“It’s exactly what entertainment is for”: Kojima explains why he includes obscure music in his games

Hideo Kojima is known not only for his games, but also for filling them with references to films, music, and literature that most players have never even heard of. In a recent interview, he explained why he does this deliberately — and why he sees it as part of his mission.

As an example, Kojima pointed to his collaboration with Low Roar — an Icelandic group blending post-rock, ambient, and electronic music. Before the release of Death Stranding, most players had never even heard of them. According to Kojima, he understands that a large part of the gaming audience tends to stay within their own tastes — which is exactly why he sees it as his role to introduce them to artistic works they might otherwise never discover.

Kojima himself has long been known for his exceptionally broad cultural outlook: he regularly publishes reviews of films, references dozens of directors and writers in interviews, and his games are practically woven from elements of global art. His studio, Kojima Productions, is currently working on the horror project OD with Xbox, as well as a spy action title Physint for PlayStation. A live-action film based on Death Stranding is also in development in collaboration with A24.

Do you think games can broaden cultural horizons and should educate us — or are they meant to serve a different purpose? Share your thoughts in the comments.