Kojima officially leaves Konami; opens new studio to develop PS4 console exclusive

UPDATE 2: Sony has released an official FAQ providing more details on Kojima’s next game, confirming that it will also be heading to PC following its PS4 debut.

UPDATE: Metal Gear Solid artist Yoji Shinkawa also appears to have left Konami and joined Kojima Productions.

ORIGINAL STORY: Hideo Kojima has officially left Konami, it’s been confirmed. He leaves to open a new independent studio – Kojima Productions – where he will work in collaboration with Sony on a console exclusive PS4 title.

“I will be taking on a new challenge by establishing my own independent studio, and I am thrilled to be able to embark on this journey with PlayStation, who I have continued to work with all these past years,” said Kojima. “I cannot wait to deliver, with PlayStation, a game that will become a compelling franchise.”

He also confirmed on Twitter that his “employment contract with Konami has been terminated as of Dec 15th”.

Kojima’s official title at the studio is ‘Director/Game Designer’, while the new game promises to “push the boundaries in innovation”. Job openings at the studio suggest it could be a new action game, with one particular ad looking for a “Weapons/Mechanical Artist”.

Sony’s deal with Kojima Productions’ only covers the studio’s first game, however, suggesting future titles may also come to other platforms.

“PlayStation’s history is one of game innovation and great new franchises,” added Sony Computer Entertainment president Andrew House.

“Hideo Kojima has been a huge part of that history, and we are therefore delighted that he has chosen to bring his brand new project to life in partnership with PlayStation. We look forward to working with him on an exciting new game and warmly welcome him to the PlayStation family.”

The announcement follows months of speculation that Kojima was to leave Konami this month following an alleged dispute between the creator and company execs. Kojima’s name was also removed from the branding of various Konami products, including Metal Gear Solid 5 and Zone of the Enders.

It was later reported by the New Yorker that Kojima had left Konami in October, something the publisher refuted by claiming he was simply “on vacation”.

Konami has yet to comment on Kojima’s exit, nor has Kojima spoken about the circumstances surrounding his departure.

VideoGamer.com has contacted a Konami representative for comment.

Source: Kojima Productions, Sony