Hideo Kojima Fans Spot a Fun Similarity Between Death Stranding 2's Box Art and Metal Gear Solid 2

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach's new trailer, complete with a release date, collector's edition details, box art, and more, has sent ripples of excitement through the fanbase. One observant fan, however, noticed a fascinating parallel to director Hideo Kojima's past work: Metal Gear Solid 2.

The Death Stranding 2 box art, featuring Norman Reedus as Sam "Porter" Bridges cradling the child "Lou," sparked the comparison. Reddit user ReverseTheFlash highlighted the striking resemblance to a Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty slipcase, posting an image showcasing the similar composition. The Metal Gear Solid 2 promo art depicts Japanese singer Gackt holding a child in a nearly identical pose. While not an exact replica, the similarities are undeniably intriguing. This also brings to light a peculiar aspect of Metal Gear Solid's (out-of-universe) promotional history.

Gackt's prominent role in Metal Gear Solid 2's marketing campaign, including region-specific slipcases, has generated much curiosity over the years. Kojima himself shed light on this in 2013, explaining that his choice to feature Gackt was based on a thematic connection: "MGS1 was about DNA & 'MGS2' MEME. DNA consists of 'AGTC,' adding 'K' of KOJIMA becomes 'GACKT.'"

Given the strong Metal Gear influences present in Death Stranding 2's new trailer, this connection is hardly surprising. While these similarities might simply reflect recurring themes within Kojima's oeuvre, the parallel is undeniably fun to contemplate. It's a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting a memorable promotional image featuring Gackt.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to launch exclusively on PlayStation 5 on June 26, 2025.