Following the 1999 release of "The Matrix," directors The Wachowskis personally traveled to Japan to invite Hideo Kojima, creator of the "Metal Gear Solid" series, to develop a game based on the iconic film.
However, this dream collaboration was reportedly rejected on the spot by Konami executives, missing a legendary cross-media opportunity.
This anecdote comes from an interview with former Konami Vice President of Licensing, Chris Bergstresser, published by Time Extension. Bergstresser recalled that the "Metal Gear Solid" series was then at its peak, with "Metal Gear Solid" (1998) having achieved immense success, and the franchise poised for further triumphs.
It was during this period that The Wachowskis contacted Konami headquarters, expressing their desire to meet with Kojima. Bergstresser recounted, "They came in with their concept artists and met with Kojima directly, saying, 'We want you to make 'The Matrix' game, can you do it?'"
Bergstresser stated that producer Kazumi Kitaue and a translator were also present. Unexpectedly, after hearing the translation, Kitaue simply replied, "No." The meeting concluded shortly thereafter.
"Although we were later invited to 'The Matrix' premiere and wrap party in Japan, the possibility of that collaboration officially vanished," Bergstresser added.
The unfulfilled collaboration left many Konami employees disappointed. Reports indicated that internal team members expressed significant regret over "missing the chance to make 'The Matrix' game." Three years later, in 2003, "Enter the Matrix" was developed by a different team, released between "Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty" (2001) and "Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater" (2004).
Reflecting on the situation at the time, Konami was already heavily invested in its shooting and action game portfolio. Bergstresser suggested that Kazumi Kitaue might have been concerned that taking on "The Matrix" project would stretch resources too thin. He noted, "The company was fully committed to advancing the 'Metal Gear Solid' series and was indeed reluctant to 'touch another Western action film property with overlapping styles.'"
via： Time Extension