The promotional material for Death Stranding 2 introduces intriguing mysteries surrounding its main characters, all of which may share a common explanation. Continuing the storyline of Sam Porter Bridges (played by Norman Reedus), Fragile (portrayed by Léa Seydoux), and the Bridge Baby (BB), who has now grown into a toddler named Lou, the game presents three significant enigmas related to the protagonists' ages.
Sam appears visibly older, Fragile's injuries, initially caused by Timefall, seem to have miraculously healed, and Lou is no longer an infant. Adding to the intrigue, Hideo Kojima's choice to cast Elle Fanning suggests the possibility of an older version of Lou joining the toddler version seen in the game's initial trailer. While the true explanations behind these age discrepancies are yet to be revealed, it is speculated that Death Stranding's enigmatic precipitation may hold the key.
Timefalls Might Be Key in Death Stranding 2
Timefalls, within the Death Standing universe, are notorious and destructive weather events that harm both inanimate objects and living organisms, including flora, animals, and humans. The rain from timefalls speeds up the aging process for those exposed to it, causing damage and degradation. However, in Death Stranding 2, these timefalls may serve as a unique feature rather than a dangerous element within the narrative.
In the game's storyline, timefalls play a crucial role, appearing to occur following the Death Stranding event. Fragile's story becomes closely intertwined with the presence of timefalls and their consequences. After rescuing South Knot City, the antagonist Higgs Monaghan punishes her by leaving her exposed to a timefall, wearing only a hood. Interestingly, the rain from the timefall ages every part of her body except her face.
In Death Stranding 2, timefall could have a dual effect, aging Sam rapidly in the early stages of the game. This narrative technique has been previously employed by Kojima for his protagonists. This event may significantly alter Sam's gameplay and his interactions with the world, akin to Solid Snake's transformation in Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots. It might affect Sam's interactions with the environment, his handling of BTs, and his completion of delivery requests. Timefalls in the game may pose a threat to the player's control over Sam, leading to unpredictable consequences.
Additionally, the concept of reversing timefalls could be introduced as a mechanic in Death Stranding 2. Fragile mentions in the first game that consuming cryptobiotes grants immunity to timefall. This discovery could hold even greater significance in the sequel, as evidenced by the trailer featuring an unaffected Fragile. If someone like Fragile has managed to replicate the immunity of cryptobiotes, it is plausible that time reversal is also attainable. Since timefalls deplete time, a mechanism to reverse their effects could potentially restore it.
The inclusion of timefall and reverse timefall mechanics in Death Stranding 2 could explain one of the game's intriguing mysteries. The announcement of Elle Fanning's casting, accompanied by the question "Who am I?", hints at the possibility of her portraying an older version of the character Lou, the BB from the first game who accompanied Sam. This new storyline would delve into the consequences of playing with timefalls and introduce the idea of a reverse timefall. Exploring the theme of connection, the sequel's narrative structure may not follow a linear progression, providing Kojima Productions with exciting opportunities. Death Stranding 2 is currently in development.