Hideo Kojima Includes New Character in Death Stranding 2 Inspired by Popular Sci-Fi Anime

Hideo Kojima is currently in the midst of developing Death Stranding 2, and it’s been revealed that his passion for anime significantly influences the game.

Development on Death Stranding 2 has been ongoing for quite some time, with recent updates shared during the Tokyo Game Show 2024. Among the usual cryptic teases from Kojima, there was even a dance number featuring multiple Dollmen – because why not?

During the event, we had the opportunity to hear from some of the cast, including Shion Wakayama. In her segment, Kojima mentioned that he cast her due to his admiration for her voice acting in the anime series Lycoris Recoil.

Director Hideo Kojima is such a big fan of Ricorico that he cast Shion Wakayama as Takina #DeathStranding2 #TGS2024 pic.twitter.com/mOaUEY1D3L

— Norman Reedus Image Bot (@Normanbot_) September 29, 2024

The anime series, which debuted in 2022, follows two young female assassins employed by the government to eliminate specific targets, while managing their everyday lives, including household chores. This ambitious production is created by A-1 Pictures, famed for Solo Leveling, and showcases wholly original storytelling.

Kojima has publicly expressed his fondness for Lycoris Recoil, often spotted wearing merchandise featuring the main characters, Takina Inoue and Chisato Nishikigi. Shion voices Takina, indicating who might be his favorite, though he likely appreciates both characters equally.

During the showcase, it was revealed that Death Stranding 2 is approximately 30-40% completed, meaning there’s still a considerable journey ahead. Nonetheless, Kojima aims for the new installment to release in 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5, similar to how the original was launched on PlayStation 4.

Meanwhile, A-1 Pictures is diligently working on Solo Leveling, gearing up for the second season and the first compilation film of the series. Solo Leveling: ReAwakening is slated to premiere this November, providing fans with an early chance to experience the first two episodes of Season 2 in theaters.

This serves as the perfect distraction for fans eagerly anticipating the return of Death Stranding and Lycoris Recoil. In the meantime, stay updated on the latest developments with Death Stranding 2.

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