Okami HD (2012)

Okami HD is a refreshed version of a great action adventure game with unusual gameplay mechanics and stunning graphics. The first version of the game was released in 2006 on PlayStation 2. It was developed by members of the famous Clover Studio: Hideki Kamiya, Atsushi Inaba and other producers. Okami was then ported to Wii (in 2008). The series also consists of a spin-off titled Okamiden that debuted on Nintendo DS.

Plot

In Okami HD for PC, PS4 and etc. the players assume the role of Amaterasu, a goddess of Sun who takes the form of Shiranui the wolf to face evil. The beasts commanded by a demon named Orochi were released from prison and ruined the world by absorbing life from living creatures. Side characters are helping the goddess in this dangerous and long task – among them there is a warrior named Susano and an artist called Issun. The game was inspired by Japanese folklore and it combines myths, legends and historical facts.

Mechanics

The gameplay in Okami HD combines combat, platform game features, puzzles and adventure game sequences. The player assumes the role of the above mentioned wolf and he or she travels through locations on which he is guided by the artist Issun. The main story is linear, but the game features some side quests and challenges that provide additional points of “praise”. These points can be used for buying character upgrades and ink for the celestial brush, a special artifact that enables the protagonist to summon various powers and influence the surroundings and the enemies.

The celestial brush, one of the more interesting features of Okami, is useful both during combat and while exploring. When the artifact is used, the flow of time is stopped and the player can draw one of many symbols. This action can summon a powerful wind, cut the enemies or add a bridge over a chasm. Various techniques of using the brush are obtained and upgraded by progressing in the game and freeing the celestial gods.

The fights with demons and other monsters are taking place on special arenas where player uses various attacks, techniques and tools (including the celestial brush). For each of them the player gains money that can be spent in various shops on buying additional artifacts, healing items, better weapons and other useful tools. Some special objects can be bought for expensive demon fangs.

Technical aspects

The new version of Okami for PC, PS4 and etc. features some additions. Most of all, the graphics were improved to meet modern resolution standards (1080p, 4K in case of PS4 Pro, Xbox One X and high-end PC) and refreshed. The developers aimed to keep the unique and impressive visual style of the game. Another addition is 51 new trophies/achievements.

Last updated on 22 June 2012