Hideo Kojimahas confirmed that an anime adaptation ofDeath Strandingis in the works—completely separate from the live-action film being produced by A24.
Expanding the Death Stranding Universe
There’s no denying thatDeath Strandinghas vast potential beyond video games. Hideo Kojima and his team are preparing for the release ofDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach, a sequel that marks the first major step in growing the IP.
In truth, the launch ofDeath Stranding: Director’s CutonXbox Series X|Swas already a clear sign of those ambitions. It’s worth noting that Kojima Productions owns100% of the rightsto the license.
A24’s Film Adaptation Aims for the Art House
Kojima’s game is making its way tothe big screen via a film directed by Michael Sarnoski, and produced by A24. However, Kojima isn’t aiming for a typical Hollywood blockbuster. Instead, the movie is being designed as a cinema-first project, with a focus on artistic merit rather than strict faithfulness to the 2019 game—or fan service.
In an interview withVogue Japan, Kojima compared the adaptation process to works likeThe Last of Us TV seriesorThe Super Mario Bros. Movie, but with a distinct vision:
“Our goal is to makeDEATH STRANDINGinto something that can only be done as a film—something that can win awards at Cannes or the Venice Film Festival.”
Death Stranding Will Also Get an Anime
The A24 film won’t be the only adaptation ofDeath Stranding. Kojima has now officially confirmed that ananime seriesis in development. While no further details have been revealed, Kojima had already hinted at the project a year ago.
Taking inspiration from anime adaptations likeDevil May Cry, Castlevania, and Cyberpunk: Edgerunners, Kojima aims to makeDeath Stranding’s anime stand out and appeal to both fans and new audiences.
“We are currently working on adapting it into an anime,” Kojima confirmed, adding that the anime will becompletely separatefrom the film.
Whether this anime will stay true to the original game or diverge in story and characters—like the movie—remains to be seen.
Kojima Teases New IP:Physint
In addition to all this, Kojima also shared early hints about his next original IP,Physint, an action and espionage game with a cinematic edge. The goal: to blur the line between film and interactive experience.
“The second phase is to create a work that completely blurs the line between games and movies. For example, a game where someone watching from behind might mistake it for a film.”
Physintis still in early development and is not expected to release until2030 or 2031.
What’s Next for Death Stranding?
The next major release isDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach, the sequel to the 2019 original. It will launch as atimed exclusive for PS5onJune 26, 2025.
In the meantime, fans can look forward to more details on both theanime adaptationand theA24-produced film, each offering a unique interpretation of Kojima’s surreal world.
