Hidden Gems in Death Stranding 2: Kojima's Quirky Cameos Revealed

Death Stranding 2 is packed with quirky references tied to Hideo Kojima that might raise eyebrows. Dive into the story behind these hidden gems and how the sequel reshapes the world of its protagonists.

Unveiling Death Stranding 2's Hidden References and New Story

Kojima's Self-Referential Nods Spark Mixed Reactions

Death Stranding 2 (DS2) brims with surprises, featuring cameos and subtle nods, including some self-referential ones from Director Hideo Kojima that might amuse or unsettle players. In a June 26 GameSpark interview, Kojima shared that his team was hesitant about including these personal touches.

As the mastermind behind the series, Kojima’s influence is evident throughout DS2, from cameos like his favorite VTuber Usada Pekora as a Prepper to other self-referential elements that he admits might feel awkward to some.

Kojima has a tradition of weaving personal references into his games. In the Metal Gear series, he appeared as a spectral figure in Metal Gear Solid, a chuckling portrait in Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes, and an operative in Metal Gear Solid: Ground Zeroes, among others.

For DS2, Kojima urged his team to include these personal nods, often met with playful disbelief, as they responded with a joking “Huh?” He dropped a hint, saying, “At night by the hot spring, gaze at the sky—it’s stunning. Zoom in, and you’ll spot some surprises, so explore them.”

Since its release less than a week ago, fans have spotted various celebrity cameos beyond the main cast, including Ghost in the Shell’s Mamoru Oshii as The Pizza Chef and Train to Busan’s Ma Dong-seok as Samson Hook. More of Kojima’s quirky surprises likely await discovery.

Exploring Loneliness Amid Companionship

Beyond its cameos and references, DS2 introduces a fresh narrative centered on Sam Porter Bridges’ evolving experiences. Unlike the first game’s solitary journey, Sam now returns to a mothership called the “Magellan,” fostering deeper connections with other characters.

Kojima noted that the first Death Stranding was limited to scenes with 3-4 characters due to technical constraints. The sequel expands this to 5-6, enabling richer dramatic interactions.

“With a home base and diverse characters, we tackle the complexities of human relationships. I’m exploring a new kind of loneliness that emerges within a group—through conflicts and disagreements,” Kojima shared.

Death Stranding 2 Launch Trailer Highlights

On June 26, PlayStation unveiled a final trailer for DS2, offering a glimpse of what awaits players. The trailer features Sam interacting with BB-28, set to the classic “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ On My Head.”

It showcases the game’s narrative, gameplay variety, and Kojima’s distinctive flair, while introducing a stellar cast, including Norman Reedus, Lea Seydoux, Elle Fanning, Troy Baker, and Luca Marinelli, among others.

Despite Kojima’s concerns about the game feeling “too mainstream” despite positive reviews, he expressed joy at DS2’s launch. Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is now available on PlayStation 5. For the latest updates, check out our Death Stranding 2: On The Beach coverage below!