Summary
Higgs Monaghan is a bombastic presence who acts as the main antagonist for the majority of the originalDeath Strandingand appears to be primed to make a return forDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach. However, the state ofHiggs' upcomingDeath Strandingreturnis up in the air, as it isn’t exactly obvious how players will interact with the character, or what role he’ll be playing in the next title.
Taking a look at the eccentric way that Higgs monologs in the most recent trailer, there’s a chance that the villain might be turning over a new leaf inDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach. This new direction could also spell disaster for other characters close to Higgs and Sam, as they might not be too interested in working for the former big bad of their previous adventure.
Higgs Could be the Hero Death Stranding Needs
A Bombastic Monologue Unlike Any Other
From the vibrant physicality to the rapturous, sermon-like delivery of his lines, Troy Baker’s portrayal of Higgs Monaghan is part of what makes the character stand out among an equallystellar cast in the originalDeath Stranding. However, while the mannerisms of Higgs have continued in the most recent showcase of the character, there is a subtle change in his behavior that could hint at a changing of sides for the former villain. His latest speech lacks the teeth that he had in previous encounters, with an honest attempt to enlighten Sam of the dangers surrounding him, rather than a malicious attempt at threats and attacks.
Most notable about Higgs though is the way that he brushes off theaccusation of killing Lou, Sam’s BB from the firstDeath Stranding. While Higgs has always had a flair for the dramatic, he isn’t the type to not take credit for the deeds he’s proud of, and the villain from the original would be more than excited to have ended a BB that caused him so much trouble. Instead, he prods at Sam for not being in the know of the troubles plaguing the world, before then testing the BB pod himself.
It’s a small action that implies that while he might not be donning a hero’s cape just yet, he’s not aligned with the newest big bad that has still yet to be revealed.
Death Stranding 2 Can’t Waste a Guitar Solo on One Note
Easily the most exciting part of the new look for Higgs in thelatestDeath Stranding 2traileris his electric guitar that earns its name by firing lightning bolts as he plays his combative melodies. Classing Higgs as a Bard isn’t even that big of a leap for the character given that his most notable attacks on Sam have been vicious mockeries, but this new weapon is a bit out there even byDeath Strandingstandards. So, to hand this over to the same villain that pontificates briefly before sicking a BT on Sam and running away would be an absolute waste of such an instant icon.
The new look, new weapon, and even a new team of goons under his control have to speak to a major change coming from Higgs, and a role that might be a tough fit for him. It would be a well-worn narrative trope at this point, but one that still keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as a former villain struggles to play nice with the good guys. However, the drama that could come from clashing Higgs against hisbackstory with Fragile inDeath Stranding 2could be a compelling push and pull until eventually the tension breaks in one way or another.
Higgs' Burnt Bridges are Too Fragile to Last
No matter what Higgs' intentions may be inDeath Stranding 2, the presence of the ocean of bad blood between him and Fragile is a prime wound for the series to keep picking at. That being said, if Higgs is switching sides, then his presence may push Fragile over the edge, leading to a heel turn from her by the end of the story. The fraying relationships between these characters as tension builds among the heroes couldexplainDeath Stranding 2’s taglineand questioning if connecting everyone was worth it.
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach
WHERE TO PLAY
Embark on an inspiring mission of human connection beyond the UCA. Sam—with companions by his side—sets out on a new journey to save humanity from extinction. Join them as they traverse a world beset by otherworldly enemies, obstacles and a haunting question: should we have connected? Step by step, legendary game creator Hideo Kojima changes the world once again.
