Mads Mikkelsen in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach - What We Know
Mads Mikkelsen's portrayal of Cliff in Death Stranding has left an indelible mark on fans of the game. As a result, many are eager to know if he will reprise his role in the upcoming Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. Unfortunately, the answer might be disappointing, but it's rooted in a solid narrative reason.
Who is Cliff in Death Stranding?
In Death Stranding, Cliff is a secondary antagonist played by Mikkelsen, who masterfully brings the character to life. Throughout the game, Cliff lures the protagonist, Sam, into his beach-themed world, where he is hunted by BTs, the usually invisible enemies. The character's depth and complexity were expertly explored in the game, earning Mikkelsen numerous award nominations for his performance.
Is Mads Mikkelsen Returning in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach?
No, Mads Mikkelsen will not be returning in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach. This news was confirmed by Hideo Kojima, the game's director, on Twitter after the second story trailer was revealed during Sony's January 2024 State of Play. Fans had been inquiring about Mikkelsen's potential return, prompting Kojima to explain the reason behind the decision.
If you have PLAYED DS1 to the end, you will understand. Cliff is a character who played a very important and special role in Death Stranding. Mads understood this and performed it beautifully. Mads' Cliff will remain in the story of Death Stranding and in your memories forever.According to Kojima, players who completed the first game understand that Cliff plays a crucial role in the narrative. After discussing the character's potential return with Mikkelsen, they both agreed that it would not be feasible. This decision was made to preserve the integrity of the story.
Could Mads Mikkelsen and Cliff Return in Death Stranding 3?
Yes, it is possible that Mads Mikkelsen and Cliff could return in a future Death Stranding game or movie. Higgs' return in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach serves as a precedent for the potential comeback of other characters, including Cliff. While the details are unclear, Kojima Productions could devise a narrative that justifies Cliff's return in a future installment.
Alternatively, Cliff could return in flashback scenes, eliminating the need for complex resurrection mechanics. This approach would allow players to enjoy Mikkelsen's character once again, albeit in a different context.
While the absence of Mads Mikkelsen in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach might be disappointing for some fans, it is a deliberate narrative choice that respects the character's significance in the original game. The door remains open for a potential return in future installments, and fans can continue to speculate about the possibilities.