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 dropped this weekend, bringing with it a release date, collector’s edition details, box art, and more. Eagle-eyed fans have already spotted a fun connection to director Hideo Kojima’s past work: Metal Gear Solid 2.

The Death Stranding 2 box art, featuring Norman Reedus as Sam “Porter” Bridges holding the child “Lou,” bears a striking resemblance to a Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty slipcase. Reddit user ReverseTheFlash highlighted this similarity, noting the parallel composition of Japanese singer Gackt holding a child on the MGS2 artwork. While not identical, the visual similarities are undeniable and offer a delightful nod to Kojima’s history. This also serves as a reminder of a rather unique piece of Metal Gear Solid lore.

Gackt’s prominent role in Metal Gear Solid 2’s promotional campaign, including these special slipcases, has led to much intrigue and speculation over the years. Kojima himself explained the connection in 2013, stating that he chose Gackt because “MGS1” was about DNA (AGTC), and adding his own initial “K” resulted in “GACKT.”

Given the noticeable Metal Gear influences in Death Stranding 2’s new trailer, these parallels aren’t entirely surprising. While likely a coincidence or the result of recurring thematic elements in Kojima’s work, the connection provides a fun point of discussion and a nostalgic trip down memory lane for fans.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach releases exclusively on PlayStation 5 on June 26, 2025.