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, who cited creative differences with the studio's direction. Kamiya's subsequent role leading development on Capcom's Okami sequel only amplified these anxieties.
Rumors of further departures from PlatinumGames, confirmed by the removal of company mentions from several developers' social media, have circulated since the Okami sequel announcement. Tinari's move to Helsinki, Finland, and his recent LinkedIn update revealing his new position as Lead Game Designer at Housemarque, solidifies these concerns.
Tinari's new role at Housemarque, the studio behind the acclaimed Returnal, suggests he will contribute to their currently unannounced new IP. While Housemarque's next project remains shrouded in secrecy, a reveal is unlikely before 2026.
The impact of these high-profile departures on PlatinumGames remains uncertain. While the studio is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment, the future of Project GG, a new IP previously spearheaded by Kamiya, is now questionable. The ongoing exodus of key talent raises significant questions about PlatinumGames' ability to deliver on its ambitious projects.
