Why Fans of Pacific Rim Need to Watch Out for Death Stranding 2

Death Stranding 2 made quite the entrance at SXSW this week, as Hideo Kojima took to the stage for an extensive discussion on the highly anticipated sequel. Set to deliver an even grander and more bewildering narrative than its predecessor, the game is already creating a buzz with its thrilling new features and mysterious storylines.

This sneak peek, one of the most revealing glimpses of Death Stranding 2 thus far, was true to form for Kojima, leaving fans with more questions than answers. Of particular interest was Heartman’s appearance in a mechanized tar monster suit—a peculiar yet captivating detail. For those familiar with Kojima’s flair, this is just another example of the studio’s boundless creativity. The inclusion of something reminiscent of Pacific Rim adds an intriguing twist that should captivate series enthusiasts.

Introduced in the new Death Stranding 2 trailer, Heartman’s role has been amplified as he operates a tar monster remotely, shown around the nine-and-a-half-minute mark. A noteworthy location in the game, DHV Magellan, is initially believed to be a ship sailing through tar but is suggested to serve multiple purposes. In a compelling scene, Heartman, seen remotely, utters the command “DHV Magellan, integrate,” prompting a towering, headless tar creature to place the ship on its shoulders. This moment is as jaw-dropping as it gets and epitomizes the peculiar charm of the series.

Heartman’s environment and the integration command bring Pacific Rim to mind, with famed director Hideo Kojima most likely drawing inspiration from his collaborative history with Pacific Rim’s Guillermo del Toro. In Kojima fashion, though, the mech experience is anything but typical. Rather than steel giants, Death Stranding 2’s humanoid creatures convey a more organic authenticity, promising an exhilarating spin on the traditional mech narrative.

Experimenting with life-like forms against metallic giants creates an amusing dichotomy that is likely to intrigue eager fans when the game launches. The original Death Stranding was quite the enigma in 2019, captivating some while remaining inscrutable to others. Fortunately, the sequel appears to be embracing even greater oddities—a delight for die-hard fans.

Excitingly, preorders for Death Stranding 2 commence on March 17, with a launch set for June 26, 2025. Of course, keen players can secure an early experience with the Digital Deluxe or Collector’s Editions, granting access on June 24. Initially available exclusively for PS5, many hold out hope the game will eventually make its way to other platforms, much like its predecessor did.

With the countdown to release well underway, players don’t have to wait much longer to see the new and evolved world Death Stranding 2 offers. While the extent of the tar mechs’ involvement remains shrouded in mystery, lovers of the franchise can undoubtedly anticipate a captivating continuation of the story.