Capcom. (2006). Ōkami [Video game]. Clover Studio.

Ōkami is an action-adventure game developed by Clover Studio and published by Capcom in 2006. Set in a fictional version of classical Japan, the game intertwines Japanese mythology and folklore, narrating the tale of the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu, who manifests as a white wolf to save the land from darkness. The game's distinctive visual style draws inspiration from sumi-e ink wash painting, presented through cel-shaded graphics that evoke traditional Japanese art.

A central feature of Ōkami's gameplay is the Celestial Brush, a gesture-based control system that allows players to pause the action and draw symbols on the screen to perform various miracles. This mechanic is integral to both combat and puzzle-solving, enabling players to slash enemies, create pathways, manipulate elements, and rejuvenate the environment. The Celestial Brush offers a unique interactive experience, blending artistic expression with gameplay.

Players control Amaterasu, exploring a world filled with diverse landscapes, engaging in battles, and interacting with numerous characters inspired by Japanese folklore. The game combines elements of action, platforming, and puzzle-solving, with a structure reminiscent of The Legend of Zelda series, an acknowledged influence on director Hideki Kamiya. Progression involves completing main story quests and optional side activities, such as reviving withered trees and feeding animals, which reward players with Praise points used to enhance Amaterasu's abilities.

Ōkami was initially released for the PlayStation 2 and later ported to the Wii, PlayStation 3, and other platforms, including high-definition versions. Despite its critical acclaim, the game faced commercial challenges, leading to the closure of Clover Studio shortly after its release. Over time, however, Ōkami has been recognized as a masterpiece, celebrated for its artistic design, innovative gameplay mechanics, and its contribution to the perception of video games as an art form. The game's legacy continues with a sequel, Ōkamiden, released for the Nintendo DS, and an upcoming sequel announced at The Game Awards 2024, with Hideki Kamiya returning as director.