Hideo Kojima is considered to be one of gaming's most creative minds. Throughout his storied career, Kojima has made incredible gameplay experiences. Gameplay aside, many have enjoyed Kojima's creations for their over the top and powerful stories. The narratives are often based on the realities of historical and current issues, like Metal Gear Solid 3 and the Cold War.
On top of historical fiction works, some wonder if the developer is a prophet. There are fans who believe that Kojima predicted the coronavirus with Death Stranding. Recently Kojima was asked about just that.
During the Summer Games Fest, Kojima responded to the idea that he can foresee the future. And he did so with his patented charm and humor. He believes that if he was truly able to predict future events, Death Stranding sales would be different, and he would have created a game that sold better.
According to the translator in the interview, Kojima says that "I'd like to say that am not a prophet, because if I was I probably would have created a game that would sell more." Death Stranding is certainly a polarizing game. Many love the idea that Kojima is able to create such unique experiences, but still, the Metal Gear Solid franchise is by far his most successful.
The top Hideo Kojima games can be easily be argued. Between his PT teaser game, the mysteries of Death Stranding, or the epic saga that is Metal Gear Solid, Kojima seemingly has a game for all. Within his games, his ability to touch on social issues such as political dissension, war, nuclear warheads, the kidnapping of children, love, hate, and even pandemics is certainly special. But regardless of how much Death Stranding seems to have predicted nation and worldwide health problems, Kojima seems to be sure that it was simply luck.
If Kojima could tell the future, and thus create a better selling Death Stranding game, the end result may have been a less creative experience. For Kojima and his team, the best outcome would be a game that speaks to everyone and tops the sales charts. But sometimes art can be appreciated without massive success. In the case of Death Stranding, perhaps the game is better off as a niche and distinctive game.