Legendary game director Hideo Kojima has opened up about his decision to include popular VTuber Usada Pekora in the highly anticipated sequel, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Contrary to initial assumptions of a brief cameo, Pekora plays a notable role in the game, and Kojima's reasoning is refreshingly straightforward—he's a fan.

Usada Pekora, a well-known Japanese VTuber under Hololive Production, debuted in 2019 as part of Hololive's third generation. Her involvement in Death Stranding 2 was first hinted at in May, when a teaser clip featured her distinctive voice. Kojima Productions confirmed that players would encounter Pekora alongside other celebrity appearances, though specifics about her role remained under wraps until the game's release on June 26.

In a recent interview, Kojima was asked about Pekora's inclusion. His response was both simple and telling: "If I like something, I will add it in [to the game]." He admitted to enjoying watching Pekora play Death Stranding, which inspired him to integrate her into the sequel. This personal touch reflects Kojima's creative freedom and his tendency to blend his interests with his projects.

Pekora's role in Death Stranding 2 goes beyond a mere cameo. She appears as a Prepper NPC in the main questline, specifically during "Order 25: Deliver Piping Hot Pizza to the Data Scientist," where players face the challenge of delivering a pizza within 10 minutes. Her inclusion among other stars like Conan O'Brien and Ma Dong-seok underscores the game's eclectic mix of personalities.

The sequel has garnered widespread acclaim, with Kojima expressing gratitude for the positive reception. He acknowledged the game's challenging development, even doubting its completion at times. As players explore the expansive world of Death Stranding 2, Kojima Productions has already released patches to address minor issues, ensuring a smooth experience.