Kojima Productions offered a tantalizing glimpse into the enigmatic world of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach at the Tokyo Game Show 2024. While the game, announced in 2022, remains largely shrouded in mystery, the newly released footage showcases intriguing characters, a remarkably realistic photo mode, and even a choreographed dance sequence featuring a sentient puppet – all hallmarks of Hideo Kojima’s distinctive style.
Dollman hanging from a ceiling and talking to Norman Reedus in Death Stranding 2.
New Characters and Cameos
The first clip introduces two new characters: Tarman, portrayed by acclaimed Mad Max director George Miller, continuing the series’ tradition of featuring renowned film directors, and the peculiar Dollman, a doll who appears to play a significant role in the narrative. This cameo follows in the footsteps of Guillermo Del Toro and Nicolas Winding Refn’s appearances in the original Death Stranding.
Expanding the Narrative
Another clip features Rainy, played by Shioli Kutsuna, and Tomorrow, portrayed by Elle Fanning, engaged in a conversation that hints at the game’s complex and often bizarre lore. This scene promises further exploration of the unique world and narrative established in the first game.
Returning Faces and New Features
Heartman, played by Nicolas Winding Refn, also makes a return, showcasing a new ability to sleep upright. Beyond the cutscenes, a subsequent clip reveals a significantly enhanced photo mode. This mode allows players to pose characters like Fragile, Tomorrow, and Rainy in various locations with stuffed cryptobiotes, the familiar food source from the original Death Stranding. The realism of this photo mode is striking, initially blurring the lines between in-game footage and real-world photography.
Dollman Takes Center Stage
Finally, the footage culminates in a music video for Horizon Dreamer, a song from the game, featuring Dollman and J-pop artist Daichi Miura. This in-game event video suggests the possibility of similar interactive musical experiences within the final release.
A Glimpse into the Future
These short clips offer the most substantial look at Death Stranding 2 since the 10-minute announcement trailer released earlier in 2024. With a planned 2025 release, anticipation is building, and given the unpredictable nature of Kojima’s work, it’s safe to assume many surprises await players.
Beyond Death Stranding 2
Death Stranding 2 represents just one facet of Kojima Productions’ current endeavors. The studio is also developing a horror game titled OD, collaborating with A24 on a live-action Death Stranding movie, and venturing back into the stealth genre with Physint.
