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The fox engine's absence: a deep dive into gaming history

Where is the FOX ENGINE? | Why isn't Konami using it for MGS Delta?

By

Sofia Chang

Aug 30, 2025, 01:12 AM

Edited By

Tanya Melton

2 minutes of duration

Screenshot of a gaming scene showcasing the capabilities of the FOX Engine

A growing debate has emerged among gaming enthusiasts regarding the future of Konami's FOX Engine. Users are questioning why this engine, once prominently featured in the PES series, is absent from anticipated projects like MGS Delta, especially given its past legacy.

Context of the Discussion

Many remember the FOX Engine as a powerhouse for games, particularly in the Pro Evolution Soccer franchise. However, the chatter on various forums indicates nostalgia coupled with concern. Comments suggest that while the engine has history, its practicality in todayโ€™s gaming landscape raises eyebrows.

Key User Sentiments

  • Age and Familiarity: Several users emphasize that the engine is over 10 years old and hasn't been updated significantly since its inception. One noted, "You're talking about an engine that hasn't really been used since. I think you can figure out why they didnโ€™t use it."

  • Training and Usability Issues: Many believe that training new hires to work with the FOX Engine would be costly and time-consuming. "It sucks to work on according to people that have used it," stated one commenter.

  • Preference for Modern Engines: Thereโ€™s a strong leaning toward using the Unreal Engine, particularly UE5, with users citing its familiarity and ease of use in the industry. A comment highlighted, "Most people in game development are already familiar with Unreal Engine."

"It would be very expensive to dig it up now and update it," emphasized one of the discussions, hammering home the potential hurdles of reviving the outdated technology.

The Ongoing Debate

With the tech world moving rapidly, many wonderโ€”is sticking with a decade-old engine worth the trouble? Developers are keen on tools that can accelerate production and improve efficiency.

Key Takeaways

  • โœฆ The FOX Engine is over 10 years old and hasn't seen significant updates.

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Users prefer Unreal Engine due to its familiarity and ease of onboarding.

  • โš ๏ธ Training costs for the FOX Engine are viewed as a major drawback according to several users.

As discussions continue, itโ€™s clear that the sentiment isnโ€™t just about nostalgia but about functionality in a competitive market. Can older engines still hold their ground, or is it time to move on?

Possible Directions Ahead

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that Konami will pivot towards using more modern game engines given the feedback from developers and the gaming community. As production schedules tighten, software that promotes efficiency and reduces costs will become increasingly popular. Experts estimate around a 70% probability that Konami will adopt a new engine, likely Unreal Engine 5, to align with industry trends. This shift may also influence other companies to reconsider their choices of development tools, as the pressure to innovate while maintaining high-quality output continues to escalate in the competitive gaming landscape.

The Leap of Faith

A fresh parallel can be drawn from the shift in the film industry from traditional film stocks to digital formats. Back in the early 2000s, many filmmakers hesitated to abandon film, citing its aesthetic and legacy. Yet, as digital technology proved faster and more cost-effective, the mainstream quickly adopted it, leading to innovative storytelling methods. The evolution from FOX Engine to modern alternatives mirrors this transitionโ€”though the heart may cherish the old, practicality often guides the hands that create.