Video games have evolved far beyond mere action-packed, adrenaline-pumping experiences. Hideo Kojima, the visionary behind the Metal Gear Solid series, pushed boundaries with Death Stranding, exploring the dual themes of division and connection in a pre-pandemic world. Its groundbreaking narrative structure and innovative delivery-focused movement mechanics opened up new horizons for gaming.
In the sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima delves even deeper into these themes, posing a more complex question: "Should we have connected?" As the release date of June 26, 2025, draws near, we explore Kojima's stance on the narrative development of the game, especially in light of the increasing divisions in our society.
The creation of Death Stranding 2 took place during the unprecedented times of the Covid-19 pandemic. This backdrop led Kojima to reevaluate the concept of "connection." How did he reinterpret this theme while grappling with technology, production environments, and the essence of human relationships in such challenging times?
In this exclusive interview, Kojima discusses his philosophical approach to the game's development. He reflects on what elements from the original game were left behind and which ones were carried forward into Death Stranding 2. Additionally, he touches on the current state of society and its intricate relationship with his creative works.