Renowned game creator Hideo Kojima recently shared his reflections on the demanding nature of game development, specifically mentioning the intense "crunch time" currently underway. In a series of X/Twitter posts, Kojima described this period as the most physically and mentally challenging phase of production, citing the numerous tasks beyond game development itself, including voice recording, writing, interviews, and various other commitments. While he didn't explicitly name the project, given the 2025 release date of Death Stranding 2 and the typical timing of crunch periods, it's strongly implied that this is the game currently undergoing this intense phase. Kojima Productions also has other projects, OD and Physint, but these seem to be in earlier stages of development.
Kojima's comments about crunch weren't solely focused on his current workload. The 61-year-old also expressed contemplation about the longevity of his creative career, sparked by reading a Ridley Scott biography. While acknowledging the strenuous nature of crunch, his concern seems less about immediate burnout and more about the long-term sustainability of his creative output. He expressed a desire to continue creating for many years to come, citing Scott's continued success at 87 as inspiration.
This shouldn't alarm fans, as Kojima's message conveys a determination to persevere despite his extensive career in the video game industry. Death Stranding 2, which showed off bizarre gameplay elements in September, including a unique photo mode and unexpected characters like one portrayed by George Miller, is still shrouded in mystery regarding its narrative. While some story details and returning characters have been confirmed, much remains to be revealed. The original Death Stranding, reviewed by IGN as a game with a fascinating world but gameplay that struggled to match its ambition, has certainly left a lasting impact, setting the stage for the highly anticipated sequel.
