The Symbol of Cross-Media Storytelling
Hideo Kojima has transcended the role of a mere game director. He is now a symbol of boundary-pushing, cross-media storytelling, a figure whose work is dissected with the same awe and reverence typically reserved for cinema auteurs. The journey from creating classics like Metal Gear, Snatcher, and Policenauts to more recent marvels such as Death Stranding and Overdose (OD) has been neither easy nor swift. Yet, his projects are no longer just video game releases; they are cultural phenomena shrouded in mystery. Fans produce theory videos based on mere screenshots and trailers, and critics pen hour-long thinkpieces about where his games end and something else begins. When someone of Kojima’s caliber sits down to discuss the objects that are significant in his daily life, one expects there to be a deeper meaning. However, he is a human like all of us, and his GQ Japan interview offers a refreshing, down-to-earth glimpse into the life of one of the most singular minds in the industry.
The Camera: A Lifelong Passion
The first item Kojima mentions is a camera, which comes as no surprise. His current “weapon of choice” is the Sony α6600, a testament to his enduring fascination with photography. This passion dates back to 1970 when, at the age of seven, his parents gifted him an autofocus camera at the Japan World Exposition in Osaka. Back then, it was a film camera, but Kojima has since embraced digital technology. The Sony α6600 is light and easy to use, making it perfect for business trips, children’s sports days, or any unexpected moment. Kojima’s attachment to photography is not just a hobby; it’s a part of his creative process, reflecting his enduring love for capturing the world around him.
The Digital Walkman: A Soundtrack to Life
The second item that stands out is a Sony digital Walkman, specifically the high-end NW-WM1AM2 music player. Kojima’s connection to music is profound, dating back to his university days when he purchased the iconic Sony Walkman 2. This device changed his perspective on music, making it a personal and portable experience. Today, Kojima uses his Walkman to listen to high-resolution music, while also subscribing to Apple Music for new releases and discovering new talent for his games. His earpieces of choice are the limited-edition EBX25Ti LUDENS Earbuds, a collaboration between Kojima Productions and hifi equipment manufacturer NiceHCK, further emphasizing his commitment to audio quality.
Vinyl and CDs: Nostalgia and Collecting
Kojima is a child of the analogue generation, deeply rooted in the value of physical media. He frequently buys CDs and vinyl records, spending a significant portion of his income on these formats. Recent acquisitions include the 50th Anniversary Soundtrack for the legendary movie Jaws and singles by The Last Dinner Party and Koji Tamaki. The band Spandau Ballet holds a special place in his heart, leading him to purchase an entire anthology. Kojima laments the closure of many music record shops he used to frequent, where he would spend hours listening before making a purchase, a ritual that has shaped his musical tastes and collecting habits.
Watches: Timeless Elegance
Hideo Kojima’s love for watches is well-documented. His first watch, a gift from his father, instilled a sense of adulthood and responsibility. For the GQ shoot, he showcased two high-end watches made in collaboration with Kojima Productions and renowned watchmakers Seiko and Hamilton: the Seiko Astron SBXC097 Kojima Productions 5th Anniversary Edition and the Hamilton American Classic Boulton Death Stranding 2 Limited Edition. The Seiko model is radio-controlled, setting the time and date via atomic clock signals. Kojima’s watch collection reflects his affinity for precision and craftsmanship, often influenced by brand names, famous actors, and the practical utility of iconic timepieces like the Rolex.
Coffee: A Daily Ritual
Kojima’s love for coffee is a lifelong passion, and he has experimented with every method of preparation, from drip-brewing to grinding and pressing. Currently, he drinks about seven cups of Nespresso daily, using coffee as a reset button to transition between tasks. His go-to moments for a warm cup are when he completes a task or is about to switch to another. While he used to enjoy adding sugar and milk, he now prefers black coffee. This simple ritual underscores his appreciation for the little things that help him maintain focus and creativity throughout the day.
Odd Essentials: Cotton Swabs and Atomizers
Among the more unexpected items on Kojima’s essential list are cotton swabs and a perfume atomizer. He suffers from bouts of ear itchiness that can wake him up at night, making cotton swabs a constant companion. Despite doctors advising against it, he finds them indispensable for immediate relief. Kojima also has a heightened sense of smell, which he humorously compares to a dog’s. He carries a perfume atomizer to combat strong or unfamiliar scents, and he can even distinguish his staff members by their perfumes. His collection of art and movie catalogs further highlights his multifaceted interests, blending his love for visual arts, museums, and cinema into his daily life.
Hideo Kojima’s life is a tapestry of passions and habits that inform his creative work. From his cameras and digital Walkman to his watches and coffee, each item holds a special place in his heart and daily routine. His GQ Japan interview not only offers a peek into his personal life but also underscores the depth and breadth of his influence on pop culture, solidifying his status as a visionary director and cultural icon.
