Recently, the gaming world welcomed the much-anticipated release of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach on PlayStation 5, with a PC version expected to follow. In the wake of this launch, renowned game designer Hideo Kojima has embarked on a series of interviews, showcasing not only his talent for game creation but also his flair for promotion. His remarks have ranged from expressing disappointment that playtesters found the game too enjoyable to contemplating profound themes of life and connection, famously stating, “I will not pass on the baton: rather, I will crush the baton.”
Kojima’s ability to captivate audiences is undeniable, but what truly sets him apart is the depth of his insights. A self-proclaimed Internet enthusiast, he has redefined the narrative of Death Stranding, shifting the focus from mere connection to questioning whether such connections are beneficial. In an interview with Denfaminicogamer, he reflected on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global lockdowns, suggesting that being “too connected” may not be advantageous.
Kojima’s Perspective on Connection and Technology
When asked to elaborate on his thoughts regarding connection, Kojima articulated a concern about the influence of technology on decision-making. “Rather than being ‘too connected,’ I think it’s dangerous to make decisions because you’re being guided,” he explained, emphasizing that while he acknowledges the role of technology, he finds the curated experiences provided by AI—such as those on smartphones—problematic. He believes that genuine human experiences, characterized by serendipity and chance encounters, are essential to life.
Kojima expressed his apprehension that excessive online connectivity could lead individuals into a predetermined existence, stripping away the spontaneity that enriches life. He drew parallels to George Orwell’s concept of “Newspeak,” highlighting how modern AI could similarly limit thought and creativity by inundating users with overly verbose and potentially misleading information.
While some may view his concerns as alarmist, Kojima maintains a balanced perspective on technology’s role in society. “I don’t feel like we should do without the Internet now,” he stated, acknowledging its convenience and vital role during the pandemic. However, he cautioned against becoming overly reliant on it, urging individuals to reflect on how they engage with technology.
In a characteristic move, Kojima revealed that his views are echoed by a character in Death Stranding 2, encouraging players to contemplate their own choices regarding technology. He concluded his thoughts by celebrating the tangible experiences of life, emphasizing the importance of physical journeys and the connections forged along the way.
“As long as humans have a physical body, I think they move as individuals,” he remarked, illustrating the richness of real-world experiences compared to virtual ones. He contrasted the allure of visiting Hawaii in the metaverse with the authentic sensations of traveling there in person, from the airport hustle to the unique sights and smells that can only be experienced firsthand. “I think that such adventures add color to my life, so I don’t want to lose them,” he affirmed, encapsulating his belief in the irreplaceable value of genuine human experiences.
