Report: Hideo Kojima's Xbox Exclusive 'OD' Is Safe From Cancellation At Microsoft

Hideo Kojima's Xbox exclusive horror game OD is reportedly safe from Microsoft's, arguably scarier, 'Xbox Reset' strategy.

The sentiment comes from a recent IGN report claiming a source 'familiar' with Microsoft's dealings believes Kojima Productions aren't considered to be on the Xbox chopping block.

A source familiar with Microsoft's plans indicated Kojima’s upcoming horror game remains in the works at Kojima Productions and with Xbox publishing, even as Microsoft reassesses its video game investments.

Phew, because It would be bloody awkward if Microsoft were to target OD following a remark to Entertainment Weekly from Xbox boss Asha Sharma calling it a "deeply moving game".

In the same article, Kojima spoke about the early struggles of pitching OD to publishers, reminiscing about how they all called him "crazy", and only former Xbox CEO Phil Spencer "understood the concept" who eventually went on to greenlight the project.

Published by Xbox Game Studios, OD is an ambitious horror experience from Hideo Kojima, developed in collaboration with filmmaker Jordan Peele (Get Out, Us). The game features Sophia Lillis (It), Hunter Schafer (Euphoria) and the late Udo Kier (Ace Ventura: Pet Detective).

OD has been a part of Microsoft's plans since its reveal at The Game Awards in 2023, but not much else is known about the game beyond a couple of trailers. It's good to see that a studio can remain tight-lipped about it's project and not get the axe. Although it's not the case for everyone.

Microsoft told Bloomberg:

“We're not reducing our overall investment in games. We expect to invest about the same in content as we did last year. What's changing is where we're investing and the kinds of projects we're backing.”

As it stands, reports suggest five studios across Xbox are at risk of closure. Arkane Studios (Marvel's Blade), Double Fine (Psychonauts 2, Kiln), Ninja Theory (Hellblade), Compulsion Games (South of Midnight), and Undead Labs (State of Decay).

We'll have to wait and see what unfolds in the coming weeks, but at least OD's survival can serve as a silver-lining in all of this mess.

Are you happy OD is safe? Let us know in the comments below.