When Death Stranding launched, it championed the idea of connection, emphasizing the need to rebuild a fractured world. However, Hideo Kojima has now hinted at a dramatic shift in perspective for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Speaking at the SXSW panel, Kojima revealed how the pandemic influenced his new narrative direction.
A Pandemic-Inspired Shift
“The last Death Stranding was about, you know, let’s get connected, otherwise, humans won’t survive,” Kojima explained. “…Then I actually experienced the pandemic, and I thought, wait, should we really be connected?”
This profound shift in perspective led to the game’s striking tagline: We Should Not Have Connected. While Kojima remained cryptic, he acknowledged the drastic contrast in messaging, encouraging players to discover its meaning firsthand.
The Complexities of Connection
The pandemic forced society to reconsider the role of digital connections. While technology makes communication easier, it also fosters misinformation, echo chambers, and paradoxical isolation. Kojima appears to be exploring these themes, questioning whether connection is always beneficial.
Introducing Drawbridge
Despite this shift, players won’t be completely alone. Kojima introduced a new group called Drawbridge, which aids protagonist Sam Bridges.
“It’s a game, so you have to go on your own where the Kyo network is not connected with Dollman. If you connect, you can summon the Mållånn ship. When you go back to the Mållånn, you have your members on the ship. So many things happen there, so you’re not totally alone—you have backup coming from behind. That’s the feeling I want to give to people,” Kojima explained.
Conclusion
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is shaping up to be more than just a sequel; it’s a thought-provoking examination of human connection in a world that has recently questioned its value. Kojima’s evolving narrative promises a compelling experience that challenges players’ perceptions of unity and isolation.
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