
Hideo Kojima Shares Death Stranding 3 Concept, Won't Direct
May 08, 2025 7:01 AMHideo Kojima reveals that he has conceptualized a third installment in the Death Stranding franchise but will not be directing it himself. Following the upcoming release of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, Kojima discussed why he chose Australia as the new setting and how it allows for diverse narrative possibilities. He introduced the Plate Gate mechanic in the sequel, which could logically extend into future narratives. Death Stranding 2 is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively for PlayStation 5, promising an expanded gameplay experience influenced by Kojima's previous work in the Metal Gear Solid series.
nWill there be a Death Stranding 3 and what will it be about?While Hideo Kojima has a concept for Death Stranding 3, he plans to pass it on to another developer, suggesting that future installments could explore new environments and storylines through mechanics like the Plate Gate introduced in Death Stranding 2.
Death Stranding, released in 2019, marked Kojima's first project after leaving Konami, introducing players to a unique blend of gameplay and storytelling that explores themes of connection and isolation. It received critical acclaim for its innovative mechanics and storyline, establishing a dedicated fanbase, paving the way for this anticipated sequel.

Alex Riverton
Alex Riverton is a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience in the gaming industry. Known for their in-depth analysis and hands-on previews, Alex has built a reputation for insightful commentary on gameplay mechanics and storytelling in videogames.
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Kojima stepping back from directing Death Stranding 3 is like Bowie handing off Ziggy Stardust—risky, but if the vision stays intact, it could be magic. The Plate Gate mechanic already feels like a perfect springboard for wild new storytelling, so here’s hoping the next team embraces the weird. Also, Australia’s harsh landscapes are basically tailor-made for Death Stranding’s lonely beauty—can’t wait to see how the sequel’s setting influences the tone before someone else takes the reins for the third game.

Kojima handing off Death Stranding 3 feels like a bold experiment—kinda curious if another studio can nail that weirdly addictive mix of walking sim and existential dread. At least the Plate Gate mechanic sounds like it’ll keep the lore fresh, even if the director’s chair’s empty. Australia as a setting is a vibe—endless outback for more ‘delivering packages while questioning life’ moments. Wonder if the new dev will lean into the Metal Gear-esque gameplay or take it somewhere totally unexpected.