Microsoft’s Xbox division has secured the publishing rights for Hideo Kojima’s highly anticipated title “Physint,” marking a significant shift from its originally planned release on Sony’s PlayStation platform. The announcement was made via an Xbox blog post on Wednesday, confirming that the developer behind the “Death Stranding” and “Metal Gear” franchises is broadening its collaborative ties with Microsoft.
While “Physint” was previously set to be published by PlayStation, it will now come to Xbox. This move carries particular weight given Kojima’s extensive history with Sony, including the development of the successful “Death Stranding” franchise for the console. Xbox is already slated to publish Kojima Productions’ upcoming horror title “OD,” a project developed in partnership with filmmaker Jordan Peele, though no release date has been announced yet. “Physint” follows “OD” in the studio’s upcoming lineup.
The agreement extends beyond video games. Xbox announced that it will work with Kojima Productions across film and television to introduce new narratives to wider audiences. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating, “Creators have choices about where and how they bring their ideas to life. We’re honored that Kojima-san has chosen Xbox to work with KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS on ‘PHYSINT.’”
Kojima echoed these sentiments, noting that the deal builds upon their existing relationship established with “OD.” He added, “As we move forward with the development of ‘PHYSINT,’ we remain committed to redefining the action-espionage genre for players around the world.”
The expansion of the Kojima-Xbox partnership follows recent industry discussions surrounding PlayStation’s July decision to discontinue physical disc production for new titles starting in 2028. However, negotiations between Xbox and Kojima began earlier in the year after Sharma succeeded Phil Spencer as Xbox CEO. Since taking the helm, Sharma has held in-person meetings with Kojima to discuss creative ambitions and potential transmedia opportunities.
Kojima is currently developing a “Death Stranding” film adaptation at A24. In a 2024 interview with Variety, the creator reflected on the evolving convergence of media formats, observing that the historical divide between movies and games is disappearing as both industries adopt digital workflows.
Phil Spencer loved Kojima too. I wonder if this deal was already in motion before the CEO change. Seems like a smart pivot for Xbox.
Asha Sharma is shaking things up already. The transmedia angle with film and TV is interesting, though I hope the game isn’t neglected.
Wait, so does this affect the physical disc situation? I heard Sony is phasing them out soon. Just worried about collecting.
Honestly, as long as the game is good, I don’t care what console it’s on. Microsoft actually needs a killer exclusive.
This is huge! I never saw a Kojima title leaving PlayStation coming. Does this mean we get Death Stranding 3 on Xbox?