Video games have evolved far beyond mere action-packed thrill rides. Hideo Kojima, the visionary behind the Metal Gear Solid series, introduced a profound exploration of division and connection with Death Stranding before the world was engulfed by a pandemic. The game's innovative delivery-focused mechanics and highly conceptual narrative opened up new avenues in gaming.
In the sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, set to release on June 26, 2025, Kojima delves deeper into the question: "Should we have connected?" This question gains even more complexity as global divisions continue to widen. As we approach the release date, we explore Kojima's perspective on crafting the sequel's narrative amidst an increasingly fragmented world.
The development of Death Stranding 2 took place during the unprecedented challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. This unique context forced Kojima to reevaluate the concept of "connection." How did he reinterpret this theme while navigating the complexities of technology, remote production environments, and the evolving nature of human relationships?
In an exclusive interview, Kojima shares insights into his philosophical approach to the game's production. He discusses what elements from the original game were left behind and which were carried forward into the sequel. Additionally, he reflects on contemporary society and its intricate relationship with his creative works.