Hideo Kojima spoke recently regarding howDeath Stranding 2will stand apart from the originalDeath Stranding, at least in general terms. The firstDeath Strandingis an incredibly unique game, mixing action with package delivery. While Kojima’s heavily cinematic storytelling is certain to make a return, with Norman Reedus and other actors also coming back, it’s been unclear how different theDeath Stranding 2experience would be. Now, Kojima is indicating to expect changes.The biggest revelation fromDeath Stranding 2’s announcement duringThe Game Awards 2022is that the lead character, Sam, will be returning for the sequel. That’s not a spoiler for the originalDeath Stranding, but rather reflects the strange continuity of the series,Death Stranding 2’s curious story and setting, and the challenge involved with bringing back a major actor like Norman Reedus. Nevertheless, Sam, or at least a version of Sam, is clearly confirmed forDeath Stranding 2.RELATED:Death Stranding Movie In The Works From Hideo KojimaSpeaking on his own podcast, Brain Structure, Kojima is asked about the role Sam will play inDeath Stranding 2. Kojima uses this topic to segue into a broader topic regarding theconnection betweenDeath StrandingandDeath Stranding 2. Kojima explains that, “in order to appeal to people who didn’t play the first one, I’ve made the game nostalgic, but also new.” In the context given, this likely means that the events Sam experiences inDeath Strandingwill only be referenced loosely or in a way that has a limited impact on the story ofDeath Stranding 2.
That’s not the only comment Kojima makes regarding howDeath StrandingandDeath Stranding 2fit together, though. Speaking onDeath Stranding 2, Kojima talks about how technology has advanced significantly over the past three years. Kojima says that due to ideas that were “impossible” before now being possible,Kojima Productionshas been “really challenging” itself. With that in mind, Kojima explains thatDeath Stranding 2is “not just a regular sequel in that sense.”
Kojima’s proclivity for being cryptic makes it difficult to assume anything aboutDeath Stranding 2. Just like with theMetal Gear Solidfranchise, even ifDeath Stranding 2was a “regular” sequel, it would still probably be radically different. It’s in Kojima’s nature to change things, embrace improvements in technology, and tell unique stories.
It’s likely to be some time before more firm information regardingDeath Stranding 2is shared.Death Stranding 2isn’t the only gameHideo Kojimais working on right now, after all. When Kojima is ready to share more about the sequel, fans should not be surprised if it’s nothing like anyone expected. But, hopefully, it’ll be something players can pick up and play regardless of whether they played the originalDeath Stranding.
Death Stranding 2is in development for PS5.
MORE:Death Stranding 2 Could Have a Metal Gear Solid 2-Style Twist
