Kojima’s upcoming horror game introduces a unique feature to keep players engaged, even those who are easily frightened.

Hideo Kojima unveiled his upcoming horror game, OD, in 2023 with a trailer featuring Sophia Lillis (from Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves) delivering a chilling scream. This initial glimpse certainly set a terrifying tone for Kojima’s latest project, known for his work on Death Stranding and Metal Gear Solid. However, Kojima has now revealed plans to make the game more accessible for players who might shy away from intense scares.

In a comprehensive feature discussing Xbox’s 25th anniversary, Kojima shared insights about OD. The game is being developed in collaboration with acclaimed horror director Jordan Peele, who co-writes alongside Kojima. He recounted pitching the concept to various companies, stating, “I pitched to many people, to the big companies, and also to the up-and-coming companies. All of them said the same thing: they thought I was crazy and didn’t understand the concept — that they wouldn’t be able to do it.” It wasn’t until former Xbox CEO Phil Spencer took notice that the project gained traction. His successor, Asha Sharma, described OD as “representing another kind of game.”

The interview also showcased a new screenshot from OD, depicting a dimly lit hallway with a sickly yellow hue. Multiple doors line the sides, and a shadowy figure lurks in one doorway. An old TV in the hallway appears to show Sophia Lillis, evoking strong vibes reminiscent of PT.

For those unfamiliar, PT was a playable teaser for the now-canceled Silent Hills project that Kojima was developing before his departure from Konami in 2015. Lillis will star alongside Hunter Schafer (Euphoria) and Udo Kier (Flesh for Frankenstein), who passed away in November 2025. It was noted that a scan of Kier was completed prior to his death, but further details about his role remain undisclosed.

Kojima describes OD as a project “no one has ever seen before,” emphasizing his desire to make it as frightening as possible while ensuring it remains accessible for players who might quit when the scares become overwhelming. He hinted at a system designed to help these players continue, though he withheld specifics to keep the surprise intact. This isn’t the first time Kojima has sought to make his games more player-friendly; in 2025’s Death Stranding 2, players can choose to “pretend you won” during boss fights after failing once, allowing them to tailor their experience and enjoy the story without being locked out by difficulty.

This approach could be a game-changer for the horror genre, which often features compelling narratives but can be intimidating for those sensitive to jump scares. If successful, Kojima’s system might set a new standard for horror games.

Currently, OD does not have a release date. While Death Stranding was unique, Kojima suggests he can push the boundaries even further.