Hideo Kojima proposes a game where the protagonist forgets abilities if players take too long a break

Hideo Kojima is often compared to Peter Molydeux for his innovative game ideas. Recently, on his Japanese radio show KOJI10, the mastermind behind Metal Gear Solid and Death Stranding shared some intriguing concepts for time-based games. One standout idea involved a game where the main character gradually forgets information if players take too long a break from playing.

Described as the “forgetting game” by Ian Games Network, players would need to progress through the game quickly to prevent the main character from losing important abilities and memories. For instance, extended breaks from the game could lead to forgetting how to use weapons or even the character’s purpose. Kojima humorously suggested that players might need to take a week off from work or school to fully experience this unique gameplay.

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 many players already struggle to remember game controls after a break, Kojima’s idea adds a new layer of challenge. He also proposed two other intriguing concepts: a game where players start as a baby and age into an old man, experiencing physical changes like worsening eyesight, and a game centered around creating items like wine or cheese that require time to mature.

Interestingly, Death Stranding 2 almost featured a unique time mechanic where the protagonist would grow a beard that players had to maintain by shaving. However, Kojima abandoned the idea to preserve Norman Reedus’s “cool” image. Fans can look forward to playing Reedus’s character in the upcoming game On The Beach.