Kojima Rewrote Death Stranding 2 to Avoid Mainstream Shift

Death Stranding 2's script underwent major revisions after Hideo Kojima deemed it "too mainstream." Discover why Kojima altered the game mid-production and how it manages to be both accessible and groundbreaking.

Hideo Kojima Found Death Stranding 2 "Not Divisive Enough"

Mid-Development Script Overhaul

Development on Death Stranding 2: On the Beach took an unexpected turn when Director Hideo Kojima concluded the project was "too conventional." Previous reports indicated Kojima's discomfort with the game's early positive reception, as he aims to create thought-provoking art rather than just another commercial hit.

This creative tension resurfaced when composer Yoann Lemoine (Woodkid) revealed in a June 13 Rolling Stone interview: "We reached a crucial juncture about halfway through development when he approached me saying, 'We have a problem.'"

Woodkid explained that Kojima viewed the overwhelmingly positive test results as a warning sign. The director subsequently rewrote pivotal story moments, believing the original material lacked sufficient emotional impact and divisiveness.

"Universal approval indicates mainstream acceptance," Kojima observed. "It means we're serving pre-digested entertainment. True artistic impact often begins with discomfort before evolving into appreciation."

Balancing Mainstream Appeal with Artistic Vision

Woodkid elaborated on the creative paradox defining Death Stranding 2, noting how Kojima's work embodies both mass appeal and avant-garde sensibility.

"Mainstream success typically requires compromise," Woodkid noted. "But Hideo operates differently - he relentlessly pursues his vision without concession. That uncompromising clarity is the mark of genuine genius."

The composer emphasized that while Kojima maintains strong creative direction, he values collaborative input. "He constructs his worlds incorporating team feedback. Our dynamic involves constant dialogue - I contribute ideas that sometimes influence his editing process."

Influencing Future Game Development

Woodkid anticipates Death Stranding 2 will inspire developers much like the Metal Gear franchise did, though replicating Kojima's unique approach remains challenging.

The composer also predicted Kojima's growing influence on cinema: "Filmmakers will undoubtedly draw inspiration from his work. The film industry already regards his visionary storytelling with both envy and admiration."

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach launches exclusively for PlayStation 5 on June 26, 2025. For continuous updates, explore our dedicated Death Stranding 2 coverage below.