Word has come out in the industry that Kojima Productions’ LA studio has been closed.
3D Realms developer George Broussard broke the rumor to the public, and it was later corroborated by SCEA producer Sam Thompson, both on Twitter.
Broussard stated that the closure has affected 35 jobs, and in a cruel turn, doing so not too far from the holidays.
VG 24/7 has sought out Konami’s response to the rumor, but have yet to hear back.
A necessary hazard in discussing the situation between Konami and Hideo Kojima is much of what we know still comes from the grapevine, and have yet to be corroborated by either party. In fact, the Kojima LA studio, which was renamed to Konami LA, still has its website up, and a page for job openings.
However, among those earlier rumors is word that Konami has been hiding shady business practices surrounding their game studios, and hiding it all up. Also, they recently denied Kojima leaving the company, in spite of all indication to the contrary.
BREAKING: Rumor tells me that Konami has shut down the Kojima Productions LA studio, taking with it approx 35 jobs, just before Xmas.
— George Broussard (@georgeb3dr) November 3, 2015
Really sad news about the loss of Konami's Los Angeles studio. Happy thoughts to all those affected. End of an era for sure, stay strong.
— Venice Beach Gandalf (@PortableKingpin) November 2, 2015