review"/><ref name="1up wii review"/> In their review, ''Nintendo Power'' recommended the PlayStation 2 version of the game over the Wii, stating that "Though you can overcome the drawing and attacking issues with practice (and by sticking to whip-style weapons), it's a hurdle you shouldn't have to leap."<ref name="nintendo power review"/> The Wii version was received the 'Game of the Month award from IGN for April, 2008. <ref>{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/870/870710p1.html|title=Game of the Month: April 2008}}</ref> It was a nominee for multiple awards from IGN in its 2008 video game awards, including Best Artistic Design<ref name="igndesign">{{cite web |title=IGN Wii: Best Artistic Design 2008 |url=http://bestof.ign.com/2008/wii/12.html |publisher=IGN.com |accessdate=19 December 2008 |date=18 December 2008}}</ref> and Best Use of the Wii-Mote.<ref name="ignwiimote">{{cite web |title=IGN Wii: Best Use of the Wii-Mote 2008 |url=http://bestof.ign.com/2008/wii/22.html |publisher=IGN.com |accessdate=19 December 2008 |date=18 December 2008}}</ref>
+
The Wii version of ''Ōkami'' has received generally similar praise to the PlayStation 2 version, with GameSpot stating that the support for widescreen and the Wii controls "make it even more relevant today than it was in 2006".<ref name="gamespot wii review"/> The use of the Wii Remote for the Celestial Brush was well received;<ref name="ign wii review"/> in GameSpot's review, they noted that the Wii functionality with the Brush "improves the pace of the game".<ref name="gamespot wii review"/> However, other aspects to the controls were found to be weaker, particularly in combat.<ref name="gamespot wii review"/><ref name="1up wii review"/> In their review, ''Nintendo Power'' recommended the PlayStation 2 version of the game over the Wii, stating that "Though you can overcome the drawing and attacking issues with practice (and by sticking to whip-style weapons), it's a hurdle you shouldn't have to leap."<ref name="nintendo power review"/> The Wii version was received the 'Game of the Month award from IGN for April, 2008.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/870/870710p1.html|title=Game of the Month: April 2008}}</ref> It was a nominee for multiple awards from IGN in its 2008 video game awards, including Best Artistic Design<ref name="igndesign">{{cite web |title=IGN Wii: Best Artistic Design 2008 |url=http://bestof.ign.com/2008/wii/12.html |publisher=IGN.com |accessdate=19 December 2008 |date=18 December 2008}}</ref> and Best Use of the Wii-Mote.<ref name="ignwiimote">{{cite web |title=IGN Wii: Best Use of the Wii-Mote 2008 |url=http://bestof.ign.com/2008/wii/22.html |publisher=IGN.com |accessdate=19 December 2008 |date=18 December 2008}}</ref>
 
===Awards===
 
''Ōkami'''s initial showing at the 2005 E3 Convention garnered severals awards and recognition, including 1UP's Best PS2 Game, 2nd Best Game of Show, and 3rd Best Action Game;<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3140792 | title = 1UP's Best of E3 2005 | publisher = 1UP | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref> IGN's Best PS2 Game of Show,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/619/619566p8.html | title = IGNPS2's Best of E3 2005 Awards | date = 27 May 2005 | accessdate =10 August 2007 | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment}}</ref> and runner-up for Best of Show and Most Innovative Design;<ref>{{cite web | url = http://games.ign.com/articles/620/620084p1.html | title = IGN's Best of E3 2005 Awards | date = 27 May 2005 | accessdate =10 August 2007 | publisher = IGN }}</ref> and ''X-Play's'' Most Original Game.<ref>{{cite| title = Best Of E3 2005 Awards | series = X-Play | serieslink = X-Play | airdate = 25 May 2005 | number = 5054 }}</ref> GameSpy recognized it as the 5th best game showing for the convention.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespy.com/articles/618/618469p1.html | title = The Annual E3 Awards: 2005 | publisher = GameSpy | date = 25 May 2005 | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref>
   
 
Upon release, ''Ōkami'' appeared as the Game of the Month for IGN,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/736/736944p1.html | title = Game of the Month: September 2006 | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment | accessdate = 8 August 2007 | date = 6 October 2006 | last = IGN PlayStation Team }}</ref> ''Electronic Gaming Monthly'',<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.manifestogames.com/node/2723 | title = Why Are There No "Prestige Games?" | author = costik | date = 25 November 2006 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | publisher = Manifesto Games }}</ref> and ''Game Informer''.<ref name="GameInformer-review"/><ref>{{cite book | newspaper = GameInformer | date = October 2006 | url = http://www.gameinformer.com/Magazine/BackIssues/M200610.htm | accessdate = 9 August 2007 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20071013230158/http://www.gameinformer.com/Magazine/BackIssues/M200610.htm |archivedate = October 13, 2007|deadurl=yes | postscript = <!--None-->}}</ref> IGN,<ref name="ign goty">{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/39.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Game of the Year | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Roper | first = Chris }}</ref> ''Edge Magazine''<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6176580.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews%3Btitle%3B1 | title = Okami wins Edge award | first = Emma | last = Boyes | publisher = Gamespot | date = 13 August 2007 | accessdate = 13 August 2007}}</ref> and Game Revolution<ref>{{cite web | author=Game Revolution staff | year=2006 | title=Best of 2006 Awards | url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/features/best_of_2006/13 | work=GameRevolution.com | accessdate=10 August 2007}}</ref> rated it as the best overall game of 2006, while Game Trailers<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gametrailers.com/player/16058.html | title = Game of the Year Awards 06 - Best PlayStation 2 Game | publisher = GameTrailers.com | date = 5 January 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> and ''Official PlayStation Magazine'',<ref>{{cite web | url = http://blogs.capcomusa.com/blogs/news.php/2007/03/23/okami_you_liked_it_you_ligstilll_ig_real | title = Okami - You Liked It, You Still Really Like It! | date = 23 March 2007 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | publisher = Capcom USA}}</ref> named it best PS2 game for 2006. IGN further awarded the game the Best Overall and PS2 Adventure Game,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/2.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Adventure Game of the Year | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/2.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - PlayStation 2 Adventure Game of the Year | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> the Best Overall and PS2 Artistic Design,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/22.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Best Artistic Design | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/22.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - PlayStation 2 Best Artistic Design| publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> the Overall and PS2 Most Innovative Design,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/31.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Most Innovative Design | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/31.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - PlayStation 2 Most Innovative Design| publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> and the Best Overall Story.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/26.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Best Story | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> GameSpot awarded the game for the Best Artistic Graphics for 2006.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/special_features/bestof2006/achievement/index.html?page=9 | title = Best Games and Worst Games of 2006 - Best Graphics, Artistic | publisher = Gamespot | accessdate =9 August 2007}}</ref> IGN named ''Ōkami'' the ninetieth top game of all time in a December 2007 Top 100 list.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://top100.ign.com/2007/ | title = The Top 100 Games of All Time! | publisher = IGN | date = 2 December 2007 | accessdate = 2 December 2007 | author = IGN Staff }}</ref>
=== Awards ===
 
''Ōkami''{{'}}s initial showing at the 2005 E3 Convention garnered severals awards and recognition, including 1UP's Best PS2 Game, 2nd Best Game of Show, and 3rd Best Action Game;<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3140792 | title = 1UP's Best of E3 2005 | publisher = 1UP | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref> IGN's Best PS2 Game of Show,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/619/619566p8.html | title = IGNPS2's Best of E3 2005 Awards | date = 27 May 2005 | accessdate =10 August 2007 | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment}}</ref> and runner-up for Best of Show and Most Innovative Design;<ref>{{cite web | url = http://games.ign.com/articles/620/620084p1.html | title = IGN's Best of E3 2005 Awards | date = 27 May 2005 | accessdate =10 August 2007 | publisher = IGN }}</ref> and ''X-Play's'' Most Original Game.<ref>{{cite episode | title = Best Of E3 2005 Awards | series = X-Play | serieslink = X-Play | airdate = 25 May 2005 | number = 5054 }}</ref> GameSpy recognized it as the 5th best game showing for the convention.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespy.com/articles/618/618469p1.html | title = The Annual E3 Awards: 2005 | publisher = GameSpy | date = 25 May 2005 | accessdate = 10 August 2007}}</ref>
 
 
Upon release, ''Ōkami'' appeared as the Game of the Month for IGN,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/736/736944p1.html | title = Game of the Month: September 2006 | work = IGN PS2 | publisher = IGN Entertainment | accessdate = 8 August 2007 | date = 6 October 2006 | last = IGN PlayStation Team }}</ref> ''Electronic Gaming Monthly'',<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.manifestogames.com/node/2723 | title = Why Are There No "Prestige Games?" | author = costik | date = 25 November 2006 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | publisher = Manifesto Games }}</ref> and ''Game Informer''.<ref name="GameInformer-review"/><ref>{{Cite news | newspaper = GameInformer | date = October 2006 | url = http://www.gameinformer.com/Magazine/BackIssues/M200610.htm | accessdate = 9 August 2007 |archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20071013230158/http://www.gameinformer.com/Magazine/BackIssues/M200610.htm |archivedate = October 13, 2007|deadurl=yes | postscript = <!--None-->}}</ref> IGN,<ref name="ign goty">{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/39.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Game of the Year | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Roper | first = Chris }}</ref> ''Edge Magazine''<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6176580.html?action=convert&om_clk=latestnews&tag=latestnews%3Btitle%3B1 | title = Okami wins Edge award | first = Emma | last = Boyes | publisher = Gamespot | date = 13 August 2007 | accessdate = 13 August 2007}}</ref> and Game Revolution<ref>{{cite web | author=Game Revolution staff | year=2006 | title=Best of 2006 Awards | url=http://www.gamerevolution.com/features/best_of_2006/13 | work=GameRevolution.com | accessdate=10 August 2007}}</ref> rated it as the best overall game of 2006, while Game Trailers<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gametrailers.com/player/16058.html | title = Game of the Year Awards 06 - Best PlayStation 2 Game | publisher = GameTrailers.com | date = 5 January 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> and ''Official PlayStation Magazine'',<ref>{{cite web | url = http://blogs.capcomusa.com/blogs/news.php/2007/03/23/okami_you_liked_it_you_ligstilll_ig_real | title = Okami - You Liked It, You Still Really Like It! | date = 23 March 2007 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | publisher = Capcom USA}}</ref> named it best PS2 game for 2006. IGN further awarded the game the Best Overall and PS2 Adventure Game,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/2.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Adventure Game of the Year | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/2.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - PlayStation 2 Adventure Game of the Year | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> the Best Overall and PS2 Artistic Design,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/22.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Best Artistic Design | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/22.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - PlayStation 2 Best Artistic Design| publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> the Overall and PS2 Most Innovative Design,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/31.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Most Innovative Design | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/ps2/31.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - PlayStation 2 Most Innovative Design| publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> and the Best Overall Story.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://bestof.ign.com/2006/overall/26.html | title = IGN.com Presents the Best of 2006 - Overall Best Story | publisher = IGN | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> GameSpot awarded the game for the Best Artistic Graphics for 2006.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/special_features/bestof2006/achievement/index.html?page=9 | title = Best Games and Worst Games of 2006 - Best Graphics, Artistic | publisher = Gamespot | accessdate =9 August 2007}}</ref> IGN named ''Ōkami'' the ninetieth top game of all time in a December 2007 Top 100 list.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://top100.ign.com/2007/ | title = The Top 100 Games of All Time! | publisher = IGN | date = 2 December 2007 | accessdate = 2 December 2007 | author = IGN Staff }}</ref>
 
   
 
''Ōkami'' has also won awards from outside the mainstream gaming press. The game earned the Best Character Design and only one of three Innovation Awards at the 2007 Game Developers Choice Awards.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamechoiceawards.com/winners/ | title = The 7th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards | publisher = Game Developers Conference | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref> ''Ōkami'' won the Grand Prize in the Entertainment Division of the 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://plaza.bunka.go.jp/english/festival/2006/entertainment/000490/index.php | title = 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival Entertainment Division Grand Prize | publisher = Japan Media Arts Festival | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> On 13 August 2007. It was also awarded the best Animation in a Game Engine, Art Direction in a Game Engine, Outstanding Original Adventure Game, and Game of the Year in the 2006 awards by the National Academy of Video Game Testers and Reviewers (NAVIGaTR).<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.navgtr.org/index.html | title = 2006 NAViGaTR Winners | publisher = National Academy of video game testers and reviewers | accessdate = 14 August 2007 | date =14 August 2007 }}</ref> ''Ōkami'' was given an "Award for Excellence" from the Japanese Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) at the Japan Game Awards 2007<ref>{{cite web | url = http://awards.cesa.or.jp/2007/english/press.html | title = "Games of the Year Division" Award Winners Chosen | date = 20 September 2007 | accessdate =19 July 2008 | publisher = Japanese Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association }}</ref> and was later given 2009 CESA Developers Conference (CEDEC) award for "Visual Arts".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/capcom-honoured-with-visual-art-and-game-design-awards | title = Capcom honoured with Visual Art and Game Design awards | first = Matt | last = Martin | date = 4 September 2009 | publisher = GamesIndustry.biz | accessdate = 4 September 2009 }}</ref> The game was awarded the Best Anthropomorphic Video Game in the 2006 Ursa Major awards.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ursamajorawards.org/UMA_2006.htm | title = The Ursa Major Awards Winners 2006 | publisher = Ursa Major Awards | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> It also won the 2007 BAFTA awards for Artistic Achievement and Original Score.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=15975 | title = 2007 BAFTA Winners | publisher = Gamasutra | accessdate = 23 October 2007 }}</ref>
 
''Ōkami'' has also won awards from outside the mainstream gaming press. The game earned the Best Character Design and only one of three Innovation Awards at the 2007 Game Developers Choice Awards.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamechoiceawards.com/winners/ | title = The 7th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards | publisher = Game Developers Conference | accessdate = 9 August 2007}}</ref> ''Ōkami'' won the Grand Prize in the Entertainment Division of the 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://plaza.bunka.go.jp/english/festival/2006/entertainment/000490/index.php | title = 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival Entertainment Division Grand Prize | publisher = Japan Media Arts Festival | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> On 13 August 2007. It was also awarded the best Animation in a Game Engine, Art Direction in a Game Engine, Outstanding Original Adventure Game, and Game of the Year in the 2006 awards by the National Academy of Video Game Testers and Reviewers (NAVIGaTR).<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.navgtr.org/index.html | title = 2006 NAViGaTR Winners | publisher = National Academy of video game testers and reviewers | accessdate = 14 August 2007 | date =14 August 2007 }}</ref> ''Ōkami'' was given an "Award for Excellence" from the Japanese Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) at the Japan Game Awards 2007<ref>{{cite web | url = http://awards.cesa.or.jp/2007/english/press.html | title = "Games of the Year Division" Award Winners Chosen | date = 20 September 2007 | accessdate =19 July 2008 | publisher = Japanese Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association }}</ref> and was later given 2009 CESA Developers Conference (CEDEC) award for "Visual Arts".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/capcom-honoured-with-visual-art-and-game-design-awards | title = Capcom honoured with Visual Art and Game Design awards | first = Matt | last = Martin | date = 4 September 2009 | publisher = GamesIndustry.biz | accessdate = 4 September 2009 }}</ref> The game was awarded the Best Anthropomorphic Video Game in the 2006 Ursa Major awards.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ursamajorawards.org/UMA_2006.htm | title = The Ursa Major Awards Winners 2006 | publisher = Ursa Major Awards | accessdate = 9 August 2007 }}</ref> It also won the 2007 BAFTA awards for Artistic Achievement and Original Score.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=15975 | title = 2007 BAFTA Winners | publisher = Gamasutra | accessdate = 23 October 2007 }}</ref>
   
=== Sales ===
+
===Sales===
''Ōkami'' sold 164,600 copies in its combined sales for the first ten weeks of release in all territories<ref>{{cite web | title=Okami Sales (PS2) | url=http://gamrreview.vgchartz.com/sales/1669/okami/ | publisher=gamrReview | accessdate=2011-07-30}}</ref>. It sold 200,000 copies in North America in 2006, grossing approximately USD$8 million and ranking as the 100th best selling game of the year in the region.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.edge-online.com/features/the-games-people-buy-2007?page=0,5 | title = The Games People Buy | publisher = Next Generation | date = 6 February 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Campbell | first = Colin }}</ref> By March 2007, the total sales of the PlayStation 2 version were near 270,000.<ref name="ign second chance">{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/861/861215p1.html | title=Okami's Second Chance | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | first = Matt | last = Casamassina | date = 20 March 2008 | accessdate = 26 March 2008}}</ref> By comparison, ''Ōkami'' sold 66,000 copies in Japan for 2006.<ref>{{Cite news | newspaper = Official PlayStation Magazine |date=January 2007 | postscript = <!--None-->}}</ref> While it was initially thought that poor sales of ''Ōkami'' and ''God Hand'' (another Clover title released in the same time frame) were the cause of the closure of Clover Studio,<ref name="1up-inaba"/><ref name="errormacro">{{cite web | url = http://www.errormacro.com/2006/10/capcom_dissolving_clover_studi.php | title = Capcom Dissolving Clover Studios | date = 12 October 2006 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | author = Ermac | publisher = ErrorMacro }}</ref> it was later revealed that three key developers within Capcom and Clover Studios, Shinji Mikami (''Resident Evil'' series), Hideki Kamiya (''Devil May Cry'' series), and Inaba, had left the company,<ref name="errormacro"/><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.edge-online.com/news/clover-studios-dissolve-0 | title = Clover Studios to Dissolve | date = 12 October 2006 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | last = Graft | first = Kris | publisher = NextGen.biz }}</ref> and the studio was dissolved, such that "now all the resources should be used more effectively and more efficiently since they are centralized."<ref name="errormacro"/> Inaba, Mikami, and Kamiya went on to form the video game development company "Seeds Inc",<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/former-clover-members-start-up-new-studio/ | title= Former Clover members start up new studio | publisher = Joystiq | date = 15 February 2007 | accessdate = 28 September 2007 | first = Ludwig | last = Kietzmann }}</ref> later merging with a company called "ODD" to become "Platinum Games".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/ex-clover-dev-team-buries-seeds-to-form-platinum-games/ | title = Ex-Clover dev team buries 'Seeds' to form 'Platinum Games' | publisher = Joystiq | date = 28 September 2007 | accessdate = 28 September 2008 | first = Ludwig | last = Kietzmann }}</ref> The Wii version of ''Ōkami'' reached 133,136 units in it's first ten weeks of sales.<ref>{{cite web | title=Okami Sales (Wii) | url=http://gamrreview.vgchartz.com/sales/7666/okami/ | publisher=gamrReview | accessdate=2011-07-30}}</ref>
+
''Ōkami'' sold 164,600 copies in its combined sales for the first ten weeks of release in all territories.<ref name="Okami Sales PS2">{{cite web | title=Okami Sales (PS2) | url=http://gamrreview.vgchartz.com/sales/1669/okami/ | publisher=gamrReview | accessdate=2011-07-30}}</ref> It sold 200,000 copies in North America in 2006, grossing approximately USD$8 million and ranking as the 100th best selling game of the year in the region.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.edge-online.com/features/the-games-people-buy-2007?page=0,5 | title = The Games People Buy | publisher = Next Generation | date = 6 February 2007 | accessdate = 9 August 2007 | last = Campbell | first = Colin }}</ref> By March 2007, the total sales of the PlayStation 2 version were near 270,000.<ref name="ign second chance">{{cite web | url = http://wii.ign.com/articles/861/861215p1.html | title=Okami's Second Chance | work = IGN Wii | publisher = IGN Entertainment | first = Matt | last = Casamassina | date = 20 March 2008 | accessdate = 26 March 2008}}</ref> By comparison, ''Ōkami'' sold 66,000 copies in Japan for 2006.<ref>{{cite book | newspaper = Official PlayStation Magazine |date=January 2007 | postscript = <!--None-->}}</ref> While it was initially thought that poor sales of ''Ōkami'' and ''God Hand'' (another Clover title released in the same time frame) were the cause of the closure of Clover Studio,<ref name="1up-inaba"/><ref name="errormacro">{{cite web | url = http://www.errormacro.com/2006/10/capcom_dissolving_clover_studi.php | title = Capcom Dissolving Clover Studios | date = 12 October 2006 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | author = Ermac | publisher = ErrorMacro }}</ref> it was later revealed that three key developers within Capcom and Clover Studios, Shinji Mikami (''Resident Evil'' series), Hideki Kamiya (''Devil May Cry'' series), and Inaba, had left the company,<ref name="errormacro"/><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.edge-online.com/news/clover-studios-dissolve-0 | title = Clover Studios to Dissolve | date = 12 October 2006 | accessdate = 11 August 2007 | last = Graft | first = Kris | publisher = NextGen.biz }}</ref> and the studio was dissolved, such that "now all the resources should be used more effectively and more efficiently since they are centralized."<ref name="errormacro"/> Inaba, Mikami, and Kamiya went on to form the video game development company "Seeds Inc",<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.joystiq.com/2007/02/15/former-clover-members-start-up-new-studio/ | title= Former Clover members start up new studio | publisher = Joystiq | date = 15 February 2007 | accessdate = 28 September 2007 | first = Ludwig | last = Kietzmann }}</ref> later merging with a company called "ODD" to become "Platinum Games".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/27/ex-clover-dev-team-buries-seeds-to-form-platinum-games/ | title = Ex-Clover dev team buries 'Seeds' to form 'Platinum Games' | publisher = Joystiq | date = 28 September 2007 | accessdate = 28 September 2008 | first = Ludwig | last = Kietzmann }}</ref> The Wii version of ''Ōkami'' reached 133,136 units in it's first ten weeks of sales.<ref name="Okami Sales Wii">{{cite web | title=Okami Sales (Wii) | url=http://gamrreview.vgchartz.com/sales/7666/okami/ | publisher=gamrReview | accessdate=2011-07-30}}</ref>
   
On 30 July 2008, Capcom revealed that the Wii version of ''Ōkami'' had sold approximately 280,000 copies in North America and Europe since its release date.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/5031280/okami-on-wii-didnt-do-so-well | title = Okami On Wii Didn't Do So Well | publisher = Kotaku | date = 30 July 2008 | accessdate = 30 July 2008 | first = Luke | last = Plunkett }}</ref> The Wii version debuted in Japan with a modest 24,000 copies sold in its first week in the region.<ref>{{cite web | author=Remo, Chris | date=22 October 2009 | title=Japanese Software: Pokemon, Wii Fit Plus Hold Fast In Top Slots | url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=25767 | publisher=Gamasutra | accessdate=22 October 2009}}</ref> It was the sixth-bestselling game in Japan on October 23, 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/103/1038322p1.html|title=Okami Hits Top Ten in Japan|author=Anoop Gantayat}}</ref> Total sales for the game remained under 600,000 total units by March 2009, and was named the "least commercially successful winner of a game of the year award" in the 2010 version of the ''Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition''.<ref>{{cite book | title = 2010 Guinness World Records Gamers Edition | isbn = 978-0-7440-1183-8 | year= 2010 | publisher = BradyGames }}</ref> By mid-2011 the PS2 version had sold 450,872 copies worldwide<ref>{{cite web | title=Okami Sales (PS2) | url=http://gamrreview.vgchartz.com/sales/1669/okami/ | publisher=gamrReview | accessdate=2011-07-30}}</ref> and the Wii version had sold 422,716 copies.<ref>{{cite web | title=Okami Sales (Wii) | url=http://gamrreview.vgchartz.com/sales/7666/okami/ | publisher=gamrReview | accessdate=2011-07-30}}</ref>
+
On 30 July 2008, Capcom revealed that the Wii version of ''Ōkami'' had sold approximately 280,000 copies in North America and Europe since its release date.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://kotaku.com/5031280/okami-on-wii-didnt-do-so-well | title = Okami On Wii Didn't Do So Well | publisher = Kotaku | date = 30 July 2008 | accessdate = 30 July 2008 | first = Luke | last = Plunkett }}</ref> The Wii version debuted in Japan with a modest 24,000 copies sold in its first week in the region.<ref>{{cite web | author=Remo, Chris | date=22 October 2009 | title=Japanese Software: Pokemon, Wii Fit Plus Hold Fast In Top Slots | url=http://www.gamasutra.com/php-bin/news_index.php?story=25767 | publisher=Gamasutra | accessdate=22 October 2009}}</ref> It was the sixth-bestselling game in Japan on October 23, 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wii.ign.com/articles/103/1038322p1.html|title=Okami Hits Top Ten in Japan|author=Anoop Gantayat}}</ref> Total sales for the game remained under 600,000 total units by March 2009, and was named the "least commercially successful winner of a game of the year award" in the 2010 version of the ''Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition''.<ref>{{cite book | title = 2010 Guinness World Records Gamers Edition | isbn = 978-0-7440-1183-8 | year= 2010 | publisher = BradyGames }}</ref> By mid-2011 the PS2 version had sold 450,872 copies worldwide<ref name="Okami Sales PS2"/> and the Wii version had sold 422,716 copies.<ref name="Okami Sales Wii"/>
 
===Legacy===
 
Ben Mattes, producer for the 2008 ''Prince of Persia'' video game, cites ''Ōkami'' as well as ''Ico'' and ''Shadow of the Colossus'' as influences on the gameplay and artwork for the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2009/01/05/prince-of-persia-producer-addresses-colossus-copycat-critique/ | title = ‘Prince of Persia’ Producer Addresses ‘Colossus’ Copycat Critique | publisher = ''MTV'' | first = Stephan | last = Totilo | date = 5 January 2009 | accessdate = 5 January 2009 }}</ref> Capcom's ''Street Fighter IV'' is also stated to have models influenced by ''Ōkami'' with hand-drawn images and brushstroke-like effects.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://play.tm/preview/22786/street-fighter-iv/ | title = Preview: Street Fighter IV | date = 5 January 2009 | accessdate = 5 January 2009 | publisher = Play.tm | first = Luke | last= Guttridge }}</ref> A new Disney video game, ''Epic Mickey'', uses similar drawing aspects as ''Ōkami'' allowing the player to draw and modify parts of levels to proceed.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=220427 | title = Epic Mickey details arise | date = 30 July 2009 | accessdate =3 August 2009 | first = Gavin | last = Ogden | publisher = Computer and Video Games }}</ref> The final boss, Yami, appears as a boss character in the crossover fighting game, ''Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All Stars''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6209856.html | title = Tatsunoko vs. Capcom confirmed for US | first = Tom | last = Magrino | publisher = Gamespot | date = 18 May 2009 | accessdate = 18 May 2009 }}</ref> Amaterasu is also a [[wikipedia:Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds|playable character in ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds'']].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.destructoid.com/amaterasu-and-thor-join-marvel-vs-capcom-3-179564.phtml | title = Amaterasu and Thor join Marvel vs. Capcom 3 | publisher = Destructoid | first = Hamza CTZ | last = Aziz | date = 2010-07-21 | accessdate = 2010-07-21 }}</ref> After Clover's dissolution and most of its staff's subsequent reformation as Platinum Games, one of their next games, ''Bayonetta'', contains several references to ''Ōkami''; the most notable of these is when Bayonetta transforms into a panther, and like Amaterasu, a trail of flowers and plant life follows her.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://palgn.com.au/xbox-360/15592/bayonetta-review/ | title = Bayonetta Review | date =2010-01-07 | accessdate= 2010-07-15 | first = Jahanzeb | last = Khan | publisher = PalGN }}</ref> For the 2010 San Diego Comic Con, Capcom raffled a limited run of t-shirts designed by Gerald de Jesus and iam8bit that placed Amaterasu and Chibiterasu (from ''Ōkamiden'') into a homage to the Three Wolf Moon t-shirt.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2010/07/15/awesome-three-wolf-moon-shirt-gets-okami-fied/ | title = Awesome Three Wolf Moon Shirt Gets 'Okami'-fied | work = MTV | date = 2010-07-15 | accessdate = 2010-07-15 | first = Brian | last = Warmouth }}</ref> In [[w:c:monsterhunter:Monster Hunter Generations|Monster Hunter Generations]], Capcom released a DLC pack with an Amaterasu-themed armor set that one can craft for their Palico.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://www.capcom-unity.com/dubindoh/blog/2016/08/05/monster-hunter-generations-august-free-dlc-pack | title = Monster Hunter Generations – August Free DLC pack | date = 2016-08-05 | accessdate = 2016-08-20 | first = Yuri | last = Araujo }}</ref>
   
=== Legacy ===
 
Ben Mattes, producer for the 2008 ''Prince of Persia'' video game, cites ''Ōkami'' as well as ''Ico'' and ''Shadow of the Colossus'' as influences on the gameplay and artwork for the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2009/01/05/prince-of-persia-producer-addresses-colossus-copycat-critique/ | title = ‘Prince of Persia’ Producer Addresses ‘Colossus’ Copycat Critique | publisher = ''MTV'' | first = Stephan | last = Totilo | date = 5 January 2009 | accessdate = 5 January 2009 }}</ref> Capcom's ''Street Fighter IV'' is also stated to have models influenced by ''Ōkami'' with hand-drawn images and brushstroke-like effects.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://play.tm/preview/22786/street-fighter-iv/ | title = Preview: Street Fighter IV | date = 5 January 2009 | accessdate = 5 January 2009 | publisher = Play.tm | first = Luke | last= Guttridge }}</ref> A new Disney video game, ''Epic Mickey'', uses similar drawing aspects as ''Ōkami'' allowing the player to draw and modify parts of levels to proceed.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=220427 | title = Epic Mickey details arise | date = 30 July 2009 | accessdate =3 August 2009 | first = Gavin | last = Ogden | publisher = Computer and Video Games }}</ref> The final boss, Yami, appears as a boss character in the crossover fighting game, ''Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All Stars''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6209856.html | title = Tatsunoko vs. Capcom confirmed for US | first = Tom | last = Magrino | publisher = Gamespot | date = 18 May 2009 | accessdate = 18 May 2009 }}</ref> Amaterasu is also a playable character in ''Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds''.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.destructoid.com/amaterasu-and-thor-join-marvel-vs-capcom-3-179564.phtml | title = Amaterasu and Thor join Marvel vs. Capcom 3 | publisher = [[Destructoid]] | first = Hamza CTZ | last = Aziz | date = 2010-07-21 | accessdate = 2010-07-21 }}</ref> After Clover's dissolution and most of its staff's subsequent reformation as Platinum Games, one of their next games, ''Bayonetta'', contains several references to ''Ōkami''; the most notable of these is when Bayonetta transforms into a panther, and like Amaterasu, a trail of flowers and plant life follows her.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://palgn.com.au/xbox-360/15592/bayonetta-review/ | title = Bayonetta Review | date =2010-01-07 | accessdate= 2010-07-15 | first = Jahanzeb | last = Khan | publisher = PalGN }}</ref> For the 2010 San Diego Comic Con, Capcom raffled a limited run of t-shirts designed by Gerald de Jesus and iam8bit that placed Amaterasu and Chibiterasu (from ''Ōkamiden'') into a homage to the Three Wolf Moon t-shirt.<ref>{{Cite web | url = http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2010/07/15/awesome-three-wolf-moon-shirt-gets-okami-fied/ | title = Awesome Three Wolf Moon Shirt Gets 'Okami'-fied | work = [[MTV]] | date = 2010-07-15 | accessdate = 2010-07-15 | first = Brian | last = Warmouth }}</ref>
 
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery columns="3">
 
<gallery columns="3">
Okami sign.jpg|The ''Ōkami'' logo.
+
Okami logo.png|The ''Ōkami'' logo.
 
Wp04 1600.jpg|The Japanese logo seen on the game's title screen.
 
Wp04 1600.jpg|The Japanese logo seen on the game's title screen.
Okami-HD-Logo.jpg|The Ōkami HD logo.
+
Ōkami HD logo.png|The ''Ōkami HD'' logo.
 
omikami32442.jpg|''Ōkami'' wallpaper
 
omikami32442.jpg|''Ōkami'' wallpaper
  +
Ōkami promo artwork 1.png|Promo wallpaper made for the game
  +
Ōkami promo artwork 2.png|Promo wallpaper made for the game
  +
Okami HD PS4 front cover.png|The front cover for ''Ōkami HD''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  +
 
==Trivia==
 
==Trivia==
  +
*The game's title is a pun: the goddess Amaterasu's traditional title is ōmikami (great and powerful god), and as well as 大神 the word "Ōkami" can be written as 狼, which means "wolf."
*In the Wii version of ''Ōkami'', when a cutscene is playing, the look of the graphics is as if its on rice paper, while in the PS2 version, it does not.
+
*In the Wii version of ''Ōkami'', when a cutscene is playing, the graphics look as if it is done on rice paper, while in the PS2 version, it does not.
==See also==
 
  +
*Before the final release of ''Ōkami'', there were several locations that were only available in the demo. These locations are the towns of Deshima and Dragon Palace Town, the Turtle Submarine, the [[Tao Troopers]]' training ground and the Shrine of Rejuvenation. These locations' concept artwork can still be viewed in the Artworks section of Issun's Present.
*''[[Ōkamiden]]''
 
  +
*In the retro flash, there are two bonus characters not from ''Ōkami'', but from [[w:c:capcom:Viewtiful Joe (Series)|a different game series]] of Capcom. These characters are [[w:c:capcom:Viewtiful Joe (Character)|Viewtiful Joe]] and [[w:c:capcom:Silvia|Silvia]].
{{Refbar}}
 
  +
*Several characters in the retro flash when highlighted, instead of giving the option to download their 8-bit sprite, will prompt one to download a file called "<span class="explain" title="From Gekijou01 to Gekijou09">Gekijou</span>" which consists of images from the Ōkami Tea Room Intermission Corner section of the ''Ōkami Official Complete Works''. These images are named "Amaterasu Theater", from Act I to Act XXI.
[[Category:Cleanup]]
 
  +
*There are several occasions when ''Ōkami'' is mentioned or makes a cameo in various media:
  +
**''[[w:c:southpark:|South Park]]'' referenced ''Ōkami'' in episode 161, ''[[w:c:southpark:Le Petit Tourette|Le Petit Tourette]]''. The cover art for the game was visible in certain parts of the episode.
  +
*The North American box art for the Wii release of ''Okami'' rather famously has an IGN logo watermark directly in front of Amaterasu's mouth, seemingly because Capcom lost the original box design and used a copy they found on the internet.
  +
*The PC version will accept inputs from drawing tablets such as the Wacom Intuos Pro.
  +
  +
  +
==References==
  +
{{Reflist}}
 
[[Category:Games]]
 
[[Category:Games]]
[[Category:Capcom]]
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[[Category:Ōkami]]
[[Category:Real World]]
 

Revision as of 14:19, 12 September 2019

Ōkami (「大神」?; .lit "great god") is an action-adventure video game developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom. It was released for Sony's PlayStation 2 video game console in 2006 in Japan and North America, and 2007 in Europe and Australia.

Set sometime in classical Japanese history, Ōkami combines several Japanese mythology and folklore to tell the story of how the land was saved from darkness by the Shinto sun goddess named Amaterasu, who took the form of a white wolf with celestial markings covering its fur. It features a distinct sumi-e-inspired cel-shaded visual style and the Celestial Brush, a gesture-system used to perform miracles.

Ōkami was one of the last PlayStation 2 games selected for release prior to the release of the PlayStation 3. Although it suffered from poor sales, Ōkami earned high acclaim from reviewers and earned, among other awards, the title of IGN's 2006 Game of the Year.[1] The Wii version has earned similar praise, though the motion control scheme has received mixed reviews from both critics and gamers.

An HD version of the game was released for the PlayStation 3 on October 30, 2012 and is available for download on PlayStation Network. It contains PlayStation Move support as well as use of the normal controller.[2] An even further improved port was released for Xbox One, PS4 and on the Steam platform for Windows PC in December 2017.

Gameplay

Ōkami has the player controlling the main character, Amaterasu, in a woodcut, watercolor style, cel-shaded environment, which looks like an animated Japanese ink-illustration (known as sumi-e) with other styles of art. The gameplay style is a mix of action, platform, and puzzle gaming genres, and has been noted by many reviewers to have numerous similarities in overall gameplay style to The Legend of Zelda series,[3] an inspiration that director Hideki Kamiya, a self-proclaimed Zelda-fan, has admitted has influenced his general game design.[4] The main story is primarily linear, directed through by Amaterasu's guide Issun, though numerous side quests and optional activities allow for players to explore the game world and take the story at their own pace.[5] By completing quests, side quests and small additional activities (such as making trees bloom into life or feeding wild animals), Amaterasu earns Praise, which can then be spent to increase various statistics of the character, such as the amount of health and number of ink wells for Celestial Brush techniques.[6]

Combat is staged in a ghostly virtual arena, and Amaterasu can fight enemies using a combination of weapons, fighting techniques and Brush methods to dispatch the foes.[7] At the end of combat, money (as yen) is rewarded to Amaterasu, with bonuses for completing a battle quickly and without taking damage. The money can be spent on numerous items from merchants across the land, including healing goods, better weapons, tools and key items for completing quests. The money can also be used to buy new combat techniques at dojos throughout the land.[8] Additionally, rare Demon Fangs can be earned through combat which can be traded for additional, unique items that are beneficial in gameplay but not required to complete the game.[9] Weapons inspired by the Imperial Regalia of Japan, the Reflector, the Rosaries and the Glaive can be equipped on Amaterasu as either a main or sub-weapon, and used in addition to other melee attacks that the player can have Amaterasu learn through the course of the game.[10][11]

Celestial Brush

Okami-brush

Amaterasu uses the Celestial Brush to rejuvenate wilted plants (as shown), repair bridges, slash foes or create elemental effects.

Unique to Ōkami is the Celestial Brush. Players can bring the game to a pause and call up a canvas, where the player can draw onto the screen, either using the left analog stick on the PlayStation 2's DualShock controller or pointing with the Wii Remote.[12] This feature is used in combat, puzzles and as general gameplay.[13] For example, the player can create strong wind by drawing a loop, cut enemies by drawing a line through them or create bridges by painting one, amongst many other abilities. These techniques are learned through the course of the game by completing constellations to release the Celestial Brush gods (inspired by the East Asia zodiac) from their hiding spots.[14] It is also possible to upgrade or modify certain Brush powers later in the game. For example, the Celestial Brush power Inferno can gain a new power called Fireburst, which has a different drawing pattern, and allows players to create flames without relying on torches or other related items. The player's ink for drawing is limited by the amount available in special ink wells (unless an Inkfinity Stone is used), preventing the player from solely using Brush techniques to defeat enemies. Ink is restored in the wells over time when the Brush is not used.[14]

Plot

Story

Okami-issun

Amaterasu, the game's protagonist, with Issun, her inch-high guide, atop her snout

The game is set in Nippon based on Japanese classic history, and begins with a flashback to events 100 years prior to the game's present, and describes how Shiranui, a pure white wolf, and Nagi, a swordsman, together fought the eight-headed demon Orochi to save Kamiki Village and the maiden Nami, Nagi's beloved. Shiranui and Nagi are unable to defeat Orochi but manage to seal the demon away. In the game's present, Susano, a descendant of Nagi and self-proclaimed greatest warrior, breaks Orochi's seal due to the fact that he does not believe in the legend, and Orochi escapes and curses the lands, sapping the life from every living being. Sakuya, the wood sprite and guardian of Kamiki Village, calls forth Amaterasu, the sun goddess, known to the villagers as the reincarnation of the white wolf Shiranui, and pleads her to remove the curse that covers the land. Accompanied by the artist Issun (an inch-high Poncle), Amaterasu is able to restore the land to its former beauty.[15] Throughout the journey, Amaterasu is hounded by Waka, a strange but powerful individual that seems to have the gift of foresight, and further teases Amaterasu and Issun to his own mysterious ends. Additionally, Amaterasu locates several Celestial Brush gods who have hidden in the constellations that bestow upon the goddess powers of the Celestial Brush to aid in her quest.

Soon, Amaterasu, along with Susano, must battle Orochi to protect Kamiki Village and rescue Susano's beloved, Kushi, recreating events from 100 years prior. This time, the duo are able to fully conquer the demon, causing a black, evil spirit to float northward. Amaterasu and Issun then embark on a journey across Nippon, befriending many people along the way through their good deeds, and continue to remove Orochi's curse on the land, through defeating other demons that release similar dark presences floating northward. As Amaterasu travels to find the source of these evil spirits, she is brought to the wreckage of a ship able to travel through the stars: the "Ark of Yamato". Waka appears and reveals himself as a member of the Moon Tribe, a race that had supplied the Ark of Yamato to the Celestials, who used it to escape from Orochi's assault on the Celestial Plain and sail the heavens, unaware of the evil spirits imprisoned on the Ark which attacked and killed all but himself, resulting in the Ark crashing to earth. Yami, the demon controlling all of the evil spirits, appears and strips Amaterasu of her Celestial Brush powers before entering battle with her. Issun takes up his role as the Celestial Envoy and encourages all those they have helped to send their thoughts to Amaterasu, causing her to regain her powers and defeat Yami, ridding both the Ark and Nippon of these evil beings forever. With her mission done, Amaterasu departs with Waka on the Ark to sail back to the Celestial Plain together.[16]

Characters

The player controls Ōkami Amaterasu, the goddess of the sun, in the form of a white wolf.[17] While Amaterasu is referred to in the Japanese and European version of the game as a female, the North American version never states Amaterasu as a specific sex.[17][18] Some characters, however, will refer to Amaterasu in either a feminine or masculine method, but neither are shown to be correct nor incorrect. While Amaterasu, when endowed with ink power, is seen by the player with red markings, cloud-like fur on her shoulders, and weapons on her back, most of the human characters in the game only see her as a plain white wolf; some believe Amaterasu to be the reincarnation of Shiranui (the white wolf that fought Orochi 100 years prior to the game's present), and do not recognize her spiritual nature. If the player depletes their power by overuse of the celestial brush, Amaterasu will temporarily revert to this mundane white form. Issun, an arrogant, inch-tall "wandering artist" seeking out the 13 Celestial Brush techniques for himself, accompanies Amaterasu (whom he calls "Ammy" or "furball") and serves as a guide, dialogue proxy, and as comic relief. He grows in character along with Amaterasu throughout the game, eventually becoming her true friend, inspiration, and eventually her savior.[17]

While there is not a main singular antagonist within the game, two characters reappear several times within the quest. Waka appears as a young flute-playing man to Amaterasu several times in the game, aware of the goddess's form of the white wolf and foretelling of her future and at times battling with her; his dialogue, dropping French affectionate terms at times, conveys a sense of familiarity with Amaterasu, as it turns out that Waka is much older than he appears and has walked with Amaterasu on the Celestial Plain hundreds of years ago.[19] The other is Orochi, the eight-headed demon and a major villain within the game which the player will encounter several times. Orochi repeatedly has threatened Kamiki village, demanding a sacrifice of a young woman. Each of its eight heads is infused with a different elemental magic power, but the entire demon is susceptible to a special brew of sake available only at Kamiki Village, allowing Amaterasu to defeat it while in its stupor.[15]

Throughout the game, the player encounters several other characters that are inspired from Japanese folklore.[20]

Development

Ōkami resulted from the combined ideas of Clover Studio.[21] The game was originally built around "depict[ing] a lot of nature", but had no central concept or theme, according to lead designer Hideki Kamiya.[22] Kamiya eventually created a minute-long demonstration movie showing a wolf running about a forest, with flowers blossoming in its wake, but still lacked any gameplay. Kamiya and other members of the team introduced ideas around the nature aspect and eventually led to the game's initial prototype, which Kamiya admitted was "incredibly boring to play".[22] Kamiya suggested that he allowed so many ideas from the team that resulted in the development moving off-target, including creating more of a simulation. Eventually, they settled onto the gameplay found in the final product.[22]

Okami-compare

Side-by-side comparison of the original realistic (left) and the final sumi-e (right) style used in Ōkami

The art in Ōkami is highly inspired by Japanese watercolor and wood carving art of the Ukiyo-e style, such as the work of Hokusai. Ōkami was originally planned to be rendered in a more photorealistic 3D style.[23] However, Clover Studio determined that the more colorful sumi-e style allowed them to better convey Amaterasu's association with nature and the task of restoring it.[24] The change was also influenced by limitations in the PS2 hardware to render the photorealistic 3D graphics.[25] As a result of the switch to the watercolor style, the idea of the Celestial Brush came about.[21] Atsushi Inaba, CEO of Clover, noted that "Once we fixed ourselves on a graphical style and got down to the brushwork, we thought 'Wouldn't it be great if we could somehow get the player involved and participate in this artwork instead of just watching it?' That's how the idea of the Celestial Brush was born". Original concepts for enemies included the use of dinosaurs, but the designs settled onto more demon-like characters.[26]

Amaterasu's initial designs were aimed to avoid having the character look like "your pet wearing clothing".[27] The developers had considered having Amaterasu change into a dolphin when in the water and a falcon when jumping off a cliff, but dropped these ideas.[28] Sakuya, designed around a peach motif, was envisioned with what were called "level 2" and "level 3" designs where the character would wear less clothing as the story progressed, but the "level 3" appearance, effectively naked, was vetoed by Inaba.[29] Waka's character was aimed to be a Tatsunoko-like character, with the hood designed to be reminiscent of those worn by the Gatchaman.[30] Orochi in Japanese mythology is a gigantic creature, so lead character designer Takeyasu Sawaki designed the back of the demon to include a garden and palace; this inspired the game designers to include a bell in those structures that would be Orochi's fatal weakness in the game.[31]

The localization team had to translate 1500 pages of text to make sure it made sense in a "native check", due to lack of plurals in the Japanese language and the large number of characters and conditional conversations that the player could interact with.[18] The team recognized that certain elements of the game would not be recognized by Western audiences, but left enough text and details to allow the players to look up the information for themselves.[18] Only one puzzle in the game had to be changed as it required knowledge of the steps in drawing a kanji character which would be readily known for Japanese audiences; for the Western release, these steps were demonstrated in the game.[18] The team noted that personalities of characters could be easily conveyed in Japanese text simply by the way sentences were constructed or slurred, a feature that could not directly be applied to localization. Instead, working with Kamiya, the team scripted the localization to either recreate the personality to match the Japanese version, or to create a whole new set of mannerisms for the characters as appropriate.[18]

Ōkami was shown at the 2005 E3 Convention, approximately 30% complete, with a planned release in 2006.[32] At this point, the game had much of the core gameplay, including the Celestial Brush and the combat system in place. The game was released a year later in 2006. However, just a few weeks following its release in North America to strong critical reception, Capcom announced the closure of Clover Studio.[33]

The Ōkami: Official Complete Works art book was published by Udon in May 2008.[34][35] The game was re-released under Sony's "Greatest Hits" in Japan in August 2008.[36]

Naming and allusions

The title of the game is a pun; the word ōkami (狼) in Japanese means "wolf" or "great god". However, the kanji characters used as the title of this game (大神), pronounced identically, mean "great deity", so the main character is a great wolf deity. The same characters (大神) are also used to write the full name of the sun goddess Amaterasu Ōmikami.[37] The localization team opted to use shorter versions of Japanese names (for example, a boy named "Mushikai" was localized as "Mushi") instead of replacing the names with Western-style ones.[18] Issun's informal name for Amaterasu in the Western translation, "Ammy", was inspired by Kamiya, and is similar in tone with the Japanese informal name, "Ammako".[18]

Throughout the game, Ōkami includes several references (in visual effects, animation, or dialogue) to other Capcom titles such as Viewtiful Joe, which Clover Studios also developed.[18] For example, Mrs. Orange's technique for making cherry cake parodies Street Fighter's Akuma's Shun Goku Satsu, complete with a kanji word displayed on screen with her back facing the screen.[18] There are also in-jokes regarding the Clover staff. For example, an NPC aptly named "Animal Lover" lost his rabbit named "Inaba", also the last name of the head producer Atsushi Inaba. Also, to further convey the joke, Inaba the rabbit can be seen falling out of a tree directly underneath Atsushi Inaba's name during the closing credits.

Audio

All of the music in Ōkami is original and inspired by classical Japanese works.[15] The final song, played over the credit sequence, "Reset", is sung by Ayaka Hirahara. Capcom has released an official 5-disc soundtrack for Ōkami, which is available exclusively in the Japanese market.[38] In the US and European release, the player can unlock a jukebox to hear the in-game music upon completion of the game. At the 2008 BAFTA Video Games Awards Ōkami won Best Score.[39]

Suleputer has also published another album, a piano arrangement, entitled Ōkami Piano Arrange. It was released on 30 March 2007. Mika Matsūra both arranged the 10 songs, and performed it on the piano.[40]

The characters' speech in the game is actually created by scrambling samples of voice actors' speech, with more emotional lines being created from voice work given in that emotion.[18]

Wii version

Okami Wii front cover

The cover of the North American Wii version of Ōkami. A watermark from IGN can be seen by Amaterasu's mouth.[41]

The gameplay function of "drawing" or "painting" strokes on the screen led several journalists and gamers alike to believe that Ōkami would be well-suited for the Nintendo DS or Wii, both of which feature controls capable of creating drawing motions freely. After the game's release, industry rumors of the game being ported to either console persisted, despite Atsushi Inaba of Clover Studio feeling that the game's action-based gameplay would not translate well to the console[42] and statements from Capcom that there were "no plans for Ōkami on Wii".[43]

However, at the 2007 UK Gamers Day, Capcom announced that Ready at Dawn would oversee porting and development of a Wii version of Ōkami originally scheduled for release in March 2008[44][45][46] but subsequently pushed back to April 2008.[47] Christian Svensson, Capcom's Vice-President of Strategic Planning and Business Development, stated that Capcom had received numerous requests from fans for the development of the Wii version,[48] and that the ported game "specifically exists because of that direct communication, especially those we receive on our message boards (even if they're sometimes mean to us)."[49] Ready at Dawn president Didier Malenfant has stated that, aside from the control scheme, the Wii version will be "an exact port of the PS2 version."[50] The lack of enhancements for the game caused several complaints from gamers, which Svensson addressed, stating that "...we're getting the game up and running first. The game is enormous. If after we have every thing working correctly, cleanly and as desired so as not to "break" the amazing experience that is Ōkami, we will worry about potential enhancements. As we are NOT at that point in the process yet, we are loathe to even mention any potential changes or enhancements for fear of disappointing the fans/media."[51] Svensson reported that the original game assets given to them from Capcom Japan were incomplete, and even after requesting old hard drives and computers to recover more assets, Ready at Dawn was still required to recreate some from scratch.[48] Furthermore, the game had to be recoded to change optimizations that were made for the PlayStation 2 version; Svensson stated that "part of the reason we didn't show it until we started showing it was because, if we showed it in a form that was anything less than near-perfect, people were going to freak out".[48] Ready at Dawn's creative director Ru Weerasuriya later reflected that porting Ōkami to the Wii was a challenging task—"we started with no assets and literally reverse-engineered the whole thing back onto Wii"—they did out of love for the game, but the level of effort would preclude them from attempting such a port again.[52]

On 15 November 2007, Svensson noted that the engine had been ported to the Wii, writing that "There are still several systems getting set up properly but there's most definitely a Wii-driven Amaterasu running around Wii-rendered environments as we speak."[49] A listing posted at Capcom's website for the game on 15 February 2008 revealed that the Wii version would support 480p and widescreen output,[53] and IGN confirmed that the motion sensing of the Wii Remote would be used to perform the Celestial Brush features within the game.[12] IGN's hands-on also cited small changes to the game such as additional motion-sensing controls using both the Wii Remote and Nunchuck attachment, and the ability to skip cutscenes, but reported no other changes in content of the game.[12]

Svennson noted that Capcom would not use television advertising for Ōkami on the Wii, but would use online marketing, including art contests and a new website with "all sorts of things for fans to use to make stuff".[48] This site was made live on 3 April 2008, featuring wallpapers, character artwork and fan-created art for the game.[54] Svennson further noted that "If Ōkami for the Wii did the numbers that we did on the PS2, I'd be very happy. This doesn't need to be a mainstream success for this to be a success for the company."[48]

A "paper parchment" filter applied to all on-screen elements that was readily apparent in the PlayStation 2 version was still included in the Wii port, but the effect was made much less significant.[55][56][57] To help with drawing with the Celestial Brush, two different buttons on the Wii controllers were given brush functionality; one button was assigned to provide free-form strokes, while the other was set to draw a straight line from the starting point.[58]

The final credits movie that was in the PlayStation 2 version of the game was removed from the Wii version, much to Kamiya's regret as it removed the omoi—"a combination of thoughts, emotions, and messages" — from the game: "(The staff roll was) the omoi of everyone who worked on the project, put together in a moment of bliss held out just for those who completed the journey. It was a special staff roll for a special moment. And now it is gone. All of it. ...It's incredibly disappointing and sad."[59] A Capcom representative noted that the credits, a pre-rendered movie, had the Clover Studio logo within it, and they had "no legal right to use the Clover logo in a game they were not involved with directly". Since they also lacked the source to the credits, they opted to remove them entirely from the game.[59] Ready at Dawn's co-founder Didier Malenfant stated that the Wii version of Ōkami took up much more space on the game media than the PlayStation 2 version, and that the movie was cut in order to fit everything on a single game disk.[60] Despite this claim, the credit sequence was restored in the Japanese release of the Wii version[61] and revealed that the port was co-developed by Tose Co., Ltd., having provided additional planners, designers, programmers and test players.[62] The images from the credits, although not the credits themselves, are still available as unlockable art. Due to the removal of the credits there is no point in speaking with Mrs. Seal in Ponc'tan, as the seal the player creates never appears in this version of the game.

Players have discovered that the cover of the North American Wii version of Ōkami includes a watermark from IGN, and traced the source to an image taken from IGN's site.[41] To make up for the error, Capcom offered for a limited time to replace the cover with one of three high-resolution covers free of charge to users in North America.[63][64] Due to delays in fulfilling the offer, Capcom shipped copies of all three covers to those that registered.[65] They have since discontinued the offer, but have made the cover images available worldwide in high-quality PDF files for users to download and print themselves.[66] The European PAL version of the cover has no such error.

HD version

Okami hd boxart

The boxart of Ōkami HD.

In June 2012, Capcom announced that a high-definition remastering of the game, Ōkami HD (Ōkami Zekkei-ban, roughly Ōkami Magnificent Version) was released worldwide for PlayStation 3 on 30 October 2012; a retail product was released in Japan, while the game was made available for download only through the PlayStation Network in Europe and North America. The remastered edition supports both the Dualshock 3 controller and the PlayStation Move motion controller, and PlayStation Network trophy achievements have been added. The remastering was done between Capcom and HexaDrive. This version of the game, unlike the Wii, retained all elements of the original PS2 version including the parchment filter and full credits.

Sequel

Sales of Ōkami were considered poor for justifying a sequel; in July 2008, in response to users' questions on the possibility of a sequel, Svensson stated that "I think we need a lot more people buying the current version before we seriously consider a sequel".[67] However, after the appearance of a Japanese trademark by Capcom on the word "Ōkamiden" a few months before the Wii version of Ōkami in Japan, many speculated that a sequel was pending.[68] The September 2009 issue of Famitsu announced that Ōkamiden was indeed a sequel to Ōkami for the Nintendo DS, to be released by Capcom in Japan in 2010. The game takes place nine months after the end of Ōkami, with the player in control of Chibiterasu, another wolf like Amaterasu, and features the same style of gameplay, including the Celestial Brush using the DS's touchscreen controls.[69][70]

Ōkami Retro Festival

Retro festival startup

The startup screen of the flash.

Around the time of the release on the PlayStation 2, Clover Studio created an 8-bit flash that is a parody of the game,[71] located in Kamiki Village that is populated by many characters from different parts of the game's storyline, all done in 8-bit graphic that consists of large pixels, with the background music of Kamiki Village II played in a retro style, consisting of mostly blips on different tones and heights. Released alongside the flash is a retro soundtrack, consisting of the 8-bit versions of several original tracks from Ōkami. The map of the retro flash can be found on page 277 of the Ōkami Official Complete Works, with a note from Issun. On page 278 and 279 is the sheet music for the 8-bit version of The Sun Rises. The 8-bit flash can be found here.

Development

As shown in the Video Treasure Chest section of Issun's Present, several footages of the beta are revealed. These beta have some differences from the final game:

  • The plot is altered, with Kushi and Susano at Sei'an City, Himiko walking the streets of the capital, a strange male character being sacrificed to Orochi, etc.
  • Waka has a house, and can be talked to outside.
  • There is a meter which fills when Amaterasu barks outside of someone's home at night, disturbing their sleep. If the meter is full, they will be annoyed, and will jump out to attack her.
  • There is also a similar meter for dragging people, and they will chase Amaterasu if it is filled.
  • The towns of Deshima and Dragon Palace Town are present in the demo, as well as the Turtle Submarine and the Shrine of Rejuvenation. Additionally, the Tao Troopers' headquarter is on the ground and has a significantly different design. Concept arts of these locations can still be seen in the Ōkami section of Issun's Present and in the Ōkami Official Complete Works.

Reception

Aggregator Score
GameRankings (PS2) 93% (77 reviews)[72]
GameRankings (Wii) 90% (42 reviews)[73]
Metacritic (PS2) 93/100 (68 reviews)[74]
Metacritic (Wii) 90/100 (41 reviews)[75]
Publication Score
PS2 Wii
1UP A[76] A[77]
Game Informer 9.5/10[78] 9.25/10[79]
XPlay 5/5 5/5[58]
Gamespot 9.0/10[80] 9.0/10[56]
IGN 9.1/10[14] 9.0/10[55]
Famitsu 39/40[81]
EuroGamer 10/10[82] 10/10[83]
Nintendo Power 7.5/10[84]
MobyGames 92/100[85] 90/100[86]

Reviews

Ōkami was acclaimed by critics, with a score of 93 percent on Game Rankings, making it the eighth highest overall game of 2006 and second for the PS2, behind Konami's Metal Gear Solid 3: Subsistence.[87]

GameSpot gave it a 9 out of 10 and selected it as an Editor's Choice, citing that its "visual design instantly stands out, but it turns out to be just one of many inspired aspects of this impressive action adventure game."[80] IGN gave the game a 9.1 out of 10, as being "beautiful, charismatic, engaging and one of the most original games you'll play anytime soon."[14] Electronic Gaming Monthly's three reviewers gave it a 9, 9.5, and 9 out of ten, one saying: "I'll be surprised if you can find a better game on any system this fall."[88] Newtype USA named Ōkami its Game of the Month for October 2006, heralded the pacing as "nearly flawless" and proclaimed "Ōkami is that rarest of beasts: a game without any obvious flaws. Clover's creativity and attention to detail are on full display here. Shame on any gamer who passes up this divine adventure."[89] Eurogamer.net scored the game 10/10 saying "Right from the start it conjures an atmosphere of being something special, but to keep that level of quality up consistently over 60 hours ensures that this will be a game that will be talked about for years to come".[90] In 2007, Ōkami was named eighteenth best PlayStation 2 game of all time in IGN's feature reflecting on the PlayStation 2's long lifespan.[91] Famitsu gave the game a near perfect score of 39 out of 40, the 15th game to date to receive this score from the publication.

However, the game was noted to have some flaws. Many reviews commented on the lack of difficulty within the game.[14][80] Reviewers have also noted some difficulty in getting the game to recognize the correct Celestial Brush patterns,[76] as well as excessive amounts of dialog, particularly at the introduction, which was also hampered by the computer-generated voices used in lieu of voice acting.[80]

The Wii version of Ōkami has received generally similar praise to the PlayStation 2 version, with GameSpot stating that the support for widescreen and the Wii controls "make it even more relevant today than it was in 2006".[56] The use of the Wii Remote for the Celestial Brush was well received;[55] in GameSpot's review, they noted that the Wii functionality with the Brush "improves the pace of the game".[56] However, other aspects to the controls were found to be weaker, particularly in combat.[56][77] In their review, Nintendo Power recommended the PlayStation 2 version of the game over the Wii, stating that "Though you can overcome the drawing and attacking issues with practice (and by sticking to whip-style weapons), it's a hurdle you shouldn't have to leap."[84] The Wii version was received the 'Game of the Month award from IGN for April, 2008.[92] It was a nominee for multiple awards from IGN in its 2008 video game awards, including Best Artistic Design[93] and Best Use of the Wii-Mote.[94]

Awards

Ōkami's initial showing at the 2005 E3 Convention garnered severals awards and recognition, including 1UP's Best PS2 Game, 2nd Best Game of Show, and 3rd Best Action Game;[95] IGN's Best PS2 Game of Show,[96] and runner-up for Best of Show and Most Innovative Design;[97] and X-Play's Most Original Game.[98] GameSpy recognized it as the 5th best game showing for the convention.[99]

Upon release, Ōkami appeared as the Game of the Month for IGN,[100] Electronic Gaming Monthly,[101] and Game Informer.[78][102] IGN,[103] Edge Magazine[104] and Game Revolution[105] rated it as the best overall game of 2006, while Game Trailers[106] and Official PlayStation Magazine,[107] named it best PS2 game for 2006. IGN further awarded the game the Best Overall and PS2 Adventure Game,[108][109] the Best Overall and PS2 Artistic Design,[110][111] the Overall and PS2 Most Innovative Design,[112][113] and the Best Overall Story.[114] GameSpot awarded the game for the Best Artistic Graphics for 2006.[115] IGN named Ōkami the ninetieth top game of all time in a December 2007 Top 100 list.[116]

Ōkami has also won awards from outside the mainstream gaming press. The game earned the Best Character Design and only one of three Innovation Awards at the 2007 Game Developers Choice Awards.[117] Ōkami won the Grand Prize in the Entertainment Division of the 2006 Japan Media Arts Festival.[118] On 13 August 2007. It was also awarded the best Animation in a Game Engine, Art Direction in a Game Engine, Outstanding Original Adventure Game, and Game of the Year in the 2006 awards by the National Academy of Video Game Testers and Reviewers (NAVIGaTR).[119] Ōkami was given an "Award for Excellence" from the Japanese Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA) at the Japan Game Awards 2007[120] and was later given 2009 CESA Developers Conference (CEDEC) award for "Visual Arts".[121] The game was awarded the Best Anthropomorphic Video Game in the 2006 Ursa Major awards.[122] It also won the 2007 BAFTA awards for Artistic Achievement and Original Score.[123]

Sales

Ōkami sold 164,600 copies in its combined sales for the first ten weeks of release in all territories.[124] It sold 200,000 copies in North America in 2006, grossing approximately USD$8 million and ranking as the 100th best selling game of the year in the region.[125] By March 2007, the total sales of the PlayStation 2 version were near 270,000.[48] By comparison, Ōkami sold 66,000 copies in Japan for 2006.[126] While it was initially thought that poor sales of Ōkami and God Hand (another Clover title released in the same time frame) were the cause of the closure of Clover Studio,[24][127] it was later revealed that three key developers within Capcom and Clover Studios, Shinji Mikami (Resident Evil series), Hideki Kamiya (Devil May Cry series), and Inaba, had left the company,[127][128] and the studio was dissolved, such that "now all the resources should be used more effectively and more efficiently since they are centralized."[127] Inaba, Mikami, and Kamiya went on to form the video game development company "Seeds Inc",[129] later merging with a company called "ODD" to become "Platinum Games".[130] The Wii version of Ōkami reached 133,136 units in it's first ten weeks of sales.[131]

On 30 July 2008, Capcom revealed that the Wii version of Ōkami had sold approximately 280,000 copies in North America and Europe since its release date.[132] The Wii version debuted in Japan with a modest 24,000 copies sold in its first week in the region.[133] It was the sixth-bestselling game in Japan on October 23, 2009.[134] Total sales for the game remained under 600,000 total units by March 2009, and was named the "least commercially successful winner of a game of the year award" in the 2010 version of the Guinness World Records Gamer's Edition.[135] By mid-2011 the PS2 version had sold 450,872 copies worldwide[124] and the Wii version had sold 422,716 copies.[131]

Legacy

Ben Mattes, producer for the 2008 Prince of Persia video game, cites Ōkami as well as Ico and Shadow of the Colossus as influences on the gameplay and artwork for the game.[136] Capcom's Street Fighter IV is also stated to have models influenced by Ōkami with hand-drawn images and brushstroke-like effects.[137] A new Disney video game, Epic Mickey, uses similar drawing aspects as Ōkami allowing the player to draw and modify parts of levels to proceed.[138] The final boss, Yami, appears as a boss character in the crossover fighting game, Tatsunoko vs. Capcom: Ultimate All Stars.[139] Amaterasu is also a playable character in Marvel vs. Capcom 3: Fate of Two Worlds.[140] After Clover's dissolution and most of its staff's subsequent reformation as Platinum Games, one of their next games, Bayonetta, contains several references to Ōkami; the most notable of these is when Bayonetta transforms into a panther, and like Amaterasu, a trail of flowers and plant life follows her.[141] For the 2010 San Diego Comic Con, Capcom raffled a limited run of t-shirts designed by Gerald de Jesus and iam8bit that placed Amaterasu and Chibiterasu (from Ōkamiden) into a homage to the Three Wolf Moon t-shirt.[142] In Monster Hunter Generations, Capcom released a DLC pack with an Amaterasu-themed armor set that one can craft for their Palico.[143]

Gallery

Trivia

  • The game's title is a pun: the goddess Amaterasu's traditional title is ōmikami (great and powerful god), and as well as 大神 the word "Ōkami" can be written as 狼, which means "wolf."
  • In the Wii version of Ōkami, when a cutscene is playing, the graphics look as if it is done on rice paper, while in the PS2 version, it does not.
  • Before the final release of Ōkami, there were several locations that were only available in the demo. These locations are the towns of Deshima and Dragon Palace Town, the Turtle Submarine, the Tao Troopers' training ground and the Shrine of Rejuvenation. These locations' concept artwork can still be viewed in the Artworks section of Issun's Present.
  • In the retro flash, there are two bonus characters not from Ōkami, but from a different game series of Capcom. These characters are Viewtiful Joe and Silvia.
  • Several characters in the retro flash when highlighted, instead of giving the option to download their 8-bit sprite, will prompt one to download a file called "Gekijou" which consists of images from the Ōkami Tea Room Intermission Corner section of the Ōkami Official Complete Works. These images are named "Amaterasu Theater", from Act I to Act XXI.
  • There are several occasions when Ōkami is mentioned or makes a cameo in various media:
    • South Park referenced Ōkami in episode 161, Le Petit Tourette. The cover art for the game was visible in certain parts of the episode.
  • The North American box art for the Wii release of Okami rather famously has an IGN logo watermark directly in front of Amaterasu's mouth, seemingly because Capcom lost the original box design and used a copy they found on the internet.
  • The PC version will accept inputs from drawing tablets such as the Wacom Intuos Pro.


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