"Death Stranding 2 Trailer: Release Date, Gameplay, and Metal Gear Vibes Unveiled"

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 its release date.

Death Stranding 2 is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5. However, fans who opt for the Digital Deluxe Edition or the Collector's Edition will enjoy early access starting from June 24.

The trailer, which runs for 10 minutes, showcases a mix of cinematic sequences, gameplay footage, and introduces a character named Neil, portrayed by Italian actor Luca Marinelli. Neil's appearance and actions, including donning a bandana reminiscent of Snake from Kojima's iconic Metal Gear series, have sparked discussions among fans about the character's design.

The trailer also features Neil leading a group of eerie soldiers and wielding an assault rifle, adding to his mysterious persona.

The Metal Gear influence continues with the introduction of the Magellan Man, a massive tar-like creature combined with the DHV Magellan, drawing comparisons to Metal Gear Rex. This creature, which can be operated like a mech from Pacific Rim, battles against gigantic tar monsters. A 15" statue of the Magellan Man is included in the Collector's Edition, adding to its allure.

Pricing for Death Stranding 2 includes the standard edition at $69.99, the Collector's Edition at $229.99, and the Digital Deluxe Edition at $79.99. Pre-orders will be available starting March 17.

Continuing the narrative from the 2019 original, Death Stranding 2 poses the thought-provoking tagline, 'Should We Have Connected?' The official synopsis reads:

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.