Hideo Kojima Changed Death Stranding 2 – Because It Was Too Good

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According to Death Stranding’s composer, Hideo Kojima changed the game because it was too good.

Produced by Hideo Kojima

Hideo Kojima is a highly recognized figure within the gaming world, and his name frequently appears in the credits of numerous games he’s worked on. However, this prolific creator, who brought us the Metal Gear series and Death Stranding, has a knack for making dialogues and gameplay contentious, which not all players appreciate. His intricately designed conversations and lengthy cutscenes (some of which set records due to their length) are so detailed that there are YouTube videos analyzing the stories in movie-length detail – but these extended conversations and cutscenes don’t resonate with everyone. In fact, Kojima seems to enjoy this particular aspect.

Now, Yoann Lemoine, better known as Woodkid, who is composing for Death Stranding 2, is discussing unforeseen ramifications.

Disliked by Hideo Kojima

Following a playtest of Death Stranding 2, the sequel to the divisive original, there was some positive feedback – however, this wasn’t great news for Hideo Kojima. In the first game, only 4 out of 10 people enjoyed it, but in the latest test, all 10 testers praised the game. This is every game developer’s dream, except for him. In a conversation with Woodkid, he expressed the need for change as the game is receiving too much acclaim. A game that’s liked by too many isn’t controversial enough; it’s becoming mainstream. He doesn’t desire this.



Changed by Hideo Kojima

Fans who are already acquainted with his work might remark, “This feels distinctly like Hideo Kojima”, and they would be spot on! Woodkid shares some insights into his partnership with the Japanese developer: Hideo Kojima asserts that if a game is liked by too many people, it’s been oversimplified. He strives to avoid mass appeal; he never aimed to sell numerous copies or make it like movies, which “demand 80% approval.” Instead, for him, a 4 out of 10 positive response rate is satisfactory. That’s why he “altered certain aspects in the script and the way critical events unfold within the game.

Taught by Hideo Kojima

Ultimately, Woodkid admits that this encounter showed him that it’s less about satisfying others and more about stirring their emotions and stimulating their minds – a philosophy that perfectly encapsulates Hideo Kojima’s mindset.

Sony is satisfied, of course, but I wish I were a little more controversial. I’m not interested in appealing to the mass market or selling millions of copies… that’s not my goal.

Could Death Stranding 2 potentially stir up as much debate as its first installment? Kojima expresses that he fervently hopes so. His longing for the Metal Gear universe still lingers, and it’s evident in the latest game. This piece provides insights into some of the references found in DS2.

Have you always been a fan of the eccentric free spirit, or do you find him pretentious?

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2025-06-17 19:09