Kunitsu-Gami's Prequel Shown Through Traditional Japanese Bunraku Theater

Capcom's Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess Launch Celebrated with Bunraku Theater Performance

Capcom marked the July 19th release of its action-strategy game, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, with a unique collaboration: a traditional Japanese Bunraku puppet theater performance. This event, showcasing the game's deep Japanese folklore inspiration, aimed to introduce the captivating world of Bunraku to a global audience.

The performance, by the Osaka-based National Bunraku Theater, celebrating its 40th anniversary, featured specially crafted puppets representing the game's protagonists, Soh and the Maiden. Master Puppeteer Kanjuro Kiritake brought these characters to life in a new play, "Ceremony of the Deity: The Maiden's Destiny," a prequel to the game's storyline. The production blended traditional Bunraku techniques with modern CG backdrops from the game, creating a visually stunning and innovative presentation.

Kiritake highlighted the connection between Osaka's Bunraku heritage and Capcom's roots in the region, emphasizing the global reach of this collaborative effort. Capcom's statement underscored its intention to leverage the performance to showcase the game's cultural appeal.

Producer Tairoku Nozoe revealed that game director Shuichi Kawata's passion for Bunraku significantly influenced the game's development. The team drew inspiration from the movements and direction of Ningyo Joruri Bunraku, resulting in a game already infused with Bunraku elements even before the collaboration. This shared passion led to the partnership with the National Bunraku Theater.

The game itself, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, unfolds on Mt. Kafuku, a once-blessed mountain now corrupted by a dark force. Players must purify villages and protect the Maiden, using sacred masks to restore balance. The game launched July 19th for PC, PlayStation, and Xbox consoles, also available on Xbox Game Pass. A free demo is available across all platforms.