In midst of the rumors regarding Kojima's departure from Konami, the development studio and the video game creator came together to deliver a joint statement in hopes of clearing up any miscommunication on their part.

The statement first and foremost wanted to confirm the release of their long-awaited title, 'Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain', on its announced release date of September 1^st, along` with Kojima's involvement throughout.

Kojima cosigned on this stating that he's fully committed to the game's successful release:

"I want to reassure fans that I am 100% involved and will continue working on METAL GEAR SOLID V: THE PHANTOM PAIN; I'm determined to make it the greatest game I've directed to date. Don't miss it!"

What alarms many fans is the confirmation of Konami continuing the Metal Gear series with the game's sole creator, Kojima. What changes are to come to the timeless franchise, and will the founder's absence destroy its integrity?

The gaming company states that they are already holding interviews for staff to helm the future of the series' development.

It's unclear on what Konami plans to do with the franchise, especially since Kojima previously stated that he wished to end the series with this upcoming game.