Hideo Kojima Explains Quiet, Blames Backlash on Cultural Differences, Details Metal Gear Solid V’s Themes (UPDATED)

Giuseppe Nelva September 7, 2013 2:23 PM EST

In the past few days many, especially between the press (but even a few vocal developers), have criticized Hideo Kojima for his portrayal of Metal Gear Solid V‘s mute sniper Quiet, that some considered oversexualized and sexist due to her skimpy manner of dress.

Despite the backlash, the legendary developer doesn’t seem to be overly concerned and has no intention to go down without a fight as he just mentioned on Twitter, giving an interesting explanation on the design philosophy behind the character and on the themes supporting Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain.

I know there’s people concerning about “Quiet” but don’t worry. I created her character as an antithesis to the women characters (cont) — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) September 7, 2013

appeared in the past fighting game who are excessively exposed. “Quiet” who doesn’t have a word will be teased in the story as well. (Cont) — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) September 7, 2013

(Cont) But once you recognize the secret reason for her exposure, you will feel ashamed of your words & deeds. — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) September 7, 2013

Theme of “MGSV” is “GENE”⇒”MEME”⇒”SCENE”⇒”PEACE”⇒”RACE”. Story touches the misunderstanding, prejudice, hatred, conflict caused by (cont) — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) September 7, 2013

the difference of language, race, custom, culture, and preference. (Cont) — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) September 7, 2013

(Cont) The response of “Quiet” disclosure few days ago incited by the net is exactly what “MGSV” itself is. — HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) September 7, 2013

I find very interesting how Kojoma-san turns the tables on the critics and tells us “This is exactly what I’m talking about.” One thing is for sure: no matter what you think of Quiet and of her peculiar fashion sense, it’s quite refreshing to see a developer that isn’t intimidated by backlash and criticism, and keeps marching straight on the path he marked for himself and his game.

Personally, my curiosity is piqued, and I can’t wait to play the game to learn the reasons behind Quiet’s exposure. Knowing Kojima-san’s games, it’ll be interesting.

Update: the post has been edited to replace the tweets in Japanese and my translation of them with Kojima-san’s own tweets containing his own English translation. The contents are the same, but of course Kojima-san’s own wording is more relevant. You can find the original tweets in Japanese here and here.