Video games have transcended their origins as mere action-packed, adrenaline-fueled adventures. Hideo Kojima, the visionary behind the Metal Gear Solid series, introduced the world to Death Stranding, a game that explored the dual themes of division and connection in a pre-pandemic era. Its intricate narrative and pioneering delivery-based movement mechanics opened up new avenues for gaming experiences.
In the sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima delves deeper into these themes, posing the poignant question: "Should we have connected?" As the release date of June 26, 2025, draws near, we are eager to understand Kojima's stance on the narrative amidst the ever-widening divisions in our society.
The creation of Death Stranding 2 occurred amidst the extraordinary challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. This unique situation led Kojima to re-evaluate the concept of "connection." He reconsidered its significance while grappling with his evolving understanding of technology, production environments, and the intricate dynamics of human relationships.
Hideo Kojima will soon release Death Stranding 2. Photo by Lorne Thomson/Redferns.
In this exclusive interview, Kojima shares his philosophical approach to the game's development. He discusses elements that were left behind in the original Death Stranding and those that have been carried forward into Death Stranding 2. Additionally, he reflects on the state of contemporary society and how it intertwines with the themes of his games.