Troy Baker claims that Hideo Kojima prefers to leave a lasting impression on players rather than making them have fun

Hideo Kojima, the renowned video game creator, continues to challenge the norms of the industry with his bold and risky approach to video game development. In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, actor Troy Baker, who worked on Death Stranding 2, emphasized the importance of trust in the creative process under Kojima’s direction.

Baker highlighted that, unlike many developers who focus on keeping players entertained, Kojima seeks to leave a lasting and meaningful impression on players.

An artist with clear priorities

Kojima’s commitment to taking “big creative risks” is evident in his work. Baker, who played the character Higgs, argues that this mutual trust allows Kojima to create intertwined characters within a broader narrative, contributing to the uniqueness of his games.

“Hideo still makes games in a conceptualized way, and they are so huge and thoughtful that I think the only way he knows how to do it is on a grand scale,” Baker commented.

Additionally, Kojima has mentioned that he introduces music from the band Low Roar in his titles to provide players with a greater culture, emphasizing his desire for entertainment to play a deeper role in people’s lives. This blend of art and playable experience aligns with his desire to create games that are not “digestible,” thus taking on the challenge of leaving players with reflections that last beyond mere fun.

On the other hand, the 2026 BAFTA Games Awards will take place on April 17, 2026, in London, reflecting the growing importance of these awards in recognizing achievements in the digital entertainment industry. In an environment where many developers stick to tried-and-true formulas, Kojima continues to be an innovator who will redefine what it means to play and experience stories in the world of video games.

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