Hideo Kojima, the legendary game designer behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding, has always been known for his visionary approach to storytelling and game development. But what happens when a visionary like Kojima is no longer around to guide his studio?
He has already thought about that—and his answer is as unconventional as his games: a 64GB USB drive filled with ideas for Kojima Productions to carry on after his death.
As Kojima said during it’s interview with Edge for its 411 isse, the decision to create this digital vault of ideas stems from a deeply personal realization. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he fell seriously ill and underwent an eye operation. This experience forced him to confront his own mortality. Until then, he had assumed he would be able to create for as long as he lived, but the illness made him question how much time he had left.
In an interview, Kojima revealed that this existential reflection led him to prepare for the future of his studio. He didn’t want Kojima Productions to simply manage existing intellectual properties (Metal Gear, Death Stranding, etc.)—he wanted them to continue creating. So, he compiled his ideas onto a USB drive and handed it to his personal assistant, describing it as “kind of like a will”.
What’s Inside the USB Drive?
While Kojima hasn’t disclosed the exact contents of the USB drive, we can speculate based on his past projects and creative tendencies. Here’s what might be inside:
- Game Concepts – Kojima is known for pushing boundaries in gaming. The USB likely contains ideas for new franchises, gameplay mechanics, and experimental storytelling techniques.
- Narrative Structures – Kojima’s games often feature intricate plots with deep philosophical themes. His notes may include outlines for future stories that explore topics like memory, identity, and human connection.
- Technological Innovations – Kojima has always embraced cutting-edge technology, from motion capture to AI-driven storytelling. His USB could contain ideas for integrating emerging tech into gaming.
- Film & Multimedia Projects – Kojima has expressed interest in filmmaking. The USB might include concepts for movies, TV series, or interactive media that blend gaming with cinematic storytelling.
I gave a USB stick with all my ideas on it to my personal assistant – kind of like a will.
Perhaps they could continue to make things after I’m gone, here at Kojima Productions… This is a fear for me – what happens to Kojima Productions after I’m gone. I don’t want them to just manage our existing IP.
The Future of Kojima Productions
With Kojima’s ideas preserved in digital form, Kojima Productions has the potential to continue evolving long after its founder is gone. However, the real challenge will be interpreting and executing his vision. Kojima’s creative process is deeply personal, and his unique approach to storytelling is difficult to replicate.
Will Kojima Productions split into factions debating the true meaning of his ideas? Will they create games that feel authentically Kojima-esque, or will they forge a new identity? Only time will tell.
One thing is certain: Kojima’s influence on gaming will endure, whether through his own creations or the ideas he has left behind.
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