The world of video games is experiencing an unexpected crossover, as acclaimed Indian filmmaker S.S. Rajamouli, best known for directing blockbuster hits such as the "Baahubali" franchise and "RRR," has made a cameo appearance in Hideo Kojima's highly anticipated game, "Death Stranding 2: On the Beach".
Rajamouli's foray into the gaming world involves his likeness being featured in the game alongside his son, S.S. Karthikeya. The father-son duo appear as characters named "The Adventurer" and "The Adventurer's Son," respectively. This collaboration marks Rajamouli's debut in the interactive entertainment realm, further solidifying his global influence.
The collaboration between Rajamouli and Kojima reportedly began in 2022 when Rajamouli visited Japan to promote "RRR". During this trip, he toured Kojima Productions and experienced a special 360-degree cinematic presentation at the game developer's studio. Kojima scanned Rajamouli during the visit, though Rajamouli stated he was unaware of how the scan would be used.
Kojima confirmed the cameo through a social media post, sharing behind-the-scenes images of Rajamouli's visit to Kojima Productions. In April 2025, Kojima posted a picture on X (formerly Twitter) of a video meeting between himself, Rajamouli and Karthikeya, with Karthikeya enthusiastically resharing this on his social media account.
Rajamouli expressed his excitement about being featured in "Death Stranding 2," stating, "When we were in Japan for 'RRR' promotions, I visited Kojima-san's office. He scanned me there, and honestly, I had no idea how or where he'd use it,”. He added, “I just sensed something magical was in the making. To now see myself featured in Death Stranding 2 is a true honour. Kojima-san is a visionary, and I'm humbled to be even a small part of his extraordinary world".
Hideo Kojima, celebrated for his innovative and cinematic approach to game development, is known for titles such as "Metal Gear" and the original "Death Stranding". "Death Stranding 2: On the Beach" promises to continue this trend, featuring a star-studded cast including Norman Reedus, Elle Fanning, and Léa Seydoux. The game is set for global release on June 26, 2025, exclusively on PlayStation 5.
"Death Stranding 2" is set in a fractured version of Australia and anchored by actor Norman Reedus's returns as Sam Porter Bridges. The game continues its meditation on isolation, connection, and survival.
The inclusion of Rajamouli and his son in "Death Stranding 2" has generated excitement within both the gaming and film communities. Fans have been sharing screenshots and gameplay videos of the cameos on social media, expressing their surprise and delight. Some have even hailed Rajamouli as a "global icon". This collaboration exemplifies the growing convergence of different entertainment mediums and the increasing global reach of filmmakers like Rajamouli.
While Rajamouli is now part of Kojima's world, he is also currently filming a grand adventure thriller tentatively named, 'SSMB29'.
