Troy Baker says there’s a simple reason Higgs sings so often in Death Stranding‘s follow-up: Hideo Kojima enjoyed watching Baker’s music on Instagram.
Although Higgs was defeated in the first game, Baker’s character returns as the primary villain in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach with a redesigned look and a surprising musical streak — frequently strumming an over-the-top guitar and breaking into song throughout the story. Baker explains that Kojima noticed the actor performing music during Instagram Live sessions and brought that element into the sequel.
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Baker recounts the exchange on the YouTube show Fall Damage: “We’re at The Game Awards, and Hideo comes up to me and asks, ‘Do you know why Higgs sings?'” Kojima told him, “During the pandemic, whenever I felt down I would watch your Instagram Lives of you singing and playing guitar — it cheered me up.” Baker says he was surprised Kojima hadn’t mentioned it while filming, but felt honored Kojima incorporated that into the character.
Another notable addition for Higgs in Death Stranding 2 is the powered-up guitar. Baker explains that Kojima Productions aims for authenticity: they 3D-printed a screen-accurate guitar so he could use it on set. He recalls the shoot as fun for everyone — especially Norman Reedus, who seemed to be enjoying himself — and notes that Kojima has since used the prop at public appearances, so the instrument likely remained with the studio.
Kojima even attempted to promote Death Stranding 2 with free branded tissues — few people took them at first, until he posted about it on Twitter, which drew attention.
