In early June, amidst the bustling atmosphere of the Summer Game Fest in Downtown Los Angeles, renowned video game creator Hideo Kojima unveiled his latest project, "Death Stranding 2: On the Beach." The sequel to the 2019 hit game is set for release on June 26th. During a private meeting at a hotel conference room, Kojima discussed his collaboration with fashion brand GU and reflected on the themes of human connection that underpin his work. This interview also touched upon Kojima's fashion sense, the technological advancements between the first and second installments of "Death Stranding," and his involvement in the upcoming movie adaptation by A24.
Hideo Kojima's Journey Through Fashion and Technology
In the heart of Los Angeles, during the vibrant Summer Game Fest, Hideo Kojima found time to meet with his team and share insights into his creative process. Known for pushing boundaries in the gaming world, Kojima has ventured into fashion collaborations, most recently with GU, a move aimed at broadening the appeal of his games beyond traditional gamers. By merging high-quality designs with accessible pricing, GU offers fans and non-fans alike an opportunity to engage with Kojima's universe through clothing.
Kojima emphasized the importance of in-person interactions, drawing parallels between these encounters and the themes explored in "Death Stranding 2: On the Beach." He recounted how isolation during the pandemic influenced his perspective on human connections, leading to a deeper exploration of these ideas in the new game. Technological progress, while significant, did not drastically alter the production methods from the first to the second game; instead, it refined existing techniques, allowing for more photorealistic character models and advanced performance capture.
When asked about his personal style, Kojima revealed a preference for European aesthetics, favoring darker tones and fitted clothing over oversized styles. His approach to collaborations extends beyond mere product endorsements, focusing on mutual trust and direct communication with designers. This philosophy is evident in his partnerships with brands like Hamilton and Acronym, where he ensures that the essence of each brand shines through in their joint ventures.
The transition from "Death Stranding" to its sequel reflects Kojima's evolving thoughts on humanity's interconnectedness. Experiencing illness during the pandemic reinforced his belief in the necessity of face-to-face interactions, which he believes cannot be fully replicated by technology. As development resumed post-pandemic, Kojima cherished moments spent with actors and staff, highlighting the irreplaceable value of shared experiences.
Looking ahead, Kojima expressed excitement about the film adaptation of "Death Stranding," produced by A24 and directed by Michael Sarnoski. While trusting the filmmakers' vision, Kojima remains involved as a guiding force, ensuring that the essence of his original creation is preserved.
From a journalist's perspective, Kojima's endeavors underscore the potential for cross-industry collaborations to enrich storytelling. His commitment to fostering genuine connections, whether through games, fashion, or movies, serves as a reminder of the power of creativity to unite people across diverse fields. As technology continues to evolve, Kojima's work stands as a testament to the enduring importance of human interaction in an increasingly digital world.