While Death Stranding 2 is receiving glowing reviews, director Hideo Kojima finds this early acclaim concerning. Explore why the positive feedback troubles the legendary creator and what it reveals about the future direction of his studio.
Early Acclaim for Death Stranding 2 Raises Concerns for Hideo Kojima
Kojima Fears DS2 Might Become Just Another Mainstream Hit
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach has generated overwhelmingly positive reactions, leaving director Hideo Kojima unexpectedly troubled. During a June 12 video interview with Game Informer, he revealed his apprehension about the game's early reception.
Kojima aims to create experiences that stand the test of time, and history shows that truly revolutionary art often faces initial resistance before gaining recognition. He explained, "Works that endure for decades always bring something new to the table. Most groundbreaking creations aren't immediately embraced. They exist for 20 or 30 years before people look back and acknowledge their greatness."
This philosophy guided his approach to the original Death Stranding, and he points to Metal Gear as another example of his work that took nearly a decade to receive proper recognition. The immediate positive response to DS2's early testing has left him questioning whether the sequel might be too conventional.
"When we tested Death Stranding 2, the reaction was different from what I anticipated," Kojima noted. "Everyone enjoyed it immediately. That's when I thought, 'This might indicate a problem.' The approval ratings exceeded my expectations because the first Death Stranding generated mixed opinions." His concern is that DS2 might become just another blockbuster that people quickly forget.
While DS2 certainly deserves praise for building upon its predecessor's success, Kojima's ultimate dream is to cultivate a dedicated community of followers who will eventually become creators themselves.
Kojima Prefers Inspiring New Creators Over Handing Down His Legacy
When it comes to preserving his creative legacy, Kojima has clear intentions. In a June 10 interview with GQ Magazine, he stated he has no interest in "passing the baton" to successors.
He elaborated, "I won't be passing any batons. I'd rather break it entirely. [Laughs.] Nobody needs to inherit 'Hideo Kojima.' If I simply transfer my methods to my team and expect them to replicate my approach, the company would inevitably fail." Instead, Kojima hopes to ignite creative sparks in others, encouraging them to develop their own artistic visions rather than imitating his style.
Despite this philosophy, Kojima has taken practical steps to ensure his studio's continuity. As VGC reported on May 15, he revealed in the latest Edge Magazine that he's provided his staff with a USB drive containing game concepts they could develop if he's no longer able to lead.
This planning was inspired by a serious illness during the pandemic, combined with approaching his sixties, which prompted him to reconsider his priorities and secure Kojima Productions' future beyond his involvement.
"I gave my assistant a USB drive containing all my concepts, serving as a sort of creative will. Perhaps the team could continue creating at Kojima Productions after I'm gone. My concern is what becomes of the studio without me. I don't want them merely managing existing intellectual property," he shared.
Fans can rest assured that Kojima remains actively engaged with multiple projects, including DS2's development, Physint with PlayStation, and OD with Xbox.
Latest Death Stranding 2 Trailer Emphasizes Core Principles: Explore, Connect, Survive
Following DS2's gameplay premiere during the June 8 Game Premier event, the developers released an extensive new trailer. The three-minute presentation showcases enhanced gameplay mechanics while reinforcing the franchise's fundamental pillars: "Explore. Connect. Survive."
The sequel maintains the rich, complex narrative style of the original while introducing more dynamic combat scenarios and strategic options for enemy encounters. With expanded environmental diversity and evolving landscapes, players must continuously adapt their strategies to overcome challenges.
Kojima is currently conducting the Death Stranding World Tour 2, visiting twelve international locations to celebrate the game's upcoming launch. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach arrives on PlayStation 5 on June 26, 2025. For continuous updates about the game, explore our comprehensive Death Stranding 2: On The Beach coverage below!
