Bayonetta Origins Director Moves to Sony Housemarque

Key Departures at PlatinumGames and Housemarque's Next Project

PlatinumGames, known for the Bayonetta series, has experienced a significant exodus of key developers recently, fueling speculation about the studio's future direction. This follows the September 2023 departure of Hideki Kamiya, the creator of Bayonetta, who cited creative differences with the studio's trajectory. Kamiya's subsequent involvement with a Okami sequel at Capcom further intensified concerns.

Adding to this uncertainty, Abebe Tinari, director of Bayonetta Origins: Cereza and the Lost Demon, has left PlatinumGames. Tinari's LinkedIn profile confirms his relocation to Helsinki, Finland, and his new role as Lead Game Designer at Housemarque, the studio behind the acclaimed Returnal.

Tinari's move to Housemarque, acquired by PlayStation in 2021, suggests he'll contribute to their unannounced new IP. While Housemarque's next game is expected sometime after 2026, Tinari's expertise will undoubtedly be a significant asset.

The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames remains to be seen. While a year-long Bayonetta 15th-anniversary celebration is underway, hinting at a potential new installment, the status of Project GG, a new IP previously overseen by Kamiya, is now uncertain. The studio's future projects face an uncertain landscape following these high-profile exits.