Hideo Kojima Revealed the One Feature in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach That Fixes the First Game’s Biggest Criticism

Last Updated on Jun 10, 2025 @ 11:46:58 AM.

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Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is right around the corner, and the developers are starting to make their rounds by sharing new features. During the live premiere at the Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles, new gameplay footage was shared along with the opening minutes. The presentation went smoothly, and the developers flexed new features that raised a few eyebrows, including real-time music changing.

The Music in Death Stranding 2 Will Depend on Where You Go

The gaming community had a tough time getting into the original game, especially since the majority involves walking from point A to B while protecting cargo and evading BTs. In Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, the gameplay loop is fairly similar, but the developers struck gold in a new feature that blends music as you fill in Sam’s boots to deliver more cargo to a new continent.

Director Hideo Kojima went on stage to present the first few minutes of the game, and those in attendance were in awe. The graphical leaps made between the first game are visible, but what blew them away was when Kojima explained that the music would change depending on how fast you run or where you are going. Woodkid will once again collaborate with the legendary director, tasking him to create various arrangements for his songs.

Death Stranding 2's music will dynamically change according to the player's actions.

"When you run, you hear the drum rolls right? You stop, no drums […] it even changes according to which route you take."#DeathStranding2 #PS5 pic.twitter.com/P9e4SN1CNU

— KAMI (@Okami13_) June 9, 2025

Each step you take will have an impact on the music being played in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Whoever is on the stick essentially dictates how the piece will go, especially in the opening area where Sam and Lou must descend the hill and reach their hideout while surviving natural disasters like earthquakes. This is an impressive and immersive step towards innovation and another way to allow players to feel as if they are in the game.

For more Thumb Wars coverage, check out one customization feature removed in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, and our review of Elden Ring: Nightreign on PlayStation 5. Otherwise, follow Thumb Wars on X, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram to keep up with the latest news, reviews, and interviews.

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