Kojima Productions pauses casting and filming for OD and Physint due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, but neither project is at risk.

With just hours left in the year, 2024 has proven a challenging time for the gaming industry, marked by demands for better working conditions and wages. In line with these demands, SAG-AFTRA, the Screen and Television Actors Guild, went on strike to defend performers’ rights and establish boundaries on AI usage in video games. As a result, Hideo Kojima’s two new games have temporarily halted production.

Two Major Projects Put on Hold

Kojima is known for juggling multiple projects. Beyond Death Stranding 2, expected in 2025, Kojima Productions is also developing OD, an Xbox exclusive, and Physint, a spiritual successor to Metal Gear. Both projects are currently in the early phases of recording and scanning facial and body models. However, with SAG-AFTRA unable to reach an agreement with major industry players, Kojima Productions decided to pause these aspects of development.

Hideo Kojima himself announced the production halt during the summer, expressing his support for the strike. “Casting was also suspended for Physint due to the strike. We hope to resume it next year,” he said.

Current Status of the Projects

OD, also known as Overdose, had reached a stable state of early development by September 30. However, core elements like motion capture, voice acting, and localization remain largely incomplete. Meanwhile, Physint, described as “the culmination of a lifetime’s work” for PlayStation, is still in the conceptual stage, meaning it is likely years away from completion.

What About Death Stranding 2?

For Death Stranding 2, Kojima Productions made significant progress earlier this year, including voice recording and Japanese dubbing. While much of the creative work is complete, it’s unclear whether the summer strike impacted the project’s final stages.

More Film Adaptations in Kojima’s Plans

Despite these setbacks, Kojima celebrated milestones such as the Death Stranding event at Shibuya PARCO and a partnership with A24 for a film adaptation. While the movie is still years away, Kojima hinted that this contemplative take on the 2019 game is just the first of several planned adaptations. For now, fans will have to wait.

Source: 3djuegos