Hideo Kojima has unveiled the official trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, the direct sequel to 2019’s critically acclaimed game Death Stranding. The announcement, made during the PlayStation panel at South by Southwest (SXSW) on March 9, 2025, has left fans buzzing with anticipation. The 10-minute-long trailer not only presents the breathtaking visuals and new characters of this highly-anticipated game but also confirms its official release date as June 26, 2025.
Continuing the central theme of “connections,” players will once again traverse unknown territories, exploring the depths of human connection in yet another genre-defying experience crafted by the legendary game creator. Kojima aims to deepen the interpretation of the term “strand” as players re-engage with the rich narrative he is known for.
Accompanying the trailer was “To The Wilder,” a new track by Woodkid, which will serve as the soundtrack's anthem. The excitement surrounding the game is also reflected by the variety of editions available for purchase — each edition packed with unique bonuses for eager players. The Collector’s Edition, priced at $230, includes the full digital game with 48-hour early access, accompanied by collector's box, a 15-inch Magellan Man statue, a 3-inch Dollman figurine, art cards from the game, a heartfelt letter from Hideo Kojima himself, and several in-game items.
For those who wish to enjoy the game digitally, the Digital Deluxe Edition will also be available for $80. This edition includes the full game, early access, and several exclusive digital items. Players can still opt for the Digital Standard Edition, which has been priced at $70.
All pre-orders open on March 17, 2025, at 10 a.m. local time, providing players with early access to bonuses. Those who pre-order will receive additional items including a Quokka Hologram and silver versions of the Battle Skeleton, Boost Skeleton, and Bokka Skeleton, enhancing the gameplay experience for dedicated fans.
Returning to the franchise as the lead character, Sam Bridges, is actor Norman Reedus, alongside Léa Seydoux and Troy Baker portraying Fragile and Higgs, respectively. They will be joined by newcomers Elle Fanning, Shioli Kutsuna, and George Miller, adding fresh dynamics to the narrative. Other cast members include Luca Marinelli as Neil, Debra Wilson as Doctor, and Alissa Jung as Lucy. The game is set 11 months after the formation of the United Cities of America, with its story still cloaked in mystery.
The reveal of Death Stranding 2 first surfaced during The Game Awards 2022, where Kojima mentioned he had rewritten the sequel’s story from scratch. The original Death Stranding was celebrated for its compelling characters, gameplay mechanics, and enthralling storyline. Following its initial release on PlayStation 4, it was later enhanced with a director’s cut released on PlayStation 5, signifying Kojima’s commitment to elevacing crafting stories through the medium of gaming.
Beyond the digital realms, excitement grows with the announcement of Death Stranding live-action film set to be produced by A24, which is expected to explore the same universe without replicatively retelling the events of the first game.
Adding to the experience for fans, Kojima has also announced “The Strands of Harmony World Tour,” which will showcase the game's music with original orchestrations performed live. Kicking off on November 8, 2025, at Sydney Opera House, this concert will visit 19 cities globally, ensuring fans can immerse themselves beyond the game’s virtual world.
Kojima, often hailed as one of the most influential video game designers of the 21st century, is known for revolutionizing the industry with the Metal Gear Solid series, which has sold over 60 million copies and generated more than $1 billion worldwide by December 2023. Following his departure from Konami, he fortified his own production house and by 2016 unveiled the initial concept for Death Stranding, setting the stage for what has become one of gaming’s most iconic titles.
With the launch date just around the corner, fans eagerly await the chance to reconnect with the harrowing yet revolutionary world of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, as Kojima continues to challenge and transform storytelling through video games.