Death Stranding 2: On the Beach(PS) vs Death Stranding

• Perspective: Third-Person
• Multiplayer: Single-player with asynchronous multiplayer ('Social Strand System')
• Setting: Beyond the UCA, Post-Apocalyptic World
• Platforms: PlayStation 5
• Unique Feature: Evolution of the 'Strand Game' genre, expanding the Chiral Network to new continents, new traversal methods like monorails, dynamic environmental events, a mobile ship base (Drawbridge).

• Perspective: Third-Person
• Multiplayer: Asynchronous Online Features (Social Strand System)
• Setting: Post-Apocalyptic United States (United Cities of America - UCA)
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Windows), macOS (Director's Cut), iOS (Director's Cut)
• Unique Feature: Social Strand System (Asynchronous Multiplayer), Emphasis on Traversal & Delivery, Unique Sci-Fi Lore & Worldbuilding by Hideo Kojima, BB (Bridge Baby) Mechanic, Timefall (Accelerated Aging Rain).

• Dollman (Puppet): A mysterious talking puppet that accompanies Fragile. Its abilities are unknown, but it appears to be an active character that can interact with the environment and Sam, potentially offering advice or unique combat/traversal support.
  Automaton / Puppet
• Various AI & Human Allies: Sam will work alongside Fragile and other members of Drawbridge. While not persistent field companions, these characters will provide support, objectives, and narrative context from the DHV Magellan base.
  Human, AI
• Online Players (Asynchronous): Through the Social Strand System, players act as indirect companions to one another. You can see the structures, vehicles, lost cargo, and signs left by other players, and contribute to collaborative building projects like roads and monorails. You can also request supplies from or deliver supplies to other players.
  Human (Player Avatars)

• BB-28 ('Lou' - Bridge Baby): Housed in a portable pod attached to Sam's chest. BBs are essential for detecting invisible BTs (Beached Things) via Sam's Odradek scanner. Lou's stress level must be managed (by soothing) as high stress reduces detection ability. BB has a significant emotional and narrative role in the story.
  Human Fetus (Bridge Baby)
• Fragile (Temporary Ally - Contextual): While not a persistent combat companion, Fragile assists Sam during specific story missions using her DOOMS ability to 'jump' (teleport) Sam and cargo across vast distances via her Chiral Network. She also provides crucial information and support.
  Human (DOOMS User)
• Cliff Unger's Skeletal Soldiers (Antagonistic Summons): During Cliff's nightmare sequences, he summons spectral soldiers who fight alongside him against Sam. These act as enemy AI rather than player companions.
  Spectral Manifestation
• Asynchronous Player Structures & Aid: Through the Social Strand System, structures built by other players (bridges, ziplines, generators, safe houses, watchtowers, roads), signs, lost cargo, and material donations appear in Sam's world. While not direct companions, these elements provide significant indirect assistance and create a sense of shared experience.
  N/A (Player-Generated Content)

• Memory Chips: A returning collectible. These chips contain fragments of lore, music, and data from the pre-Stranding world, found hidden throughout the game's vast environments.
• Drawbridge Documents & Logs: New lore collectibles related to the Drawbridge organization, its members, the DHV Magellan, and the mission to expand the Chiral Network to new continents.
• Prepper Lost Cargo: Parcels belonging to specific preppers or facilities found randomly in the world. Returning this lost cargo to its rightful owner increases the connection level with that facility, unlocking new gear and customization options.
• Exotic Flora & Fauna Samples (Speculative): With the expansion to new continents like Australia, players may be tasked with collecting samples of unique, mutated, or Chiral-affected wildlife and plants for research purposes.

• Memory Chips: 56 data chips scattered throughout the UCA. Each chip contains a piece of lore from the old world before the Death Stranding, such as music files, movie posters, book excerpts, historical documents, or information about video games (including Kojima Productions references). Found by scanning the environment.
• Chiral Crystals: Naturally occurring formations that appear after Timefall or around BT activity. Harvested by Sam. Used as a crucial crafting material for fabricating equipment, building structures via PCC, and contributing to the Chiral Network.
• Lost Cargo: Packages dropped by other porters (AI or asynchronous player data) or MULEs. Sam can pick these up and deliver them to their intended destination or entrust them to other porters for Likes and connection level increases. Some are specifically for other online players.
• Interviews / Data Logs / Emails (Accessed via Cuff Links): Unlocked by progressing the story, connecting new facilities to the Chiral Network, or finding specific Memory Chips. These provide extensive backstory on characters, organizations (Bridges, UCA, Homo Demens), the Death Stranding phenomenon, BTs, BBs, and the history of the world. Read in the Data section of the Cuff Links.
• Hot Springs: Natural hot springs found in some regions. Resting in them restores stamina, soothes BB, and can provide a temporary buff (e.g., increased stamina regeneration).
• Star Ratings (Prepper Shelters & Facilities): Not a physical collectible, but a progression system. By completing deliveries for specific Prepper shelters or Bridges facilities, Sam increases his connection level with them (up to 5 stars). Each star rank unlocks new fabrication plans, cosmetic items, materials, chiral bandwidth, or lore.

• Human Connection vs. Isolation
• Post-Apocalyptic
• Sci-Fi
• Otherworldly Threats
• Saving Humanity
• Consequence of Connection
• Transcontinental Journey
• Legacy
• Climate Change
• Artificial Intelligence

• Connection & Isolation
• Rebuilding Society
• The Nature of Death & Afterlife
• Parenthood & Legacy
• Hope in Despair
• Existentialism
• Environmentalism (Timefall)
• Social Strands
• Post-Apocalypse
• American Identity

• Bola Gun: Non-Lethal Ranged Weapon
  A returning weapon that fires tethered bolas to incapacitate human enemies without killing them.
• Anti-BT Handgun: Specialized Sidearm
  A handgun that fires projectiles infused with Sam's blood, effective against Beached Things (BTs).
• Assault Rifle: Lethal Ranged Weapon
  A standard firearm for use against human hostiles, with both lethal and potentially non-lethal ammunition types.
• Grenades (Hematic, Stun, etc.): Throwable Utility / Weapon
  Various grenades, including Hematic Grenades made from Sam's blood to combat BTs, and Stun Grenades for incapacitating human foes.
• Delivery Equipment (Ladders, Ropes, PCCs): Traversal & Construction Tools
  Essential tools for navigating the world. Portable Chiral Constructors (PCCs) are expected to be expanded to build more complex structures like monorails, in addition to bridges, generators, and shelters.
• Higgs's Battle Guitar: Antagonist Weapon (Unique)
  The antagonist Higgs is shown wielding a custom guitar that appears to function as an electric weapon, firing bolts of energy.

• Anti-BT Handgun (Lv. 1 & 2): Firearm (Anti-BT, Uses Blood)
  A specialized handgun that fires rounds coated in Sam's blood, effective against BTs. Higher levels deal more damage.
• Hematic Grenades (Lv. 1 & 2): Throwable (Anti-BT, Uses Blood)
  Grenades filled with Sam's blood, creating a cloud that damages and disperses BTs. Essential for dealing with groups.
• Bola Gun (Lv. 1 & 2): Non-Lethal Firearm (Incapacitation)
  Fires a tether that wraps around and incapacitates human enemies (MULEs, Terrorists). Can also be used with blood-coated tethers to temporarily bind BTs.
• Assault Rifle (Lethal & Non-Lethal variants, Lv. 1-3): Firearm (Automatic)
  Standard assault rifle effective against human enemies. Non-lethal variants fire rubber bullets. Upgradable for damage, magazine size, etc.
• Shotgun (Lethal & Non-Lethal variants, Lv. 1-2): Firearm (Close Quarters)
  Powerful at close range against human enemies. Non-lethal variants available.
• Grenade Launcher (Director's Cut): Firearm (Explosive/Utility)
  Fires various types of grenades, including standard explosive, remote-detonation, and potentially others. Added in Director's Cut.
• Maser Gun (Director's Cut): Non-Lethal Firearm (Stun)
  An electrical stun gun effective for incapacitating human enemies silently. Added in Director's Cut.
• Sticky Gun: Utility Tool (Cargo Retrieval)
  Fires an adhesive rope that can attach to and retrieve distant cargo packages or other small items.
• Strand / Cuff Links: Melee/Utility (Parry, Bind)
  Sam's primary melee tool for parrying human attacks and can be used to bind incapacitated MULEs/Terrorists. Also used to interface with the Chiral Network and terminals.
• Remote Stun Bomb / Smoke Bomb: Throwable (Utility/Stealth)
  Stun bombs temporarily incapacitate human enemies. Smoke bombs obscure vision, aiding in stealth or escape.
• Mounted Machine Gun (Director's Cut - Firing Range / Specific Structures): Heavy Firearm (Stationary)
  Powerful machine guns that can be found mounted in certain locations or built at outposts/safe houses. Added/expanded in Director's Cut.

• Drawbridge Delivery Suit: Sam's new standard suit provided by the Drawbridge organization. It will likely feature upgradeable slots for battery power, support skeleton attachments, and cargo capacity.
• Support Skeletons (Power, Speed, All-Terrain): Exoskeletons that enhance Sam's physical abilities. Power Skeletons increase carrying capacity, Speed Skeletons increase running speed, and All-Terrain Skeletons improve stability on difficult ground. New 'Boost' skeletons are also shown.
• Battle Suit (Speculative): A new 'Battle' skeleton frame is hinted at, suggesting a combat-focused exoskeleton that may provide increased damage resistance and weapon stability.
• Cosmetic Customization: Players can expect to customize the color and decals of Sam's suit, backpack, and private room aboard the DHV Magellan, similar to the first game.

• Bridges Porter Suit (Various Levels & Colors): Sam's standard attire. While not 'armor' in the traditional RPG sense of swappable pieces, the suit itself is integral to his role. It has attachment points for cargo and equipment. Color variations can be unlocked. Its protective qualities are baseline and not significantly upgradable beyond what's provided by specific gear like armor plates or support skeletons.
• Armor Plates (Lv. 1-4 - Attachable): Attachable plates that can be equipped to Sam's Porter Suit on the shoulders and legs. They provide additional protection against ballistic damage from human enemies but add weight and degrade with damage. Can be fabricated and replaced.
• Support Skeletons (Power, Speed, All-Terrain - Exoskeletons): Equippable exoskeletons that provide significant benefits: Power Skeletons increase carrying capacity and stability; Speed Skeletons increase running speed and jump distance; All-Terrain Skeletons improve balance and traversal on difficult terrain. They require battery power and can be upgraded.
• Thermal Pad: An equipment item that helps Sam maintain his body temperature in cold environments, reducing stamina drain. Attaches to the suit.
• Oxygen Mask: Used to traverse areas with low oxygen or harmful gases. Consumes a filter or battery.
• Boots (Various Types & Levels): Crucial for traversal. Boots have durability and degrade with use, especially on rough terrain or during Timefall. Different types (e.g., Bridges Boots, Chiral Boots) offer varying durability and performance. Must be replaced or new pairs fabricated.

• Drawbridge Delivery Suit: The primary suit worn by Sam. Players will likely be able to customize its color, apply decals, and attach various functional equipment like extra battery packs, grenade pouches, and stabilizers.
• Support Skeletons: Various exoskeletons (Power, Speed, All-Terrain, Battle, Boost) that attach to Sam's suit, altering his appearance and providing significant gameplay benefits. Not directly customizable but different types can be equipped.
• Cosmetic Items (Hats, Sunglasses): Players can customize Sam's headwear with various items like hats and sunglasses, many of which are unlocked by completing specific deliveries or strengthening connections with preppers.
• Backpack Customization: The backpack can be customized with additional pouches, stabilizers, and potentially cosmetic accessories to personalize its look and function.

• Bridges Porter Suit: Sam's default attire. The color of the suit can be changed at Private Rooms after progressing in the story or connecting certain facilities. This is the primary visual customization for Sam's main outfit.
• Headwear (Caps, Hoods, Sunglasses, Goggles, Masks): Sam can equip various pieces of headwear. Caps (e.g., Bridges Cap) are common. Hoods are part of the Porter Suit and can be toggled up/down. Sunglasses (e.g., 'Sam's Sunglasses' - Ludens Mask) and other eyewear can be equipped for cosmetic purposes or minor effects (like reducing glare from snow). Masks (like Oxygen Mask) are functional for hazardous environments.
• Backpack Customization (Attachments & Cover): Sam's backpack can be customized with various attachments like extra battery packs, grenade pouches, utility pouches, and stabilizers. A backpack cover can also be equipped to protect cargo from Timefall, and its color can be changed.
• Exoskeletons (Power, Speed, All-Terrain): While primarily functional gear, different levels of exoskeletons have distinct visual appearances. Their color might be customizable to a limited extent alongside the Porter Suit color.
• Grooming (Hair & Beard - Limited/Contextual): Sam's hair and beard appear to grow subtly over time if not rested in a Private Room. Specific story moments or conditions might also alter his appearance (e.g., covered in tar, effects of Timefall). Direct player-controlled customization of hairstyle/beard length is not a primary feature.
• Cosmetic Items (Unlocked via Prepper Deliveries, Special Editions, Director's Cut): Various cosmetic items can be unlocked, such as different colored Bridges caps, unique backpack flair, different chiral patterns for structures, or special suit colorways (e.g., Gold/Silver suit pieces from Director's Cut).

The game expands beyond the United States to new continents, with Australia confirmed as a key location. The primary base of operations is the 'DHV Magellan,' a massive, mobile, submersible ship that acts as a forward operating base for 'Drawbridge.' The world will feature incredibly varied environments, from desolate wastelands to new, uncharted territories, posing unique navigational challenges.

The game features a vast and rugged open world representing a fractured United States, divided into two main large regions: the Eastern Region (serving as an extended tutorial and early game area) and the much larger Central Region. Traversal is primarily on foot, with an emphasis on navigating treacherous terrain (mountains, rivers, rocky plains, snowfields) while managing cargo weight and balance. Key locations include various Knot Cities (e.g., Capital Knot City, Lake Knot City, Mountain Knot City), Prepper Shelters, Distribution Centers, and Waystations. The Director's Cut adds a new smaller area, the Ruined Factory, with new missions. While difficult to give an exact sq km due to its varied density and verticality, the total explorable landmass is very significant.

• DHV Magellan: Mobile Base of Operations / Submersible Ship
  The massive, submersible ship for the Drawbridge organization. It serves as Sam's primary hub for mission prep, customization, and travel between continents. It is not directly piloted by the player in an open-world sense.
• Reverse Trike (Upgraded): Motorcycle / Trike
  Sam's signature fast-travel vehicle returns with likely upgrades for better battery life, durability, and cargo capacity. Ideal for navigating varied terrain quickly.
• Trucks (Upgraded): Cargo Vehicle
  Larger vehicles for transporting significant amounts of cargo. New models are expected to handle more extreme weather and terrain degradation.
• Monorail System: Infrastructure / Traversal System
  A new constructible infrastructure. Players can build monorail lines between key outposts, providing a safe and efficient new method of transportation for Sam and his cargo.
• Floating Carrier: Cargo Transport / Traversal Aid
  A returning piece of equipment. A levitating carrier that can be tethered behind Sam to carry extra cargo or be used as a personal hoverboard for descending slopes.

• Reverse Trike / Reverse Trike: Long Range / Defensive / 'Ride' Type (Yojimbo): Motorcycle (Two/Three Wheeled)
  Sam's primary early-game vehicle. A futuristic motorcycle that can transform between a faster two-wheeled mode and a more stable three-wheeled mode with some cargo capacity. Long Range versions have better battery. Defensive versions offer some protection. The 'Ride' Type is a custom variant from a collaboration.
• Truck (Bridges, MULE, Terrorist - Various Capacities): Land Vehicle (Multi-Wheeled Cargo Hauler)
  Large vehicles with significant cargo capacity, essential for transporting bulk deliveries. Bridges trucks are standard; MULE and Terrorist trucks can be commandeered. Different versions have varying durability and protection. Can be damaged by Timefall and rough terrain.
• Floating Carrier (Lv. 1 & 2): Hovering Cargo Platform / Improvised Hoverboard
  A hovering platform that can be tethered to Sam to carry additional cargo, reducing the load on his back. Can carry two large containers per carrier (up to two carriers can be tethered). Sam can also ride an empty carrier downhill like a hoverboard. Consumes Chiral Crystals to operate.
• Support Skeleton (All-Terrain, Power, Speed - Not a vehicle but aids traversal): Exoskeleton (Personal Traversal Gear)
  Equippable exoskeletons that enhance Sam's physical capabilities. All-Terrain improves balance on rough ground. Power increases carrying capacity. Speed increases running speed and jump distance. Requires battery power.
• Buddy Bot (Director's Cut): Robotic Delivery Assistant / Rideable (Limited)
  A bipedal robot that can be assigned to carry cargo alongside Sam or make automated deliveries to previously connected locations. Sam can also ride the Buddy Bot for short distances if it's not carrying cargo. Consumes battery power.
• Roadster / Roadster: Long Range (Director's Cut): Sports Car (Race Track / Limited Open World)
  A sleek sports car primarily designed for use on the Fragile Circuit race track. Can be fabricated and potentially used in areas with completed roads in the open world, though less practical for general deliveries than trucks or trikes.
• Ziplines (Player & Community Built): Fixed Traversal Network
  Constructed using PCCs. Allow for rapid point-to-point travel across difficult terrain, especially in mountainous areas. Requires Chiral Network bandwidth to build and maintain. Players can use ziplines built by others via the Strand System.

• Sam Porter Bridges: Protagonist
  The returning hero. A legendary porter with DOOMS and the ability to repatriate. He is recruited by the civilian organization 'Drawbridge' to expand the Chiral Network across the globe. Voiced by Norman Reedus.
• Fragile: Ally / Leader of Drawbridge
  A key returning ally who now seems to lead the Drawbridge organization from their mobile ship base, the DHV Magellan. She travels with a new puppet-like companion. Voiced by Léa Seydoux.
• Higgs Monaghan: Main Antagonist
  The primary antagonist from the first game returns, seemingly revived. He has a new dramatic appearance inspired by rock stars and leads a faction of cyborg combatants, wielding a battle guitar as a weapon. Voiced by Troy Baker.
• Dollman (Puppet Companion): Companion / Enigmatic Figure
  A mysterious, ventriloquist-dummy-like puppet that accompanies Fragile. It can speak and move independently, adding to the surreal nature of the world. Its true purpose is unknown.
• Lucy (Character name unconfirmed): New Character
  A new character portrayed by Elle Fanning. Her exact role is unknown, but she appears to be a key figure in Sam's new journey.
• George Miller (Cameo Character): New Character
  The acclaimed film director makes an appearance as a character model, likely the head of a specific Bridges unit.

• Sam Porter Bridges: Protagonist / Porter for Bridges
  The main playable character. A legendary porter known for his ability to make difficult deliveries. He suffers from aphenphosmphobia (fear of touch) and is a 'repatriate,' meaning he can return from 'the Seam' (a limbo between life and death) after dying. He is tasked with reconnecting the fractured United Cities of America. Portrayed by Norman Reedus.
• BB-28 (Bridge Baby 'Lou'): Key Companion / BT Detection Tool
  A premature baby kept in a portable pod connected to Sam. BBs can sense the presence of BTs, allowing Sam to see and avoid them. BB-28, whom Sam names Lou, forms an emotional bond with him. Requires soothing when stressed.
• Fragile: Ally / Head of Fragile Express
  The leader of Fragile Express, a private delivery company. She possesses DOOMS (a condition granting abilities related to the Beach and BTs), allowing her to 'jump' (teleport) between locations on the Chiral Network. A key ally to Sam, with a tragic past involving Higgs. Portrayed by Léa Seydoux.
• Deadman: Ally / Bridges Doctor & BB Specialist
  A Bridges doctor and expert on Bridge Babies. His body is composed of transplanted organs, making him feel disconnected from life. He provides crucial information and support regarding BBs and Sam's condition. Based on the likeness of Guillermo del Toro, voiced by Jesse Corti.
• Mama (Målingen): Ally / Bridges Engineer
  A brilliant Bridges engineer who designed much of their technology, including the Cuff Links and Chiral Network terminals. She is physically tethered to her lab due to a connection with her BT baby. Her twin sister is Lockne. Portrayed by Margaret Qualley.
• Heartman: Ally / Bridges Researcher
  A Bridges researcher obsessed with studying the Beach and the Death Stranding. His heart stops every 21 minutes, sending him to the Beach for 3 minutes where he searches for his deceased wife and daughter before being resuscitated. Based on the likeness of Nicolas Winding Refn, voiced by Darren Jacobs.
• Die-Hardman: Ally / Commander of Bridges / Acting President of UCA
  The commander of Bridges and acting President of the UCA after Bridget Strand's death. He gives Sam his main orders and is deeply committed to reconnecting America. Wears a distinctive carbon skull mask. Voiced by Tommie Earl Jenkins.
• Amelie Strand: Key Figure / Bridget Strand's Daughter / Extinction Entity
  The daughter of President Bridget Strand and the one Sam is ostensibly trying to rescue and connect to the Chiral Network on the West Coast. Her true nature and connection to the Beach and the Death Stranding are central to the game's biggest mysteries. Portrayed by Lindsay Wagner (likeness) and Emily O'Brien (voice/mo-cap young Amelie).
• Clifford 'Cliff' Unger: Antagonist / Spectral Soldier
  A mysterious combat veteran who appears in surreal nightmare sequences, commanding skeletal soldiers and relentlessly hunting Sam/BB. His identity and connection to BBs are a major part of the story. Portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen.
• Higgs Monaghan ('The Man in the Golden Mask'): Main Antagonist / Leader of Homo Demens
  The charismatic and nihilistic leader of the Homo Demens terrorist group. He possesses powerful DOOMS abilities, allowing him to control BTs and Timefall, and serves as Sam's primary human adversary. Portrayed by Troy Baker.
• Bridget Strand: Key Figure / Former President of UCA
  The dying President of the United Cities of America and Amelie's mother. She tasks Sam with the mission to reconnect America via the Chiral Network. Sam's adoptive mother. Portrayed by Lindsay Wagner.
• Various Preppers: Supporting NPCs / Shelter Dwellers
  Isolated individuals living in underground bunkers throughout the UCA. Sam can deliver cargo to them, increasing their connection to the Chiral Network and unlocking new equipment, information, or cosmetic items. Each Prepper has a unique personality and backstory.

• Main Quests (Expanding the Chiral Network)
  A series of main story orders that guide the player through the game's narrative. This involves delivering critical cargo, establishing new connections for the Chiral Network across new continents, investigating new environmental and enemy threats, and confronting Higgs.
• Standard Orders (Side Quests)
  Optional delivery missions players can take on from various facilities and preppers. Completing them increases connection levels with facilities, unlocking new gear, materials, and customization options. These orders often test delivery skills under various conditions (e.g., time limits, cargo fragility).
• Infrastructure Construction
  Using Portable Chiral Constructors (PCCs) to build structures like bridges, generators, safehouses, and the new monorail system. These missions are self-directed and contribute to making traversal easier for both the player and others in the network.
• Boss Encounters
  Confronting and defeating massive otherworldly creatures (BTs) or powerful human/cyborg adversaries like Higgs and his faction. These encounters often require unique strategies, weapons, and use of the environment.

• Main Orders (Story Deliveries)
  A series of critical delivery missions that advance the main narrative. These involve transporting vital cargo (e.g., supplies, personnel, data, specialized equipment) between major Knot Cities and Prepper shelters to connect them to the Chiral Network, uncover the mysteries of the Death Stranding, find Amelie, and confront Higgs and Cliff Unger. These often involve long, perilous journeys across challenging terrain and encounters with BTs or human enemies.
• Standard Orders (Optional Deliveries)
  A vast number of optional delivery requests taken from terminals at various facilities. These involve transporting different types of cargo (materials, medicine, sensitive items, etc.) to other connected locations. Completing them rewards Likes, increases connection levels with facilities (unlocking new gear/customization), and provides materials. Categories include delivery condition (e.g., time-sensitive, fragile), cargo type, and retrieval missions.
• Orders for Sam (Story-Related Side Deliveries)
  Special optional deliveries often initiated by key characters or found as 'Lost Cargo' specifically addressed to Sam. These can provide unique rewards, lore, or further develop relationships with NPCs.
• MULE / Terrorist Camp Clearing
  Infiltrate and neutralize MULE (cargo-obsessed) or Terrorist camps to retrieve stolen cargo, clear a path for deliveries, or fulfill specific orders. Can be approached with stealth (non-lethal takedowns with Bola Gun/Strand) or combat (lethal/non-lethal weapons).
• BT Boss Encounters / Voidout Avoidance
  Survive and defeat large Catcher BTs (often triggered by being caught by Hunters) or unique, massive BT entities encountered during main story progression. This also includes scenarios where Sam must escape a growing voidout crater if a human is consumed by a BT nearby.
• Cliff Unger's Nightmare Sequences (War Zones)
  Surreal, recurring missions where Sam is transported to WWI, WWII, and Vietnam War-themed battlefields to confront Clifford Unger and his spectral soldiers. These are combat-focused segments with unique environmental challenges.
• Structure Building & Maintenance (PCC Construction)
  Using the Portable Chiral Constructor (PCC), Sam can build various helpful structures in the world (Bridges, Generators, Ziplines, Watchtowers, Safe Houses, Timefall Shelters, Postboxes). These require Chiral Crystals and other materials. Maintaining and upgrading these structures (and those built by other players via the Strand System) is an ongoing activity.
• Road Reconstruction (Auto-Paver Contributions)
  Contribute materials (Metals, Ceramics, Chiral Crystals) to Auto-Paver units found throughout the Central Region to help reconstruct sections of the old highway system. Completing roads significantly improves vehicle traversal for Sam and other players.
• Director's Cut - Ruined Factory Missions
  A new set of story missions added in the Director's Cut, involving investigating a mysterious, large underground Ruined Factory complex. These missions feature new stealth and combat encounters, and provide additional lore.
• Director's Cut - Firing Range Challenges
  Test various weapons against holographic targets in a dedicated Firing Range. Completing different drills and achieving high scores can unlock rewards.
• Director's Cut - Fragile Circuit (Races)
  Participate in time-trial races using different vehicles (Reverse Trike, Truck, Roadster) on a newly added race track. Compete for best times and unlock rewards.

The game expands on the 'Social Strand System' from the first game, where players' actions (like building structures, leaving signs, or contributing to infrastructure) asynchronously affect other players' worlds. It is primarily a single-player experience with these indirect multiplayer elements. Direct co-op is not a feature.

Multiple editions are available at launch: Standard Edition, Digital Deluxe Edition (includes 48-hour early access, gold-colored skeleton gear, early unlock of Machine Gun with MP Bullets, cosmetic patches), and a physical Collector's Edition (includes Deluxe content, 15-inch Magellan Man statue, 3-inch Dollman figurine, art cards, and more).

Original release on PS4. PC version released later. Director's Cut released for PS5 and PC, including new story missions, new equipment (Maser Gun, Support Skeleton), Firing Range, Fragile Circuit (race track), new combat abilities, enhanced visuals, and QoL improvements. Various digital deluxe and physical collector's editions were available for both original and Director's Cut, often including digital artbooks, soundtracks, and in-game cosmetic items.

Details on post-launch content have not been announced at launch. Given Hideo Kojima's history, any potential DLC would likely be a significant story expansion rather than minor content packs. The game will receive standard patches and updates.

The primary post-launch content was the 'Director's Cut,' which is a significantly enhanced and expanded version of the base game rather than traditional DLC. It added new story missions (Ruined Factory), new areas, new equipment, new combat mechanics, a firing range, a race track, and various quality-of-life improvements. No further major story expansions beyond the Director's Cut have been released.

• Q: When is Death Stranding 2: On the Beach released?
  A: Death Stranding 2: On the Beach was released on June 26, 2025, exclusively for the PlayStation 5.
• Q: Is this a direct sequel to the first Death Stranding?
  A: Yes, it is a direct sequel continuing the story of Sam Porter Bridges after the events of the first game.
• Q: Who is developing the game?
  A: The game is developed by Kojima Productions, the studio founded by Hideo Kojima, with continued collaboration on the Decima engine from Guerrilla Games.
• Q: Will Death Stranding 2 be on PC?
  A: The game is launching as a PlayStation 5 exclusive. A PC version has not been officially announced, but it is anticipated to be released at a later date, similar to the original game.
• Q: What is the 'Social Strand System'?
  A: It is an asynchronous multiplayer system where players inhabit their own single-player worlds but can see and use structures, equipment, and signs left behind by other players. This creates a sense of indirect collaboration and connection.
• Q: Who are the new actors joining the cast?
  A: New cast members include Elle Fanning, Shioli Kutsuna, and acclaimed film director George Miller in a modeled role. Troy Baker and Léa Seydoux return to reprise their roles as Higgs and Fragile, respectively.

• Q: What exactly is the 'Death Stranding' event?
  A: The Death Stranding is a cataclysmic event that blurred the boundaries between the world of the living and 'the Beach' (an afterlife realm). This caused BTs (Beached Things) to appear, Timefall (rain that ages everything it touches), and 'voidouts' (massive antimatter explosions caused when a BT consumes a human). It effectively shattered society.
• Q: What are BTs (Beached Things)?
  A: BTs are spectral, largely invisible entities from the Beach that are drawn to the living. They leave handprints on the ground and can only be properly seen with the aid of a BB (Bridge Baby) connected to an Odradek scanner. If they catch Sam, they can drag him into a tar-like substance and trigger an encounter with a larger 'Catcher' BT.
• Q: What is the Chiral Network?
  A: The Chiral Network is a communications and data network that Bridges is trying to establish across the UCA. It utilizes chiralium (a mysterious particle from the Beach) and allows for instant communication, data transfer, and fabrication of items using chiral printers. Connecting settlements to the network is Sam's primary mission.
• Q: Is Death Stranding a 'walking simulator'?
  A: While traversal on foot and managing cargo are core mechanics, labeling it solely as a 'walking simulator' is reductive. The game involves complex inventory management, route planning, stealth against BTs, combat with MULEs/Terrorists, building structures, a deep story, and unique asynchronous multiplayer elements. Traversal itself is a challenging and engaging system.
• Q: What does the Director's Cut add to Death Stranding?
  A: The Director's Cut adds new story missions (Ruined Factory), new delivery support equipment (e.g., Cargo Catapult, Support Skeleton, Buddy Bot), new weapons (Maser Gun), a Firing Range, a Fragile Circuit (race track), new combat abilities (enhanced melee, mounted machine guns), new MULE encounters, and various quality-of-life improvements and graphical enhancements for PS5/PC.
• Q: Can you fight BTs directly?
  A: Yes, while stealth is often an option, Sam can fight BTs using specialized weapons like Hematic Grenades (made from his blood), the Anti-BT Handgun, or by cutting their umbilical cords if he can get close enough (often after incapacitating them with blood-coated Bola Gun tethers). Some larger BTs are full boss encounters.

Developed using the Decima engine and built for the PlayStation 5, the game showcases exceptional technical achievement and visual fidelity. Features include photorealistic character models (using advanced performance capture), incredibly detailed and vast environments, and dynamic weather and environmental effects. Reports from launch day mention instantaneous loading times.

Powered by Guerrilla Games' Decima Engine, Death Stranding showcases stunningly realistic and atmospheric visuals. It features vast, desolate landscapes with incredible detail, realistic weather effects (Timefall, snowstorms, wind), and highly detailed character models utilizing performance capture from its star-studded cast (Norman Reedus, Mads Mikkelsen, Léa Seydoux, etc.). The otherworldly designs of BTs and the Beach are also visually striking.

The soundtrack is co-composed by Ludvig Forssell, who scored the original game, and French artist Woodkid, who contributed a new original song. The score will continue to feature a blend of atmospheric synth and licensed music to create the series' signature melancholic and awe-inspiring tone.

Original score composed by Ludvig Forssell, featuring haunting, ethereal, and often melancholic electronic and orchestral pieces. The game also features an extensive licensed soundtrack with songs from artists like Low Roar, Silent Poets, and Apocalyptica, which often play during significant traversal sequences or moments of reflection, greatly enhancing the atmosphere. Sound design is crucial for detecting BTs (their distinct clicks and Odradek scanner sounds) and navigating hazardous weather like Timefall.

The UI is expected to be an evolution of the first game's diegetic interface, with information presented through Sam's cuff links and equipment. New elements will support the enhanced combat/stealth options, skill trees, and companion management.

Features an immersive HUD integrated into Sam's suit and cuff links. Displays health, stamina, BB's stress level, cargo condition, equipped items, and a compass/sensor for BTs and objectives. The Cuff Link menu provides access to the map, orders, inventory, crafting, data logs, and online features. Cargo management involves carefully arranging packages on Sam's back, suit, and vehicles to maintain balance.

Following the first game and modern PlayStation standards, it is expected to include a comprehensive suite of accessibility options, including extensive subtitle customization, control remapping, audio cues, and various assists for traversal and combat.

Offers a range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (PC), subtitle and text size adjustments, options for colorblind modes, options to change QTEs to holds, adjustable HUD elements, and various gameplay settings for difficulty and interaction prompts.

• The following are the requirements and performance targets for playing Death Stranding 2: On the Beach on the PlayStation 5 console, its exclusive launch platform.
• Game Name: Death Stranding 2: On the Beach(PS)

• Official PC system requirements for 'Death Stranding DIRECTOR'S CUT'. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially those with complex terrain or weather effects), and background applications. An SSD is strongly recommended for optimal performance.
• Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and good cooling. **Death Stranding, while well-optimized, can be demanding at higher settings due to its detailed environments and visual effects.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during long treks.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for physics, AI, and managing online strand elements.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS and AMD FSR 1.0 (FSR 2.0+ may be available via later patches or mods).
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Model Detail, Shadow Quality, Ambient Occlusion, Screen Space Reflections, Memory for Streaming, and Anti-Aliasing heavily impact performance.
• Game Name: Death Stranding

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS and AMD FSR 1.0 (FSR 2.0+ may be available via later patches or mods).
• Key Settings Impact: Model Detail, Shadow Quality, Ambient Occlusion, Screen Space Reflections, Memory for Streaming, and Anti-Aliasing heavily impact performance.

• G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates.
• Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during long treks.
• C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for physics, AI, and managing online strand elements.
• R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM benefits performance.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is recommended.