Hideo Kojima Critiques Current Gaming Industry: Identical Games and Promises Unique Experience with Divisive OD

Hideo Kojima’s Perspective on Today’s Video Game Industry

Hideo Kojima, a renowned figure in game development, has expressed concern over the current landscape of the video game industry. In a recent interview with Ssense, he highlighted that numerous games seem to mirror each other in both aesthetics and gameplay mechanics.

Homogeneity in Game Design

Reflecting on this year’s Summer Game Fest showcase, Kojima observed a trend where a significant number of games released revolve around themes of alien combat or battling medieval creatures. He pointed out that it’s not merely the narratives that are repetitive; the visual styles and gameplay dynamics are alarmingly similar as well. While he acknowledges the enjoyment many gamers derive from these titles, Kojima advocates for the need for innovation and fresh ideas within the industry. This push for originality is a hallmark of his career, prominently showcased in his recent work on the Death Stranding series. In contrast, he notes that emerging indie developers are often leading the charge for creativity.

Kojima’s Disconnection from Conventional Titles

Given his disappointment with the prevailing trends in game design, it is perhaps unsurprising that Kojima has decided against playing the remake of Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater. He feels the remake does little to transform the original’s gameplay experience.

Creative Control and Vision

Kojima’s unique approach to game development often sets his titles apart from the mainstream. However, this intense involvement in all facets of production has invited criticism. Despite this, he believes that his focused vision is a major contributor to his success, enabling him to tackle multiple aspects of game development concurrently. He contrasts this with the film industry, where the process is typically linear, starting from writing a script to moving sequentially through development stages.

Future Projects and Anticipation

With the recent release of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima Productions is already hard at work on new projects. One of these, titled Physint, is expected to revisit the action and stealth elements characteristic of the Metal Gear Solid franchise. Additionally, the enigmatic project referred to as OD promises to deliver an experience that will likely evoke strong reactions from players. Kojima is keenly aware of the audience’s feedback upon release, yet he believes that his body of work will ultimately shape his legacy in the years to come.