As I delve into a Hideo Kojima game, I often find myself contemplating the portrayal of women within these narratives. Historically, titles have included elements of fanservice, occasionally with flimsy justifications for such portrayals. For instance, in the previous installment, Death Stranding, there was an infamous scene where Fragile ran through a torrential downpour clad only in a bikini and a skimpy top—allegedly for story reasons. However, in the recently released Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, there is a refreshing shift in the representation of female characters, showcasing them as strong, complex individuals dressed in practical attire.
Editor’s Note: Spoilers for Death Stranding 2: On the Beach characters ahead, though major ending revelations post-Episode 13 are not included.
Referring to Fragile, Kojima Productions meticulously develops her storyline in the sequel. Despite a condition preventing her from using the Beach for teleportation, Fragile remains an exceptionally resilient character. The narrative starts with her firmly in control, overseeing her responsibilities while Sam has stepped back to raise his daughter, Lou. Although she grapples with accountability for an early tragedy linked to the child, it does not deter her resolve. She is the CEO of Drawbridge, a company spearheading the Chiral Network expansion, and she commands the DHV Magellan with poise.
Kojima Productions not only showcases Fragile’s achievements but also intertwines her role with the arcs of nearly every team member aboard the DHV Magellan. As the head of the company, she discovers Rainy, helping her understand her DOOMS ability, thus giving Rainy a newfound identity and purpose. Fragile also saves Dollman from a dire fate in a tar pit. Once Tomorrow joins the crew, it’s Fragile who ensures her smooth integration, supports Tarman in her extraction from the crysalis, educates her, and collaborates with her on secondary missions. It could be argued that Fragile’s impact on the crew far surpasses that of Sam, labeled as the adventure’s “hero.”
Another noteworthy character is Rainy, who, despite being somewhat underused, brings a vibrant presence. Her unique DOOMS makes timefall occur wherever she steps, but intriguingly, the rain nearby possesses healing properties. This capability is pivotal in showing how Fragile’s body—a result of past traumas sustained during the previous game’s rain-soaked escapades—has fully healed in Death Stranding 2. Although Rainy faces the challenge of being perpetually seven months pregnant due to the effects of the original title, she remains far from sidelined. Readers will find her actively engaged in her lab and supporting her companions on deck during critical moments. Rainy’s involvement in a supply mission alongside Fragile exemplifies her competence and strength, defying traditional portrayals of pregnant women in gaming.
In contrast, Death Stranding 2 presents a more thoughtful depiction of motherhood and pregnancy compared to Kojima Productions’ earlier treatment of Mama. Although Malingen was a pivotal scientist whose contributions were vital for Sam, her identity was overwhelmingly tied to her role as “Mama, ” an appellation derived from her connection to the baby BT. In contrast, the game introduces multiple pregnant characters due to certain infants’ conditions, with The Motherhood providing sanctuary and support. The Doctor, a former member of Bridges, utilizes her DOOMS ability to assess these children’s states and facilitate brief interactions with their parents through BB pods. This safe haven is well-defended and instills hope within those who reside there, ultimately leading them to launch a mission aimed at dismantling a weapons factory threatening their peace. Observing some positive developments stemming from the BB and stillmother project was gratifying, showcasing the benefits available to families awaiting solutions.
Moreover, Death Stranding 2 adopts a more critical stance towards Bridges, stillmothers, and the overall system than in its predecessor—a change I wholeheartedly welcome. While BBs served a grim necessity in the original game for survival, they also perpetuated a culture of abuse. The sequel confronts these issues head-on, depicting the psychological fallout faced by characters like Neil Vana and his therapist Lucy, who grapple with the moral ramifications of their forced complicity in this horrific cycle. Their struggles signify a poignant acknowledgement of Bridges’ transgressions.
Turning to Tomorrow, the pivotal female figure clad in unconventional attire for her post-apocalyptic environment, her entrance in a white dress feels out of place for survival in such a chaotic setting. However, she’s never relegated to the role of a mere sex symbol. Her outfit, while initially seeming inappropriate, offers enough coverage, especially as she becomes coated in tar, which acts as an additional layer of defense. After being welcomed aboard the DHV Magellan, her wardrobe shifts to practical clothing suited for various missions, often featuring oversized jackets that maintain functionality without sacrificing style.
Additionally, Tomorrow emerges as one of the most physically adept and combat-ready characters in the game. As Rainy observes, her extensive training in a VR simulator has honed her shooting skills. When she briefly leaves the ship, we witness her proficiency in navigating the post-apocalyptic landscape, using ladders and Timefall Shelters effectively. Throughout the game, she proves her mettle by confronting Higgs and various other adversaries in ways that Sam is unable to match. Notably, one standout moment occurs when she reassures Sam, who expresses concern over their separate missions, confidently asserting, “we’re stronger than you are.” This sentiment rings true for Fragile, Rainy, and Tomorrow, who each exhibit remarkable strengths and capabilities, often surpassing Sam in various respects throughout Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.
Overall, the female characters in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach are unequivocally extraordinary, embodying strength and complexity. Kojima Productions has portrayed these women thoughtfully and respectfully, leaving behind any doubts regarding their depiction after incidents from games like Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain and the original Death Stranding.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is available for PS5.
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