Hideki Kamiya of Clovers expresses a "very strong responsibility" to safeguard employees from layoffs

Hideki Kamiya, the studio head and chief game designer at Clovers, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the company during a time when layoffs are prevalent in the industry. In a detailed discussion with VGC, Kamiya highlighted the firm commitment to supporting their employees.

He expressed that they're not inclined to dismiss staff simply because a project underperforms, emphasizing their dedication to maintaining the business for the sake of their grateful team. Kamiya acknowledged that large corporations sometimes face situations necessitating layoffs, but Clovers is focused on employee welfare.

VGC remarked on the comparative rarity of layoffs and shuttered studios within Japanese firms relative to those in Western markets. Clovers CEO and president, Kento Koyama, suggested that Japan's respect for creators contributes to this difference. He observed that, compared to the West, where marketing and creative decisions often conflict, there seems to be a greater trust in the creative process in Japan.

Kamiya shared insights on the development environment with Japanese publishers, noting a closer alignment and understanding with creators. Reflecting on the aborted development of "Scalebound," previously produced by PlatinumGames for Microsoft Studios, he pondered whether the outcome might have varied had a Japanese publisher been involved. While he didn’t suggest the title would have inevitably launched, he noted that the path might have been distinct.

Despite the setback, he remains open to collaborations with global publishers, expressing a willingness to harness the benefits each can offer. Kamiya clarified the failure of "Scalebound" as being ultimately under his and PlatinumGames’ purview.

Addressing Clovers' establishment and their collaboration with Capcom, Kamiya mentioned no formal communication from PlatinumGames concerning Clovers' inception. He contrasted operational philosophies between the two studios, emphasizing they're inherently different rather than better or worse.

The partnership with Capcom has proven advantageous, according to Kamiya, after initial funding from himself and Koyama led to the "Okami" project, facilitating office acquisition and staff expansion. Kamiya confirmed Capcom’s lack of financial stake in Clovers, underscoring the company's independence and open possibilities for future partnerships or potential self-publishing ventures.