Hideo Kojima has always been known for pushing boundaries in game design, and with Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, he’s once again turning expectations on their head. This time, it’s not just the story or visuals making waves—but a bold new boss fight skip feature that could set a precedent for future titles.
A New Take on Iconic Traditions
Kojima’s legacy is built on unforgettable boss encounters—think Psycho Mantis and REX in Metal Gear Solid, The Boss in MGS3, or Higgs in the original Death Stranding. These battles weren’t just fights—they were emotional, symbolic clashes embedded deep in the story.
But in a recent episode of Koji Pro Radio, Kojima revealed that Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will offer something entirely new: the ability to skip boss fights without losing the narrative thread.
Hideo Kojima says Death Stranding 2 will have a new special feature to help players who are not so experienced at action games clear boss fights!
For boss battles in DS2 (presumably in easy mode) there will be an extra option on the game over screen below the “continue” option.… pic.twitter.com/qHOLfSBofx
— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) April 11, 2025
Why This Is Huge for Accessibility
This isn’t just a quality-of-life update—it’s a step forward in game accessibility. For players with physical disabilities, limited time, or who simply struggle with fast-paced mechanics, this feature allows them to continue experiencing the full story without frustration or roadblocks. Instead of punishing failure, the game offers an alternative path that still respects the player’s investment in the narrative.
Merging Storytelling with Accessibility
The use of a visual novel-style recap is a clever design decision. It keeps the emotional and thematic weight of the boss fight intact, even for players who don’t engage in the actual gameplay battle. This means no one misses out on Kojima’s layered storytelling. It’s an elegant middle ground—preserving the artistic intent while expanding inclusivity.
A Potential Shift in AAA Game Design
Death Stranding 2’s approach could inspire other developers to rethink how they handle difficulty and player agency. Games like Celeste and The Last of Us Part II have made strides in accessibility settings, but Kojima’s method is deeply integrated into gameplay and narrative structure. For a high-profile title to normalize skipping boss fights—without shame or penalty—is both revolutionary and validating for a broader audience of gamers.
The Death Stranding 2 boss fight skip feature might ruffle some feathers among traditionalists, but it’s ultimately a win for inclusive design. By allowing more players to connect with Kojima’s visionary storytelling, it opens the door to a more empathetic and accessible future for AAA gaming.