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.
Tinari's move to Housemarque, the developer behind the acclaimed Returnal, was confirmed via his LinkedIn profile. He's taken on a lead game designer role, likely contributing to Housemarque's unannounced new IP, a project in development since Returnal's 2021 release. While a reveal date for Housemarque's next game is uncertain, a 2026 announcement is considered plausible by many.
PlatinumGames' recent string of high-profile departures began with Kamiya's announcement of his departure, citing creative differences. The subsequent revelation that Kamiya would lead development on Capcom's Okami sequel at The Game Awards 2024, reignited concerns about PlatinumGames' stability. Rumors circulated shortly after, suggesting additional key developers had also left the studio.
The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames' upcoming projects remains unclear. While the studio is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, possibly hinting at a new installment in the series, the future of Project GG, a new IP helmed by the now-departed Kamiya, is uncertain. The project's development timeline is likely to be affected by his absence. The situation highlights a period of significant change and potential challenges for the once-dominant action game developer.
