Over the weekend, fans of Hideo Kojima were treated to a new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, which also revealed the game's release date, a collector's edition, box art, and more. As enthusiasts delved into the details, one keen observer on Reddit, user ReverseTheFlash, pointed out a delightful nod to Kojima's earlier work, Metal Gear Solid 2.
The box art for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach features Sam "Porter" Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, cradling the child "Lou," a familiar figure to those who played the first game. ReverseTheFlash shared a post titled "He did it again," juxtaposing this image with a Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty slipcase that showcases a similar motif. The MGS2 promotional material features Japanese singer Gackt holding a child in a composition that echoes the new game's cover.
While the images aren't identical, the parallels are striking and fun to observe. This connection also serves as a reminder of the intriguing, albeit confusing, promotional history of Metal Gear Solid 2. Gackt was prominently featured in various promos leading up to the game's release, including special slip-covers in certain regions, which have since become curious pieces of MGS memorabilia.
For those curious about Gackt's involvement, Hideo Kojima provided an explanation in 2013. He stated that he chose Gackt for MGS2's TV commercials because "MGS1 was about DNA & MGS2 MEME. DNA consists 'AGTC', adding 'K' of KOJIMA becomes 'GACKT.'" This playful reasoning adds another layer to the connection between Kojima's works.
Given the new trailer's evident Metal Gear influences, it's no wonder fans are drawing these connections. While I believe any similarities are likely a reflection of recurring themes in Kojima's oeuvre, it's always enjoyable to speculate and reminisce, especially with a promotional cover featuring Gackt.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5.
