Best Easter Eggs & Secrets in Death Stranding 2

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In the vein of Hideo Kojima’s signature style, Death Stranding 2 abounds with clever Easter eggs and cultural references. A veritable treasure trove of secrets awaits players, many of which subtly nod to other games or popular culture, while others hide unexpected cutscenes that may have eluded even the most observant gamer during their gameplay experience.

As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but marvel at the intricate Easter eggs hidden in Death Stranding 2 that continue to elude us. Here are some of my personal favorites that will leave you eagerly slipping back into Sam’s porter shoes to uncover these delightful Easter eggs for yourself.

8. Metal Gear Solid Lives On

Kept You Waiting, Huh?

Regardless of the past rift with Konami, Hideo Kojima continues to be deeply connected to his creation, the Metal Gear series. This bond is evident in Death Stranding 2, where numerous nods to the franchise can be found. For instance, Neil’s bandanna is a tribute to Solid Snake, but the references don’t stop there. Characters like Higgs saying “Kept you waiting, huh?” echo lines spoken by Snake across various games. Additionally, Tarman’s phrase “Phantom Pain” brings to mind the song “Invisible” by Duran Duran, but it’s challenging not to associate those words with the Metal Gear series as well.

7. Hideo Kojima Watches Over You

Kojima-San is Quite Literally in the Stars

  • ​​​​​​​How to Get: Star-gaze while in a Hot Spring

As a dedicated gamer immersed in the world of Death Stranding 2, I can’t help but notice the familiar touches that remind me of the mastermind behind it all – Hideo Kojima. His signature style is evident throughout the game, with subtle references to Kojima Productions hidden in graffiti, wall art, and merchandise. But the Easter eggs don’t end there! If you take a moment to gaze at the stars while relaxing in a hot spring on a clear night, you might just spot Hideo Kojima himself, his face appearing mysteriously amidst the constellations. It’s as if he’s always watching over me, even when I’m trying to unwind and take a dip, which is both amusing and a bit unnerving!

6. Sam’s Nightmares

Experience Secret Terrors

  • How to Get: Go back to sleep after waking up in private rooms

On the DHV Magellan, Sam has the option to retire to his personal quarters for a restorative slumber. Yet, should Sam opt to sleep again upon waking, it increases the likelihood of him experiencing a disturbing dream. These dreams may stem from engaging with Lou’s Pod, Dollman, or merely attempting a return to the surface. Each dream is distinctive, and while some might induce laughter, others could be intensely frightening. The dreams might feature Dollman crooning within Lou’s pod, to encountering Charlie with arms and legs in the corridor, standing ominously.

5. Breaking the Fourth Wall

A Kojima-Classic is Kojimatastic

In Death Stranding 2, Hideo Kojima frequently breaks the fourth wall, adding a playful and humorous touch to an otherwise brilliant script and engaging gameplay. This casual approach is part of his unique appeal, and some of the most memorable moments from the game stem from these instances. The most obvious examples involve Higgs, who appears to be aware he’s in a video game. At times, Higgs directly addresses the player through the camera, as when he says, “We won’t be having ourselves a boss fight this time. You see, y’all can’t win.” These direct interactions with the player increase the character’s terror factor but are just one example of many fourth wall breaks that make the game so enjoyable.

4. Happy Birthday, Sam!

The World Celebrates Your Birthday

  • How to Get: Play Death Stranding 2 on the in-game set birthday

In the initial stages of “Death Stranding 2”, players are prompted to input their character’s birthday. At first glance, this may appear insignificant; however, it offers a compelling reason for players to revisit the game and celebrate. The celebration isn’t just limited to a delightful cutscene on the DHV Magellan, but extends to every interaction with porters and preppers who join in the birthday festivities. Even ghostly Sams will extend birthday wishes, making it an adorable and enjoyable experience for players seeking heartfelt greetings on their special day.

3. The Ghost Monorail

The Soul Train Down Under

  • How to Get: Appears at night during clear skies

Although not primarily a horror game, Death Stranding 2 does incorporate some elements of horror, as evidenced by the Ghost Monorail. Porters have been told tales about a spectral monorail that glides above the skies, transporting lost cargo. If players gaze up at a clear night sky, they might catch a glimpse of the Ghost Monorail. This ghost train can be quite frightening, even for the bravest of porters, especially when it’s said to snatch one’s soul if players watch it too intently. Interestingly, if players do stare at it for too long, BTs, which are red and charging, appear and move towards Sam to explode.

2. Embracing Higgs

The Coffin Board Isn’t Just for Riding

  • How to Get: Go to sleep next to a Coffin Board

Players can craft a Coffin Board at any facility following Main Order 29. This unique vehicle offers an exciting ride, but only when linked to the Chiral Network. While the speed and amusement of the Coffin Board may not be its most captivating feature, it’s the unusual interaction that makes it stand out. If Sam presses the Square button, Sam might find himself next to the coffin with Higgs occasionally popping out, surprising him. What follows is a peculiar scene where Higgs extends a tentacle from his mouth to embrace Sam. It’s undeniably bizarre, reminiscent of Kojima’s style, and serves as a chilling reminder that perhaps it’s not wise to nap near a coffin.

1. The Mask of Yotei

Become the Ghost of Yotei Before the Game Releases

  • How to Get: Deliver any cargo to the Adventurer after connecting him to the Chiral Network in Main Order 37.

Even though the game “Ghost of Yotei” hasn’t been released yet, it appears that marketing efforts have already started with Kojima Productions. Given the strong connections between PlayStation games and their ability to collaborate effectively, and Hideo Kojima’s deep affection for the video game world, it’s not unexpected that players can obtain the Yotei Mask, which is a key element in Sucker Punch’s forthcoming “Ghost of Yotei” title. This distinctive mask, offered by an adventurer in snowy landscapes, will shield and mirror sunlight, but it won’t transform Sam into a lethal samurai-turned-ninja.

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2025-07-04 19:35