During an interview with LEO Edit, a men’s web-blog, Norman Reedus reflects on his illustrious career and promising future. A future which, Reedus claims, includes the unannounced sequel to Hideo Kojima’s Death Stranding (2019).
[Death Stranding] takes a lot of work. And then the game came out, and it just won all these awards, and it was a huge thing, so we just started part two of that.
Norman Reedus, interviewing with LEO Edit
Though mild enough, these throwaway comments from the “Walking Dead” star are our first confirmations of a Death Stranding sequel. Norman Reedus, leading actor in the original title, is still fresh in his partnership with Hideo Kojima. And so he just might be the most reliable source to leak the game, besides, of course, the director himself.
The Director Himself on “Death Stranding” Sequel
Hideo Kojima has taken to Twitter in an unofficial, chastising response to Reedus’ comments. His teases are good-natured and friendly, scolding Reedus for leaking the game, but Kojima makes no effort to deny such claims.
Kojima’s casual response is yet another sign that the gaming industry is changing. Where many developing studios prioritize secrecy and discreetness, this laid-back tease from Kojima reflects the director’s streak of independence.
Since his firing from Konami in their 2015 restructuring, the auteur has enjoyed complete authority over titles within his own studio: Kojima Productions. This led to 2019’s Death Stranding, the studio’s first major release. Which made it all the more divisive for fans when the game met with mixed reactions upon reception. Death Stranding is praised for its Kojima-touch, the inspired story and setting, but the awkward gameplay failed to create a substantial title.
Similarly, fans have mixed feelings about the sequel reveal. Some hope for improved mechanics, that Kojima Productions will learn from its missteps. And others wish the studio would move on to other projects. Either way, the spotlight is on Hideo Kojima for whatever comes next.
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