Hideo Kojima took to the stage at SXSW 2025 in Austin, TX, to unveil a captivating new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and to announce the much-anticipated release date.
Death Stranding 2 is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for the PlayStation 5. Fans eager to dive in early can enjoy two days of early access starting June 24 by purchasing the Digital Deluxe Edition or the Collector’s Edition.
The trailer, which runs for 10 minutes, showcases a blend of cinematic sequences and gameplay, highlighting a character that has fans buzzing. Italian actor Luca Marinelli plays Neil, a character whose appearance and actions draw clear parallels to Snake from Kojima's iconic Metal Gear series. Neil is seen donning a bandana, reminiscent of Snake, and leading a group of eerie soldiers while wielding an assault rifle.
The trailer also teases the Magellan Man, a formidable tar-like creature reminiscent of Metal Gear Rex. This beast, included as a 15" statue in the Collector's Edition, is piloted like a Pacific Rim-style mech and battles against massive, otherworldly tar monsters.
Pricing for Death Stranding 2 reflects current industry standards, with the standard edition at $69.99, the Collector's Edition at $229.99, and the Digital Deluxe Edition at $79.99. Pre-orders will be available starting March 17.
Building on the narrative of the 2019 original, Death Stranding 2 poses the poignant question, "Should We Have Connected?" Here's the official synopsis:
Embark on an inspiring mission of human connection beyond the UCA. Sam — with companions by his side — sets out on a new journey to save humanity from extinction. Join them as they traverse a world beset by otherworldly enemies, obstacles, and a haunting question: should we have connected? Step by step, legendary game creator Hideo Kojima changes the world once again.
