Hideo Kojima on Death Stranding 2: 'Thrilled to Complete the Game'

Video games have evolved far beyond mere action-packed thrill rides. Hideo Kojima, the visionary behind the Metal Gear Solid series, introduced a groundbreaking concept with Death Stranding, exploring the themes of division and connection in a pre-pandemic world. Its innovative narrative structure and unique delivery-based movement mechanics opened up new avenues for gaming experiences.

In the much-anticipated sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, set to release on June 26, 2025, Kojima delves deeper into the complexities of connectivity with the poignant question, "Should we have connected?" As our world faces ever-growing divisions, we sought to understand Kojima's perspective on crafting this narrative.

The development of Death Stranding 2 unfolded during the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. This period forced Kojima to reassess the concept of "connection," reimagining it through the lens of technology, altered production environments, and evolving human relationships. How did these circumstances influence his vision and the reconstruction of connectivity within the game?

Hideo Kojima will soon release Death Stranding 2. Photo by Lorne Thomson/Redferns. In an exclusive interview, Kojima shares insights into his philosophical approach to the game's production. He discusses elements from the original game that have been carried forward, as well as new ideas inspired by contemporary societal issues and their reflection in his work.