Death Stranding 2’s script underwent revisions midway through development because Hideo Kojima felt it was "too mainstream." Continue reading to discover why Kojima altered the game during production and how DS2 manages to be both conventional and unconventional simultaneously.

Death Stranding 2 Was "Not Divisive Enough" According to Hideo Kojima

Script Alterations Mid-Production

During the making of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (DS2), several adjustments were made as Director Hideo Kojima believed the game leaned too heavily toward mainstream appeal. Earlier reports indicated that Kojima had concerns about the early positive reception, as he aimed to craft compelling art rather than just another commercially successful title.

This wasn’t the first time Kojima wrestled with this dilemma. Composer Yoann Lemoine, also known as Woodkid, shared insights in a June 13 interview with Rolling Stone. He recalled, “There came a key moment—probably halfway through development—when he approached me and said, ‘We have an issue.’”

Woodkid explained that Kojima was concerned the game tested too well, which raised red flags for him. He noted that Kojima rewrote parts of the narrative at pivotal points in the story, feeling that it lacked divisiveness and failed to evoke the emotional impact he sought.

Kojima reportedly stated, "If everyone enjoys it, then it's mainstream. It's standard. It's something already pre-approved by audiences." His philosophy is that truly memorable work challenges people initially, so they can grow to appreciate it later.

Death Stranding 2 Balances Between Mainstream and Experimental

Woodkid went on to describe the contrasting elements that make DS2 unique, emphasizing the unusual duality of Kojima and the Death Stranding series—it exists at the intersection of mass appeal and artistic rebellion.

He added, "To reach a mainstream audience, you often need to compromise. You end up creating something average across the board, but not Hideo. You wouldn’t believe how little he cares about compromise. He does exactly what he wants and knows precisely what he’s doing—that’s the mark of a visionary."

Despite his strong creative control, Woodkid pointed out that Kojima values input from his team. He elaborated, “He builds his world using ideas from those around him. It's not just him dictating everything. I contributed; somehow, somewhere along the way, things shifted or got edited. But there was always a conversation.”

A Source of Inspiration for Future Creators

As DS2 approaches its release date, Woodkid believes the game will serve as inspiration for other developers, much like the Metal Gear franchise and the original Death Stranding did before it. Still, he acknowledged that replicating Kojima’s style is nearly impossible, and that’s evident in the industry.

Woodkid also suggested that filmmakers could find creative fuel in Kojima’s games. He remarked, “It wouldn't be surprising if directors began drawing heavily from his approach. I know the film industry closely watches his success and admires the boldness of his vision.”

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is scheduled to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5. Keep checking back for more updates on the game via our dedicated Death Stranding 2: On The Beach page below!

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach

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