Mads Mikkelson will no longer return to Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, leaving the fans disappointed.

Mads Mikkelsen Not A Part Of Death Stranding 2

Hideo Kojima, the renowned game director, revealed that the character of Cliff, portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen, will not return in Death Stranding 2. This information surfaced during discussions about the new mysteries and ideas in the sequel. While some additions are promised, Mads not returning was a strategic decision by the creatives. To know the hows and why, read further!

Addition of New Players in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Hideo Kojima’s highly anticipated game, “Death Stranding 2: On The Beach,” has created a buzz with the release of its official announcement trailer during Sony’s State of Play event.

Though, a 9-minute-long trailer was released on January 31, 2024, giving players a hint of an intriguing mix of gameplay and cinematics of Death Stranding 2.

Image Credit: Hideo Kojima Website

The trailer also features the return of familiar faces and the introduction of new characters. The popular pair of Norman Reedus, Léa Seydoux, and Troy Baker will reprise their roles in this genre-defying universe, and they will be joined by Elle Fanning, Shioli Kutsuna, and Academy Award-winning film director George Miller. 

But what comes as a shocker is the absence of one key character from the original game in Death Stranding 2, leading to disappointment among fans. If you are wondering, it is Mads Mikkelson who will not be returning as Cliff Unger in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. This absence of Mikkelsen’s character has led to speculation about the reasons behind this decision. 

Also, Read: ‘SPEC OPS: THE LINE’ DELISTED FROM STEAM – WHAT HAPPENED AND WHAT’S NEXT?

Hideo Kojima’s Official Announcement On Mads Mikkelson Not Returning

Fans started poking Kojima with messages to get updates on Mads character Cliff Unger. Hence, responding to the fans requesting to see Cliff Unger, Hideo Kojima took to X(Formerly Twitter) and said that they received enthusiastic messages from fans wanting to see Cliff in the sequel. “However, Mads is not appearing in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach,” Hideo Kojima confirmed. 

We have received many enthusiastic messages from you saying, "I want to see Cliff in DS2 too!”. However, Mads is not appearing in DEATH STRANDING 2 ON THE BEACH. 🙇🏻⛱️ pic.twitter.com/wgGvBYWcmL

— HIDEO_KOJIMA (@HIDEO_KOJIMA_EN) February 3, 2024

While this news may disappoint some players. But, considering the events of the original game it does align with the narrative direction of the game. Kojima emphasized that Cliff is a character who played a very important and special role in Death Stranding. He said that Mads’ portrayal of Cliff will remain in the story of Death Stranding and the players’ memories forever. However, Hideo expressed that “it is because they care about the character of Cliff that he will not appear in Death Stranding 2,” and he urged the fans to understand this decision.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Gameplay

The game’s plot seems to revolve around an “inspiring mission of human connection beyond the United Cities of America,” as Sam, the protagonist, accompanied by his companions, embarks on a journey to save humanity from extinction. The world they traverse is fraught with otherworldly enemies and obstacles, posing the haunting question: “Should we have connected?”

Death Stranding 2’s High Anticipation Among the Fans

Image Credit: Hideo Kojima Website

Despite not having Cliff Unger, Death Stranding 2’s release is still eagerly awaited by fans, given the enigmatic and thought-provoking nature of Hideo Kojima’s creations.

Besides, the trailer’s release has further heightened the anticipation for “Death Stranding 2: On The Beach,” with its unique blend of open-world exploration, base-building, and the introduction of high-tech vehicles and enemies. However, the return of familiar characters and the addition of new ones, coupled with the absence of a key character, has set the stage for an emotionally charged and intellectually stimulating gaming experience.

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to be released exclusively on PlayStation®5 in 2025, with a PC release date yet to be revealed.