PlatinumGames Loses Another Key Developer to Housemarque
The departure of Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, from PlatinumGames to Housemarque, adds to the growing concerns surrounding PlatinumGames' future. This follows the high-profile exit of Hideki Kamiya in September 2023, further fueling uncertainty about the studio's direction.
Kamiya's departure, citing creative differences, initially sparked worries. His subsequent announcement as the lead developer for Capcom's Okami sequel at The Game Awards 2024, resurrecting Clover Studio, only intensified these concerns. This was compounded by rumors of other top PlatinumGames developers leaving the company, removing all mentions of their affiliation from social media.
Tinari's move to Helsinki, Finland, and subsequent LinkedIn update confirming his new role as lead game designer at Housemarque, confirms one of these departures. He will likely contribute to Housemarque's currently unannounced new IP.
Tinari Joins Housemarque's Next Project
Since the release of the critically acclaimed Returnal in May 2021 and their acquisition by PlayStation, Housemarque has been developing a new, undisclosed title. Tinari's expertise is expected to significantly contribute to this project. While a release date is unconfirmed, many anticipate an announcement no sooner than 2026.
PlatinumGames' Uncertain Future
The impact of these high-profile departures on PlatinumGames remains unclear. While the studio recently announced a year-long celebration for Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, hinting at a potential new installment, the future of Project GG, a new IP in development since 2020 under Kamiya's direction, is now uncertain. The loss of both Kamiya and Tinari could significantly impact the studio's ongoing projects and future output.
