The *Metal Gear Solid 2* promotional image shows Japanese singer Gackt holding a child in a composition that echoes the *Death Stranding 2* artwork. While not an exact replica, the resemblance is striking and fun to note. This also serves as a reminder of the curious promotional backstory surrounding *Metal Gear Solid 2*.

In the lead-up to *Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty\\'s* release, Gackt was prominently featured in various promotional materials, including special slip-covers for the game in certain regions. These have become intriguing pieces of *MGS* memorabilia over the years, sparking curiosity and confusion among fans.

For those curious about Gackt\\'s involvement, Hideo Kojima provided an explanation in 2013. He noted that he asked Gackt to appear in *MGS2\\'s* TV commercials because \\\"*MGS1* was about DNA and *MGS2* about MEME. DNA consists of \\'AGTC\\', and adding \\'K\\' of KOJIMA becomes \\'GACKT\\'.\\\"

Given the new trailer for *Death Stranding 2* is filled with *Metal Gear* vibes, it\\'s no wonder fans are drawing these connections. Personally, I believe any similarities are likely a reflection of recurring themes in Kojima\\'s work. Nonetheless, it\\'s enjoyable to speculate and reminisce, especially with a nostalgic promotional cover featuring Gackt.

*Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5.

Home News Hideo Kojima Fans Spot a Fun Similarity Between Death Stranding 2's Box Art and Metal Gear Solid 2

Hideo Kojima Fans Spot a Fun Similarity Between Death Stranding 2's Box Art and Metal Gear Solid 2

Author : Sebastian Update : Apr 03,2025

Over the weekend, fans of *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* were treated to a new trailer, along with exciting details such as a release date, collector's edition, box art, and more. As enthusiasts delved into the specifics, a keen-eyed fan spotted a delightful nod to director Hideo Kojima's earlier masterpiece, *Metal Gear Solid 2*.

The box art for *Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* features Sam "Porter" Bridges, played by Norman Reedus, cradling the child "Lou," a familiar figure to those who played the original game. Reddit user ReverseTheFlash highlighted this connection with a post titled "He did it again," juxtaposing the *Death Stranding 2* box art with a *Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty* slipcase that showcases a similar theme.

He did it again
by u/ReverseTheFlash in DeathStranding

In the lead-up to *Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty's* release, Gackt was prominently featured in various promotional materials, including special slip-covers for the game in certain regions. These have become intriguing pieces of *MGS* memorabilia over the years, sparking curiosity and confusion among fans.

For those curious about Gackt's involvement, Hideo Kojima provided an explanation in 2013. He noted that he asked Gackt to appear in *MGS2's* TV commercials because "*MGS1* was about DNA and *MGS2* about MEME. DNA consists of 'AGTC', and adding 'K' of KOJIMA becomes 'GACKT'."

Given the new trailer for *Death Stranding 2* is filled with *Metal Gear* vibes, it's no wonder fans are drawing these connections. Personally, I believe any similarities are likely a reflection of recurring themes in Kojima's work. Nonetheless, it's enjoyable to speculate and reminisce, especially with a nostalgic promotional cover featuring Gackt.

*Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* is set to launch on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5.