Kojima Unveils 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 spark multiple sequels and what lies ahead for Kojima’s creative journey.

Death Stranding 3 to Proceed Without Kojima’s Direct Involvement

Death Stranding 2 Sets Stage for Expansive Sequels

In a recent interview with VGC on May 8, Hideo Kojima, director of Death Stranding 2 (DS2), revealed he has a concept for Death Stranding 3 but will not oversee its creation. He hinted that a new feature in DS2 could pave the way for multiple sequels.

Kojima introduced the "Plate Gates" concept in DS2, enabling the series to explore diverse global settings and potentially generate endless follow-ups. He noted, "With Plate Gates, the series could expand indefinitely."

However, Kojima was clear about his non-involvement in a third installment. "I have a vision for another sequel, but I won’t be the one making it," he said. "Someone else could take it forward with my concept." While fans may miss his direct touch, other developers have his approval to carry the torch.

Pandemic Shifts Death Stranding 2’s Core Themes

Kojima also shared how the COVID-19 pandemic reshaped DS2. Launched in November 2019, the original Death Stranding arrived just before global lockdowns began.

He explained, "The world was already fracturing, with events like Brexit. The first game’s message was about connection to avoid disaster, reflected in its story and gameplay."

During the pandemic, Kojima saw parallels between the game’s Chiral Network and the real-world Internet. "The Internet kept us connected during lockdowns," he said.

Yet, he observed that the same technology now fuels division, with people retreating into virtual spaces like the metaverse, reducing genuine human interaction.

Kojima emphasized, "Human connection thrives on chance encounters and unexpected experiences. Over-reliance on screens risks losing that."

Originally, DS2 had a set direction, but the pandemic prompted Kojima to rethink its narrative. He reflected, "Maybe hyper-connection isn’t always positive." This shift is embodied in one of the game’s characters, influenced by his lockdown experiences.

He pointed out that the game’s logos hint at their themes: the first game urged "Let’s Connect," while DS2 questions, "Should we have connected?" Kojima teased, "The true meaning of connection is something to ponder."

Kojima’s Future Ventures Beyond Death Stranding

Though he may not helm Death Stranding 3, Kojima is far from idle. In December 2023, alongside Jordan Peele, he announced OD (formerly Overdose) at The Game Awards 2023, a project with Microsoft Game Studios.

"This game has been in my mind for years, requiring unique infrastructure. Many thought I was crazy, but Microsoft embraced it," he shared.

Kojima is also collaborating with PlayStation on a "next-generation action espionage game," revealed during January 2024’s Store of Play. This original IP marks a milestone as he nears his 40th anniversary in game development. "This project will be the pinnacle of my career," he stated. Development will begin after DS2’s completion.

While these projects are on the horizon, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is slated for release on June 26, 2025, on PlayStation 5. Stay updated with our Death Stranding 2: On The Beach article for the latest details!