Kojima's Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Wraps Filming

Video games have long evolved beyond being just action-packed, adrenaline-fueled experiences. Hideo Kojima, the creative force behind Metal Gear Solid, explored themes of division and connection in Death Stranding before the pandemic reshaped our world. Its highly conceptual narrative and innovative delivery-focused mechanics opened up entirely new creative possibilities.

Now, with the sequel Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima revisits that question in an even more complex form: "Should we have connected in the first place?" As the June 26, 2025 release date draws closer, we were curious about Kojima’s current perspective in crafting the story—especially as real-world divisions continue to deepen.

The development of Death Stranding 2 unfolded during the unprecedented circumstances of the Covid-19 pandemic. How did Kojima reexamine the very meaning of "connection" and reshape it, all while confronting changing views on technology, creative workflows, and the nature of human relationships?

In this interview, Kojima discusses the philosophy guiding the game’s development—what elements were left behind from the original, what was carried forward, and how contemporary society continues to intersect with his work.