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

Video games have transcended their traditional roles as mere action-packed thrill rides. Hideo Kojima, the genius behind the Metal Gear Solid series, brought a fresh perspective with Death Stranding, which delved into the themes of division and connection in a pre-pandemic world. Its groundbreaking narrative and innovative delivery-focused gameplay mechanics opened up new avenues in gaming.

In the much-anticipated sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, set to release on June 26, 2025, Kojima revisits the core question with added complexity: "Should we have connected?" As global divisions continue to widen, we sought to understand Kojima's stance on this theme and how it shapes the story of his latest creation.

The development of Death Stranding 2 took place amidst the extraordinary challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. This unique situation prompted Kojima to reevaluate the concept of "connection." He had to navigate his understanding of technology, adapt to new production environments, and reflect on the evolving nature of human relationships. How did these factors influence his reconstruction of the theme of connection in the game?

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 introduced in Death Stranding 2. Additionally, he reflects on contemporary society and its intricate relationship with his games.