Key information
Reports indicate that Microsoft's agreement for Hideo Kojima's Physint involved a cost substantially lower than what Xbox typically spends to develop a premium game. The deal was secured after Kojima pitched the project to new CEO Asha Sharma, following Sony's cancellation of the title as a former PlayStation exclusive.
Online budget rumors for the spiritual successor to Metal Gear Solid had previously ranged around $400 million, but a New York Times article regarding Sharma revealed the deal was secured below expectations. Sources close to the negotiation noted the cost remained well under standard premium game budgets and importantly included film and television rights.
Kojima stated that Microsoft is focusing on the broader intellectual property rather than just funding a standalone game, encompassing potential films and animes. The broader partnership covers adaptations similar to Death Stranding.
Following the Xbox announcement, Bloomberg reported that Sony held concerns regarding Physint's budget, development timeline, platform strategy, and Death Stranding's success. The Kojima Productions studio issued a statement affirming they remain in a healthy and profitable situation while development on Physint advances alongside their solid PlayStation relationship.
Physint currently lacks a release date window and is anticipated to launch after the release of OD, Kojima's other upcoming Xbox project.
