Kunitsu-Gami Origin Story Unfolds in Historic Bunraku Play

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

To mark the July 19th release of its new action strategy game, Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess, Capcom commissioned a special Bunraku performance. This traditional Japanese puppet theater production, presented by the Osaka-based National Bunraku Theater (celebrating its 40th anniversary), serves as a captivating prequel to the game's narrative.

The performance, titled "Ceremony of the Deity: The Maiden's Destiny," features custom-crafted puppets representing the game's protagonists, Soh and the Maiden. Master Puppeteer Kanjuro Kiritake brought these characters to life, utilizing classic Bunraku techniques against a backdrop of stunning CG imagery from the game. This innovative fusion of tradition and technology creates a truly unique theatrical experience.

The collaboration stemmed from game director Shuichi Kawata's passion for Bunraku, heavily influencing the game's development. Producer Tairoku Nozoe explained that Kunitsu-Gami was already infused with Bunraku's essence before the collaboration even began. The team's shared experience of a Bunraku performance solidified their decision to incorporate this art form into the game's promotion.

Capcom aims to showcase the game's deep cultural roots and the beauty of Bunraku to a global audience. This initiative highlights the game's Japanese folklore inspiration and the artistry of this enduring theatrical tradition. The game itself, set on the defiled Mount Kafuku, tasks players with purifying villages and protecting the Maiden, utilizing sacred masks to restore balance.

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess 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.