As anticipation builds for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Hideo Kojima and Kojima Productions have shared a significant milestone for the original title. Death Stranding has now engaged over 20 million players worldwide since its initial launch. While this impressive figure includes players from promotional periods, such as its availability on the Epic Games Store for free and inclusion in PC Game Pass, it highlights the game’s substantial global reach across multiple platforms. Kojima himself announced the achievement, stating, “Thank you very much. Sams from all over the world are still delivering. You are connecting the world.”
Kojima’s Reflection and the Game’s Unique Resonance
Reflecting on the journey, Hideo Kojima noted the game’s timeline and enduring appeal: “The PS4 version was released in November 2019. Shortly after, the world was hit by the pandemic.” He acknowledged the subsequent releases on various platforms, adding, “We’ve finally reached 20 million porters… But even after five years from the initial release, many are still playing the game. That makes me the happiest.”
The game’s themes exploring societal atomisation, the shift towards isolated lifestyles, and the profound need for human connection struck a powerful chord, particularly as its release preceded the global pandemic lockdowns. This timing created a unique instance where art mirrored life, deepening the game’s impact. For many players exploring the digital landscapes curated by Digital Tech Explorer, Death Stranding offered a narrative that became increasingly relevant, exploring ideas of connection in an increasingly disconnected world.
Personal Connections and Studio Gratitude
Highlighting the theme central to the game, Kojima shared a personal insight during a recent SXSW panel, linking it to his departure from Konami: “I thought I lost everything when I became alone nine years ago… [But] I had something very important, which was connection with people.” This sentiment resonates with TechTalesLeo’s focus on the human stories behind technology.
Kojima Productions expressed their gratitude in a statement: “Death Stranding has surpassed 20 million players worldwide. To everyone who built bridges, paved roads, and delivered cargo—here’s a massive ‘Like!’ Each and every one of your connections helped make this incredible milestone possible.”
Looking ahead, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is scheduled for release on PS5 on June 25, 2025. A PC release date remains unconfirmed, though fans might recall the original game took roughly eight months to arrive on PC after its console debut. The sequel promises to delve into even more unconventional territory, sparking playful descriptions like “Metal Gear Stranding” among the community.
