The story begins in ancient times, when the world was shrouded in darkness by Yamata-no-Orochi. In Kamiki Village, the only place to escape the calamity, Princess Sakuya, dwelling within the sacred tree, revives the sun goddess “Amaterasu” as a light of hope. The protagonist, Amaterasu, takes the form of a white wolf, with visuals that look as if she stepped out of an ink wash painting, combining divinity with lovability. The characters are also full of personality and humanity; through interactions with them, a dense drama filled with laughter and tears unfolds. Towards the end of the story, your heart will surely swell and your eyes will moisten. This is truly what it means to have a “soul-stirring” experience.

One of the greatest charms of Okami HD is, above all, its art style. The world, depicted with brushwork reminiscent of Japanese paintings, still radiates a beauty that sets it apart from other games. Characters, backgrounds, and effects have all been reconstructed, revived with higher definition and richer colors. For instance, the moment life is breathed into a once-withered tree feels as if nature is waking up again, leaving a lasting impression deep in the heart. While in high resolution, the worldview is never compromised; rather, its beauty has been further refined.

For long-time fans, the inclusion of a mode to play in the original 4:3 aspect ratio and the return of loading screen mini-games are delightful. In the loading screen mini-games, you can obtain items by pressing buttons at the right time, turning mere waiting time into a fun experience. These thoughtful touches deliver a pleasant playfulness to modern players while cherishing the memories of that time.

Combat is performed using the “Three Sacred Treasures”—mirrors, rosaries, and swords—but the depth of Okami doesn't stop there. By using the unique “Celestial Brush” mechanic, you can not only damage enemies but also solve puzzles and revive nature, allowing for a variety of effects. This sensation of “drawing to fight” is very intuitive; on Nintendo Switch, players can enjoy a more immersive experience by utilizing touch controls and gyro functions. When an enemy is defeated, nature returns and the world is colored—the way battle leads directly to beauty allows players to truly feel like a “god” purifying the world.

Okami HD is not just a game. It is a story that holds value as a work of art and remains quietly but surely in the player's heart. With its painting-like visuals, deep worldview based on Japanese mythology, lovable characters, and a touching story, it is a work you'll want to speak of as an experience rather than just a game. If you haven't touched it yet, please travel the world with Amaterasu at least once. You are sure to encounter a new sense of wonder.