Kojima remains undecided on Physint's PS5 release and engine choice after Sony split

Key points

• Kojima stated in an IGN interview that he cannot answer whether Physint will release on PS5, deferring the decision to Xbox.
• The developer has not finalized the game's engine, remaining undecided between Sony's Decima and other options like Unreal Engine 5.
• Xbox has offered significant technological support, including access to cutting-edge labs and experimental technologies.
• Kojima Productions previously used the Decima engine for Death Stranding, a collaboration with Guerrilla Games.
• The studio's other project, OD: Knock, is currently being developed using Unreal Engine 5.

Background

In June 2026, Sony Interactive Entertainment abruptly ended its funding partnership with Kojima Productions for Physint, a move that threatened the studio's financial stability. Kojima subsequently secured a new deal with Microsoft's Xbox, which agreed to fund and publish the title. This transition occurred shortly after Kojima cast Bill Skarsgård as the lead character in the game, which is described as a spiritual successor to the Metal Gear Solid series.

How outlets are covering it

Eurogamer highlights Kojima's uncertainty regarding platform exclusivity and engine choice, noting that Xbox's recent shift toward exclusivity under CEO Asha Sharma creates ambiguity for Physint's PS5 release. The Washington Post emphasizes the shock of Sony's sudden cancellation via Zoom call, which left Kojima fearing the collapse of his independent studio. Mashable focuses on the lack of reason provided by Sony and Kojima's subsequent pivot to Xbox, which offered not just funding but broader IP support including film and anime rights. While all sources agree on the fundamental shift from Sony to Xbox, they differ in emphasis: Eurogamer focuses on technical and platform logistics, The Washington Post on the emotional and financial impact on the studio, and Mashable on the broader corporate relationship dynamics.

Why it matters

The uncertainty surrounding Physint's platform availability and engine choice reflects the shifting landscape of game publishing partnerships. Kojima's decision to pivot to Xbox, a company recently moving away from multi-platform strategies, raises questions about the future of cross-platform releases for high-profile titles. Additionally, the studio's ability to secure new funding and technical support after a sudden cancellation demonstrates the resilience of independent developers in a volatile market.

What to watch

Kojima has indicated that platform and engine decisions will be announced at a later time. Xbox has committed to providing technical support and funding, but specific details regarding PS5 availability remain unresolved. The studio continues development on Physint while also working on OD: Knock, which is being built on Unreal Engine 5. No release date has been confirmed for either title.