Hideo Kojima’s USB Legacy: Game Ideas for After He’s Gone
Legendary game developer Hideo Kojima, creator of the acclaimed Metal Gear series and Death Stranding, is contemplating his legacy. In a recent interview, Kojima revealed a unique plan to ensure the continuation of Kojima Productions long after he's gone: a USB drive packed with his game ideas.
This isn't just a casual thought; it's a meticulously planned strategy born from personal reflection. Kojima, who turned 60, shared that a severe illness during the pandemic prompted him to seriously consider his remaining time and the future of his studio. He told Edge Magazine, "Turning 60 was less of a turning point in my life than my experiences during the pandemic. I fell seriously ill at that time, and also had an eye operation."
The experience confronted him with his mortality, leading him to question how many years he had left to create. This realization spurred him to create the "USB stick of game ideas," a digital will of sorts, for his personal assistant to preserve and potentially bring to life. As he stated, "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 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."
Kojima's desire for Kojima Productions to continue innovating beyond his lifetime is palpable. He’s currently involved in several projects, including the action-espionage game Physint with Sony, OD backed by Xbox, and the highly anticipated Death Stranding 2. He hopes these projects will solidify the studio's future and prevent it from simply relying on existing intellectual property.
He even sought advice from directors Guillermo del Toro and Nicolas Winding Refn, both of whom appeared in Death Stranding, about potentially directing a film. They encouraged him to stick with video games, recognizing his unique talent within the medium.
The USB drive represents Kojima's commitment to ensuring his creative vision lives on. It’s a testament to his passion and dedication to the gaming world, even beyond his own lifespan.
What kind of game ideas do you think are hidden on that USB drive? Will Kojima Productions bring them to life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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