Kojima Reveals Death Stranding 3 Concept, Steps Back from Development

Hideo Kojima has shared his vision for Death Stranding 3 but confirmed he will not lead its development. Discover how Death Stranding 2 could spawn multiple sequels and what lies ahead for Kojima’s creative journey.

Death Stranding 3 May Move Forward Without Kojima

Death Stranding 2 Sets Stage for Infinite Sequels

In a May 8 interview with VGC, Hideo Kojima, director of Death Stranding 2 (DS2), disclosed that he has a concept for Death Stranding 3 but will not be the one to bring it to life. He hinted that a new feature in DS2 could pave the way for multiple sequels.

Kojima highlighted the "Plate Gates" introduced in DS2, which enable the series to explore diverse global settings, potentially leading to an endless array of sequels. He noted, "With the Plate Gate concept, the series could expand indefinitely."

However, Kojima was clear about his role, stating, "I have no plans to develop it myself, but I’ve already envisioned what another sequel could be. If I pass the idea to someone else, they could likely create it." While fans may not see a Kojima-directed Death Stranding 3 soon, other developers could carry forward his vision with his approval.

Pandemic Shaped Death Stranding 2’s Core Themes

Kojima also shared how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced DS2. The original Death Stranding, released in November 2019, came just before global lockdowns began.

He explained, "The world was already fracturing, with events like Brexit signaling division. My message was clear: connection is vital to avoid catastrophe. That drove the story and gameplay of Death Stranding."

During the pandemic, Kojima saw parallels with the game’s Chiral Network, likening it to the Internet’s role in keeping people connected. He remarked, "The Internet helped us endure the pandemic by linking us virtually."

Yet, he also observed the Internet’s downsides, noting its role in deepening societal divides. Kojima pointed out that people’s growing reliance on screens and virtual spaces, like the metaverse, is reducing meaningful human interaction.

He emphasized, "Human connection thrives on spontaneity—chance encounters and unexpected experiences. The path we’re on risks losing that essence."

Originally, DS2’s concept was set, but the pandemic prompted Kojima to rethink its narrative. He reflected, "I began to question whether hyper-connectivity is truly beneficial." This shift is reflected in a key character, embodying his lockdown experiences.

Kojima noted that the game’s logos hint at their themes: the first game urged "Let’s Connect," while DS2 suggests "Connection Has Its Costs." He added, "The true meaning of connection is worth pondering, but I’ll leave it at that for now."

New Ventures on Kojima’s Horizon

While Kojima may not helm the next Death Stranding, his creative output continues. In December 2023, he and filmmaker Jordan Peele announced OD (previously Overdose) at The Game Awards 2023, a project in collaboration with Microsoft Game Studios.

Kojima shared, "This project, which I’ve been mulling over for years, demands unprecedented infrastructure. I pitched it to many companies, but they thought I was out of my mind."

Additionally, Kojima is partnering with PlayStation on a "next-generation action espionage game," revealed during January 2024’s State of Play. This original IP marks a milestone as he approaches his 40th anniversary in game development. He stated, "This title will be the pinnacle of my career."

While these projects are still in development, fans can look forward to Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, set for release on June 26, 2025, on PlayStation 5. Kojima recently addressed the game’s launch timing amid industry shifts, including reactions to GTA 6’s delay. For the latest updates, check out our Death Stranding 2: On The Beach coverage below!