Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is set to launch on PlayStation 5 in June, and fans are hopeful that the PC version won’t experience the long wait of eight months like the first game did. Hideo Kojima, the creative force behind the game, recently engaged in a detailed discussion with IGN about the sequel, touching on apparent parallels with his former iconic series, Metal Gear.
The marketing for Death Stranding 2 has leaned heavily into these Metal Gear comparisons, especially following the release of a lengthy 10-minute trailer in March. In this trailer, new character Neil showcases mechanics reminiscent of Metal Gear, including how the character ties a bandana. Kojima acknowledges this connection but clarifies that Metal Gear remains a property of Konami, making these resemblances unofficial.
In his interview, Kojima explained how he aims to evolve the gameplay from the first Death Stranding. While the original focused on delivering cargo in an innovative way, the sequel will introduce more combat flexibility. Players will be enabled to engage in combat more freely, while still maintaining the core theme of delivery. He specifically noted that the storyline will explore the character Lou, now aged more like a toddler compared to her baby form in the first game.
The inclusion of vehicles is another significant aspect he highlighted. In the original game, vehicles played a role, but he intends to enhance their usability in the sequel. Players will also experience a new day and night cycle, a feature he successfully incorporated in Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain, allowing players to engage with the environment in a more immersive way.
Kojima also emphasized the importance of player agency in the sequel with systems for waiting out the night, a welcomed addition for those who prefer to navigate during the day. His light-hearted reflection on the past shows his commitment to ensuring players have enjoyable experiences in the world he creates.
The evolution of combat mechanics is yet another focal point for Kojima. While acknowledging the concerns from his team about the game veering too close to Metal Gear, he finds joy in creating enjoyable combat experiences. He aims to keep stealth elements while allowing players the freedom to engage in combat as they wish.
Fans of the series will appreciate Kojima’s engagement with the Social Strand System from the first game, where players could collectively contribute to the landscape. While he admits he didn’t participate as much in constructing larger projects like highways, the positive response from the community inspired him to ensure that Death Stranding 2 would have even more avenues for creativity.
Death Stranding 2 indeed promises to capture the essence of what made Kojima’s previous works memorable while exploring new territory. Fans can look forward to a blend of his signature narratives, creative gameplay elements, and a more refined approach to combat as the game prepares for its much-anticipated release. With Kojima establishing himself firmly since exiting Konami, there is an optimistic sense of a rejuvenated legacy mixed with fresh ideas on the horizon.