Death Stranding Animated Series Announced, Heading to Disney+ in 2027

Fans of Hideo Kojima’s visionary game have a major new project to anticipate. Disney+ has officially announced an all-new animated series set in the world of Death Stranding. The show, currently titled Death Stranding Isolations, is scheduled to premiere on the streaming platform in 2027.

The surprise announcement was made by Kojima himself at a Disney event in Hong Kong. He appeared alongside director Takayuki Sano to share initial concept art and details about the ambitious expansion of his acclaimed franchise.

A New Story for the Stranding Universe

The series will tell a completely original narrative separate from the video games. Disney+ confirms the plot will follow a young man and woman on a new adventure. This approach allows the creators to explore the unique lore without being constrained by the existing game storylines.

Hideo Kojima will serve as an executive producer on the project. He stated the animation medium allows for “mind-blowing” creative possibilities not feasible in live-action or games. The goal is to share the Death Stranding universe with audiences who may not typically play video games.

Traditional Animation Meets High-Concept Sci-Fi

The studio is opting for a traditional hand-drawn 2D animation style. Esteemed Japanese studio E&H Production, known for Ninja Kamui, is handling the animation. Character designs are being created by Ilya Kuvshinov, the artist behind Ghost in the Shell: SAC_2045.

This series marks another major step in broadening the franchise’s reach. A feature film adaptation with A24 is also in development. According to Kojima, Disney approached him about the series while collaborating on the documentary Hideo Kojima: Connecting Worlds.

The Death Stranding animated series represents a significant bet on video game IP by a major streamer. It promises to deliver a fresh entry point into Kojima’s complex and captivating world when it launches on Disney+.

A quick knowledge drop for you

Is the animated series connected to the games?

No, it will tell a completely new story. The series follows new characters on a different adventure within the same universe. It is designed to be accessible to both fans and newcomers.

When will the Death Stranding series be released?

The current announced release window is 2027. It will stream exclusively on Disney+. Production is ongoing at animation studio E&H Production.

Who is making the Death Stranding show?

Hideo Kojima is executive producing. Takayuki Sano is directing. The renowned character designer Ilya Kuvshinov is also contributing to the project’s visual style.

Why is it an animated series?

Kojima stated animation allows for creative freedom impossible in other formats. He wants to explore visual concepts unique to the animated medium to expand his franchise’s storytelling.

Will Norman Reedus or other game actors appear?

The series focuses on brand new characters. There has been no announcement regarding voice cameos from the original game’s cast at this early stage.

Is there also a Death Stranding movie coming?

Yes. A separate live-action film adaptation is in development with the independent studio A24. That project is distinct from this animated Disney+ series.