Is there anyone out there happier than Hideo Kojima to have 2015 finally end? The man behind the famous Metal Gear series went through a horrible split with Konami earlier last year, and it got so bad that he was barred from attending the Video Game Awards by the publisher. Now he’s finally free from the companies’ clutches, and even has his own independent studio–which recently struck an exclusivity deal with Sony. Oh, he’s also being inducted into the The Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences’ Hall of Fame at the DICE Awards for his masterful work in the industry.

It’s indeed a great start to 2016 for the legendary auteur. The best part is that he will be presented with this prestigious award by none other than Guillermo Del Torro (a.k.a. his partner on the now defunct Silent Hills game).

“Hideo Kojima’s career-defining works have shaped much of how the video game industry approaches cinematic storytelling and player engagement,” said Martin Rae, president of AIAS. “As one of the most well-loved and well-respected designers of our time, it is a great honor for the Academy to induct him into our Hall of Fame. Hideo is a game creator whose eyes have always looked towards the future, and we look forward to his thoughts on the D.I.C.E. Summit stage.”

I don’t think you’d find too many people out there who’d disagree with Martin Rae. Hideo Kojima will be the 21st inductee, so this really is a high honor. Best of all, Kojima still has the rest of his career ahead of him with his recently opened independent studio.

What do you guys think about Kojima being inducted into the Hall of Fame? How about having GDT presenting the award? Let us know in the comments below.

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HT: Polygon