Famed video game developer Hideo Kojima has denied the long held belief that he takes too long and spends too much when making games.
Even Kojima’s most ardent fans believe that he takes too long when making games, a perception that solidified further upon the release of Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain. Fans and reviewers alike have taken note of missing content in the game and have taken this as proof that he was not able to finish the game as he wanted in time. You can read examples of fans discussing this here and here.
Kojima concedes in Metal Gear Solid 5‘s case that it was five to six months late when it released, but he does keep his word when it comes to timelines and budget. He also explained that it usually takes him three to four years to make games, and this is deliberately planned and within budget.
Kojima further explains that part of why his games take that long to make is his personal involvement, not only in multiple aspects of development but also marketing. This includes art, teaser trailers, posters, etc.
Countering the common perception that Japanese developers are generally loose when it comes to deadlines, he had this to say:
Japanese creators are famous for being loose with schedules, and I think people put me in that category, but it’s not reality. In my case, I’m a director and a producer, so I have to stay aware of production and the budget.
You can read what Kojima has to say about having to let go of Silent Hills, and his message to fans after his nearly year long post-Konami road trip.
