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 announce its release date. The highly anticipated sequel is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for 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, spanning 10 minutes, showcases a mix of cinematic sequences and gameplay clips. A standout moment is the introduction of a character named Neil, portrayed by Italian actor Luca Marinelli. Neil's appearance, complete with a bandana reminiscent of Snake from Kojima's iconic Metal Gear series, has sparked much discussion among fans. Neil leads a group of eerie soldiers and wields an assault rifle, further cementing his military persona.
The trailer also introduces the Magellan Man, a massive, tar-like creature integrated with the DHV Magellan, drawing comparisons to the legendary Metal Gear Rex. This creature, piloted like a Pacific Rim-style mech, engages in battles against giant, menacing tar monsters. A 15" statue of the Magellan Man is included in the Collector's Edition, a must-have for die-hard fans.
Pricing for Death Stranding 2 is as follows: the standard edition is priced at $69.99, the Digital Deluxe Edition at $79.99, and the Collector's Edition at $229.99. Pre-orders open on March 17.
Death Stranding 2 continues the narrative from its 2019 predecessor with the tagline, "Should We Have Connected?" The official synopsis reads:
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.