Death Stranding 2 Set for 2025 Release; New Trailer Debuts at SXSW

In an exciting announcement at the 2025 SXSW panel, Hideo Kojima, the mastermind behind Kojima Productions, revealed that “Death Stranding 2: On the Beach” will launch for the PlayStation 5 on June 26. Accompanying this announcement was an extensive new trailer, offering a deeper dive into the much-anticipated sequel.

This 10-minute trailer not only revisits some familiar faces but also introduces a fresh lineup of characters. Fans will be pleased to see Norman Reedus return as Sam Bridges, the iconic hero with his package-laden adventures. Joining Reedus are Léa Seydoux and Troy Baker, reprising their roles as Fragile and Higgs. The sequel also welcomes newcomers like Elle Fanning as Tomorrow, Shioli Kutsuna taking on the role of Rainy, and George Miller as Tarman. Additionally, Luca Marinelli, Debra Wilson, and Alissa Jung add to the ensemble as Neil, Doctor, and Lucy, respectively. Keep an eye out for a special appearance from Korean action star Lee Dong-seok, also known as Don Lee.

Sharp-eyed fans might notice some subtle nods to Kojima’s iconic Metal Gear Solid series woven throughout the trailer. For example, Marinelli’s Neil, at one point, bears a striking resemblance to Solid Snake, and a gigantic tar creature, which merges with the DHV Magellan to become what Kojima calls the “Magellan Man,” evokes memories of Metal Gear Rex and Sahelanthropus. These nuances, alongside thrilling gameplay and tantalizing story hints, give Death Stranding fans plenty to dissect and discuss.

The newly released footage sets the stage 11 months post the formation of the United Cities of America. In this new world, servers line beaches and deliveries have been handed over to automation, threatening to render porters like Sam obsolete. Yet, the chiralium from the Beach continues its environmental havoc, along with a new rival faction making waves. Despite these changes, Sam is determined to keep doing what he does best.

Back at The Game Awards in 2022, Kojima hinted that the tumultuous times of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic influenced a reworking of the game’s storyline. The narrative promises to continue the journey from the first game, taking players across a post-apocalyptic America plagued by the menacing Beached Things.

A follow-up 10-minute glimpse from last year’s State of Play stream enlightened fans on the fate of the delivery company Bridges, which has been replaced by a mysterious new organization known as Drawbridge. As is tradition with Kojima’s projects, full clarity on these plot twists will have to wait until the game’s release, maintaining that perfect blend of intrigue and anticipation.