Death Stranding 2: On the Beach(PS) vs Ghost of Tsushima

• 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: Ghost of Tsushima: Legends (Cooperative Story, Survival, Rivals, Raid)
• Setting: Tsushima Island, Japan, 1274 (Kamakura Period)
• Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC (Windows)
• Unique Feature: Samurai vs. Ghost Combat Styles, Standoff Mechanic, Guiding Wind Navigation, Stunning Kurosawa-inspired Visuals, Iki Island Expansion (Director's Cut).

• 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)

• Your Horse (Nobu / Kage / Sora - Player Named): Jin's loyal steed and primary means of transport across Tsushima. Can be called with a whistle. Allows for mounted combat (slashing with katana, archery). Can be equipped with different saddles (cosmetic/minor stat changes). Its name and initial color are chosen by the player early in the game.
  Equus caballus (Japanese Breeds)
• Guiding Wind: While not a character, the Guiding Wind is a unique navigational tool. Players can select a tracked objective or point of interest on the map, and then swipe the touchpad (or press a key) to summon a gust of wind that visually guides them in the correct direction, replacing a traditional mini-map for primary navigation.
  Natural Phenomenon / Spiritual Guidance
• Golden Birds: These birds occasionally appear and fly towards nearby points of interest, such as collectibles, hot springs, shrines, or hidden locations, acting as organic guides for exploration.
  Bird (Oriole-like)
• Foxes (Inari Messengers): Found at Fox Dens (Inari Shrines). Petting a fox will cause it to lead Jin to a hidden Inari Shrine that needs to be honored. They are guides to specific collectibles.
  Vulpes vulpes japonica (Japanese Red Fox)
• Story-Specific AI Companions (Yuna, Ishikawa, Masako, Norio, Kenji, Taka): During their respective 'Tales of Tsushima' (character-specific questlines) and some main story missions, key allies like Yuna, Sensei Ishikawa, Lady Masako, and Norio will accompany Jin, providing combat support according to their skills (e.g., Yuna uses stealth and her knife, Ishikawa is an archer, Masako a skilled samurai). Their presence is scripted for those missions.
  Human
• Legends Mode Teammates (Online Players or AI): In the Ghost of Tsushima: Legends co-op multiplayer mode, players team up with up to three other players (or AI companions if playing solo in some modes). Each class has unique abilities and ultimate attacks, requiring teamwork to overcome waves of Oni and complete objectives.
  Human (Player Characters - Samurai, Hunter, Ronin, Assassin)

• 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.

• Records of Tsushima (Scrolls): Lore scrolls found throughout Tsushima, providing historical accounts, personal stories, and cultural details about the island and its people. Collecting them contributes to world understanding.
• Mongol Artifacts: Items related to the Mongol invaders, such as helmets, banners, and documents. Found primarily in Mongol-controlled camps and territories. Collecting them provides insight into the enemy and rewards.
• Singing Crickets: Crickets kept in small cages, found in graveyards and other serene locations. Collecting them unlocks new flute melodies for Jin to play, which can influence the weather.
• Inari Shrines (Fox Dens): Small shrines dedicated to Inari, the fox deity. Players follow a fox from a Fox Den to a hidden shrine. Honoring these shrines (by bowing) grants Minor Charms and eventually increases the number of Charm slots Jin can use.
• Hot Springs: Natural hot springs where Jin can bathe and reflect on his journey. Each unique hot spring visited permanently increases Jin's maximum health.
• Bamboo Strikes: Sets of bamboo poles that Jin can practice cutting with his katana. Successfully completing the button-pressing mini-game increases Jin's maximum Resolve.
• Shinto Shrines (Major Charms): Large, often dilapidated shrines located in high, hard-to-reach places, requiring platforming and sometimes grappling to access. Honoring the shrine at the top rewards Jin with a Major Charm (powerful passive buff).
• Haiku Spots: Scenic locations where Jin can compose a haiku by selecting phrases that reflect his thoughts and the environment. Rewards a unique Headband.
• Pillars of Honor: Locations marked by a pillar with embedded swords. Honoring these rewards Jin with a new Sword Kit (cosmetic customization for his katana and tanto).
• Lighthouses: Several lighthouses along the coast. Re-igniting them provides a small amount of Legend increase and clears fog of war.
• Vanity Gear (Masks, Headbands, Sword Kits): Cosmetic items found at Pillars of Honor, as Haiku rewards, or purchased from merchants. Allow for personalization of Jin's appearance.
• Sashimono Banners: Collectible banners of fallen samurai clans, scattered throughout Tsushima. Collecting them for a specific NPC rewards saddle customization for Jin's horse.

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

• Samurai Honor vs. Pragmatic Warfare (The Ghost)
• Invasion & Resistance
• Sacrifice & Loss
• Japanese Culture & Feudalism
• Revenge
• The Cost of War
• Nature & Beauty
• Inner Conflict
• Tradition vs. Adaptation

• 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.

• Katana (Sakai Steel / Sakai Storm): Primary Melee (Slashing/Piercing)
  Jin Sakai's ancestral katana, his primary weapon for samurai combat. Its effectiveness is enhanced by mastering different combat stances (Stone, Water, Wind, Moon) and upgrading its damage and appearance. Can be used for parries, dodges, and powerful charged attacks.
• Tanto: Secondary Melee (Stealth/Critical)
  A short blade used for stealth assassinations (from behind, above, or through shoji doors) and for delivering critical strikes to staggered or downed enemies.
• Half Bow: Ranged (Fast, Short-to-Mid Range)
  A smaller bow that allows for quicker aiming and firing, suitable for mid-range combat and rapid shots. Can use standard arrows and fire arrows.
• Longbow: Ranged (Powerful, Long Range, Armor Piercing)
  A larger, more powerful bow for long-range precision shots. Can use heavy arrows (for armor penetration) and explosive arrows. Slower draw speed but higher damage.
• Ghost Weapons (Kunai, Smoke Bombs, Sticky Bombs, Wind Chimes, Black Powder Bombs): Throwable Tactical Tools
  A set of tools used for stealth, crowd control, and dishonorable (Ghost) tactics. Kunai stagger enemies, Smoke Bombs provide cover for escapes or assassinations, Sticky Bombs adhere to enemies, Wind Chimes distract, and Black Powder Bombs deal area damage. Upgradable for increased capacity and effectiveness.
• Blowgun (Iki Island Expansion): Ranged (Stealth, Status Effects)
  A silent weapon introduced in the Iki Island expansion, capable of firing darts that can poison enemies, make them berserk (attack anyone), or have other status effects.
• Charms (Equippable): Passive Buffs
  While not weapons, Charms are equipped to provide various passive bonuses to Jin's combat abilities, defense, stealth, archery, or utility (e.g., increased health, more Resolve gain, chance to terrify enemies). Major and Minor charm slots are unlocked by honoring Inari Shrines.

• 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.

• Samurai Armor Sets (e.g., Samurai Clan Armor, Sakai Clan Armor, Gosaku's Armor, Kensei Armor): Various sets of traditional samurai armor, each consisting of a helmet, body armor, and sometimes gauntlets/greaves (cosmetically part of the body piece). Each set provides unique perks tailored to specific playstyles (e.g., increased health and melee damage, better defense, Resolve gains, stagger resistance). Armor can be upgraded by Armorers to improve its stats and unlock more potent versions of its perks. Dyeable at merchants.
• Ghost Armor Set: A unique armor set acquired as Jin embraces the Ghost persona. Focuses on stealth, reducing enemy detection speed, increasing Terrify chance, and other Ghost-related perks. Visually distinct and upgradable.
• Traveler's Attire: An outfit focused on exploration. Perks include clearing more fog of war on the map, vibrating the controller near collectibles (Artifacts), and allowing Jin to direct the Guiding Wind to specific collectible types. Upgradable.
• Ronin Attire / Kensei Attire (Duel-focused): Outfits that often provide bonuses to melee damage, Resolve gains, or benefits during Standoffs and duels.
• Various Other Outfits (e.g., Fundoshi - for comedic effect, Broken Armor - story related): A range of other outfits with varying or no statistical benefits, some are purely cosmetic or tied to specific story moments or challenges.
• Masks (Various Samurai Menpo, Ghost Mask, Thief's Wrap, etc.): Cosmetic headwear items that can be equipped with any armor set. Do not typically provide stats but are key for visual customization and role-playing.
• Headbands (Hachimaki): Cosmetic items that Jin can find or earn. Worn on the forehead, often with poetic inscriptions. Do not provide stats but add to character appearance.

• 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.

• Samurai Armor Sets (Sakai Clan Armor, Gosaku's Armor, Samurai Clan Armor, Kensei Armor, Sarugami Armor - DLC, etc.): Jin can acquire numerous sets of traditional samurai armor. Each set consists of a helmet, mask, and body armor, offering unique perks tailored to samurai combat (e.g., increased melee damage, health, Resolve gains, stagger resistance). Armor can be upgraded by Armorers to improve stats and unlock more potent perks. Dyes can be purchased or found to change the color scheme of most armor sets.
• Ghost Armor Set: A unique armor set reflecting Jin's adoption of stealth tactics. Perks include reducing enemy detection speed, increasing the chance to Terrify enemies after assassinations, and other Ghost-related benefits. Visually distinct and upgradable, with dye options.
• Traveler's Attire / Ronin Attire / Other Outfits: Various other outfits that Jin can wear, offering different perks and aesthetics. Traveler's Attire is focused on exploration (clearing fog of war, finding collectibles). Ronin Attire often boosts melee damage or Resolve. Many outfits are rewards for completing quests or liberating territories.
• Masks (Samurai Menpo, Ghost Mask, Thief's Wrap, Demonic Masks, etc.): A wide variety of cosmetic masks that Jin can wear with any armor set. Found as collectibles, purchased from merchants, or earned as quest rewards. They do not typically offer stat bonuses but are key for visual customization and role-playing.
• Headbands (Hachimaki): Cosmetic headbands with various designs and inscriptions. Found as collectibles by following Guiding Wind to Pillars of Honor, or as quest rewards. Do not provide stats.
• Sword Kits (Katana & Tanto Scabbards/Hilts): Cosmetic items that change the appearance of Jin's katana (Sakai Storm) and tanto scabbards (saya) and hilts (tsuka). Found at Pillars of Honor or purchased from merchants.
• Saddle (for Horse): Jin can choose different saddles for his horse, which are primarily cosmetic but are acquired as story progression or rewards.

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.

Tsushima Island is a large, stunningly beautiful open world divided into three main regions that unlock progressively: Izuhara (southern region, lush forests, farmlands), Toyotama (central region, swamps, coastal areas, more developed towns), and Kamiagata (northern region, snowy mountains, desolate landscapes). Each region is filled with diverse biomes, Mongol-occupied territories, villages, shrines, hot springs, and points of interest. The world is designed to be explored on horseback or foot, with an emphasis on natural beauty and environmental storytelling. The Iki Island expansion (Director's Cut) adds a new, smaller island with its own distinct environment and storyline. The main island of Tsushima is estimated to be around 27-30 sq km, with Iki Island adding to this.

• 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.

• Your Horse (Nobu / Kage / Sora - Player Named): Primary Mount / Living Vehicle
  Jin's loyal steed, chosen by the player early in the game (name and one of three initial coat colors). Essential for traversing the vast island of Tsushima. Can be called with a whistle. Allows for mounted combat (slashing with katana, archery). Can be equipped with different saddles which are primarily cosmetic but sometimes tied to quest rewards.
• Grappling Hook: Traversal Tool (Personal Gear)
  A tool Jin acquires that allows him to swing across gaps, latch onto specific anchor points to ascend or descend cliffs, and create new pathways in certain environments. Also used contextually in some combat takedowns.
• Mongol War Machines (Catapults, Hwacha - Enemy Controlled): Siege Weaponry (Hostile)
  The Mongols utilize siege weapons like catapults and hwachas (multiple rocket arrow launchers) in their larger camps and during specific assaults. Jin typically needs to destroy or disable these rather than operate them.
• Small Boats / Fishing Boats (Environmental): Minor Watercraft
  Small boats are sometimes found along coastlines or rivers. While Jin can swim, these boats are generally not player-controlled for extended travel but are part of the environmental dressing or very specific, short scripted sequences.

• 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.

• Jin Sakai (The Ghost): Protagonist / Samurai Lord
  The main playable character. Nephew of Lord Shimura and one of the last samurai on Tsushima after the initial Mongol invasion. Forced to abandon the samurai code of honor to adopt stealthy, unconventional 'Ghost' tactics to fight the invaders and save his people, leading to internal conflict and a clash with tradition.
• Lord Shimura: Supporting Character / Antagonist Figure / Jito of Tsushima
  Jin's uncle and a respected samurai lord, the jito (steward) of Tsushima. He represents traditional samurai honor and Bushido. While initially an ally, his rigid adherence to the code clashes with Jin's Ghost methods, leading to a profound ideological and personal conflict.
• Khotun Khan: Main Antagonist / Mongol General
  The cunning, ruthless, and intelligent leader of the Mongol invasion force. He studies Japanese culture and warfare to exploit Tsushima's weaknesses, serving as Jin's primary adversary.
• Yuna: Ally / Thief & Survivor
  A skilled thief who rescues Jin after the initial battle. She is pragmatic and resourceful, advocating for more practical methods to fight the Mongols, and encourages Jin to embrace the Ghost persona. Her primary motivation is protecting her younger brother, Taka.
• Taka: Ally / Blacksmith
  Yuna's younger brother, a talented blacksmith who becomes essential for upgrading Jin's gear. He is captured by the Mongols, and his rescue is a key objective.
• Sensei Ishikawa: Ally / Legendary Archer
  A renowned but embittered master archer (kyūdō sensei). Jin seeks his help and becomes his student, learning advanced archery techniques while helping Ishikawa track down his former protégé, Tomoe.
• Lady Masako Adachi: Ally / Samurai Matriarch
  The sole survivor of the Adachi clan after a brutal massacre. She is a skilled warrior seeking revenge for her family's murder, and Jin helps her track down the culprits.
• Norio: Ally / Warrior Monk
  A gentle giant and warrior monk dedicated to protecting his fellow monks and the people of Tsushima. Jin helps him defend Cedar Temple and find his missing brother.
• Kenji: Ally (Reluctant) / Sake Brewer & Merchant
  A cowardly but well-meaning sake brewer who often gets himself (and Jin) into trouble with his schemes and attempts to profit from the chaos of the invasion. Provides some comic relief.
• Ryuzo: Antagonist / Childhood Friend / Leader of the Straw Hat Ronin
  Jin's childhood friend and a skilled swordsman. Leader of the Straw Hat Ronin, he initially allies with Jin but later makes desperate choices that put them on opposing sides.
• Tomoe (Mentioned/Encountered through Ishikawa's quest): Antagonist Figure / Ishikawa's Former Student
  A highly skilled archer, Sensei Ishikawa's former prized student, who defected to the Mongols and taught them archery.
• The Eagle (Iki Island DLC): Main Antagonist (DLC) / Mongol Shamaness
  The leader of a Mongol tribe on Iki Island, a powerful shamaness who uses psychological warfare and hallucinogenic poisons to torment her victims and maintain control. She has a personal connection to the Sakai clan's past actions on Iki.

• 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 Story Quests (Jin's Journey - Act I, II, III)
  A series of narrative quests that follow Jin Sakai's efforts to repel the Mongol invasion, rescue his uncle Lord Shimura, and liberate Tsushima Island. This involves recruiting allies, confronting Mongol leaders, making difficult choices about his combat tactics (Samurai vs. Ghost), and ultimately facing Khotun Khan. The story is divided into three acts, each focusing on a different region of Tsushima.
• Tales of Tsushima (Major Side Quests & Character Arcs)
  Multi-part optional questlines focusing on key supporting characters like Yuna, Sensei Ishikawa, Lady Masako, Norio, and Kenji. These 'Tales' delve into their personal stories, motivations, and conflicts, often rewarding Jin with new techniques, gear, or Charms. They contribute significantly to world-building and character development.
• Mythic Tales
  Special side quests that involve investigating legends and folklore of Tsushima, often narrated by the musician Yamato. These quests usually involve tracking clues, solving puzzles, and culminate in Jin learning a powerful new combat technique (e.g., The Heavenly Strike, Dance of Wrath) or obtaining unique armor/weapons.
• Liberating Mongol Territories (Farms, Villages, Forts)
  Clear out Mongol-occupied locations across Tsushima. This involves defeating all Mongol soldiers in the area and sometimes completing bonus objectives (e.g., rescuing hostages, not raising alarms). Liberating territories reduces Mongol presence, reveals more of the map, grants Legend increase, and often unlocks nearby quests or merchants.
• Duels (Samurai vs. Mongol Leaders, Ronin)
  Cinematic one-on-one sword fights against skilled opponents. These occur during main quests, Mythic Tales, or when encountering specific enemies. Duels test Jin's mastery of parrying, dodging, and stance-based combat.
• Shrine Climbs (Shinto Shrines)
  Navigate challenging platforming sections, often involving climbing cliffs, jumping across gaps, and using the grappling hook (once acquired), to reach remote Shinto Shrines. Honoring these shrines rewards a Major Charm.
• Iki Island Story Quests (Director's Cut / Expansion)
  A new main questline set on Iki Island, where Jin confronts a new Mongol tribe led by the shamaness known as The Eagle. This story delves into the Sakai clan's troubled past on Iki and forces Jin to confront his own trauma.
• Legends Mode Missions (Story, Survival, Rivals, Raid - Multiplayer)
  Cooperative multiplayer missions with unique objectives, enemies (Oni), and progression systems separate from the single-player campaign. Story missions follow a narrative, Survival involves fending off waves of enemies, Rivals is a 2v2 mode, and The Tale of Iyo is a challenging three-part raid.

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).

Available in Standard Edition, Digital Deluxe Edition (Hero of Tsushima Skin Set, Charm of Hachiman's Favor, digital artbook, director's commentary), Special Edition (SteelBook, Hero of Tsushima mask & sword kit, digital content), and Collector's Edition (Sakai Mask replica, cloth map, sashimono war banner, furoshiki wrapping cloth, SteelBook, artbook, all Digital Deluxe content). The Director's Cut (PS5, PC) includes the base game, the Iki Island expansion, and additional features like Japanese lip sync, haptic feedback, and improved load times.

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 main post-launch content was the 'Iki Island' expansion, a substantial story DLC included in the Director's Cut, taking Jin to a new island with new enemies, story, and gear. A free multiplayer co-op mode, 'Legends,' was also added, featuring unique classes, missions, and a raid. Various cosmetic items and patches have also 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: Is Ghost of Tsushima historically accurate?
  A: Ghost of Tsushima is set during a real historical event (the Mongol invasion of Japan in 1274) and features historical elements, but it is a work of historical fiction. It takes creative liberties with characters, events, and geography for narrative and gameplay purposes. The developers were heavily inspired by classic samurai cinema.
• Q: What is the difference between playing as a Samurai and as the Ghost?
  A: The game allows Jin to approach combat in two main ways. As a Samurai, he engages enemies head-on in honorable duels and open combat, relying on parries, dodges, and different sword stances. As the Ghost, he uses stealth, assassinations, trickery, and Ghost weapons (kunai, smoke bombs) to eliminate enemies dishonorably but effectively. The story explores Jin's internal conflict with these opposing methods.
• Q: What is the Guiding Wind mechanic?
  A: The Guiding Wind is Ghost of Tsushima's primary navigation system. Instead of a persistent mini-map, players can swipe up on the PlayStation controller's touchpad (or press a designated key on PC) to summon a gust of wind that blows in the direction of their currently tracked objective or point of interest. This encourages players to observe the environment.
• Q: What is Ghost of Tsushima: Legends?
  A: Legends is a free online cooperative multiplayer mode included with Ghost of Tsushima (and its Director's Cut). It features a separate storyline inspired by Japanese folklore and mythology, with players choosing from four unique classes (Samurai, Hunter, Ronin, Assassin) to tackle story missions, survival challenges, and a raid.
• Q: What does the Director's Cut add to the game?
  A: The Ghost of Tsushima Director's Cut includes the full base game, the Iki Island expansion (a new story, map, enemies, and gear), Japanese lip sync options, haptic feedback and adaptive trigger support (PS5), 3D audio enhancements (PS5), and improved load times. On PC, it includes these features plus PC-specific graphical options and ultrawide support.
• Q: What is Kurosawa Mode?
  A: Kurosawa Mode is a visual filter that can be enabled, rendering the game in black and white with increased film grain and altered audio, designed to emulate the style of classic black-and-white samurai films by director Akira Kurosawa.

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 Sucker Punch's proprietary engine, Ghost of Tsushima is renowned for its breathtaking art direction and visual fidelity. It features stunningly beautiful landscapes with vibrant colors, dynamic weather (wind playing a key visual role), detailed particle effects (falling leaves, pollen), and realistic character models. The 'Kurosawa Mode' allows players to experience the game in black and white with film grain, mimicking classic samurai cinema.

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 Ilan Eshkeri and Shigeru Umebayashi, featuring a blend of traditional Japanese instrumentation (shakuhachi, koto, taiko drums) with epic orchestral themes that evoke the atmosphere of classic samurai films. Sound design is meticulous, with realistic sword clashes, distinct animal sounds, and immersive environmental audio (wind, rustling leaves). Offers full Japanese voice acting with English subtitles for an authentic experience.

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 a highly minimalistic and immersive HUD. Health and Resolve are displayed subtly. No traditional mini-map; players use the Guiding Wind (swiping the touchpad or a key summons a gust of wind pointing towards the tracked objective) for navigation. Enemy awareness and stance indicators are contextual. The world map is stylized like a traditional Japanese painting. Focus Hearing highlights enemies through walls.

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 good range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (remapping), subtitle and caption customization, options to simplify QTEs and repeated button presses, aim assist, options for larger UI elements, high contrast mode for some UI, and various gameplay toggles for combat difficulty and HUD elements.

• 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 'Ghost of Tsushima DIRECTOR'S CUT'. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, areas in-game (especially dense forests or large Mongol camps), 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 excellent cooling. **Ghost of Tsushima on PC is a visually rich and potentially demanding title, particularly at higher settings and resolutions.**
• 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 intense combat and exploration.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for the open world, AI, and physics.
• 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 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), AMD FSR 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), and Intel XeSS. Also supports NVIDIA Reflex and DLAA.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Reflections, Volumetric Fog, Particle Effects, and Ambient Occlusion heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is recommended for higher resolutions/settings.
• Game Name: Ghost of Tsushima

• Upscaling Tech: Supports NVIDIA DLSS 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), AMD FSR 3 (Super Resolution & Frame Generation), and Intel XeSS. Also supports NVIDIA Reflex and DLAA.
• Key Settings Impact: Texture Quality, Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Reflections, Volumetric Fog, Particle Effects, and Ambient Occlusion heavily impact performance. Using upscaling is recommended for higher resolutions/settings.

• G P U T G P: Good TGP is important for consistent framerates.
• Cooling Thermals: Robust cooling is essential for sustained performance during intense combat and exploration.
• C P U Power Limits: A decent CPU is needed for the open world, AI, and physics.
• 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.