Video games have long transcended their origins as mere action-packed, adrenaline-pumping experiences. Hideo Kojima, the creative genius behind the Metal Gear Solid series, introduced profound themes of division and connection with his groundbreaking game, Death Stranding. Released in a pre-pandemic era, Death Stranding's unique narrative structure and revolutionary delivery-focused movement mechanics opened up new avenues for interactive storytelling and gameplay.

In its much-anticipated sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, set to release on June 26, 2025, Kojima revisits the central question posed in the original game but with added complexity: "Should we have connected?" As global divisions deepen, we sought to understand Kojima's stance on this question and how it shapes the narrative of the sequel.

The development of Death Stranding 2 occurred during the unprecedented challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. This period forced Kojima to reassess the concept of "connection" and adapt it to new realities. The impact of technology, altered production environments, and shifting dynamics in human relationships all played a role in reshaping his vision for the game. How did these factors influence Kojima's reinterpretation of connection, and what new insights did he bring to the narrative?

In this exclusive interview, Hideo Kojima delves into his philosophical approach to the game's production. He discusses elements that were left unresolved in the original game and how they have been carried forward into Death Stranding 2. Additionally, Kojima reflects on the state of contemporary society and its intricate relationship with his latest creation.