Kunitsu-Gami's Past Unveiled in Bunraku

Capcom's new action strategy game, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, launched July 19th, and to celebrate, they commissioned a unique Bunraku puppet theater performance. This collaboration showcases both the game's deeply Japanese roots and the rich cultural heritage of Japan to a global audience.

Capcom Showcases Kunitsu-Gami with a Traditional Bunraku Performance

Bridging Tradition and Gameplay: A Cultural Fusion

Kiritake commented on the collaboration, highlighting the shared Osaka origins of Capcom and Bunraku, and the desire to share this art form with a wider global audience.

A Prequel Unveiled: Bunraku Meets Modern Technology

Capcom describes the performance as a "new form of Bunraku," blending traditional puppetry with cutting-edge CG backdrops from the game itself. This innovative approach successfully marries ancient artistry with modern technology. The company aimed to use its global reach to introduce the captivating world of Bunraku to a wider audience, emphasizing the game's strong cultural ties.

Bunraku's Influence: From Inspiration to Collaboration

Producer Tairoku Nozoe revealed that the game's director, Shuichi Kawata's, passion for Bunraku significantly influenced the game's development. The team drew inspiration from the movements and staging of "Ningyo Joruri Bunraku," and even before the collaboration, Kunitsu-Gami already incorporated many Bunraku elements. A shared experience of a Bunraku performance solidified their decision to collaborate with the National Bunraku Theater.

Set on the defiled Mount Kafuku, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess tasks players with purifying villages by day and protecting the Maiden by night, using sacred masks to restore peace. The game is available now on PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles, and is included with Xbox Game Pass. A free demo is also available across all platforms.