Kojima Rewrote Death Stranding 2 Script Midway

During development, Hideo Kojima unexpectedly rewrote Death Stranding 2's script when he felt it was becoming "too mainstream." Discover why the visionary director altered course mid-production and how the sequel balances mass appeal with avant-garde storytelling.

Death Stranding 2 Proved "Not Controversial Enough" for Kojima

Major Narrative Overhaul Occurred Mid-Development

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach underwent significant revisions when director Hideo Kojima deemed its narrative trajectory too conventional. Known for subverting expectations, Kojima reportedly felt uneasy about the overwhelmingly positive early feedback, preferring to craft challenging art rather than predictable entertainment.

Composer Yoann Lemoine (Woodkid) revealed to Rolling Stone how Kojima abruptly changed direction during production: "There was a pivotal moment when Hideo told me, 'We have a problem.' Testing results were too favorable for his taste."

Woodkid explained Kojima's perspective: "If universal approval means you've created something mainstream and pre-digested, then you've failed to provoke real thought." The director subsequently rewrote key story elements to generate the intended emotional impact and debate.

A Delicate Balance Between Accessibility and Innovation

Woodkid described the unique duality of Kojima's approach: "What's remarkable is how Death Stranding manages to be simultaneously mainstream and radically experimental. Most creators compromise, but Hideo relentlessly pursues his uncompromising vision while still incorporating team feedback."

The composer emphasized Kojima's collaborative nature: "It's never just his way - he synthesizes everyone's contributions into his evolving creative process."

Pushing Creative Boundaries in Gaming

Woodkid predicts DS2 will inspire developers much like the Metal Gear series revolutionized game design, though he notes Kojima's work remains inimitable. "Filmmakers particularly will find inspiration here - Hollywood envies his bold storytelling and visual mastery," he added.

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach launches June 26, 2025 exclusively for PlayStation 5. For ongoing updates, follow our dedicated DS2 coverage.