Hideo Kojima: 'Thrilled to Complete Death Stranding 2: On the Beach'

It's been a while since video games were merely action-packed, adrenaline-fueled experiences. Hideo Kojima, the mastermind behind Metal Gear Solid, introduced a profound exploration of division and connection with Death Stranding. Released before the global upheaval of the pandemic, the game's highly conceptual narrative and innovative delivery-centric movement mechanics opened up new avenues for storytelling and gameplay.

In the sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima delves deeper into the theme with a more complex question: "Should we have connected?" As the release date of June 26, 2025, draws near, we are eager to understand the stance Kojima has taken on this theme amidst a world where divisions continue to widen.

The development of Death Stranding 2 took place during the unprecedented circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic. This unique situation prompted Kojima to reconsider the concept of "connection." He had to navigate his understanding of technology, production environments, and the nature of human relationships. How did these factors influence his reconstruction of the game's core theme?

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 production. He discusses what elements were left behind from the original game and how they have evolved in the sequel. Additionally, he reflects on contemporary society and its intricate relationship with his games.