Hideo Kojima says he was 'shocked' after Sony cut ties with Physint over a Zoom call: 'Nothing could’ve prepared me for their decision to step away from the pro

Sony informed Kojima Productions in June that it would no longer fund Physint, a project Kojima had assumed was secure amid industry layoffs. The news came during a Zoom call, leaving Kojima stunned and unsure how to proceed. He described the shock as overwhelming, noting that his studio’s financial stability depended on the project’s continuation. Kojima emphasized that without funding, he feared having to disband the Physint team or risk the studio’s collapse due to cash flow issues.

Kojima disclosed that he had personally borrowed money to sustain Kojima Productions, adding that canceling Physint would jeopardize those arrangements. He expressed confusion over Sony’s decision, which he attributed in part to shifts in personnel at the company. Despite the abrupt end, Kojima maintained a positive view of Sony, stating he harbored no ill will toward the company. His immediate concern was shielding his staff from the news, recalling the turmoil caused by the cancellation of P.T.

After the shock subsided, Kojima pivoted to pitching Physint as a multimedia IP to other publishers, framing it as a broader franchise rather than a single game. He recounted receiving positive responses from multiple parties, though he sought a partner capable of supporting such an expansive vision. The approach aligned with his long-term creative goals, blending games with films, anime, and other media formats.

Kojima ultimately turned to Xbox, which agreed to publish Physint after recognizing the potential of his pitch. Microsoft’s willingness to support the project stood out despite its own recent studio closures. Kojima highlighted the existing collaboration on OD as a factor in the decision, calling the partnership a natural fit for both sides.