Former Bayonetta Origins Director Joins Sony\'s Housemarque

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, the creator of Bayonetta, in September 2023, who cited creative differences with the studio's direction. Kamiya's subsequent announcement as lead developer on Capcom's Okami sequel only amplified these concerns.

Tinari's move to Housemarque, confirmed via his LinkedIn profile, sees him take on a lead game designer role. His departure, along with other rumored departures from PlatinumGames, raises questions about the studio's current trajectory.

Tinari Joins Housemarque's Unannounced Project

Housemarque, the studio behind the critically acclaimed Returnal, has been developing a new IP since its acquisition by PlayStation in 2021. Tinari's expertise is likely to be instrumental in this project, although a release date is not expected before 2026.

PlatinumGames' Uncertain Future

The impact of these departures on PlatinumGames remains to be seen. While the studio is celebrating Bayonetta's 15th anniversary, potentially hinting at a new installment, the future of Project GG, a new IP previously helmed by Kamiya, is now uncertain. The studio's recent announcements offer little clarity on how these departures will affect ongoing projects. The situation underscores a period of significant change and uncertainty for the renowned Japanese developer.