Upon reflecting on Microsoft’s stance on the video game market, its presence in Japan is notably absent. While its competitors, Sony & Nintendo, are notable opponents in the respected region, Microsoft still continues to tackle its way into the eastern hemisphere. But as we witnessed with deals like Sega and most recently with reports of Square Enix, there might be a different story being written behind the scenes.
As for what is already established, Microsoft’s acquisition of Zenimax Media ala Bethesda does push its foot through the door. That being Tango Gameworks, the Evil Within developer shows to be a prominent asset in this new venture. And Xbox lead Phil Spencer is adamant to further develop a relationship with that team.
Now according to a report from GamesBeat as you might expect, Jeff Grubb in a new report indicates to have word on the new Kojima Productions project. However, the juicy detail is that Hideo Kojima is to be pursuing a deal with Microsoft for the next effort from the Tokyo-based developer.
Grubb goes on the implicate that the previous image of Spencer during a livestream is to be the hint for the arrangement. In that, the Xbox boss is speaking as a Kojima Productions’ ‘Luden’ stands on a shelf behind Spencer. You can view the image in the photo below:

“And yes, that statue on Phil Spencer’s shelf was referencing a potential deal with the legendary developer,” Grubb asserts in the piece. “I cannot confirm if Xbox closed the deal yet, but my understanding is that Kojima is the focus of a Microsoft plan to leverage Japanese talent.’ And with Kojima Productions employees hinting at a “soon” announcement, only time will reveal what is truly underway.
In regards to another story circulating around Microsoft, in some aspects, Grubb previously spoke on Alan Wake officially receiving a sequel. The Xbox 360 exclusive is said to find a follow-up as part of the publishing deal between Remedy Entertainment & Epic Games.
Similarly, it was revealed previously that another Japanese firm is interested in collaborating with Microsoft. Tomonobu Itagaki, creator for the modern Ninja Gaiden franchise and now founder of self-named Itagaki Games spares his excitement to partner up with Microsoft if the opportunity goes his way. You can read the full report by heading here.
Do you believe that the rumor is true between Xbox & Kojima Productions?
Source: GamesBeat