Death Stranding 2 Trailer Unveils Release Date, Gameplay, and Metal Gear Influences

Hideo Kojima took to the stage at SXSW 2025 in Austin, TX, to unveil an exciting new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and confirm its release date. The highly anticipated sequel will launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5. Fans eager to dive in early can get two days of early access starting June 24 by purchasing the Digital Deluxe Edition or the Collector's Edition.

The trailer, spanning 10 minutes, showcases a mix of cinematics and gameplay footage. One highlight is the introduction of a character named Neil, played by Italian actor Luca Marinelli. Fans are buzzing about Neil's striking resemblance to Snake from Kojima's iconic Metal Gear series, especially when he dons a bandana and leads a group of eerie soldiers. Neil, equipped with an assault rifle, hints at a soldierly role within the game's narrative.

The trailer also features the Magellan Man, a colossal tar-like creature reminiscent of Metal Gear Rex. This creature, part of the DHV Magellan, operates like a mech from Pacific Rim and battles against massive, otherworldly tar monsters. The Collector's Edition includes a 15" statue of the Magellan Man, adding to the excitement for collectors.

Pricing details reveal the standard edition at $69.99, the Collector's Edition at $229.99, and the Digital Deluxe Edition at $79.99. Pre-orders will begin on March 17.

Death Stranding 2 continues the saga from the 2019 original, with the tagline "Should We Have Connected?" Here's the official synopsis:

Embark on an inspiring mission of human connection beyond the UCA. Sam — with companions by his side — sets out on a new journey to save humanity from extinction. Join them as they traverse a world beset by otherworldly enemies, obstacles, and a haunting question: should we have connected? Step by step, legendary game creator Hideo Kojima changes the world once again.