Payton Leaves Kojima Productions

Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots

The team that created Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots just received some bad news, as a key member has decided to leave to be closer to his family. Nothing wrong with that, of course, but it's definitely a big loss, and with MGS4 on his resume, a gigantic gain for someone else.

According to Kotaku, Kojima Productions' Ryan Payton has decided to leave the studio and return to his home state of Washington in North America. In asking why he left, Payton said he was "hit with some pretty heavy news concerning my mom" only three weeks after MGS4 hit store shelves. Furthermore, what with most everyone taking time off after delivering the masterpiece already adored by millions of gamers, Payton simply added, "it feels like this is how it's supposed to be. It's fate." On the more positive side, Payton did mention MGS5 during the interview. When asked, "Is there something you could've done at Kojima Productions, but didn't?" Payton answered:

I'm pretty satisifed with all I've accomplished at KP. I set my goals and hit almost every one. The dream has always been to get an original game concept green lit, but that'll have to wait until I find a new home. The good news is that I've got plenty of exciting ideas that I've been keeping close to my chest.

It'll be hard not being involved in MGS5, but I've got the utmost confidence that Hideo Kojima, Ken Imaizumi, and our amazing team will put together another blockbuster game. I'll be cheering from the sidelines."

Essentially, it's just more confirmation that a fifth installment will eventually be on the way, but unfortunately, Ryan Payton will not be part of the proceedings. In addition to being a truly valuable Kojima team member, during the build-up to MGS4, Payton was a crucial source of information for the press. He always kept us updated and never told a lie or spread rumors for the sake of PR posturing. This guy knew what he was doing, and the MGS universe is losing a big part of what made MGS4 successful. However, we're sure everyone wishes him the best, in regards to both family and future, and we hope another talented developer will benefit from Payton's experience.

Visit Kotaku for the full "I'm leaving" interview.

8/26/2008 Ben Dutka

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