Kojima explains that during the pandemic, when he was casting for Death Stranding 2, Neil would be an important character that replaces Cliff from the first Death Stranding, and how the fans "would not be satisfied" unless the casting would surpass Mads Mikkelsen (who played Cliff in the first game).

Hideo Kojima has revealed more about the casting of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach’s new character, Neil, who took much of the focus in the brand new trailer released earlier this week. Even with the announcement of the Death Stranding 2 release date (June 26,

When talking about the original Death Stranding, Kojima said, "The game was about connection," which we knew. However, Kojima wasn’t the most confident about his future, adding,