Hideo Kojima’s OD Game Safe Amidst Xbox Cuts

Hideo Kojima's Xbox console-exclusive horror game, OD, is reportedly safe amidst reports and rumors of studio closures, layoffs, and game cancellations at Xbox loom.

Hideo Kojima's upcoming Xbox exclusive horror game, OD, is reportedly unaffected by the recent turmoil at Xbox studios. Despite uncertainties surrounding Xbox's future projects, a source familiar with Microsoft's plans confirmed that OD, developed by Kojima Productions, will continue production and be published by Xbox. The game, announced during an Xbox showcase in June 2022, features actors Sophia Lillis, Hunter Schafer, and the late Udo Kier, with collaboration from director Jordan Peele.

Kojima mentioned in a recent interview that OD's concept was not easily grasped by many, except for former Xbox CEO Phil Spencer, who recognized its potential. The partnership between Kojima Productions and Xbox remains intact, even as Xbox anticipates significant changes under new CEO Asha Sharma. While the release date for OD remains unknown, the assurance of its development progress contrasts with the recent layoffs at 007 First Light developer IO Interactive, following Microsoft's withdrawal of funding for Project Fantasy.

Reports suggest that several Xbox studios, including Arkane, Compulsion Games, Double Fine, Ninja Theory, and Undead Labs, are at risk of significant restructuring. Speculations point towards potential closures, sell-offs, or spin-offs of these studios. Marvel's Blade, developed by Arkane, is rumored to be facing cancellation despite positive feedback from Bethesda's Todd Howard. The Verge reported that mass layoffs across Xbox are expected around July 6, impacting various departments within the organization.