Hideo Kojima's Physint moves to Xbox after PlayStation cancels project

Hideo Kojima's upcoming action-espionage game Physint is moving to Xbox after PlayStation cancelled the project earlier this year. Kojima Productions received notice from PlayStation Studios in mid-June to cancel Physint, prompting the studio to search for a new publisher over the following three months. Sony's decision to abandon the project was notable given Kojima's long-standing relationship with PlayStation, having created the Metal Gear series on the platform.

Xbox has now taken over the publishing duties, extending its existing partnership with Kojima Productions, which is also developing the horror game OD on Microsoft's platform. Kojima emphasized the importance of Physint both personally and to the studio, stating their commitment to keep the project alive and maintain a shared vision for the future.

Sony confirmed its decision, noting that while its relationship with Kojima remains strong, it made the difficult choice to step away from Physint after 30 years of creative cooperation. Physint holds significance as Kojima's return to the action-espionage genre after leaving Konami in 2015. Initially announced as a new IP developed with Sony Interactive Entertainment, the game was intended to utilize cutting-edge technology to merge games and film.

Kojima's decision to return to this genre was influenced by fan requests for a new Metal Gear-style game. Development of Physint is continuing, and the agreement with Xbox also includes a potential collaboration on film and television projects. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma expressed honor at Kojima's choice, highlighting the ambition to challenge conventions in gaming.

While no release date or platforms for Physint have been announced, the company expressed excitement about the expanded relationship with Kojima Productions.