Xbox will publish Hideo Kojima's upcoming game Physint after PlayStation cancelled the project. The swap marks an unexpected shift in the long-standing partnership between Kojima Productions and Sony.
Xbox Game Pass has secured publishing rights to Physint, the next project from Metal Gear creator Hideo Kojima, following PlayStation's decision to withdraw from the collaboration.
Sony, which previously published Kojima Productions' Death Stranding titles, announced the departure as a "difficult decision to step away from collaborating with Kojima Productions." The company stated their relationship with the studio "remains strong" despite the split.
Kojima Productions and Xbox confirmed the new partnership in simultaneous announcements, with Kojima himself addressing the transition. Details about the game's scope, release window, and gameplay remain limited.
The move represents a notable change in the industry landscape. Sony's Death Stranding partnership established a significant relationship between the publisher and the renowned designer. Kojima Productions has maintained independence following its 2015 split from Konami, working with external partners on publishing and distribution.
Physint marks Xbox's expansion into partnerships with acclaimed independent studios and creators. The platform has increasingly pursued exclusive publishing deals and timed exclusivity agreements to differentiate its Game Pass offering.
Neither party disclosed specific reasons for PlayStation's withdrawal or financial terms of Xbox's involvement. Physint remains in development at Kojima Productions.
The announcement underscores shifting dynamics in gaming partnerships, where console manufacturers compete aggressively for high-profile exclusive titles and creator relationships.
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