
Learn: The Game Designer Profession from Scratch to PRO
Find out moreOn February 1, during the online event State of Play, a new nine-minute trailer for the sequel to Death Stranding, called Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, was presented. The trailer features a variety of captivating shots showcasing various timelines of the upcoming game. The transitions between these scenes are skillfully edited, creating a confusing and intriguing effect. The anticipation for the continuation of this unique story grows increasingly tense, as each new shot emphasizes the atmosphere and depth of the Death Stranding game world.
Hideo Kojima recommends rewatching the first trailer for his new project, published in late 2022, for a deeper understanding of the events presented in the current video. This trailer contains key elements and clues that will help viewers better understand the storylines and concepts embedded in the latest content.
We have analyzed both trailers and attempted to determine their content and meaning.
This text contains numerous spoilers for the first part of the Death Stranding game. If you're already playing through the game or are just about to start playing, we recommend coming back to this material later.
First Trailer Summary
In this section, we'll look at the key moments of the trailer shown at The Game Awards 2022. The trailer contains important elements that can influence the expectations of viewers and fans of the game. From graphics and gameplay to music and narrative, every detail matters. By discussing these aspects, we can better understand what players can expect in the upcoming release.
The trailer begins with scenes from the bunker, where Sam Bridges likely lived with Lou after the events of the first game. This room contains many interesting details that may provide clues about the development of the plot and characters. The bunker's setting creates an atmosphere of mystery and hints at the events that took place, as well as a new direction in which the story may be heading. Attention to detail in the interior emphasizes the importance of each element for understanding the world the characters inhabit.
- children's toys;
- Sam's dreamcatcher, which hangs on the ceiling with a hologram along with the other dreamcatchers (due to different angles, one might think that the action takes place in different rooms);
- an empty Bridge Baby capsule, which, due to its use, has become something of an interior decoration;
- a children's height ruler, which can be used to calculate the child's approximate age.
If we consider the divisions in the context of the standard American system of measurements, which uses "inches" and "feet", and take into account that the Bridge Baby capsules contained premature babies, removed from the womb in the seventh month of pregnancy, then we can compare this data with the ruler to estimate the approximate height and age of the newborns. Analyzing the child's appearance in subsequent frames, which looks like an 11-month-old or a one-year-old baby, suggests that about a year has passed since the events of the first part. This observation highlights the dynamics of character growth and development in the story, and also allows for a better understanding of the timeframe of the events taking place.

In the following footage, we see Fragile (Léa Seydoux) caring for a child in a bunker during the evening. Fans familiar with the first Death Stranding will immediately notice a number of inconsistent moments. These details may raise questions and theories about the plot development, which makes the game even more intriguing for fans.
- For some unknown reason, Fragile's signs of physical aging have disappeared. Even before the events of Death Stranding, while trying to save a large city from a Homo Demens bomb, the heroine was caught in a temporal rain, which caused her body to rapidly age. Perhaps, during this time, new methods of regeneration have been discovered in the United Cities of America that can reverse the effects of temporal rains.
- In the first part, Fragile repeatedly rejected offers to take care of BB, arguing that "babysitting is not her thing." From the director's cut, we know that her mother, Coffin, abandoned the family to put an end to Bridges' experiments on the BB babies. Perhaps Fragile's views have changed by the time of the sequel's events.
- At the end of the game, Sam parted ways with Fragile on a sour note, rejecting all offers of further collaboration. It is unknown how their relationship was restored and Sam trusted her to babysit Lou.

At night, the bunker is attacked by a group of unknown armed men. Fragile decides to save Lou and leaves the shelter. She mounts the latest model of tricycle, designed in the form of a unicycle, and tries to elude her pursuers. However, during the chase, she is shot, and she falls from the vehicle along with the child.
A figure with a pistol appears on the screen, the outline of which resembles Higgs. However, it is worth noting that the use of firearms is unusual for this character. Most likely, this frame is taken out of context of another scene. A shot is heard, and the familiar title card with a baby appears on the screen again, which in the game usually symbolizes the repatriation process. This moment piques the interest of players, highlighting unusual plot elements and possible changes to the game mechanics.
Fragile wakes up in a place where fire rages everywhere, possibly on the Shore. Resin begins to leak from her eye, reminiscent of Cliff Unger. She notices the child lying on the ground and tries to reach him, but her efforts are futile. Chaos reigns all around, and she must find a way to escape this blazing nightmare to save not only herself but also the defenseless baby.
The indoor shots immerse the viewer in the atmosphere of the Seam. A broken Bridge Baby tank is visible on the floor, from which Lou's silhouette emerges. Apparently, he has become a Thing, bound to a specific location. A similar situation previously occurred with the stillborn child of Molingen (Mom).

At the end of the trailer, Sam holds an empty BB flask, from which octopus tentacles begin to emerge. Sam, surprised by what is happening, says: "Lou?", which may indicate that Louise is trying to convey some kind of sign to him. This moment creates intrigue and emphasizes the connection between the characters, and also sets the stage for further plot development.
The trailer features a cutscene in which a group of people, presumably priests, in red robes, move through a mysterious location toward a giant structure. Let's look at the key details of this scene.
- Similar sandy locations were not present in the first part of the game. The grotesque environment may point to some alternative reality, the afterlife, that is, someone's Shore, or an entirely different point on the globe, where the laws of physics operate differently.

- The enormous structures, reminiscent of drawbridges (more on that below), may be some kind of portal between the world of the living and the dead.
- A massive sarcophagus is being carried toward the structures. Considering that the first game repeatedly touched on the theme of Ka and Ga (body and soul)—the concept of the soul in ancient Egyptian mythology—the appearance of the sarcophagus in the frame may be an important reference to interaction with the afterlife. And one can speculate about a kind of resurrection ritual, for which the sarcophagus is transferred to an unknown location. Knowing that the main connoisseur of Ancient Egyptian culture in the first game remained on the Beach, it is not difficult to guess who might be inside this sarcophagus. And this assumption is confirmed in the following trailer, the details of which we will give below.

- The statuette on the sarcophagus and the cultists' staffs is visually similar to the bust of Amelie, whose true destiny was to cause the Sixth Extinction in the first Death Stranding. A kippah-like pattern frames the top of the figure, while the bottom resembles a half-sun or an inverted rainbow.
At the end of the game, Amelie made the decision to stop the Sixth Extinction for Sam's sake. She chose to permanently isolate herself on the Shore, thereby severing the connection between the world of the living and the rest of the Shores. It is possible that the cult seeks to revive Amelie's essence and fulfill her destiny, which could have serious consequences for all worlds.
In the middle of the trailer, the logo of the new organization Drawbridge is shown, designed as a drawbridge. This symbol personifies the main idea of the company, which will likely become a key one in the game. Drawbridge's motto—"to protect and unite sticks and ropes for tomorrow"—emphasizes the organization's commitment to unity and security in the future.
The concept of "sticks and ropes" permeates the entire first part of the game, embodying the conflict between love and peace on one side and weapons and violence on the other. This dual structure highlights the fragility and complexity of combining these contradictory elements, creating a profound emotional charge and forcing players to consider the nature of human relationships in a harsh reality.

Norman Reedus's Sam Bridges introduction begins with the line, "You wouldn't wish a loss like that on anyone. You know, I meant I understand how you feel, but if you don't let go of your sadness, it will weigh you down like an anchor from the past." These words are spoken by a new character, and they are clearly taken out of the context of a deeper discussion. This line emphasizes the importance of overcoming loss and letting go of the burden of the past, which is a key aspect of the characters' emotional development in the game.
Sam appears significantly older, which raises questions about the reasons for such changes. It can be assumed that the action takes place many years after the tragedy with Lou. However, it is also possible that the new changes in nature have somehow affected the returnees, reflecting their changed essence and perception of the world. These factors may be key to understanding his appearance and internal state.
Sam is met outside by Fragile. Together they watch as a giant ship emerges from the black water. Upon closer inspection, you can notice many interesting details.

- The vessel is owned by Drawbridge, and its name, DHV Magellan, is visible on the hull, along with an octopus logo. The vessel is likely named after the Portuguese and Spanish explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who is famous for completing the first circumnavigation of the globe.
- The ship is capable of moving through resin and levitating. This action is accompanied by the appearance of sea creatures, which are found in the Seam, on the Shores, and in the craters formed by the Void Splash.
- The unnatural roar of the engine is reminiscent of the hum emitted by the Giant Beast from Chapter 9 of the first Death Stranding.
- When it appears, Fragile and Sam experience symptoms of chiral allergies, which is common among people with DUD.
The vehicle demonstrates a clear connection to the otherworldly world, which apparently facilitates its movement outside the SGA. These features emphasize the uniqueness of this vehicle and its ability to interact with alternate dimensions.
Fragile invites Sam to join her crew and set off on an exciting journey. It turns out that she is the owner of the new vehicle and is carrying out an important global mission in which she requires the courier's help. Although many details were obscured by bokeh in the trailer, eagle-eyed viewers might notice a new accessory—hands wrapped around her neck. They might also notice a yellow object she holds in both hands, reminiscent of a BB capsule. This adds intrigue to her character and emphasizes the importance of her mission in the game world.

At the end of the trailer, a voiceover mentions a decision made not by the SGA, but by the private corporation APAC. The footage shows a character in red armor, surrounded by robots and holding a futuristic guitar. These details raise many questions and invite viewers to consider the depth of the plot and possible storylines. The armor, guitar, and robots create an atmosphere of high technology and conflict, which may indicate a significant role for APAC in the development of events.
- The character sings lines from BB's Theme in Troy Baker's voice.
- He wears a red woman's mask, whose facial features can be mistaken for Amelia's. This alludes to the episode with the cultists.
- His torso has a large reservoir of liquid built into it, in which some kind of entrails float. The element is visually similar to the Bridge Baby life support system.
- The character has a specific ear shape, identical to Troy Baker's ears. Previously, the natural shape of the actor's ears was transferred to the original Higgs model.

Many active members of the gaming community began to speculate that Higgs Monaghan, voiced by Troy Baker, could be hiding under the mask, having returned from the Shore in a new guise. However, at that time, there was no exact confirmation of this theory, since the video sequence ended exactly at the moment when the character was just beginning to take off the mask.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Trailer Contents
Now let's analyze the key moments of the new trailer, based on the data from the previous fragments. Pay attention to important elements that emphasize the development of the plot and characters. Every detail can play a significant role in understanding the overall context and audience expectations. Careful examination of these aspects will help you better appreciate the upcoming events and their impact on the further story.
The trailer opens with a scene of a body being extracted from a mysterious cocoon. Through the cut hole, the face of a girl (Elle Fanning), covered in resin and gold plating, is visible. Interestingly, similar traces of chiralium in the head area are observed in those who died in the final stage of necrosis, which is also demonstrated in the prologue of the first part of the game. This detail creates an atmosphere of mystery and strengthens the connection between the events of the game and the visual elements of the trailer.
The extraction operation is carried out by the one-armed captain of the DHV Magellan, played by George Miller. He is assisted by Fragile. In this episode, viewers can see that the accessory in the form of hands on the heroine's neck, first seen in the first trailer, is equipped with "smart" functions and acts as a mask in this scene.

The Fragile accessory, which Hideo Kojima calls "second hands," was developed during the pandemic. While working remotely, the game designer wondered how to express approval when both hands were busy. As a result, he created a sketch of the new device and handed it over to designer Yoji Shinkawa for revision. The success of the "second hands" inspired Kojima to further develop the idea, and he hopes that this innovative accessory will find recognition in the fashion world. Kojima believes that the Fragile will become not only stylish but also a useful addition to everyday life, allowing people to interact with the world around them even with limited freedom of movement.
The Cat-Thing licks drops of resin that flow from its cocoon onto the floor with its tongue, reminiscent of an octopus tentacle. This suggests that humanity now has the ability to domesticate and breed peaceful Beast-creatures. New horizons in interaction with these unique creatures open up numerous opportunities to study and explore their behavior, as well as to form mutually beneficial relationships.
In the next scene, Fragile cleans resin stains from a girl's arm, sets up an IV, and administers an injection. The heroine notices marks on the girl's forearm that resemble octopus suckers and pulls back in horror. The octopus image, already appearing in the previous trailer, likely symbolizes a connection to the otherworldly realm known as the Shore. This detail emphasizes the mystical atmosphere of the plot and hints at deep themes related to life and death.
George Miller's character decides to take control of the situation and attempts to open one of the "suckers." A black substance begins to flow out of the cut, and needles resembling stiff hairs appear in the center of the “suckers”. This moment emphasizes the tension and mystery of what is happening, adding depth to the plot and intriguingly attracting the attention of the audience.

The captain tries to remove one of the needles, but suddenly a jet of black liquid bursts out, instantly corroding the material of Fragile's glove. She watches as the skin of her hand begins to age, and the outside of her palm takes on the same appearance it had after exposure to temporal rain in the past.
Let's imagine that after the events of the first part of the game, it became possible to get rid of the effects of temporal precipitation, or the side effects disappeared on their own. At the same time, on the "other" side, where the cocoon probably originated, temporal processes began to accelerate. As a result, we see footage of a woman on the operating table coming to. This creates an intriguing contrast between a world where the effects of temporal phenomena are eliminated, and a world where they only intensify.
A new cutscene with baby BB, symbolizing the repatriation process, takes a more grotesque approach. BB spits out the ship that was shown in the first trailer. GameSpot hypothesizes that the crew can use Sam's ability to return to the Seam to enter and navigate within it. This plot element emphasizes the uniqueness of the gameplay and adds depth to the characters' interactions with the world.
The following footage confirms this hypothesis. The room has an underwater feel, and the characters on screen are colored blue. Sam is in a cabin that looks like it will be the new lounge when Fragile comes to visit him.

The courier's appearance, reminiscent of the image from the first trailer - gray hair, bare chest and trousers - suggests that he accepted the offer of his former colleague at the dock. From the monologue heard in the voiceover, it becomes clear that her ship is a mobile operating base DHV Magellan, which carries out the tasks of the organization Drawbridges. This emphasizes the importance of character interaction and the role of mobile bases in their missions.
Of course, I am ready to help you with the text editing. Please provide the text itself, which needs to be reworked.
The trailer does not explain what the abbreviation DHV stands for. One of the Reddit users suggested that it could be a pun on the word "De-Age Vessel", which translates as "a vessel on which signs of aging disappear". This hypothesis ties into the theme of restoration present in Project Fragile. Discussion of this theory draws attention to possible plot elements and concepts related to the struggle with time and aging.
GameSpot makes interesting speculations regarding the game's content. In real life, a hydrographic vessel has extensive functionality on the water. Hydrography, as a science, studies the changes and processes occurring in bodies of water. The term "dive and hydrographic vessel" is used to describe one of the New Zealand ships, which may provide insight into its purpose in the game context. This interpretation is quite applicable to the vessel in the game, emphasizing its functionality and connection to real-life hydrographic research.
Fragile introduces Sam to the routine of the mobile base, starting with the armory. Unlike the first game, the number of display cases with weapons has increased. While this cutscene likely takes place early in Sam's journey, the screen displays both old weapons (rope, grenades, the laser pistol from Death Stranding Director's Cut, bolas guns, a rocket launcher, etc.) and new ones (a rifle with a sniper scope, a heavy machine gun, updated pistol models). The display cases also contain many empty slots, hinting at future expansion of the arsenal. A VR device, likely designed for virtual practice and perfecting shooting skills, stands out. This adds depth to the gameplay and opens up new possibilities for players.

Fragile leads Sam to the crew quarters bay and explains that his personal quarters will be virtually identical to these. These rooms appear rather compact and modest, especially compared to the comfort of Sam's lounge in the SGA terminals. The shower stall, located at the end of the corridor, is shared. The hub's architecture means that between missions, Sam will be able to not only rest and entertain himself in his room but also move freely around the living quarters, interacting with the DHV Magellan crew. This creates an opportunity to improve teamwork and strengthen interpersonal bonds among the crew.
Sam is wary of the hospitality, suspecting that Fragile's new ship is funded by the SGA. However, the heroine claims that Drawbridge is a civilian organization run by a generous patron with access to modern technology. Fragile cannot confirm whether this patron is affiliated with the SGA, as they have never met in person.

Fragile's motivation is partially revealed in her monologue in the trailer. After the events of the first Bridges, the organization ceased to exist, as the development of the chiral network made human courier services irrelevant. Fragile closed its division and focused on uniting regions outside the SGA, where people remain scattered. This transformation underscores its desire to restore connections in a shattered world.
Middle of the trailer, the ship's captain can be seen starting the engine using a resin-infused stump. This is followed by footage of the ship diving. This may imply that the resin acts as a conduit, allowing passage to the "other" side during the dive.
The following footage shows Sam preparing for his mission. The courier appears significantly younger, which may be due to the regenerative processes that have also affected Fragile. He also wears a new courier outfit, accentuating his updated appearance.
On his thumb, he sports a ring that serves as an alternative to the SGA bracelets. Similar rings are also worn by other members of Drawbridge. Sam, for his part, wears a new model of the "Cupid" necklace, the details of which resemble sarcophagi. One such sarcophagus was worn by Coffin, Fragile's mother. Rings and necklaces not only emphasize the individuality of their owners, but also become symbols of belonging to a certain group or culture.

A physical version of the new necklace is available for purchase at the Kojima Productions store. Fans have already scanned the new formulas from the figures and are sharing them on Reddit. For detailed information on the new formulas and their descriptions, please read the post on this platform.
The new version of the Cupid device significantly expands the coverage of the chiral network compared to the previous model. The equations now include the ability to control and read the state of waves in quantum fields, allowing for a more accurate analysis of current conditions in space and time. This update opens new horizons for research and applications in the fields of quantum physics and technology.
The design of Sam's jumpsuit incorporates LED sensors that can more effectively display the character's state, similar to the bracelet. Otherwise, the appearance of the equipment remains virtually unchanged, with the exception of some cosmetic improvements. These innovations make the suit not only more functional but also visually appealing, improving the user experience and character interaction.
Sam will no longer travel alone. A talking doll named Fatih Akin has come to his aid. This character's main purpose is to entertain Sam during the game, engage in dialogue with him, and share his experiences. The introduction of this element in the sequel is likely intended to reduce the player's sense of loneliness and add interest to the gameplay. This new dynamic can significantly enrich interactions and make adventures more engaging.

Hideo Kojima first met director Fatih Akin in 2018, when Akin expressed interest in playing a role in a Kojima game. Already during the development of Death Stranding, the game designer conceived the role of Akin as a living doll who would accompany protagonist Sam on his adventures. Despite changes to the script for the second game due to the pandemic, Kojima left room in the new story for a bright and cheerful doll whose appearance would match Fatih's. The doll is voiced and played by actor Jonathan Roumi.
As Sam leaves the ship's terminal, Fragile's voiceover explains the current mission's objective: accessing the Mexican entry terminal. Once the network is established, the ship will be able to navigate to its new location, confirming that the principle of connecting new territories to the shared network remains unchanged. Since Death Stranding 2: On the Beach takes place outside the Mexican mainland, new biomes will be introduced, adding variety and depth to the gameplay.
The gameplay footage showcases desert and rocky locations, reflecting the southern climate. Players can explore a variety of environments, including mountainous regions with picturesque canyons and dunes, as well as areas with deciduous trees, absent from the original version, which was dominated by coniferous forests. Footage of a rockfall also reveals an inverted rainbow phenomenon in the distance. This indicates that the Death Stranding continues to exist, and that there are still areas inhabited by Creatures in the game world.

Players' requests for nighttime in the game appear to have been heard. As Sam moves along a street lit by lanterns, the lights of a large metropolis can be seen in the distance. This atmosphere creates a unique feel and immerses players in a world of nighttime adventures, adding new opportunities for exploration and interaction with the environment.
In the SGA zone, only the abandoned shells of former skyscrapers remain. People now live in underground shelters, and there are no plans to restore the buildings after the devastating Void Splashes. This may indicate that in other regions of the world, people have adapted to new conditions and found ways to avoid the threat of destruction from large cities. At the same time, this situation may be a consequence of progress in the field of chiral printing and the use of large-scale holograms, which opens up new horizons for architecture and urban planning.

The gameplay fragment shows how a torrent of water destroys players' structures. Unlike the first game, where buildings deteriorated slowly and were easy to upgrade, here destruction occurs much more quickly. This adds an element of strategy and requires players to take a more careful approach to constructing and protecting their structures.
In the sequel's world, the introduction of procedurally generated natural disasters could significantly increase the dynamics of gameplay. This innovation will allow players to more actively manage resources and maintain the functionality of their structures. Procedural disasters will create unique challenges, requiring flexibility and strategic thinking from players. This approach will not only improve the gaming experience, but also add an element of surprise, making each gaming session unique.

The following footage shows a unique location where the laws of physics operate differently. Enormous boulders and streams of resin rise vertically upward, creating a mesmerizing effect. Similar phenomena with the stones have already been observed in previous shots. It's worth noting that heavy structures hovering in the air were also shown in the first trailer, when a group in red robes was heading towards the portal. This unusual visual style emphasizes the uniqueness of the world and its atmosphere.
In addition to the light, straight threads reaching toward the sky and indicating the location of important objects and mission objectives, writhing threads of a brighter appearance can also be seen in the trailer. These threads may serve as indicators of certain areas or be connected to the Creatures, but their exact significance is unclear from the trailer. Understanding these visual elements can be key to successfully completing the game.

One of the gameplay snippets shows Sam traversing the Beast zone. It's notable that the creatures' silhouettes now appear to be pulled to the ground, rather than levitating. Despite the absence of a baby in Bridge Baby, Beasts can still be detected using the Odradek, and likely also thanks to signals emanating from the BB device. This adds a fresh twist to the gameplay and creates a unique atmosphere in a world saturated with dangers and mysteries.
A recently released snippet of the Beast boss fight shows a noticeable change in design, which has become more grotesque. A giant hand can be seen in the video, highlighting the new artistic approach. Unlike the first game, where the enormous Beasts were mostly animal and sea creatures, with the exception of the Giant Beast, the emphasis now shifts towards more abstract and terrifying forms. This design change could attract players and add new elements to the gameplay, creating a unique experience when encountering enemies.
The vehicle design has been significantly redesigned. The new trailer showcases several interesting models, including a motorcycle and a unique all-terrain truck with an open front seat. It's unclear whether Sam will be driving the unicycle that Fragile used to escape her pursuers in the first trailer. These innovations open up new possibilities for gameplay and emphasize the uniqueness of the world in which the action takes place.

The new game will feature an interesting innovation: Sam will now be able to remove his backpack before combat, significantly increasing his mobility. Previously, carrying cargo made battles significantly more difficult, as stamina was quickly depleted, and opponents could knock over part of the baggage during combat. In addition, if the cargo was too heavy, Sam became clumsy, which slowed the pace of combat, especially in encounters with boss Beasts. This update promises to make the gameplay more dynamic and strategically interesting, allowing players to adapt to various combat situations.
Users highly appreciated the rocky location illuminated by a huge moon. Against the background of this luminary, you can see a hovering Beast, resembling a stingray. On the one hand, it seems likely that this is a new variation of the Shore, especially given the massive celestial bodies on the horizon of Amelia's Shore and the distinctive blue color correction filter. However, Sam's backpack is full of cargo, and a pair of replacement shoes hangs from his equipment, indicating that this location is directly related to the gameplay. This creates a unique atmosphere and adds new elements to the game world, which attracts the attention of players.

The question of whether the Moon is actually visible in the sky remains open. GameSpot journalists put forward an interesting theory regarding the changing gravitational forces of celestial bodies. They also suggested that the object could be Earth, but due to the applied filter, its image appears desaturated with inverted colors. This is indicated by white dots that resemble the aftermath of Void Splashes more than lunar craters. It is important to note that it is impossible to definitively determine from this video whether Sam is in a spacesuit. Even assuming that he ended up on an asteroid, the question arises: why do the laws of gravity act the same there as on Earth? This aspect requires further study and discussion.
The trailer showed an updated design of Sam's lounge outside the DHV Magellan, indicating changes to the decor of the character's cabin. Such rooms will likely be located in control rooms or shelters. The interior has become more modern and minimalistic. Instead of the usual weapon racks, holograms now hang on the walls. It's possible that this episode will be Sam's first visit to this space, and as the game progresses, new interesting objects, such as figurines, will appear in the break room, as was implemented in the first game. This adds an element of exploration and interaction, which could significantly enrich the gaming experience.
The first trailer mentioned the private company APAC, and now the voiceover mentions a new development called APAS. Apparently, this development belongs to this organization.
The main goal of this system is to create a robotic delivery network that will free people from the need to travel. It's likely that after a global catastrophe, people will continue to live in isolation, and such technologies will become especially relevant. This strategy reflects the current reality, where, following the pandemic, there has been an increase in interest in remote services and remote work. In a changing world, effective solutions for the delivery of goods and services are becoming an integral part of life, ensuring the comfort and safety of users.

The following scenes show a group of cultists, who, judging by their hands, may be robots. They surround a sarcophagus, from which a familiar character emerges.
Off-screen dialogue between Fragile and Sam in this episode confirms the assumption that Higgs is behind the mask. He seems to have found a way to return from the Shore and is now intent on revenge. His new look is reminiscent of Eric Draven from The Crow, but with added gold accents, giving him an even more mysterious and menacing allure.

His monologue makes it clear that he is the head of the APAS project, actively distributing his "fruits" (possibly bots) across the continent. Having captured Sam, he ironically teases him, mentioning his weaponry. This is a nod to their previous fight on the Beach, when the courier was unarmed and used only a rope as a means of protection.
Higgs points out the circumstances when even a porter must pull the trigger. This statement creates an association with the scene on the Beach at the end of the first part, although it is possible that the hero is simply continuing the discussion of the superiority of a "stick" over a "rope." Themes surrounding choice and the need to act in critical situations emphasize the importance of decision-making and its consequences.
Higgs takes the Bridge Baby tank from Sam and touches it, likely reading its information. This gesture can be interpreted as a reference to the film The Crow, in which Brandon Lee's character touched objects to trigger memories. This technique emphasizes the connection between the characters and their pasts, and also demonstrates Higgs's unique abilities. The comparison with The Crow creates additional context, deepening our understanding of the interactions between the characters and their emotions.

Sam approaches Higgs about his possible involvement in Lou's death. Higgs, however, responds in a way that suggests the situation is far more complex than it seems. He apparently possesses vital information that Sam knows nothing about. A similar situation occurred earlier, when Higgs hinted to Sam about Amelia's origins, but Sam refused to believe it.
The conversation is interrupted by a samurai robot with a face reminiscent of an Odradek. This bot has a unique "jumping" ability, allowing it to use the Shore for teleportation, similar to Fragile and Higgs from the first game. During the fight with Higgs, the robot emits a childish laugh, which may indicate Ka Lou's possible entry into its system. Higgs effectively parries attacks, using his guitar not only as a weapon that shoots electricity, but also as an alternative to a sword, which emphasizes his versatility and skill.


The next shot shows Sam, dressed in the standard courier outfit, outdoors in the mountains with Lou. His uniform features yellow straps from the baby carrier used by Fragile in the first trailer. The footage is followed by Higgs' monologue from another cutscene, in which he argues that Sam will have to seek answers on his own, but ultimately, this will only make his situation worse. Higgs hints that Sam remains unaware of the events unfolding. This moment underscores the tension and uncertainty in the plot, creating intrigue for the audience.
In the next scene, Fragile lights a cigarette using her new accessory, then exhales smoke that takes the form of the Beast figures. Tears stream from her eyes as she does so. The context of the scene leaves the audience wondering whether the unusual shape of the smoke is the cause of a chiral allergy or whether the heroine is experiencing emotional distress.

The film alternates between scenes from two different episodes, set in different time periods. The main character, played by Elle Fanning, walks down the ship's corridor and accidentally overhears a conversation among the crew. They discuss the composition of the liquid contained in the cocoons. Interestingly, the heroine's forearm is already bandaged, which may indicate a potential threat to others emanating from the spiked "suckers" found on her arm. These details emphasize the tension of the plot and create an atmosphere of danger, which makes the film more exciting.

As the video sequence continues, it becomes clear that Elle Fanning's character was the one being examined at the beginning of the trailer. For unknown reasons, her body begins to levitate, which creates an intriguing atmosphere and emphasizes the unusual nature of what is happening.
A voiceover explains that the cocoon was filled with a liquid containing amino acids identical to those present in the resin. This became the basis for the formation of chiral creatures. There is a theory that the resin is a kind of primordial broth that facilitates the emergence of life.
Sam enters the room and helps return the girl's body to the table. He comments in the voiceover that during the mission, he discovered the cocoon with her at her "home", where terrible events took place. Then there is a shot of Elle Fanning's character leaving the room. For a moment, it becomes noticeable how many thin threads rise up from it.

The final fragment of the trailer likely takes place in Sam's cabin. The courier receives an important message from Deadman, who reports that he has discovered documents confirming that the "BB-28" sample (Lou) was designated for disposal and incinerated four years ago, long before Sam received the flask with the baby. At this moment, the empty BB tank begins to gurgle, creating an intriguing atmosphere. The trailer ends on this tense moment.
Summary
We'll gather all the key moments from both trailers and summarize the possible events of the upcoming sequel. This will allow us to form a clearer picture of the plot development and the main characters. By analyzing the details, we can identify the main themes and conflicts that will likely develop in the film.
The courier services mentioned in the first part ceased to exist due to lack of necessity. With the development of the chiral network in the regions of the USA, the Bridges company no longer needed to control logistics centers and engage couriers for delivery. All functions previously performed by people are now performed by bots. As a result of this automation, the activities of Fregile Express were also closed. This change led to Sam's former colleagues leaving Bridges and choosing their own paths. Automated logistics through technology has significantly transformed the shipping market, making it more efficient and faster.
Lou (Louise) is physically dead, but her ka (soul) remains in the baby's flask and occasionally sends signals to Sam from the "other" side. A similar situation occurred with Bridget Strand. Sam continues to carry an empty Bridge Baby tank, which likely maintains contact with Lou on the Shore. Interestingly, Higgs' Bridge Baby was also effectively empty in the first film. Inside, there was a doll designed to transfer superpowers from Amelia. Even in disembodied form, Lou appears to be able to possess those with a connection to the Shore, as demonstrated in the episode with the robot samurai. This dynamic highlights the importance of the connection between characters and the world in which they exist.
The DHV Magellan is a new hub location and global transport. This vessel maintains contact with the Shore, has the ability to enter the Seam, and is likely equipped with advanced regeneration technology. The project is being funded by an unknown but influential party, highlighting its significance and potential in global transportation and logistics. The DHV Magellan could become a key element in the development of international transport routes and the provision of innovative solutions for the efficient delivery of goods.
The first part of the game prominently features the theme of rope as a symbol of connections, wandering, and disorientation. As the plot progresses in the second part, the rope transforms into thread, symbolizing string connections, manipulation, and subjugation. Elements such as upward resin particles, threads extending from Elle Fanning's character to surrounding objects and the levitating APAS robots, and a doll hanging from Sam's equipment create associations with threads. Fragile also mentions the word "string" in dialogue. in the context of "pull along," which emphasizes the significance of these symbols in the plot. Thus, the use of rope and thread in both parts of the game not only strengthens visual and thematic connections, but also deepens understanding of the characters and their relationships.
The octopus is a significant symbol in the game, appearing in various forms in both trailers. We see tentacles in the flask, images on the ship, and suction cup marks on Elle Fanning's character. Furthermore, the Cat Beast's tongue is designed as a distinctive tentacle, emphasizing the uniqueness and diversity of this image. The octopus, as a symbol, can reflect themes of adaptation and transformation, which adds depth and intrigue to the gameplay.

According to Bridges' notes, Lou has a complex origin. It is possible that the contents of "BB-28" could have been disposed of and placed in the flask of another infant who was under threat, thus allowing it to be hidden from pursuit. The "Bridge Baby" later ended up in the hands of Igor, the courier, who kept it until his death, after which he passed it on to Sam.
Elle Fanning's character has a deep connection to the Shore, and it is speculated that she originally appeared there. Currently, there are two main theories about her origin. The first suggests that the girl from the cocoon is the physical embodiment (Ga) of Lou. As a child, she came to the Shore and remained there. Thanks to resin and the passage of time, she eventually acquired a new form.
An alternative theory holds that the girl may be the reincarnation of Sam's biological daughter, who died in the womb before the events of the Void Splash that occurred many years ago. The heroine's appearance in the trailer raises many questions. That's why the phrase "Who am I?" is prominent on the character's promotional poster, emphasizing the mystery of her origins and her significance in the plot.
Higgs has returned from the Shore, but the reasons for his return remain unclear. The kippah around the character's neck can be seen as a sign of his reunion with Amelia. At the beginning of the dialogue, he calls Sam "brother," further emphasizing their connection. A cult is likely involved in his return. The sarcophagus filled with primordial broth could have played a key role in the creation of Ga's new form, and APAS technology likely enhanced his appearance. In one of his lines to Fragile, Sam mentions that Higgs calls himself a ghost who has returned to take revenge on both of them. This may indicate that Higgs is not a living being in the traditional sense.

The game's universe features a unique world of the dead known as the Shore, the world of the living, and the Seam, all of which were radically changed after Amelia brought Lou back to life. This event led to transformations in the laws of physics and time, the emergence of new technologies, and a change in the interactions between worlds. Now, people from the Shore begin to appear in the world of the living not only as Wights, but also in human form. The game's new logo symbolizes these changes: strings of letters rush upward, which may indicate changes in gravity and the flow of time. These visual elements emphasize the significance of the transformations resulting from Lou's return and their impact on both sides of existence.
The title "On the Beach" can be interpreted in various ways. It likely implies a deeper connection between the characters and the Shore and its inhabitants. It is important to note the phrase "I'll wait for you on the Shore," which Amelia repeatedly uttered to Sam in the first game. This emphasizes that answers can be found on the other side. Thus, the name not only reflects the physical location but also symbolizes the emotional connection and anticipation that play a key role in the development of the story.
Kojima Productions actively considered player feedback throughout all stages of development. This resulted in additional features that, according to the community, significantly improved the gameplay experience. These include a day/night cycle, dynamic environmental changes, and the ability to fight without having to fiddle with your inventory thanks to the quick removal of your backpack. A feature was also added to help players feel less alone in the game world. If a portable player is added to this list, it will be a real gift for fans.

The plot of the Death Stranding sequel promises to be as complex and intricate as the first game. It's likely that many of the ideas presented in this analysis will be revisited in future trailers. At the same time, it's possible that some of these theses will be confirmed. The anticipation of new materials creates intrigue and fuels interest in the continuation of this unique story.
The community continues to actively develop their interpretations and discover new hidden references and clues in the footage. As for the gameplay, judging by the available fragments, it will remain virtually unchanged.
We continue to act as a courier and deliver cargo outside the SGA. Thanks to the implementation of innovations, the delivery process will become more comfortable and dynamic, while maintaining elements of meditativeness and contemplation. Our new solutions will improve the quality of customer service and optimize delivery times, making every trip more enjoyable. We strive to ensure that every delivery is not only efficient, but also satisfying for both our customers and couriers.
The official Kojima Productions YouTube channel recently released an extensive interview with Hideo Kojima. In this interview, the game designer confirmed a number of previously discussed assumptions and clarified a few additional details. In this article, we will share the key points from the conversation.
- The Magellan will be able to move within the coverage of the chiral network and accompany Sam. This means that the courier will be able to call the ship if necessary.
- The new Fragile accessory is called the Second Hand.
- The landscape of the game's locations will change in real time.
- Higgs will sing a lot throughout the game.
- Elle Fanning's character, extracted from the cocoon, is a very mysterious person. It's difficult to tell whether she's a friend or foe.
Theories discussed in the community, including the regeneration process, Higgs' return and role, as well as Lou's location and episodes (except for Deadman's message), have remained unanswered by the game designer. These topics generate great interest among fans, but their fate and further development remain a mystery. The lack of official clarification creates room for speculation and active discussion in the gaming community.
Game designer profession from scratch to PRO
A game designer creates the structure of a game. They develop the idea, rules, and gameplay, and decide what emotions the story will evoke in players. You'll master the principles of game design from scratch and learn how to work with popular engines like Unity and Unreal Engine. You'll learn how to keep players engaged and monetize games. And we'll help you start a career in the gaming industry.
Learn more
