Uncertainty continues to plague the video game industry with unconfirmed reports insisting"Metal Gear" creator Hideo Kojima has left Konami. The rumors first began when users commenting on a Reddit threat noted that the name of Kojima was being removed from samples of artwork meant for "Metal Gear Solid 5."
Adding fuel to the fire is another recent rumor saying Kojima Productions, the studio behind the "Metal Gear" games, has seemingly disappeared. Another suspicious point being used to say Kojima has left the company is the news that the Los Angeles counterpart of the studio has been renamed Konami Los Angeles Studios, according to Tech Times.
Another report regarding the issue also said Kojima Productions and Konami have had a recent falling out, leading to staff members of the "Metal Gear" studio being given limited access to internal communication within the company, according to Gamespot.
Kojima himself is also apparently being given limited opportunities to make appearances even to promote the new "Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain" game in the works. The supposed disagreements between the parties have also reportedly led to Kojima and certain members of his studio being designated as contractors and no longer as permanent employees.
With rumors remaining rampant, Konami decided to address the issue in a statement released to IGN.
"Konami Digital Entertainment (including Mr. Kojima), will continue to develop and support Metal Gear products. Please look forward to future announcements," said a representative for Konami. The representative of Konami also mentioned an internal plan to restructure the company in order to adapt to the current business landscape.
Konami has yet to comment on the apparent rebranding concerning Kojima Productions. "Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain" is set to be released in September on the Playstation 3, Playstation 4, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and the PC.
Join the Conversation