Hideo Kojima Talks Death Stranding 2: On the Beach: 'I’m Just Really Happy We Can Finish Making the Game'

Video games have transcended beyond being mere action-packed, adrenaline-pumping experiences. Hideo Kojima, the creative genius behind Metal Gear Solid, introduced profound themes of division and connection in his groundbreaking game, Death Stranding. Released in a pre-pandemic world, its conceptual narrative and revolutionary delivery-based movement mechanics opened up new avenues for gaming experiences.

In the eagerly anticipated sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, set to launch on June 26, 2025, Kojima delves deeper into the complexities of connectivity, posing the poignant question: "Should we have connected?" As societal divisions continue to widen, we sought to understand Kojima's evolving stance on this theme and how it shapes the narrative of his latest creation.

The development of Death Stranding 2 took place during the extraordinary circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic. This backdrop forced Kojima to re-evaluate the concept of "connection." He had to navigate through the challenges posed by technology, remote production environments, and the shifting dynamics of human relationships. How did these elements influence his reinterpretation of connectivity, and what insights did he gain about the role of technology in our lives?

In an insightful interview, Kojima shares his philosophical approach to the game's development. He discusses what elements from the original Death Stranding were left behind and which have been carried forward into the sequel. Additionally, he reflects on the current state of society and how it intertwines with the themes explored in his games.