Every Hideo Kojima Game Ranked From Worst to Best | Where Does Death Stranding 2 Land?

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Ignacio Weil

Gaming - July 3rd 2025, 19:00 GMT+2

About this gallery:

For this list, we focused only on the games directed by Hideo Kojima, leaving out those where he served solely as a producer – otherwise, we’d have an endless list. And of course, we made sure to include *Death Stranding 2*.

Do you agree with the ranking? How would you change the order? Let us know in the comments!

Cropped policenauts — 14. Policenauts (1994)

*Policenauts* is one of Hideo Kojima’s lesser-known titles, but it remains a fascinating glimpse into his early ambitions as a narrative-driven game designer. Released in 1994 for the NEC PC-9821 and later ported to other platforms, *Policenauts* blends sci-fi noir with cinematic storytelling, echoing influences from films like *Lethal Weapon* and *Blade Runner*. It follows a pair of detectives unraveling a conspiracy in space, and while the gameplay is mostly point-and-click, the depth of its story and characters showcase Kojima’s budding storytelling brilliance. Unfortunately, the game never officially launched outside Japan, limiting its impact in the West. Still, for fans of Kojima’s narrative flair and complex world-building, *Policenauts* is a compelling piece of his creative puzzle. | © Konami

Cropped snatcher — 13. Snatcher (1988)

Before Kojima revolutionized stealth gaming with *Metal Gear*, he delivered *Snatcher*, a cyberpunk visual novel that paid heavy homage to *Blade Runner*. Released in 1988 for the NEC PC-8801 and later ported to other systems including the Sega CD, *Snatcher* was ahead of its time in both visual design and mature storytelling. The game follows Gillian Seed, a detective hunting down bio-androids called "Snatchers" in a dystopian future. Though limited by the hardware of its era, *Snatcher* offered a gripping plot, sharp writing, and chilling atmosphere. It remains a cult classic among Kojima fans and is often praised for its ambitious scope and cinematic presentation. If you're interested in Kojima's storytelling roots, *Snatcher* is essential. | © Konami

Cropped Metal Gear 2 Solid Snake — 12. Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake (1990)

Released exclusively in Japan in 1990 for the MSX2, *Metal Gear 2: Solid Snake* is one of Kojima’s most important yet underappreciated titles. It expanded on the stealth mechanics introduced in the original *Metal Gear*, introducing features like crawling, improved enemy AI, and a more intricate narrative. The game follows Solid Snake as he infiltrates Zanzibar Land to rescue a kidnapped scientist and stop a new Metal Gear threat. *Metal Gear 2* laid the groundwork for *Metal Gear Solid*, offering a deeper story and richer gameplay long before 3D gaming took over. Despite its dated graphics, it’s an essential chapter in the franchise and a clear example of Kojima’s evolving mastery. | © Konami

Cropped P T — 11. P.T. (2014)

Though technically a demo, *P.T.* (short for "Playable Teaser") became an instant phenomenon upon its surprise release in 2014. Developed by Kojima Productions under the pseudonym 7780s Studio, *P.T.* was a psychological horror experience that showcased Kojima’s versatility beyond action and stealth games. Set in a looping corridor inside a haunted house, players were forced to unravel cryptic puzzles while experiencing an atmosphere of escalating dread. The game was a teaser for *Silent Hills*, a now-canceled project that would have marked Kojima’s collaboration with Guillermo del Toro and Norman Reedus. Despite its short length and eventual removal from the PlayStation Store, *P.T.* has become a modern horror legend and remains one of the most chilling experiences in gaming. | © Konami

Original metal gear msn — 10. Metal Gear (1987)

The original *Metal Gear*, released in 1987 for the MSX2, marked the birth of the stealth-action genre – and of Hideo Kojima’s rise to prominence in the gaming world. While primitive by today’s standards, its focus on evasion over direct combat was groundbreaking at the time. Players stepped into the shoes of Solid Snake for the first time, tasked with infiltrating Outer Heaven and destroying the titular nuclear-equipped walking tank, Metal Gear. The NES version reached wider audiences but deviated significantly from Kojima's vision. Despite its limitations, *Metal Gear* laid the foundation for a legendary franchise and introduced key narrative elements that would evolve in later installments. It's a relic, yes, but a pivotal one in video game history. | © Konami

METAL GEAR SOLID V GROUND ZEROES — 9. Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes (2014)

*Metal Gear Solid V: Ground Zeroes* was released in 2014 as a standalone prologue to *The Phantom Pain*, and its short length stirred controversy. However, despite being a compact experience, it showcased the refined stealth mechanics and open-ended gameplay that would define Kojima's next full release. Set in a Cuban black site, the game follows Big Boss as he attempts to rescue Paz and Chico – key characters with ties to *Peace Walker*. With its dynamic enemy AI, day-night cycle, and multiple mission approaches, *Ground Zeroes* was a playground for experimentation. It also set the stage narratively, making it essential for understanding the full impact of *The Phantom Pain*. Though short, it was dense with promise. | © Konami

METAL GEAR SOLID V THE PHANTOM PAIN — 8. Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain (2015)

Released in 2015, *Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain* is both Kojima’s most ambitious and most polarizing title. Powered by the Fox Engine, it delivered unparalleled freedom in mission execution, with a sprawling open world, real-time tactics, and deeply customizable gameplay. The story follows Venom Snake as he rebuilds his army and pursues revenge, yet the narrative was criticized for its fragmentation and an incomplete final act – likely due to Kojima’s infamous fallout with Konami. Still, its core gameplay is arguably the best in the series, offering a sandbox stealth experience that few games have matched since. *The Phantom Pain* remains a masterclass in open-world design, albeit one haunted by what might have been. | © Konami

Cropped Metal Gear Solid 4 Guns of the Patriots — 7. Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots (2008)

*Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots*, released in 2008 for the PlayStation 3, served as the emotional conclusion to Solid Snake’s saga. A technological showcase for the PS3, it combined tactical stealth gameplay with cinematic storytelling on an epic scale. The game’s emphasis on cutscenes – some extending over an hour – was divisive, but fans appreciated the way it tied up loose ends from across the series. Set in a world dominated by private military companies and war economies, MGS4 explored heavy themes like identity, aging, and control. While its gameplay was slightly more linear than its predecessors, its storytelling impact and memorable moments earned it a revered place in Kojima’s catalog. | © Konami

Cropped Metal Gear Solid Peace Walker — 6. Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker (2010)

Released in 2010 for the PlayStation Portable, *Metal Gear Solid: Peace Walker* is often overlooked due to its handheld origins – but it's one of the most narratively and mechanically rich entries in the series. The game follows Big Boss as he builds up Militaires Sans Frontières, laying the groundwork for the events of *The Phantom Pain*. With base-building mechanics, co-op missions, and a deep research system, *Peace Walker* introduced many concepts that would evolve in later titles. It also featured an emotional and philosophical story exploring deterrence, nuclear politics, and the legacy of warfare. For a portable game, it punched far above its weight – and many fans consider it essential to the *Metal Gear* timeline. | © Konami

Cropped DEATH STRANDING — 5. Death Stranding (2019)

*Death Stranding* marked Hideo Kojima’s bold return as an independent creator, released in 2019 for PlayStation 4 and later PC. At its core, it's a "strand game" – a surreal delivery simulator that reframes walking as a deeply contemplative act. Its haunting narrative revolves around Sam Porter Bridges (Norman Reedus), who reconnects a fragmented post‑apocalyptic America via the Chiral network. The game polarized players with its slow pacing and philosophical dialogues, yet those who embraced it often call it a transcendent emotional journey. Stunning landscapes, a haunting soundtrack, and asynchronous online features blended gameplay mechanics with a powerful message of human connection. *Death Stranding* stands as proof of Kojima’s willingness to redefine gaming norms. | © Kojima Productions / Sony Interactive Entertainment

METAL GEAR SOLID 2 Sons of Liberty — 4. Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty (2001)

The 2001 blockbuster *Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty* shocked players – and the industry – by subverting expectations. After a cinematic prologue featuring Solid Snake, the game pivots to Raiden, a rookie operative whose journey is steeped in conspiracy and meta commentary. Kojima’s narrative foresaw modern concerns about digital misinformation, identity, and government surveillance. Gameplay evolved with advanced stealth mechanics, varied enemy types, and cinematic boss battles. While initial backlash greeted the switch to Raiden, many later praised the game’s bravery in challenging narrative norms. *Sons of Liberty* remains one of Kojima's most provocative works and a cornerstone of stealth gaming. | © Konami

Cropped Intro — 3. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach (2025)

*Death Stranding 2: On the Beach* builds on the surreal foundations of its predecessor with a more refined, emotionally resonant experience. Set in a mysterious, fractured version of Australia, the game once again follows Sam Porter Bridges on a journey that blends eerie solitude with deeply personal stakes. Traversal and stealth are smoother, combat is more dynamic, and the world is richer in detail and meaning. While still steeped in Kojima’s signature symbolism and cryptic storytelling, the sequel feels more focused and cohesive. It’s a strange, meditative, and beautiful game – one that stands tall among Kojima’s best. | © Kojima Productions / Sony Interactive Entertainment

Cropped METAL GEAR SOLID — 2. Metal Gear Solid (1998)

Few games have had as dramatic an impact on interactive storytelling as *Metal Gear Solid* (1998). Launching on the PlayStation, Kojima brought stealth gameplay to cinematic heights, blending gripping infiltration missions, emotional cutscenes, and iconic characters like Snake, Meryl, Otacon, and Liquid. The narrative tackled themes like nuclear proliferation, genetic identity, and the moral ambiguity of war. Boss battles infused personality and strategy, making each encounter memorable. The game’s pacing, voice acting, and cinematic direction established a storytelling benchmark that reverberates today. *Metal Gear Solid* is a masterpiece of form and substance that defined a generation. | © Konami

METAL GEAR SOLID 3 Snake Eater — 1. Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater (2004)

At number one, *Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater* (2004) is Hideo Kojima’s crowning achievement – a Cold War era survival epic featuring Big Boss in one of gaming’s most evocative settings. Set in a Soviet jungle, it introduced camouflage, stamina, and outdoor survival mechanics alongside Kojima’s signature narrative complexity. Themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the cost of legacy unfold across beautifully composed jungle environments, emotional character arcs, and a haunting soundtrack. The boss battles – The End, The Fury, The Sorrow – feel like cinematic set pieces, each unforgettable. *Snake Eater* transcends genre with its heartfelt storytelling and immersive systems, making it the high watermark of Kojima’s career and a timeless classic. | © Konami

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Few names in gaming carry the weight of Hideo Kojima. Known for pushing the boundaries of storytelling, gameplay, and cinematic flair, Kojima has created some of the most iconic and polarizing games in the industry. From the mind-bending twists of Metal Gear Solid to the genre-defying journey of Death Stranding, each title reflects his signature style and bold vision.

With the much-anticipated Death Stranding 2 here, now is the perfect time to revisit Kojima’s gameography. In this article, we rank every Hideo Kojima game from worst to best – based on innovation, impact, and fan reception – to see where his latest creation might fit in the legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, this list offers a deep dive into the mind of gaming’s most enigmatic auteur.