Hideo Kojima, the mastermind behind Kojima Productions, took the time to celebrate the 5th anniversary of Death Stranding. The game was first released on November 8, 2019. Since then, the game has been deemed a masterpiece by the players who got themselves fully immersed in the game’s emotional story. Kojima released a video on social media to mark the game’s big milestone and to thank all the fans who made it possible.
Kojima’s Heartfelt Thank You
In the video message, Kojima expressed his gratitude towards the over 19 million players who have chosen to become porters around the world. He even took a bit of time to thank a portrait of Sam, the main character in the game. He talked about how great it is to see people continue playing the game, cosplaying as the characters, and sharing their in-game photos. Kojima stated, “You all have continued to play for such a long time, and I am very thankful for that.”
Surprise Xbox Release
In the five years since its initial release, Death Stranding has expanded to other platforms. This includes a surprise release for the Xbox Series X and S. Death Stranding Director’s Cut became available on those consoles on November 7. This coincided with the celebration of the base game’s fifth anniversary. Not only did the release itself shock Xbox users, but it allowed them to get the game at a steep discount on launch. Death Stranding Director’s Cut is normally $39.99, but the sale price is $19.99. To likely what will be Kojima’s delight, this will only add to the over 19 million ports who have played and will continue to play the game.
What’s Next For Death Stranding
It is no secret that the production of the next game in the Death Stranding universe is in production. There was even a special showcase for Death Stranding 2 during this year’s Tokyo Game Show. During the showcase, about an hour and a half was used to discuss just what Kojima Productions is cooking up. The studio now fully owns the Death Stranding IP, having taken full ownership of it from 505 Games.
In the same video as his heartfelt thank you, Kojima expressed that the production of Death Stranding 2 is currently in its most critical phase. When discussing it, Kojima said, “I have a great feeling about it right now, and I am confident it will be a good piece of work.” He also reminded everyone that although the game’s full release date has not been announced, fans of the first game should look forward to it. It’s also important to note that a film adaptation of Death Stranding is in the works, which is being made by A24. The company was behind horror movies such as Midsommar, Hereditary, The Lighthouse, and many more.
Conclusion
It’s certainly been a big year for Hideo Kojima and his studio as a whole. Not only was Death Stranding 2 announced and shown off, but the first game in the series can now reach an even larger audience. Kojima Productions also has another project in the works called OD. While not much is known about the game, Jordan Peele has been confirmed to be involved. Both he and Kojima took to the stage during The Game Awards in 2023 to talk vaguely about what they have in the works. Even if the project is shrouded in mystery, excitement still lingers in the air for more information. This goes the same for Death Stranding 2 and just about anything that Kojima might be working on.
