Since the trailer to "The Phantom Pain" was unveiled a few weeks ago, speculation has mounted over whether the new title was the upcoming "Metal Gear Solid 5." Metal Gear Solid series creator Hideo Kojima had a few things to say about the speculation in a recent interview with Youth Arabia.
In the interview, the publication asked Kojima about whether he had anything to do with "The Phantom Pain;" the writer added that the character in the trailer has a stark resemblance to Solid Snake. Kojima responded that "Phantom Pain is being made by Moby Dick studios , I do not have any part in that game. I saw the resemblance there though." The topic was not discussed further in the interview.
When the title was showcased at Spike TV's game awards, speculation mounted over whether it would be the next Metal Gear game. A number of outlets found that that words "Metal Gear Solid V" fit perfectly between the words "The Phantom Pain." Additionally, a number of publications called into question the validity of Moby Dick Studios' website.
The speculation was further increased days ago when catalog Play Asia listed "The Phantom Pain" as "Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain" and included a picture of the two titles fitting perfectly together.