Now that Hideo Kojima’s departure from Konami is all but confirmed, the Japanese publisher is gradually phasing out the legendary game director’s hold on the in-development IP. Firstly, we had rumors that Kojima had walked out on Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain due to a creative conflict, though both Konami and Kojima himself were quick to kick this conjecture to the kerb.
According to both parties, the developer remains “100% involved” in the development of The Phantom Pain as it gears up for its September release date. However, there’s another project that Kojima has been attached to since its elusive reveal at E3 last year: Silent Hills. Initially, the bold horror reboot – announced through the release of blood-curdling demo P.T. – was to be brought to life by Kojima and beloved filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, though this partnership has been called into question now that the director’s time with Konami is due to terminate in December.
As a matter of fact, GameSpot reports that, much like with The Phantom Pain, the company has removed Hideo Kojima’s name from Silent Hills‘ official teaser site, which doesn’t necessarily bode well for the director’s long-term involvement in the horror reboot. In response to this, Konami released the following, overly vague statement.
Konami has switched from a studio-based to a headquarters-based organization, so [Kojima Productions] wouldn’t be listed as a studio anymore. At this time, there are no additional updates to share.
What this means for the future of the title remains unclear. But thankfully Kojima’s commitment to Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain is much more clear cut. Here’s his official statement from last week.
“I want to reassure fans that I am 100% involved and will continue working on Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain,” he said. “I’m determined to make it the greatest game I’ve directed to date. Don’t miss it.”
What do you think, though? Is today’s news indicative of Konami moving forward with Silent Hills sans Hideo Kojima? Let us know below.
