Video games have evolved far beyond mere action-packed, tension-filled adventures. Hideo Kojima, the mastermind 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. The game's innovative delivery-focused mechanics and highly conceptual narrative 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 delves even deeper into these themes, posing the complex question: "Should we have connected?" As global divisions continue to widen, we explore Kojima's stance on the narrative he's crafted for this sequel.
The development of Death Stranding 2 took place during the unique challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. This period forced Kojima to re-evaluate the concept of "connection." How did he reinterpret this theme, considering the impact of technology, the dynamics of production environments, and the evolving nature of human relationships?
In this exclusive interview, Kojima discusses the philosophical underpinnings of the game's production. He reflects on what elements were left behind from the original game and what has been carried forward into the new installment. Additionally, he shares insights on contemporary society and its intricate relationship with his games.