Death Stranding 2 Gets Major Overhaul After Playtester Feedback

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach director Hideo Kojima reportedly made significant mid-development changes after playtesters responded too positively to the game, as he aims to avoid creating "mainstream" content.

This insight comes from composer Yoann "Woodkid" Lemoine, who collaborated with Kojima on the game's soundtrack. Speaking with Rolling Stone, Lemoine discussed both the creative process and the unique challenge of scoring for a dynamic game that evolves based on player progression.

The artist revealed Kojima's surprising perspective when early feedback indicated overwhelmingly positive reception. "If players like it too much right away, something's wrong," Kojima reportedly stated. "We need to make adjustments."

The visionary creator explained his philosophy: "Universal approval suggests conventional, pre-digested content. True artistic impact comes when players initially resist but gradually appreciate unconventional elements," Kojima told the composer.

For Woodkid, this approach proved enlightening. "It taught me to create work that challenges perspectives rather than simply satisfies expectations," he reflected.

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The highly anticipated sequel launches June 26, 2025. Kojima simultaneously develops multiple projects including a live-action Death Stranding film with A24, an announced anime adaptation, and a PlayStation-exclusive espionage title codenamed Physint. His Xbox-published OD represents another passion project he describes as "the game I've always wanted to create."

Recent ESRB ratings suggest Death Stranding 2 will feature unconventional combat mechanics including guitar-based attacks, further demonstrating Kojima's commitment to experimental game design.