Death Stranding 2 Trailer Unveils Release Date, Gameplay, and Metal Gear Influences

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 the game's release date.

"Death Stranding 2" will launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5. Fans who opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition or the Collector’s Edition will enjoy early access starting June 24.

The trailer, which spans 10 minutes, showcases a mix of cinematic scenes and gameplay. A standout feature is the introduction of a character named Neil, played by Italian actor Luca Marinelli. Neil, who bears a striking resemblance to Snake from Kojima's renowned Metal Gear series, is seen donning a bandana and leading a squad of eerie soldiers. Neil wields an assault rifle, further enhancing the military aesthetic.

The trailer also features the Magellan Man, a colossal tar-like creature fused with the DHV Magellan, reminiscent of Metal Gear Rex. This creature, which comes with a 15" statue in the Collector's Edition, is piloted like a Pacific Rim-style mech and battles against massive tar monsters.

Pricing details include the standard edition at $69.99, the Digital Deluxe Edition at $79.99, and the Collector's Edition at $229.99. Pre-orders for all editions will open on March 17.

Continuing the narrative from the 2019 "Death Stranding," "Death Stranding 2" carries the tagline, "Should We Have Connected?" Here's the official description:

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.