Kojima Fans Notice Fun Link Between Death Stranding 2 and Metal Gear Solid 2 Box Arts

Over the weekend, fans of *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* were treated to a new trailer that not only revealed a release date but also showcased a collector's edition, box art, and more. Amidst the excitement, a keen-eyed fan discovered a delightful nod to director Hideo Kojima's past work, *Metal Gear Solid 2*. The box art for *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* features Sam "Porter" Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, holding the child "Lou," a character familiar to players of the original game. Reddit user ReverseTheFlash pointed out this connection by comparing the box art to a *Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty* slipcase, which displays a similar motif with Japanese singer Gackt holding a child.

While the compositions aren't identical, the similarities are striking and have sparked joy among fans. This connection serves as a reminder of the intriguing, out-of-universe backstory of *Metal Gear Solid*. During the promotional campaign for *Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty*, Gackt was prominently featured in various advertisements, including special slip-covers in some regions. These have since become rare collectibles, sparking curiosity and discussion among fans.

The involvement of Gackt in *Metal Gear Solid 2*'s promotion was no mere coincidence. In 2013, Hideo Kojima explained that he chose Gackt because "*MGS1* was about DNA and *MGS2* about MEME. DNA consists of 'AGTC,' and adding 'K' of KOJIMA becomes 'GACKT.'" This clever play on letters reflects Kojima's penchant for embedding deeper meanings into his work.

Given the new trailer for *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* carries distinct *Metal Gear* vibes, it's no wonder fans are drawing connections between the two games. These similarities might be more than just a nod; they could reflect recurring themes and ideas in Kojima's oeuvre. It's always fun to speculate and reminisce, especially when it involves iconic promotional materials like those featuring Gackt.

*Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5, promising another deep dive into Kojima's unique storytelling and game design.