With Death Stranding 2: On the Beach nearing its June 26 release, Kojima Productions has revealed a new gameplay trailer that gives fans a more grounded look at what’s in store. Unlike the heavily cinematic previews shown previously, this latest trailer focuses on actual gameplay.

Sam Porter Bridges, played once again by Norman Reedus, returns as the central figure, continuing his mission to reconnect a fractured world. Players will join Sam on a journey beyond the UCA, crossing dangerous new landscapes and facing supernatural threats as well as human opposition. Enhanced tools, upgraded vehicles, and new traversal mechanics are introduced to help players overcome these challenges. From deep floods to unstable terrain, the environments in On the Beach are more dynamic and threatening than ever.

Combat plays a much larger role this time. The trailer features shootouts, bike chases, and even large-scale mech battles, offering a range of approaches to each encounter. Stealth remains a viable option, allowing players to avoid conflict altogether or sneak through areas undetected. The return of the Social Strand System ensures that your decisions will ripple across other players’ worlds, reinforcing the game’s ongoing themes of connection and consequence.

Familiar faces such as Léa Seydoux and Troy Baker return alongside new characters portrayed by Elle Fanning, Shioli Kutsuna, and George Miller. Kojima said the story will be easier to follow than the first game. Reedus shared that this change could help draw in players who found the original’s complex narrative difficult to connect with.

As part of the game’s rollout, Kojima is on a 12-stop international tour, with an appearance in Sydney set for June 14. At Summer Games Fest, Kojima hosted an in-depth 80-minute panel with Geoff Keighley, where attendees got a closer look at the first five minutes of the game and witnessed new gameplay in action. One particularly striking scene featured Elle Fanning’s character, Tomorrow, fighting through tar to defeat robotic enemies.

This sequel is the beginning of Kojima Productions’ “Phase 2,” which pushes forward with technological advancements and deeper narrative experiences. Kojima has ideas for a potential continuation of the Death Stranding universe, but he has made it clear he will not be directing a third game. Instead, he plans to explore new projects.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will be available exclusively on PlayStation 5, with early access starting June 24 for players who purchase the Collector’s or Digital Deluxe Edition. Kojima’s latest release promises to be one of the year’s most memorable gaming experiences.

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