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 confirm its eagerly awaited release date.

Death Stranding 2 will hit the shelves on June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5. However, those opting for the Digital Deluxe Edition or the Collector's Edition will enjoy early access starting from June 24.

The captivating 10-minute trailer showcases a mix of cinematic sequences and gameplay clips. Notably, it introduces a character named Neil, portrayed by Italian actor Luca Marinelli, whose appearance and actions, such as donning a bandana and leading a team of eerie soldiers, echo the iconic Snake from Kojima's renowned Metal Gear series.

Neil, resembling a soldier and wielding an assault rifle, adds a thrilling layer to the game's narrative.

The trailer further amplifies the Metal Gear connections with the introduction of the Magellan Man, a colossal tar-like entity merged with the DHV Magellan, reminiscent of Metal Gear Rex. The Magellan Man, which comes as a 15" statue in the Collector's Edition, operates like a mech from Pacific Rim and battles against massive and unsettling tar monsters.

The standard edition of Death Stranding 2 is priced at $69.99, while the Collector's Edition comes in at $229.99. The Digital Deluxe Edition is available for $79.99. Pre-orders will kick off on March 17.

Building on the narrative of the 2019 Death Stranding, Death Stranding 2 poses the thought-provoking question, "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.