The upcoming animated feature will reportedly center around adult-targeted themes.
The upcoming Death Stranding animated feature has officially found its screenwriter. According to a report by Deadline on Thursday (19 June), Kojima Productions has confirmed that Aaron Guzikowski, best known for writing the 2013 thriller Prisoners and creating the HBO Max sci-fi series Raised by Wolves, has signed on to write the screenplay.
Guzikowski’s previous work also includes The Red Road, a 2014 TV series. His recent projects have explored complex, atmospheric storytelling, which aligns with the narrative-heavy world of Death Stranding.
Death Stranding animation promises mature storytelling
According to Deadline's report, the animated adaptation is set to tell “an original story” within the Death Stranding universe. While not a direct retelling of the game, the film aims to explore new narratives in the same world. It will reportedly lean into adult-oriented themes and styles, drawing comparisons to the likes of John Wick and Predator in its tone.
Kojima Productions remains actively involved in the animated project, while animation duties are handled by Line Mileage. The studio’s team has experience with game-to-animation adaptations, with credits including Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft and Castlevania. Both series have been praised for translating iconic games into compelling animated stories for adult audiences.
Death Stranding is a 2019 action-adventure title centred on Sam Porter Bridges, a courier navigating a post-apocalyptic version of Earth. The game featured digital performances from several major Hollywood actors and currently has a sequel in the works, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach set for release in 2025.
Hideo Kojima confirmed in an interview a few weeks ago that the Death Stranding animated feature was already in production. A separate live-action movie adaptation, directed by A Quiet Place: Day One Director Michael Sarnoski, is also in the works.
