Kojima Rewrote Death Stranding 2 to Avoid Mainstream Appeal

Hideo Kojima altered the script for Death Stranding 2 mid-development after deeming it "too mainstream." Discover why Kojima made these changes mid-production and how the game manages to be both widely accessible and radically original simultaneously.

"Not Polarizing Enough": Why Hideo Kojima Rewrote Death Stranding 2

Script Was Changed Halfway Through Production

Midway through development, Director Hideo Kojima pivoted on Death Stranding 2: On the Beach's (DS2) storyline, feeling it had become "too mainstream." Earlier reports indicated Kojima was troubled by the positive pre-release feedback, as his ambition was to craft thought-provoking art rather than simply another commercial blockbuster.

This concern resurfaced, as revealed by composer Yoann Lemoine (known professionally as Woodkid) in a June 13 interview with Rolling Stone. Woodkid recounted, "We reached a pivotal moment in development when he approached me and said, ‘We have a problem.’"

According to Woodkid, Kojima interpreted the overwhelmingly positive test results as a sign something was wrong. He believed the story wasn't provoking the strong, divisive reactions he sought. Consequently, Kojima rewrote key narrative moments, feeling the original script was not polarizing enough.

Kojima explained his reasoning: "Universal approval signifies a mainstream, conventional product—something pre-digested for easy consumption." His goal was to create something audiences might initially resist, believing that is the path to creating a truly beloved, enduring work.

Death Stranding 2: A Fusion of Mainstream and Radical Elements

Woodkid further elaborated on the contradictory qualities that define DS2's greatness, pointing out the unique anomaly of Kojima and his work being simultaneously mainstream and radically innovative.

He stated, "Achieving mainstream success typically requires significant compromise. You can create art that tries to be everything to everyone, but Hideo? He genuinely doesn't care about that. He refuses to compromise and executes his singular vision with conviction. That's the mark of a true genius."

Woodkid also emphasized that while Kojima relentlessly pursues his own vision, he remains open to collaboration. He noted, "[Kojima] builds his world by incorporating input from his team. It's not a top-down dictatorship. I contributed ideas, and he would shape, edit, and refine them. It was always a dialogue."

Inspiring a New Generation of Developers and Creators

With DS2's impending launch, Woodkid believes it will inspire developers much like the Metal Gear series and the first Death Stranding did. He remarked, however, that Kojima's unique creative voice is ultimately impossible to replicate.

Woodkid also suggested that Kojima's games will become a significant source of inspiration for filmmakers. He elaborated, "It wouldn't be surprising to see him become a major influence for film directors. I know the cinematic world deeply admires his success, his unique vision, and the sheer radicality of his work."

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is scheduled for release on June 26, 2025, for PlayStation 5. For all the latest news and updates on the game, check out our dedicated Death Stranding 2: On The Beach article below!