It’s clear that Hideo Kojima is getting back to his eccentric style as fans begin to notice subtle Metal Gear references hidden throughout the game set for release on June 26.
Konami Played Him Like A Fiddle!
It appears that Hideo Kojima hasn’t moved on completely from his past relationship with Konami. Following a somewhat strained separation, he was compelled to abandon the franchise he had nurtured for so long – Metal Gear Solid. This game wasn’t just his creation; it essentially molded the stealth genre, influencing numerous others to adopt sneaking-style gameplay. However, since the hurried ending of Metal Gear Solid 5, no new Metal Gear games have been developed with Kojima’s input, including the upcoming remake of Metal Gear Solid 3: Delta. Given his lingering emotions about the split, fans view Death Stranding as an extension of his exceptional storytelling and gameplay, albeit without the iconic Snakes.
Metal Gear Stranding?
Following the varied reactions towards the initial Death Stranding, which ranged from exceptionally positive to average, the sequel is set to debut in late June. While some critics found the narrative pace slow, many Metal Gear enthusiasts view this aspect as its most compelling feature and a testament to a Hideo Kojima production.
Kojima Productions unveiled a trailer intended to excite gamers about their upcoming title, and indeed, it succeeded in doing so.
It wasn’t long before true Kojima enthusiasts began noticing an abundance of nods to his original series, such as Metal Gear Solid, right away. Metal Gear Stranding, for instance? If it were only one or two subtle hints, people might attribute it to coincidence. However, the references are quite clear in some instances.
In the trailer, there appears a DHV Magellan Ship that might function as our home base. However, its shape seems remarkably similar to Metal Gear Rex’s head! Now, this is more of an observation rather than a fact. But aside from the noticeable gameplay similarities like stealthy play, there are many more intriguing connections. The latest cover art depicts Cliff planting a kiss on a baby’s forehead, which reminds one strongly of the Japan-exclusive box art for Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty. If you’re a longtime fan of Metal Gear, this should trigger some memories!
Additionally, there’s a strong possibility that Death Stranding 2 may introduce another character resembling Snake. Interestingly, this character might be named Neil, but Hideo Kojima seems intent on giving him a likeness reminiscent of Snake. The end of the trailer hints at this with the bandana tied around his forehead, a nod to Metal Gear Solid 3’s ending that evidently remains vivid in Kojima’s memory. Just like you, Hideo!
If that doesn’t convince you: How about a villain that shoots lasers out of his electronic guitar?
Based on your perspective, are you excited about the trailer? If you’ve been a longtime fan of Hideo Kojima and have eagerly anticipated Metal Gear-style gameplay, that excitement likely resonates with you. However, if you’re new to his work and found the breathtaking trailer intriguing, I can understand your curiosity as well.
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2025-06-09 22:09