Breaking: Concerns are mounting regarding the future of Hideo Kojima‘s highly anticipated horror game, “OD,” as Microsoft continues to restructure its gaming division following significant layoffs and project cancellations. Reports suggest the project’s status is uncertain amidst a broader wave of changes impacting Xbox Game Studios.
Microsoft’s recent actions, including the elimination of 9,100 positions company-wide in January 2024, have led to the cancellation of several gaming projects. Notable casualties include Rare’s open-world adventure, “Everwild,” and the reboot of “Perfect Dark” developed by The Initiative, a first-party studio based in Vancouver, British Columbia. Funding was also withdrawn from a new shooter project in advancement with Romero games, the studio co-founded by “Doom” creator John Romero.
Kojima, known for the “Metal Gear Solid” series and “Death Stranding,” initially announced a partnership with Xbox in November 2022. The collaboration culminated in the official reveal of “OD” at The Game Awards in December 2023. The game is being co-created with acclaimed filmmaker Jordan Peele, known for his work on “Get Out” and “Nope,” and features a cast including Sophia Boutella (“Rebel Moon”), Troy Baker (“The Last of Us”), and Norman Reedus (“Death Stranding”). The project was described as a horror experience unlike anything previously seen.
The lack of substantial updates since the December reveal, coupled with Microsoft’s recent restructuring, has fueled speculation about the game’s development. While Kojima stated in a late January 2024 interview with IGN that work on “OD” continues, he also emphasized that the true evaluation of the game will come years, even decades, after its release. He indicated that initial reactions are less important than long-term impact.
The Xbox Game studios portfolio currently includes over 20 development teams, including Bethesda Game Studios (Rockville, Maryland), Ninja Theory (Cambridge, England), and Playground Games (Leamington Spa, England). Microsoft’s investment in Xbox and its gaming ecosystem reflects a long-term strategy to compete with industry leaders like sony’s PlayStation and Nintendo.
Rebekah Valentine is a senior reporter for IGN. You can find her posting on BlueSky @duckvalentine.bsky.social. Got a story tip? Send it to rvalentine@ign.com.
