Hideo Kojima is no stranger to sparking intense discussions and fan theories with his every move. Recently, a seemingly mundane image posted on X (formerly known as Twitter) ignited widespread speculation. This image, featuring Kojima working at his computer, might have subtly confirmed an upcoming State of Play event.
The aforementioned image was shared by Kojima’s personal assistant, Ayako Terashima. While it showcased Kojima in a rather ordinary setting, working diligently at his desk, sharp-eyed enthusiasts deciphered intriguing details. If you zoom into the screen, certain fans believe they spotted a filename, hinting at the contents of Kojima’s work.
The name “State_of_Play_trailer_DS2” could very well be a reference to Sony’s State of Play presentations and the in-development sequel, Death Stranding 2. With this potential clue in hand, speculation about the next State of Play being imminent has gained momentum.
本日の小島監督。
Hideo Kojima today. pic.twitter.com/uFjnL1A0Cq— Ayako (Touchy!) (@Kaizerkunkun) September 27, 2023
Sony’s State of Play, akin to Nintendo’s Direct events, offers fans insight into the latest games and announcements from the tech giant. Their last presentation took place on September 14, making the prospect of another one coming so soon quite exciting, albeit surprising. Traditionally, these events have skirted October since 2019, save for one exception back in 2021. Given Sony’s unpredictable State of Play schedule, such as 2020’s flurry of events including two in May, one in August, another in September, and a concluding one in November, fans are keeping an open mind.
It’s worth noting that if the revered auteur behind Metal Gear and Death Stranding is indeed working on a trailer for a State of Play, the subject of the video could very well be Death Stranding 2, hinting at its imminent release.
This sequel was first unveiled at The Game Awards in 2022. A cryptic trailer presented Norman Reedus’ character, Sam Porter Bridges, looking slightly older, with more mysteries than answers about the sequel’s narrative. Death Stranding, released in 2019, garnered significant acclaim, making its sequel eagerly anticipated.
Details regarding a potential release date remain undisclosed. However, there is a growing belief that the sequel could be the star attraction for Sony’s next announcements, especially once Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 concludes its promotional run.
Another angle suggests that Kojima is preparing a trailer for a rumored Xbox exclusive project, Overdose. But given the recent insights suggesting the project’s early development phase, this appears less probable.
Considering the original game’s success, coupled with teasers hinting at a sequel, it’s easy to understand why the niche game’s fans are holding their collective breath. The presence of Norman Reedus, Lea Seydoux, and Elle Fanning in the cast adds to the allure. The recent image has intensified the rumors regarding another State of Play, with many fervently hoping for a closer look at Death Stranding 2.
However, Kojima’s history of enigmatic marketing strategies warrants caution. The maestro enjoys leaving breadcrumbs for fans, often leading them down rabbit holes filled with speculation. The real truth might only be unveiled at Sony’s discretion, perhaps in a dedicated event later this year focusing on what 2024 has in store. We can only speculate about the date and contents of the next State of Play for now.
Speaking of Sony, the company is losing one of its foremost veterans in Jim Ryan to retirement in March 2024.
