Real exoskeleton based on Kojima's Death Stranding model unveiled

The intersection of reality and video games that no one asked for: Kojima Productions announces the release of the Dnsys Z1 Exoskeleton, a real-life exoskeleton inspired by Death Stranding.

A real exoskeleton that looks like one of the things in Death Stranding that makes walking, climbing and generally working easier? Sounds like a dream, but it's actually becoming a reality. Initially, developer mastermind Hideo Kojima himself announced the new product with only a few images. Now, the first step has been followed by action: With the announcement of the Z1 Exoskeleton model, Kojima Productions, in collaboration with exoskeleton manufacturer DNSYS, is bringing a piece of gaming fiction into the real world.

Strictly limited, of course, because there probably won't be many buyers anyway. Hardcore fans will probably have to dig deep into their pockets. But some of us are in the same boat here, because Kojima merch, especially Death Stranding merch, is pretty sought after. Arm prostheses have already been seen in the merch universe of Elden Ring. But what Kojima presents with the Z1 exoskeleton actually has several functions.

From game to reality: Death Stranding as a role model

In Death Stranding itself, exoskeletons are a central gameplay element: you transport heavy loads through inhospitable environments and extend your physical capabilities beyond human limits. Even outside of gaming, exoskeletons have long been a topic of discussion. They can make physically demanding activities easier, reduce back pain, relieve muscle strain or support people with limited mobility. Such models are already being tested in industry and care to reduce ergonomic strain. It would be extremely cool if such a device in the Death Stranding design could help you take out the rubbish in the future.

However, an official price for the Z1 model has not yet been announced. Exoskeletons for consumer or hobby use usually cost between €1,000 and €2,500, while professional industrial systems can quickly climb into the upper four-digit range and beyond. As the Z1 Edition is technically ambitious and also a limited-edition branded product with franchise branding, the price is likely to be significantly higher than that of typical home user products.

Fans of Kojima products can look forward to a collector's item that is not only decorative but also promises real benefits. At the same time, the question remains: how suitable is the system really for everyday use? Most home exoskeletons offer rather limited support – often more of a demonstration than a fully-fledged aid.

After all, Hideo Kojima has once again managed to attract a lot of attention with his creativity, a field in which he outshines many other developers even without an exoskeleton. And that's half the battle.