Death Stranding 2 Set for 2025 Release; New Trailer Debuts at SXSW

Hideo Kojima, the visionary behind Kojima Productions, made a thrilling announcement at SXSW 2025. Amidst the exciting discussions, he revealed that Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to launch on June 26 for PlayStation 5. Fans were treated to an extended sneak peek at the game with a brand new, immersive trailer.

This 10-minute trailer dives deep into the world of Death Stranding 2, spotlighting its returning stars and introducing some intriguing new faces. Norman Reedus is back, reprising his role as Sam Bridges, the intrepid delivery hero from the original’s eccentric storyline. Also returning are Léa Seydoux as Fragile and Troy Baker as Higgs. They’re joined by newcomers Elle Fanning portraying Tomorrow, Shioli Kutsuna as Rainy, and George Miller in the role of Tarman. The cast expands further with Luca Marinelli taking on the character Neil, Debra Wilson as Doctor, and Alissa Jung as Lucy. And there’s an exciting cameo by Korean action star Lee Dong-seok, also known as Don Lee.

Observant fans might notice the trailer seems to play with elements reminiscent of Kojima’s famed Metal Gear Solid series. Marinelli’s character, at one point, strongly resembles Solid Snake. Additionally, a massive tar creature that combines with the DHV Magellan gives off vibes similar to Metal Gear Rex/Sahelanthropus. For those passionate about Death Stranding, there’s a treasure trove of gameplay and story hints packed in.

Set 11 months following the establishment of the United Cities of America, the trailer unveils a transformed world. The beach is now lined with servers, and deliveries have gone automated, indicating a bleak outlook for porters like Sam. Chiralium remains a threat, warping environments—cats included—and a new faction is rising in power. Regardless of these challenges, Sam isn’t backing down from his mission.

Kojima shared insights into the creative process behind Death Stranding 2 during its first trailer debut at the 2022 Game Awards. He reflected on how the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic influenced him to reimagine the script, continuing the saga from the first game’s trek across an America marred by inky, haunting creatures called Beached Things.

Another extended look was offered during last year’s State of Play event, revealing that the Bridges delivery company had been disbanded, clearing the way for a new organization named Drawbridge to emerge. As is typical with Kojima’s creations, many details remain shrouded in mystery.