Summary
Some of the most unforgettable moments inDeath Strandingcame from its unexpected balance of serious themes with humor, particularly when certain celebrity cameos added their unique flair to the game. Now,Death Stranding 2: On the Beachhas guaranteed the return of one suchcelebrity cameo, which means there might be a unique surprise awaiting players in the form of a popular item from the first game.
Death Stranding 2promises even more environmental hazards than the first game, so the potential return of the Otter Hood, a popular item introduced by legendary comedian Conan O’Brien in the first game, could certainly come in handy. Since Conan has been confirmed to return inDeath Stranding 2, it would make sense for the Otter Hood to be waiting around the corner, as well as the comedian’s corny humor.
Conan O’Brien’s Return in Death Stranding 2 Suggests the Return of the Otter Hood
The Otter Hood Was a Popular Item in Death Stranding
The Otter Hood was undoubtedly one ofDeath Stranding’s most popular itemsfor a number of reasons. First of all, the item was introduced by Conan O’Brien himself, who initially appears to Sam while wearing it and says, “I know what you’re thinking…is that an otter on my head, or am I just happy to see you? Well, both.” The comedian then goes on to explain how the otter is a member of the weasel family and then cracks a joke about the “weasels” in his family, namely, his brother. He then laughs at his own joke, realizes Sam is still standing silent, and then awkwardly transitions to describe the otter’s excellent swimming abilities, all while continuing to make jokes.
Soon after, he grants Sam the Otter Hood, which improves his swimming abilities and makes traveling through water much easier.The Otter Hoodwasn’t just popular for Conan’s hilarious cameo and the item’s abilities, however, as its quirky design added a bit of lighthearted humor to Sam’s serious demeanor as well, making him look like an otter complete with playful animations. The appearance of Conan and the inclusion of the Otter Hood also shows Kojima’s penchant for blending celebrity culture and gaming and showcases the game’s ability to balance somber themes with unexpected silliness.
Something else that made the Otter Hood such a popular item inDeath Strandingis that it felt like a worthwhile reward for exploring the game’s world and seeking out as many optional objectives as possible.
Conan’s Presence in Death Stranding 2 Likely Means More Comedy and More Otter Hood
Since Conan is returning inDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach, that means the Otter Hood could be making a comeback. It would be an excellent way for the game to throw in anEaster egg forDeath Strandingveterans, in addition to once again providing Sam with the ability to traverse through water much easier. The reintroduction of the Otter Hood would make even more sense in the sequel, sinceDeath Stranding 2has been confirmed to feature more dynamic water elements and environmental hazards compared to its predecessor. For example, occasional flash floods may destroy bridges and other structures, requiring players to adapt to survive — which hopefully means more Otter Hood.
Conan’s return inDeath Stranding 2also means more comedy is on the way, though it would be nice to see Sam actually interact with the comedian this time around, rather than staring at him while he cracks jokes. At the very least, however, Conan’s presence inDeath Stranding 2is very important because the sequel already looks like it will have even more oppressive themes than the first game did, which Conan’s comedy could help balance.
