With the official launch of the blockbuster title DEATH STRANDING 2: ON THE BEACH for the PlayStation®5 recently capturing global attention, renowned Japanese game designer Hideo Kojima and art director Yoji Shinkawa are returning to Hong Kong for DEATH STRANDING WORLD STRAND TOUR 2. They aim to express their gratitude for the support and trust from Hong Kong fans, while delving into the stories, design concepts, and personal reflections behind the creation of DEATH STRANDING 2: ON THE BEACH. The event also promises a range of special surprises.
When asked about significant turning points in his life, Hideo Kojima candidly admitted that his initial creative motivation stemmed from his own interests. My initial motivation for creating was purely personal enjoyment; I paint, write novels, and develop games because I love it. He reminisced about the production of his first DEATH STRANDING, noting that although the pandemic had not yet erupted, he had already sensed the world was heading toward isolation and division. Therefore, he chose to create a game focused on link. However, shortly after the game's release, the world plunged into actual pandemic lockdowns. In this context, I began to ponder whether the digital connections we experience today are truly right for us. This question became the essence of creating the second episode.
He also shared that since the Metal Gear series, he has received countless letters from players telling him how the game has become the driving force in their lives. In that moment, I realized that the game I created for myself could actually help others. Since then, my perspective on the world has completely transformed. He stated that he is now creating not just for work, but for the players who are eagerly anticipating his games. I hope to dedicate the rest of my life to them; this is my transformation.
As the art director of Kojima Productions, Yoji Shinkawa reveals a more personal creation story. He recalls receiving the news of his son's impending birth while designing a mechanical character for a game. This experience infused him with deep emotions for the baby character in DEATH STRANDING 2 Lou. Whenever I think about this character in the game, I can't help but resonate with the feeling of "I need to work hard for this kid.".
He revealed that the voice of Lou in the game is actually a blend of the voices of several staff members' children from the studio. This genuine paternal love that inspired the character undoubtedly adds more soul to the role.
When it comes to game music, Hideo Kojima emphasizes that he always takes personal responsibility for it. He personally selects the music tracks and scenes, often visiting his favorite musicians to invite them to create music for his games. Unfortunately, one of his regrets is having always wanted to collaborate with the late musician Ryan Karazija, but he lost contact during the pandemic and later learned of Ryan's passing. Fortunately, through Ryan's family, he obtained several tracks that Ryan composed during his lifetime and hopes that everyone will listen to them carefully.
Hideo Kojima also explained the core changes in gameplay for the new project. The experience of the first installment is Delivering Alone, while in the second episode, although the main character Sam still primarily acts alone, more and more characters will join him when he returns to the mothership Magellan, forming a pseudo family. Players will be able to objectively observe the interactions and evolving relationships within this team.
On a technical level, Yoshikazu Takahashi stated that DEATH STRANDING 2 has made significant advancements in the realm of art, particularly with the actor expression scanning technology, which now captures the character's personality in much finer detail. Additionally, the weather and sky systems within the game will naturally outperform its predecessors. Hideo Kojima added that the team dedicated considerable effort to the vehicle's physics dynamics, enhancing the fun for players as they drive through deserts or on highways.
When it comes to Hong Kong, Hideo Kojima makes no secret of his love for Hong Kong cinema. In his cameo role as a pizza delivery guy in DEATH STRANDING 2, he revealed that the action design was a tribute to Jackie Chan's legendary scenes in food truck. Kojima also mentioned that A Better Tomorrow 2 has always been one of his favorites.
At the evening fan meeting, they specially invited Wu Yulong, who plays the main antagonist Wang Jiu in the film Kowloon City Fortress, to be a guest. Wu Yulong is an avid fan of the DEATH STRANDING series and had a lively exchange with the three creators on site, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The Kojima team presented a specially drawn illustration of the Wang Jiu character, created by Yoshikawa Hiroshi, showcasing their sincerity.
When asked about his satisfaction with his work, Hideo Kojima candidly admitted that his creativity is never-ending, yet he strives to do his best within today's technical limitations. Moreover, he revealed that while there are no plans for Director's Cut, he will pay close attention to player responses, hoping to have the opportunity for updates in the future. He encourages players: I hope everyone can slowly enjoy this world of gaming..
The event also unveiled two highly anticipated local collaborations. First up, KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS has teamed up with the local design brand Anicorn to launch a 1:1 replica of a key item from their game, Ring Terminal. This ring is made up of 30 independent components and features an adjustable size along with NFC capabilities. It's now available for pre-order on Anicorn’s official website, priced at $240, with an expected delivery in September 2025.
In addition, KOJIMA PRODUCTIONS has revealed its first collaboration with the local collectible figure brand Hot Toys, launching a 1:6 scale collectible figure of the protagonist Sam Porter Bridges from DEATH STRANDING 2: ON THE BEACH, which will make a grand debut at the Hong Kong Anime Festival.
