Former Bayonetta Origins Director Joins Sony\'s Housemarque

PlatinumGames Loses 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. Tinari's move to a lead game designer role at the Returnal developer follows a period of significant personnel changes at PlatinumGames.

This follows the September 2023 departure of Hideki Kamiya, the renowned creator of Bayonetta, who cited creative differences with the studio's direction. Kamiya's subsequent announcement as the lead developer for Capcom's Okami sequel at The Game Awards 2024, reigniting Clover Studio, further fueled speculation about PlatinumGames' trajectory.

Following the Okami announcement, rumors circulated about several top PlatinumGames developers leaving the company, deleting all studio-related content from their social media. Tinari's relocation to Helsinki, Finland, and his LinkedIn profile confirmation of his new position at Housemarque solidify these concerns.

Tinari's Contribution to Housemarque's New IP

Housemarque, acquired by PlayStation after the success of Returnal in May 2021, has been developing a new, unannounced IP. Tinari's expertise is likely to significantly contribute to this project. While a release date remains undisclosed, many anticipate an unveiling no sooner than 2026.

The Future of PlatinumGames

The impact of these high-profile departures on PlatinumGames' upcoming projects remains uncertain. The studio recently announced a year-long celebration for Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment in the franchise. Additionally, Project GG, a new IP in development since 2020 under the direction of Hideki Kamiya, faces an unclear future given Kamiya's departure. The extent to which this will impact the game's progress is currently unknown.