Death Stranding 2 Trailer Unveils Release Date, Gameplay, and Metal Gear Influences

Hideo Kojima took the stage at SXSW 2025 in Austin, TX, to unveil an exciting new trailer for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and confirm the game's release date. Death Stranding 2 will launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5. However, players who opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition or the Collector’s Edition will enjoy two days of early access starting from June 24.

The trailer, which spans 10 minutes, showcases a mix of cinematic sequences and gameplay footage. One of the highlights is a character named Neil, portrayed by Italian actor Luca Marinelli, whose appearance and actions have drawn comparisons to Snake from Kojima's renowned Metal Gear series. Neil is seen donning a bandana, reminiscent of Snake, and leading a squad of eerie soldiers while wielding an assault rifle.

The trailer also introduces the Magellan Man, a massive tar-like creature integrated with the DHV Magellan, evoking the iconic Metal Gear Rex. This creature, which seems to be controlled like a Pacific Rim-style mech, battles against gigantic and menacing tar monsters. The Collector's Edition includes a 15" statue of the Magellan Man.

Pricing for Death Stranding 2 includes the standard edition at $69.99, the Digital Deluxe Edition at $79.99, and the Collector's Edition at $229.99. Pre-orders will be available starting March 17.

Continuing the narrative from the 2019 release, Death Stranding 2 carries the theme, "Should We Have Connected?" The official synopsis states:

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.