Kojima Rebuffs Death Stranding 3 Rumors

While Hideo Kojima has conceptualized Death Stranding 3, he confirms he won't be directing it. Discover how Death Stranding 2's narrative opens doors for potential franchises and what creative ventures Kojima is pursuing next.

Kojima Passes the Torg for Death Stranding 3

Death Stranding 2's Mechanics Enable Infinite Continuations

During a May 8 interview with VGC, Hideo Kojima disclosed having foundational ideas for Death Stranding 3 despite stepping back from directing future installments. The visionary game director explained how Death Stranding 2's "Plate Gates" mechanic—enabling cross-border narratives—could theoretically spawn unlimited sequels.

Kojima clarified, "This gateway concept creates possibilities for endless geographical expansions." However, he firmly dismissed personal involvement: "Should others adopt this framework, I've prepared conceptual groundwork—though I won't be the one executing it." This leaves the franchise's future open for new creative leadership while maintaining Kojima's original vision.

Pandemic-Induced Philosophical Shifts in Death Stranding 2

The global COVID-19 crisis profoundly altered Death Stranding 2's thematic direction. Originally launched in November 2019, the first game's "connection" motif took on prophetic dimensions when lockdowns began.

"Initially, I warned against societal fragmentation," Kojima reflected. "The chiral network mirrored our internet dependency during isolation." Yet he observed contemporary paradoxes: "Our digital lifelines now fuel division as virtual interactions replace physical ones."

This realization prompted narrative revisions. Where the first game urged "Let's Connect," its sequel questions whether "We Should Have Connected." Kojima teased deeper philosophical layers: "When examined critically, connection reveals complexities I'll explore through gameplay."

Kojima's Expanding Creative Horizon

While distancing himself from future Death Stranding titles, Kojima delves into ambitious new projects. His collaboration with Jordan Peele—OD (previously Overdose)—debuted at The Game Awards 2023 through Xbox Game Studios.

"This five-year passion project demanded unprecedented infrastructure," Kojima revealed about the Microsoft partnership. "Many considered these innovations impossible."

Simultaneously, PlayStation confirmed Kojima's development of a next-gen espionage game—an original IP marking his 40th industry anniversary. "This represents my creative zenith," he stated, with production commencing post-Death Stranding 2.

Amid these developments, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach maintains its June 26, 2025 PlayStation 5 release despite industry shifts from GTA 6's delay. For continuous updates, follow our dedicated coverage.