Hideo Kojima is known for his innovative game ideas, much like Peter Molyneux. On a recent episode of his Japanese radio show, KOJI10, the creator of Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding shared some intriguing concepts for games centered around the theme of time. One standout idea was a game where the main character gradually forgets information if players take too long a break from playing.
According to Ian Games Network, this “forgetting game” would require players to progress quickly to prevent the main character from losing important abilities and knowledge. For instance, prolonged breaks from the game could lead to the character forgetting essential skills like how to use weapons or even their own identity. This unique mechanic would challenge players to dedicate extended periods to the game to maintain their character’s memory.
In this concept, the main character gradually forgets important information and abilities if you take too long a break from the game. For example, if you don’t play every day, the main character will gradually forget things such as “how to fire their gun or what their job is.” This forgetfulness builds up until finally the player is unable to move. “Players would have to take a week off work or school to play it,” Kojima laughs.
While the idea of forgetting information due to breaks in gameplay may sound familiar, Kojima’s creative twist offers a new level of immersion. Imagine leaving notes for your character before logging off, reminiscent of the film “Memento.” Kojima also proposed two other intriguing concepts: a game where you age from a baby to an old man with deteriorating abilities, and a game centered around the slow maturation of products like wine or cheese.
Interestingly, Death Stranding 2 almost featured a unique time mechanic involving the protagonist growing a beard that players would need to maintain. However, Kojima scrapped the idea to preserve Norman Reedus’ cool image. Fans can look forward to playing Reedus’ digitally groomed character in the upcoming release, “On The Beach.”
