It’s finally official. Hideo Kojima is no longer “on vacation.”
After a messy public breakup that came to a head when Konami legally barred him from The Game Awards, Hideo Kojima’s contract with Konami has at last run its course. The celebrated director has confirmed that he’s left the company to start a new studio – again called Kojima Productions – taking to Twitter to announce:
“My employment contract with Konami has been terminated as of Dec 15th, so today marks a new start for me. I’m committed to be involved in creative activities for as long as I live. Look forward to what’s coming.”
The celebrated designer also appeared in a video that went live on the official PlayStation YouTube channel, turning up alongside Sony Computer Entertainment President Andrew House to announce that he’s already partnering with Sony and that his new studio’s first game will be a PlayStation 4 console exclusive (the game will also come to PC). Details are still sparse, but the new game will mark the beginning of a new franchise and the official start of Kojima’s post-Metal Gear Solid career. I’ve had my differences with Kojima over the years, but he’s undeniably one of gaming’s leading auteurs and the industry would be far less interesting without him. I look forward to seeing what the new look, new logo Kojima Productions has in store in the future.
