For Kojima, those experiences led to a different approach for the sequel. His own sense of isolation that arose from having to develop Death Stranding 2 with a remote team saw him reconsidering its tale — yet it’s also this isolation that led to Kojima realizing the perils of digital connectivity.

"Death Stranding 2 is out now," the Metal Gear Solid auteur wrote in a heartfelt social media post, before falling into his usually cryptic ways. "It's raining today – maybe because I regard myself as the 'Rain guy', I guess.

Kojima Production's sci-fi shooter-meets-walking sim sequel, starring Norman Reedus, offers a sharper, more emotional journey—culminating in a bold, unrestrained finale that goes full Kojima in ways never thought imaginable.