
PlatinumGames Co-Founder's Enduring Dream for 'Scalebound' Revival

By Hideo Kojima


By Hideo Kojima
Hideki Kamiya, a name synonymous with iconic titles such as 'Resident Evil 2' and a driving force behind PlatinumGames, often reflects on the virtue of persistence in the video game creation process. His career is marked by significant waits, including almost twenty years before the reveal of a sequel to 'Okami'. Now, with 'Okami 2' progressing steadily, Kamiya shifts his focus to another project that remains close to his heart: 'Scalebound'.
Initially unveiled at Microsoft's E3 press conference in 2014, 'Scalebound' was heralded as an exclusive Xbox title under Kamiya's direction at PlatinumGames. Over the subsequent years, glimpses into this ambitious action game—featuring a protagonist battling alongside a dragon—were occasionally released. However, after an initial delay, Microsoft ultimately decided to discontinue the project in 2017. Following this cancellation, Kamiya publicly expressed his regret, vowing to prevent similar disappointments in the future.
Even with almost ten years having passed since its termination, Kamiya's hope for 'Scalebound' endures. When questioned about reaching out to Microsoft's new Xbox CEO, Asha Sharma, regarding the game, Kamiya seized the opportunity to vocalize his plea: 'If they wish to proceed, let's make it happen!' He also confirmed that Kento Koyama, CEO of Clovers and a former colleague from PlatinumGames, is ready to rejoin the effort.
Kamiya recently reconnected with several former 'Scalebound' team members, reminiscing about their time working on the project. While not the sole topic of conversation, the canceled game inevitably came up. Kamiya noted, 'We all remembered the enjoyment we had working on 'Scalebound',' acknowledging the challenges but cherishing the shared positive experiences, which he finds deeply rewarding as the project's director.
Kamiya is prepared to wait indefinitely for 'Scalebound' to resurface. He firmly believes that 'if one desires something strongly enough, a path to its realization will eventually emerge.' Drawing a parallel with 'Okami', where an opportunity reappeared after many years, he expresses his earnest wish for a similar fate to befall 'Scalebound' in the years to come.
About the author

Auteur game designer known for the "Metal Gear" series, blending complex narratives with gameplay.

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