Death Stranding appears to be expanding beyond live-action into anime territory. Ahead of June's Death Stranding 2: On the Beach release, director Hideo Kojima has subtly confirmed an anime adaptation is in development.
Speaking with Vogue Japan (via VGC), Kojima discussed his ongoing collaboration with A24 for the live-action Death Stranding film before teasing an animated version. Here's his statement (machine translated):
"I'm currently partnering with A24 on a live-action 'DEATH STRANDING' film adaptation. Recent game adaptations range from faithful recreations like 'The Last of Us' to fan-service pieces like 'The Super Mario Bros. Movie' - each valid in their approach. However, as a cinephile, I'm pursuing a purely cinematic expression. My goal is to create a 'DEATH STRANDING' that can only exist as film, worthy of recognition at Cannes and Venice. We're also developing an anime adaptation."
While production details remain unconfirmed, this suggests another Death Stranding adaptation is indeed moving forward in anime format.
In 2023, A24 officially announced its partnership with Kojima Productions for a live-action Death Stranding feature. Kojima emphasized the project wouldn't be a direct game-to-film translation. "Our vision extends beyond gaming fans," he said. "This will be cinema-first storytelling that expands the Death Stranding universe in ways only film can achieve."
Earlier this year, reports surfaced that A Quiet Place: Day One director Michael Sarnoski joined the project to write and direct. Norman Reedus, who portrays protagonist Sam Bridges, expressed interest in reprising his role "if given the opportunity."
This anime adaptation opens fascinating possibilities for Death Stranding's unconventional universe. Depending on the animation studio involved, we might see radically different interpretations. Imagine a Studio Trigger rendition of Kojima's surreal dystopia.
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Meanwhile in gaming, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach launches June 26, 2025 for PlayStation 5. For hands-on impressions after 30+ hours with the sequel, check our in-depth preview of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.
