As mass layoffs sweep through Microsoft and its Xbox division, fans are understandably concerned about the fate of many in-development titles—especially high-profile projects like OD, the upcoming horror game from Hideo Kojima. Fortunately, recent reports indicate that OD remains in development—for now.
First announced in 2023, OD is a cloud-powered horror game developed by Kojima Productions in partnership with Xbox Game Studios. The game marks Kojima’s first collaboration with Microsoft and is said to explore new gameplay experiences leveraging Xbox’s cloud technology.
However, the atmosphere at Microsoft is currently anything but stable. The tech giant recently laid off nearly 9,000 employees across its gaming and tech subsidiaries, leading to the cancellation of multiple games including the Perfect Dark reboot, Everwild, and other unannounced projects. Several studios have also been shut down, adding to the uncertainty.
In light of these developments, Windows Central’s Jez Corden offered reassurance to worried fans, reporting that OD is “still in development, at least for today.” While that statement confirms the project hasn’t been axed, the phrasing also hints at the volatile nature of the current industry climate.
“OD isn’t affected by the cutbacks. At least for now.” – Jez Corden, Windows Central
The comment has sparked both relief and anxiety among Kojima fans. On one hand, it affirms that the project is progressing, but on the other, it underscores the possibility that no title is truly safe during this period of aggressive restructuring.
Corden also noted that the future of “many” other Xbox-announced projects—especially those that haven’t seen public updates—remains “up in the air,” further illustrating the fragile state of Xbox’s current development pipeline.
What This Means for OD and Kojima Productions
For now, it seems Kojima’s OD has survived the first wave of cuts. With Kojima Productions remaining an independent studio, the collaboration with Xbox likely gives both parties some flexibility. However, as budget priorities shift and cloud gaming strategies evolve, the fate of even high-profile titles like OD could change quickly.
Until then, OD remains one of the most mysterious—and anticipated—titles in Xbox’s future lineup. Fans will no doubt be watching closely for updates, hoping Kojima’s vision gets the green light all the way to launch.