Kojima's Reported Budget Request for Physint Was Substantial, Journalist Claims
Bloomberg's Jason Schreier reports that Hideo Kojima sought a significant budget from Sony for the stealth game Physint, though the figure remains unconfirmed. Sony ultimately withdrew from the project due to concerns over cost, progress, and exclusivity, with Xbox later picking it up. Schreier suggests Xbox is paying less than Kojima originally asked from PlayStation.
Bloomberg journalist Jason Schreier has indicated that Hideo Kojima's budget request for Physint was notably high, though he has not verified the exact figure. The negotiation between Kojima Productions and Sony reportedly stretched over months, covering budget, timeline, extensions, and exclusivity terms before collapsing. Sony's concerns included the project's slow progress and Kojima's unwillingness to guarantee exclusivity, especially since he would retain full ownership of the IP.
Following Sony's withdrawal, Xbox acquired the project, with Bill Skarsgard attached to star. Schreier believes Microsoft's financial commitment is lower than what Kojima originally sought from PlayStation. The game's development remains early, with Kojima yet to select an engine after Guerrilla's Decima technology became unavailable. Kojima Productions has publicly urged skepticism regarding Schreier's claims.
This reporting could influence how publishers approach high-profile developer partnerships, particularly regarding IP ownership and budget expectations. Fans may see this as a cautionary tale about creative ambition clashing with corporate risk management, potentially affecting how future projects are structured. The outcome may also shift perceptions of Xbox's acquisition strategy, suggesting it can secure major talent at more favorable terms than competitors.