Kojima Fans Notice Fun Link Between Death Stranding 2 and Metal Gear Solid 2 Box Arts

Over the weekend, fans were treated to an exciting new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, which also revealed the game's release date, a collector's edition, box art, and more. As enthusiasts delved into the details, a fascinating connection to director Hideo Kojima's earlier work, Metal Gear Solid 2, was spotted. The box art for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach features Sam "Porter" Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, cradling the child "Lou," a character familiar to players of the original game. On Reddit, user ReverseTheFlash pointed out this intriguing link by posting side-by-side images of the Death Stranding 2 box art and a Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty slipcase, which showcases a similar motif with Japanese singer Gackt holding a child.

While the compositions aren't identical, the resemblance is undeniably enjoyable to observe. This discovery also serves as a reminder of an unusual aspect of Metal Gear Solid's promotional history. In the lead-up to Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty's release, Gackt was prominently featured in various promotional materials, including unique slip-covers in certain regions. These promotional items have since become curious artifacts that have both fascinated and puzzled fans over the years.

For those curious about Gackt's involvement in Metal Gear Solid 2's campaign, Hideo Kojima provided some insight in 2013. He explained that he chose Gackt for the TV commercial because "MGS1 was about DNA & MGS2 MEME. DNA consists of 'AGTC', and adding 'K' of KOJIMA becomes 'GACKT.'" This playful connection underscores Kojima's creative approach to marketing his games.

Given the new trailer's evident Metal Gear influences, it's not surprising that fans are drawing connections between Death Stranding 2 and Kojima's previous works. While I believe these similarities are primarily a reflection of recurring themes in Kojima's games, it's always enjoyable to speculate and reminisce, especially with a nostalgic nod to Gackt's promotional cover.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for the PlayStation 5.