Hideo Kojima actually wishes Death Stranding 2 was more “controversial”

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is almost here, bringing a star-studded cast, stunning visuals, and a unique story. However, it’s not as controversial as creator Hideo Kojima would have liked.

It’s no secret that Hideo Kojima loves a complicated, artsy, and more unique style of game. This is especially true in Death Stranding, which featured a baby in a backpack and acid rain. As such, when the sequel was announced, fans were strapping themselves in for another wild ride.

However, it seems this ride may be a little more Metal Gear than Death Stranding after Hideo Kojima himself revealed he wasn’t too pleased with the Death Stranding 2 test reviews, wishing the game was more “controversial.”

Hideo Kojima is not happy with high Death Stranding 2 reviews

During an interview with Edge Magazine, as reported by VGC, Kojima explained that he did “a lot of monitoring tests for the original Death Stranding. I’d find that four out of ten people would love the game, but six would say it was a terrible game. For me, I think that’s a good balance. But with the playtests for Death Standing 2: On the Beach, everyone seems to be positive.”

Positive reviews, especially ones higher than the original game, usually mean it’s going to be a success, and that Kojima has created another great adventure. However, for this developer, it’s not enough. In fact it’s not what he’s trying to do with the game at all.

“Sony is pleased, of course, but I do wish I was a bit more controversial,” continued Kojima, who went on to add that “Blockbuster films need an 80 percent approval rating – I don’t want to make games like that. I’m not interested in appealing to the mass market, or selling millions of copies…  That’s not what I’m aiming for.”

He clarified: “In essence, I don’t want to simply recreate something that’s already in the world. I want to make something new.”

Of course, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach will undoubtedly be something new, filled with the classic Kojima flair. But it’s likely not going to be as “controversial” as he intended.