At CES 2026, Asus and Kojima Productions have unveiled a visually striking collaboration that reimagines the ROG Flow Z13 2-in-1 gaming tablet and a suite of peripherals. This partnership merges the high-performance hardware of Asus's Republic of Gamers (ROG) line with the distinct, artistic vision of Hideo Kojima's studio, led by artist Yoji Shinkawa. The result is a collection of devices that stand out not just for their specs, but for their bold, narrative-driven design, transforming standard gaming gear into collector's items. This announcement highlights a growing trend of deep collaborations between tech manufacturers and creative studios, aiming to create products that are as much about aesthetic statement as they are about raw performance.
A Design Inspired by Ludens and Death Stranding
The core of this collaboration is a complete aesthetic overhaul centered on Kojima Productions' mascot, Ludens, and the visual language of games like Death Stranding. Lead artist Yoji Shinkawa directly influenced the design, stating his intent was to "create a gadget that belongs to Ludens." This is evident in the CNC-milled chassis of the ROG Flow Z13, which features dynamic edges, angular patterns, and a mix of materials including carbon fiber. The color scheme is a distinctive white and gold, a departure from the typical black and RGB-heavy gaming aesthetic. Clever details abound, such as a digitized typeface labeling components, bilingual keyboard keys, and subtle nods to the Death Stranding universe, making the device look like a piece of equipment straight out of the game's world.
Key Specifications (ROG Flow Z13 Collaboration Edition):
- Processor: AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 ("Strix Halo" platform)
- Claimed GPU Performance: Comparable to discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 mobile GPU (based on integrated graphics)
- Design: CNC-milled chassis with carbon fiber elements, white & gold color scheme.
- Design Inspiration: Kojima Productions' "Ludens" mascot and Death Stranding aesthetic, led by artist Yoji Shinkawa.
Performance and Hardware Specifications
Beneath its custom exterior, the featured ROG Flow Z13 is powered by AMD's upcoming Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chipset, part of the new "Strix Halo" platform. Early reports suggest this chip integrates graphics powerful enough to compete with discrete mobile GPUs like the NVIDIA RTX 4070, a significant claim for an integrated solution. The device retains its award-winning 2-in-1 form factor, allowing it to function as both a tablet and a laptop. However, some analysis from the coverage suggests a note of caution regarding the value proposition. Previous iterations of the Flow Z13, while sleek and powerful for productivity, have been critiqued for their high price relative to pure gaming performance, positioning it in a niche between ultra-portable workstations and dedicated gaming laptops.
A Full Suite of Custom Peripherals
The collaboration extends far beyond the laptop itself, creating a cohesive ecosystem for a dedicated workspace. Asus has also revealed custom versions of several ROG peripherals, all sporting the same white-and-gold Ludens theme. This includes the ROG Delta II gaming headset, the Keris II gaming mouse, and the Scabbard II mouse pad. The pièce de résistance for many collectors will be the custom carry case, designed to resemble the delivery containers from Death Stranding, complete with the iconic gold accenting. This full-set approach allows fans to achieve a complete, themed desk setup that is visually unified from the computer to the mouse mat.
Collaboration Product Line-Up:
- Centerpiece: ROG Flow Z13 (2-in-1 Gaming Tablet/Laptop)
- Peripherals: ROG Delta II Gaming Headset, ROG Keris II Gaming Mouse, ROG Scabbard II Mouse Mat
- Accessory: Custom Death Stranding-themed Carry Case
Market Position and Anticipated Reception
Pricing and exact availability for the collaboration pieces are yet to be officially confirmed, though a launch in Q1 of 2026 is anticipated. Given that the standard ROG Flow Z13 with an AMD Ryzen AI Max 390 chipset retails for around USD 2,000, the limited-edition Kojima Productions version is expected to command a significant premium. This positions the product firmly in the luxury and collector's segment of the market. While its unparalleled design will attract fans of Kojima's work and those seeking a unique statement piece, its practical value as a primary gaming device may be debated, especially when compared to more traditional gaming laptops or handheld PCs at similar price points. Ultimately, this collaboration is a bold experiment in fusing high-end tech with high-concept art, creating a product that is as much about passion and identity as it is about frames per second.