10 Secret Origins Behind Iconic Video Game Features
9. Okami Ink-Wash Style Was A Trade Off For Its Size
Okami is a genre-defining game that is both stunning to look at and exhilarating to play. Its traditional Japanese ink-wash style flows elegantly as the main character wanders through beautifully drawn fictional feudal Japan.
The look works incredibly well with the game’s premise, based on traditional Japanese culture and folklore. Paired with Okami’s celestial brush that provides players with the freedom to create out of thin air, the game does an excellent job of immersing players into its mystical world.
Its signature look, however, wasn’t in the original plan. Initially, the game was set to have realistic graphics. At the same time, however, creator Hideki Kamiya wanted to have a massive world that players can explore. Apparently, they couldn’t do both without sacrificing the content of the playthrough.
One of the staff came up with the idea of drawing the main character using Japanese ink-wash style and Kamiya instantly loved the idea. Without the limitation, Okami would probably have ended as a great game, but the change in style ensured it became an unforgettable one.