“Death Stranding 2: On The Beach” is the bold and provocative sequence of game that divided opinions in 2019. Under the visionary direction of Hideo Kojimathe new title comes with the mission of expanding not only the previously created universe, but also the very definition of open world game.
Exclusive for PlayStation 5, the launch will take place on June 26, 2025, with early access to those who purchased the Deluxe and Collector editions.
The new plot takes Sam Porter Bridges to unexplored territories such as Mexico and Australia, expanding the narrative and mechanical scope of the game. But the soul of the game remains: deliver, connect and resist.
“Death Stranding 2” brings more agile gameplay, more engaging combat, quality of life improvements and an even more emotional narrative, all packed with a chilling soundtrack. If you want to understand everything this new chapter has to offer, get ready: here is the full guide on “Death Stranding 2”.
Launch and available editions
“Death Stranding 2” was officially launched on June 26, 2025, exclusively for the PlayStation 5. The most anxious fans were able to play two days before thanks to the early access of Digital Deluxe and Collector editions.
In addition to the default version, which offers only the base game and some simple cosmetics, the Deluxe edition includes exclusive weapons, extra digital content and the much -desired Early Access. Already the collector edition goes beyond: brings physical gifts, make-of, digital artbook and other pampering for those who want to dive heading in this universe.
For now, the game remains exclusive to the PS5, but considering the history of the first title, it is highly likely that a PC version will be released in 2026. Nothing has been officially confirmed, but rumors indicate a six to eight -month window of the console.
History: Sam’s return and the new dangers
The “Death Stranding 2” plot takes place 11 months after the first game events. Sam Porter Bridges lives in prison by Lou, now a living child, after the miracle of the end of the previous title.
However, peace does not last long: it is summoned by the Drawbridge organization for a new mission. This time, the Chiral network needs to expand beyond the United States, reaching regions such as Mexico and Australia.
The world follows fragmented, and the timefall, the rain that accelerates time, still threatens what remains of civilization. The setting is wilder, unstable and unpredictable, with volcanic land, tropical forests and immense deserts.
The game also features new characterslike Tomorrow (played by Elle Fanning), Dollman, Rainy and the enigmatic Tarman. Fragile and Higgs also return, but with more complex and dark papers. Kojima dives deep into topics such as mourning, connection, legacy and reconstruction.
Renewed and more fluid gameplay
The base of gameplay remains the same: delivering packages, building connections, and surviving the dangers of a hostile world. But the difference is that now everything flows much better. “Death Stranding 2” brings important refinements: faster buildings, enhanced vehicles, Fast Travel Monorail system and greater freedom of exploitation.
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The combat also evolved. The arms arsenal is more robust, with holographic grenades, electrical sticks and specific weapons for human enemies and BTS.
The melee combat system is more responsive, and the introduction of dynamic cameras improves the experience in shootings and ambushes.
There is also a Skill Progression System (called APAS), which shapes the style of play according to the player’s decisions: stealth, offensive, builder or messenger.
In addition, the interface has been redesigned, and now you can see how long it is missing for each cutscene, a direct response to criticism of the first game about their long narrative sequences.
A technical and sound show
Visually, “Death Stranding 2” is stunning. Developed with the new version of Engine Decima, the game delivers hyper-realistic textures, dynamic climate, detailed particles and state-of-the-art lighting. Performance mode guarantees 60 frames per second even in the most complex areas, while loyalty mode delivers the graphic apex of the PS5.
But it is the soundtrack that really stands out. Curated by Ludvig Forssell (back after the first game), the song works as a character within the narrative. Bands like Low Roar, Silent Poets, Woodkid and Caroline Polachek make up a melancholy, epic and deep atmosphere. The trail is adaptive, reacting to the movements and decisions of the player in real time.
What do criticism say
The reception of criticism has been mostly positive. Sites like The Guardian and The Verge They pointed to “Death Stranding 2” as a clear evolution in relation to the original. Highlight for the more accessible gameplay, emotionally dense narrative and artistic ambience.
The magazine Edge stated that the game is “a triumph in design and direction”, while the The Times he classified him as “an interactive work of art.”
However, not everything is flowers. Some vehicles like Polygon and IGN They pointed out that the rhythm, although better, can still get tired at more contemplative times. Others pointed out that excess metaphors and symbolism can make the narrative a little airtight for those looking for something more direct. Still, most agree that “Death Stranding 2” is one of the great games of the year.
The strength of the community
One of the biggest trumps of “Death Stranding 2” remains the sense of belonging created among players, even without direct interaction.
The asynchronous system allows you to use structures built by others, leave messages, mount collaborative routes and help to slowly improve the world. This layer of invisible collaboration strengthens the central theme of the game: the importance of human connections, even in the most extreme situations.
The community has already embraced the new monorail transport system, praising its efficiency. In forums and subredits, there is a true exchange of experiences, routes, strategies and interpretations of history.
And the future of the franchise?
Although it is still early to talk about a “Death Stranding 3”, Kojima has already given clues that the universe can expand even more and not just in games.
Rumors indicate that a live-action movie is in production, with script supervised by Kojima Productions. And with the decima engine by evolving each year, it is possible that the next step involves augmented reality or new platforms beyond the console.
It is also expected, as mentioned, that a PC version will be released in the near future, probably in the first half of 2026. Until then, the PS5 is the only place where you can try everything that “Death Stranding 2” has to offer.
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