Hideo Kojima presented a fresh look atDeath Stranding 2: On the Beachat SXSW, showcasing a treasure trove of new footage. Based on the sneak peek,Death Stranding 2is bound to be even bigger than its predecessor in terms of scope, and the story is promising an even wilder ride.
Kojima’s bizarre post-apocalyptic world deals with themes of isolation and connection. Exploring such deep themes in a post-apocalyptic setting is a fascinating blend, but it also seems as though the challenges of parenting will be explored inDeath Stranding 2, as well. Despite a deeper dive into the upcoming sequel, there are now morequestions aboutDeath Stranding 2than ever, and one of the biggest ones is Sam’s role. Since the first game, it seems as though Sam has taken on the role of Lou’s father, and a teased story arc points to potential inspiration fromThe Witcher 3.
Sam and Lou’s Story in Death Stranding 2 Could Mirror Geralt and Ciri’s in The Witcher 3
Father Figures On the Hunt For Their Daughters
The main plot ofThe Witcher 3follows Geralt as he searches for Ciri, his adoptive daughter and apprentice, as she’s being chased by the Wild Hunt. In a world steeped in fantasy and violence, it’s an emotional and relatable thread that ties the narrative together, and it looks likeDeath Stranding 2may be headed down this road, too.The WitcherandDeath Strandingfranchises are vastly different from one another, but this potential shared plot point is a compelling similarity.
In the new trailer forDeath Stranding 2, it’s clear that Fragile has had to teleport Lou away after a group of mysterious armed men try to kill the two. Fragile is unable to teleport herself, though, ultimately separating her from Lou. While this has potentially saved Lou from harm, her whereabouts are completely unknown, which is likely to set in motion the main plot of the game. There are a lot of fascinatingdetails inDeath Stranding 2’s new trailer, but what makes this detail so compelling is that it’s the first full-blown hint as to what the story focuses on.
Kojima’s bizarre post-apocalyptic world deals with themes of isolation and connection.
There were originally theories that Elle Fanning could be playing an older version of Lou, but with Fanning’s character officially confirmed as being named Tomorrow, this may not be the case. Of course, since this is a Kojima game, anything is possible, but Lou now remains one of thebiggest mysteries ofDeath Stranding 2going forward.
Fans who pre-orderDeath Stranding 2’s Digital Deluxe Edition or Collector’s Edition will get early access to the game 48 hours before its actual launch date. The Digital Deluxe Edition costs $79.99 while the Collector’s Edition is $229.99.
Death Stranding 2 Questions Will Be Answered Sooner Than Expected
Hideo Kojima confirmed in the past thatDeath Stranding 2was on track to be ready by 2025, but with months of silence leading up to SXSW, it would have been safe to assume launching at the end of the year was more likely. Thankfully for eagerDeath Strandingfans, this isn’t the case, as the release date is only a few months away.The impending release ofDeath Stranding 2makes the summer gaming landscape that much more exciting, as there are still plenty of upcoming games that have yet to reveal their launch windows.
OnceDeath Stranding 2is here, it will be compelling to see if the story really does take a similar approach toThe Witcher 3. A father figure in search of his child lends itself to some big emotional moments and themes, and it will be fascinating to see how this is showcased inDeath Stranding 2’s world.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
WHERE TO PLAY
Embark on an inspiring mission of human connection beyond the UCA. Sam—with companions by his side—sets out on a new journey to save humanity from extinction. Join them as they traverse a world beset by otherworldly enemies, obstacles and a haunting question: should we have connected? Step by step, legendary game creator Hideo Kojima changes the world once again.
