Report: Hideo Kojima to Leave Konami by End of Year
Reportedly Done After "MGSV"
An anonymous inside source from Kojima Productions spoke with GameSpot about the relationship between the team and publisher Konami. Reportedly by the the end of the year, Hideo Kojima will be leaving Konami.
As it stands, the source claims that there have been some internal disputes between Kojima/his production team and Konami. The source mentioned that there have been "power struggles" between the production team and Konami, which caused employment statuses and arrangement. GameSpot claims that Kojima Productions are being restricted from corporate Internet, emails, and phones, and they are working as contractors now as opposed to permanent employees.
After we finish MGSV, Mr. Kojima and upper management will leave Konami. They said their contract ends in December. At a team meeting, Mr. Kojima explained that team have to be one and make a good game for fans. Anonymous Source to GameSpot
Konami is also removing the Kojima Productions logo from any promotional art for "Metal Gear." Promotion for "Metal Gear Solid V" is also changing to remove the Kojima Productions logo, as seen on the Twitter page, Metal Gear Website, and LA office listing.
GameSpot has also reached out to Konami for additional statements, but they would not respond directly. They did release a statement on their production structure though.
As we have already announced, we are shifting our production structure to a headquarters-controlled system, in order to establish a steadfast operating base capable of responding to the rapid market changes that surround our digital entertainment business. Konami Digital Entertainment (including Mr. Kojima), will continue to develop and support Metal Gear products. Please look forward to future announcements. Konami
What this supposed departure means for "Silent Hills," which happened to be a collaboration of Hideo Kojima and Guillermo del Toro and starring "The Walking Dead" star Norman Reedus, is unknown at the moment.
"Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain" is scheduled to release Sept. 1 on PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One and Sept. 15 for PC.
Source: GameSpot
