Kojima's own family doubted his solo move post-Konami

Legendary game designer Hideo Kojima, known for the Metal Gear Solid series and Death Stranding, faced substantial opposition from friends, colleagues, and family when he decided to leave Konami and establish his own independent studio, Kojima Productions. Despite the skepticism regarding the financial and organizational challenges of independence, Kojima pursued his vision in the gaming industry. His advocacy for a life-long career in creating resonates through his belief that creating is not simply a job but a way of living, signifying his stance against retirement. He stresses the importance of young creators having the freedom to innovate without corporate constraints. Recently, he teased his upcoming game, OD, which promises to be an unconventional horror experience in line with Kojima's unique brand of storytelling. This development underlines Kojima's continued impact on the video game industry as an independent creator.

Kojima decided to go independent because he views creating as his life's passion, not just a job. He wanted to prove that it is possible to succeed outside the traditional corporate structure of the gaming industry and to encourage and give more freedom to the next generation of game creators.