Kojima Reveals Death Stranding Anime

Death Stranding appears to be expanding beyond live-action with an anime adaptation reportedly in development. Ahead of June's Death Stranding 2: On The Beach release, creator Hideo Kojima hinted at this new animated project during an interview with Vogue Japan (via VGC).

While discussing his collaboration with A24 on the live-action Death Stranding film, Kojima casually revealed parallel work on an anime version. His translated comments from the interview state:

"My current project with A24 involves adapting DEATH STRANDING into live-action cinema. Video game adaptations typically follow two paths - faithful recreations like The Last of Us or fan-service celebrations like The Super Mario Bros. Movie. As a filmmaker, I'm pursuing genuine cinematic artistry. My ambition is to craft DEATH STRANDING into an award-worthy film that could compete at Cannes or Venice. Interestingly, we're simultaneously developing an anime adaptation."

Though no animation studio has been officially announced, this confirmation suggests Death Stranding will soon exist in another medium.

A24 formally announced its partnership with Kojima Productions for the live-action film in 2023. Kojima emphasized this wouldn't be a simple game-to-screen translation, stating: "Our target audience extends beyond gamers - we want to captivate all cinema lovers. We're constructing an unprecedented Death Stranding universe that can only exist through the language of film."

Earlier this year, reports surfaced that A Quiet Place: Day One director Michael Sarnoski boarded the live-action project as writer and director. Norman Reedus, star of the original game, expressed willingness to reprise his role "if given the opportunity."

The anime adaptation presents exciting creative opportunities. Studio selection could dramatically influence the interpretation - imagine Studio Trigger's signature vibrant aesthetic applied to Death Stranding's haunting landscapes.

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On the gaming front, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach launches June 26, 2025 exclusively for PS5. For early impressions, check out our hands-on experience after spending 30 hours with the anticipated sequel.