Late last week, “Metal Gear Solid V” publisher Konami Digital Entertainment began removing references to director Hideo Kojima’s name from “MGS” series key art, past and present. The publisher also removed all branding referencing Kojima Productions, the game’s developer. These actions led to a firestorm of speculation online as to the nature of Kojima’s relationship with Konami and the future of Kojima Productions.

In a joint press release issued by Konami, the publisher attempts to reassure fans that production on “The Phantom Pain” is progressing as normal and that no changes will be made to its announced release date of September 1. The press release also promises that long-time series director Hideo Kojima will remain involved throughout the game’s development and includes a short message from Kojima himself.

“I want to reassure fans that I am 100 percent involved and will continue working on 'Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain'; I’m determined to make it the greatest game I’ve directed to date. Don’t miss it,” said Kojima.

However, the statement doesn’t address the rumoured departure of Kojima once work on “MGS5” is complete, lending greater credence to previous reports indicating that the director will part ways with his long-time publisher. Konami itself is yet to make an official announcement regarding the future of famed “Metal Gear” development studio, Kojima Productions.

In the press release, Konami promises that it will begin production of a new game in the “Metal Gear” series but doesn’t state that Hideo Kojima will be involved. As noted by Siliconera, the publisher has set up a new staff recruitment page, seeking new employees to work on the “Metal Gear” series.

Hideo Kojima has been unusually quiet since the reports began last week. He has issued no other public statements, and his typically lively Twitter account has been silent since the 19th. Gamespot reports that senior members of Kojima Productions, including Kojima himself, have been on a communications lockdown since last week. Meanwhile, “Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain” is scheduled for release on PS3, PS4, Xbox 360 and Xbox One on September 1 and on PC on September 15.

(Credit: YouTube/GamesHQMedia)

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