What Are the Six Strangest Games Hideo Kojima Created Before Death Stranding 2?

# Hideo Kojima: The Master of Unconventional Gaming Experiences Hideo Kojima is a name synonymous with innovation, creativity, and unpredictability in the video game industry. His games are often described as "weird," a label that may be reductive but serves as a fitting entry point into the diverse and intriguing world Kojima has created. As we prepare for the release of *Death Stranding 2*, it's essential to delve into Kojima's gameography and highlight some of the most unconventional entries that have shaped his career. From platformers featuring armed penguins to stock market simulators, Kojima's eclectic portfolio is a testament to his boundary-pushing creativity. ## The Weird World of Hideo Kojima Kojima's ability to blend genres, narrative complexity, and offbeat humor is unmatched. His games often defy traditional classifications, leaving players both bewildered and enthralled. This article will examine several of Kojima's most bizarre creations, providing insights into how they reflect his unique vision and storytelling style. ### 1. Penguin Adventure: The Surprising Debut #### A Platformer with a Twist *Kojima's first foray into game development, *Penguin Adventure*, released in 1986 for the MSX home computer, is a curious mix of platforming and whimsical storytelling. Players control a cartoonish penguin on a quest to save his princess, navigating through colorful levels filled with obstacles and enemies. #### Dark Humor in a Lighthearted Game While it may seem like a children's game at first glance, *Penguin Adventure* contains elements that are surprisingly dark. One of the weapons available to the player is an actual gun, contrasting sharply with the game's otherwise cheerful aesthetic. Additionally, there are multiple endings, including one where the princess fails to be rescued, a narrative choice that showcases Kojima's penchant for unexpected twists. ### 2. Snatcher: A Cyberpunk Classic #### Blending Genres and Cinematic Flair Released in 1988, *Snatcher* is often regarded as a groundbreaking title in the visual novel genre. Kojima's love for cinema heavily influenced this game, which combines adventure gameplay with a compelling narrative inspired by iconic films like *Blade Runner* and *Akira*. #### Cult Following and Unique Aesthetic Despite its initial commercial failure, *Snatcher* has achieved cult classic status, appreciated for its cinematic storytelling and rich atmosphere. The game's unique cyberpunk setting, coupled with its complex narrative, offers an experience that stands out in Kojima's portfolio. However, the lack of a modern re-release has left many fans yearning for a chance to experience this classic. ### 3. Metal Gear Ac!d: Card Games and Stealth #### A Radical Departure from the Main Series The *Metal Gear* franchise is known for its stealth action gameplay, but *Metal Gear Ac!d*, released in 2004 for the PSP, took a radical departure from the series' norm. This installment introduced a turn-based collectible card game mechanic, merging stealth elements with strategy gameplay. #### A Unique Presentation The sequel, *Metal Gear Ac!d 2*, further blurred the lines between genres. Not only did it feature a separate continuity, but it also came bundled with a cardboard box called the *Solid Eye*, allowing players to experience stereoscopic visuals. This innovation exemplifies Kojima's commitment to creating unique gaming experiences, even if some players found the card game mechanics divisive. ### 4. Zone of the Enders: Robots and Complexity #### The Futuristic World of Giant Mechs Though Kojima did not directly direct *Zone of the Enders*, his influence is evident throughout the series. Released in 2001, the game features fast-paced mech combat and a rich sci-fi narrative, drawing players into a world filled with intricate lore and character backstories. #### Narrative Depth and Ambiguity The story of *Zone of the Enders* is as complex as it is engaging, offering a multitude of characters and cutscenes that can leave players feeling overwhelmed. The sequel, *Zone of the Enders: The 2nd Runner*, provided a more streamlined experience but retained the series' hallmark of narrative depth. ### 5. Boktai: The Sun is in Your Hand #### A Game Played in the Sunlight One of Kojima's most unconventional games, *Boktai: The Sun is in Your Hand*, was released for the Game Boy Advance in 2003. What set this action RPG apart was its unique gameplay mechanic that required players to use real sunlight to power certain abilities. #### Innovative Yet Impractical While the concept was groundbreaking, practical execution was challenging. Gamers found it difficult to play outside in bright sunlight, particularly in regions with less favorable weather. Despite these challenges, *Boktai* spawned multiple sequels, showcasing the game's lasting impact and Kojima's willingness to experiment with gameplay mechanics. ### 6. Stock Transaction Trainer: A Serious Simulator #### A Niche Market for Gamers Perhaps one of the strangest entries in Kojima's gameography is *Stock Transaction Trainer*, which only released in Japan for the Nintendo DS. This stock market simulator used real data from the Tokyo Stock Exchange, providing players with a realistic trading experience. #### A Unique Response to Gaming Trends In an era when gaming was expanding to include more casual audiences, Kojima's decision to create a serious simulator was unexpected. The game was successful enough to spawn two sequels, but the lack of localization for Western audiences left many curious gamers in the dark about this peculiar title. ### 7. Death Stranding: Redefining the Gaming Experience #### A Bold Venture into New Territory *Kojima's latest major release*, *Death Stranding*, launched in 2019 and garnered attention for its unconventional gameplay and narrative. Players take on the role of Sam Porter Bridges, a deliveryman tasked with reconnecting a fractured world. The game features unique mechanics centered around traversal and connection, challenging traditional gaming conventions. #### The Role of the Player One of the most intriguing aspects of *Death Stranding* is its emphasis on social interaction and cooperation. Players can leave behind structures and items for others to use, creating a sense of shared responsibility in a lonely world. This innovative approach has sparked discussions about the nature of gaming and its potential for fostering community. ### Conclusion: The Legacy of Hideo Kojima Hideo Kojima's gameography is a testament to his unconventional approach to game design and storytelling. His willingness to embrace the weird and the unexpected has led to some of the most memorable and innovative experiences in gaming history. As *Death Stranding 2* approaches its release, fans and newcomers alike can look forward to another chapter in Kojima's ever-evolving narrative. What will Kojima's next bizarre creation bring to the gaming world? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the journey will be unlike any other. ### FAQs #### What makes Hideo Kojima's games unique? Hideo Kojima's games are unique due to their blend of genres, complex narratives, and often unconventional gameplay mechanics. He is known for pushing boundaries and experimenting with new ideas. #### How did *Penguin Adventure* influence Kojima's career? While *Penguin Adventure* was Kojima's first game, it laid the groundwork for his future work by introducing him to game design and storytelling. Its quirky elements foreshadowed the unconventional themes present in his later titles. #### Why is *Snatcher* considered a cult classic? *Snatcher* is considered a cult classic due to its cinematic storytelling, rich atmosphere, and innovative approach to the visual novel genre. Its influence on cyberpunk narratives has made it a beloved title among fans. #### What is the premise of *Death Stranding*? *Death Stranding* follows Sam Porter Bridges, a deliveryman tasked with reconnecting a fractured world. The game features unique gameplay mechanics centered around traversal and social interaction, emphasizing themes of connection and community. #### Are there any modern re-releases of Kojima's older games? As of now, many of Kojima's older titles, like *Snatcher*, have not received modern re-releases, leaving fans hoping for future remasters of these classic games. As you explore the enigmatic world of Hideo Kojima, what peculiar game experience will you dive into next? #HideoKojima #DeathStranding #GamingWeirdness