Death Stranding 2: On the Beach bought a brand new trailer over the weekend, alongside a launch date, collector’s version, field artwork, and extra. And as followers have pored over the small print, one has observed a enjoyable connection to director Hideo Kojima’s previous work: Metallic Gear Strong 2.
The field artwork for Demise Stranding 2: On the Seashore exhibits Sam “Porter” Bridges, portrayed by Norman Reedus, holding the kid “Lou,” who gamers of the primary recreation will acknowledge. Reddit user ReverseTheFlash posted “He did it once more,” exhibiting that field artwork alongside a Metallic Gear Strong 2: Sons of Liberty slipcase with an analogous motif.
The Metallic Gear Strong 2 promo exhibits Japanese singer Gackt holding a baby in an analogous composition. Although it is not a one-for-one, it is definitely enjoyable to notice the similarities between the 2 covers. It is also a reminder of an odd department of Metallic Gear Strong (out-of-universe) backstory.
In the course of the run-up to the sport’s launch, Gackt was featured in multiple promos for Metallic Gear Strong 2: Sons of Liberty. A part of this, it appears, included particular slip-covers for the sport in some territories, which have resulted in random MGS ephemera that is both intrigued and confused people over the years.
In case you are questioning why Gackt, particularly, was so concerned with Metallic Gear Strong 2’s promotional marketing campaign, Kojima offered an explanation in 2013. The rationale he requested Gackt to “be on MGS2’s TVCM is ‘MGS1’ was about DNA & ‘MGS2’ MEME. DNA consists ‘AGTC’, including ‘Okay’ of KOJIMA turns into ‘GACKT.’ ” So, there’s that.
Contemplating Demise Stranding 2’s new trailer has plenty of Metal Gear vibes in it, it is no shock followers are drawing the parallels right here. Personally, I believe any similarities are, at most, an indication of recurring concepts throughout Kojima’s video games. However nonetheless, it is enjoyable to invest and ponder, and it is all the time a superb time to journey down reminiscence lane with a promotional cowl that includes Gackt.
Demise Stranding 2: On the Seashore launches on June 26, 2025 completely on PlayStation 5.
Eric is a contract author for IGN.
