Hideo Kojima, the legendary creator behind hit games like Metal Gear Solid and Death StrandingKojima, recently spoke about the future of his studio, Kojima Productions. In his interview with GQ UK, Kojima emphasized that he doesn't want his company to simply replicate his creative style after he leaves. This statement gives a deep insight into Kojima's creative philosophy, especially regarding the concept of legacy in the gaming industry.
Kojima explicitly said that raw imitation of him would lead the studio to failure. He believes that such an approach is not the right legacy and is detrimental to the studio's creative future. Instead, Kojima wants his successors to find their own unique voice, driven by the inspiration he left behind. For him, authentic creativity and innovation are the keys to long-term success for the studio.
Hideo Kojima's Legacy of Inspiration
To support this philosophy, Kojima has taken the practical step of compiling "USBs of ideas" that are given to his staff. This is meant as a form of inspiration, rather than a direct instruction to literally copy his creative style or approach. In this way, Kojima hopes to leave behind a "small flame" that will ignite a new spirit of creativity, rather than simply recycling his old works.
Read also: Hideo Kojima Leaves USB with Game Ideas for the Future
Kojima's approach reflects a deep awareness of the business risks in the gaming industry. He recognizes that while he is full of unique and sometimes experimental ideas, decisions must still take into account the financial viability of the company. Kojima Productions, he believes, must be able to continue to grow, while avoiding the risk of major failures that could threaten the survival of the studio and its staff.
Kojima's Realization of the Deadline and the Future of Creativity
The realization that life is limited also influences Kojima's perspective. The experience of dealing with serious health conditions during the pandemic has made him more aware of the importance of a proper creative legacy. He wants a legacy that is not just about him, but about the underlying values that encourage pure creativity and freedom of expression.
With this outlook, Kojima provides an important example of how senior creators should handle the transition of creative leadership in the gaming industry. Rather than simply creating a replica of himself, Kojima chose to leave behind an inspiration that sparked novelty and authentic creativity for the next generation.
In conclusion, Kojima's vision of the future of Kojima Productions is about true creativity evolving and expanding, rather than simply following the pattern he has established. This is an important message for the gaming industry as a whole on how to maintain innovation and creativity amidst business challenges and generational changes.
Source: Gamespot
