Death Stranding vs Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora

• 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).

• Perspective: First-Person (Third-person when riding mounts)
• Multiplayer: Cooperative (2 player online for entire campaign)
• Setting: Pandora (Western Frontier)
• Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Amazon Luna
• Unique Feature: Ikran Flight, Na'vi Agility & Senses, Dual Combat System (Na'vi & RDA weapons), Deep Crafting & Cooking, Connection to Nature.

• 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)

• Ikran (Mountain Banshee): The player's primary aerial mount after bonding with one. Essential for traversing Pandora's vast vertical landscapes. Can be directed to attack RDA aircraft or ground targets, perform barrel rolls, and use a speed boost. Customizable with gear and cosmetic patterns. Its stamina and health can be improved through skills and food.
  Leonopteryxen (Banshee)
• Direhorse (Pa'li): A swift six-legged ground mount, useful for quickly navigating flatter terrains like the Upper Plains. Can be called by the player. Its stamina can be improved. Less combat-focused than the Ikran but vital for land travel.
  Equidirus (Direhorse)
• Temporary Animal Allies (Pacified Wildlife): While not persistent companions, the player, using their Na'vi connection, can sometimes pacify or briefly guide certain wildlife. This is less about direct combat command and more about leveraging the environment or creating distractions.
  Various Pandoran Fauna

• 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.

• Sarentu Totems: Ancient Sarentu clan totems found throughout the Western Frontier. Interacting with them often requires finding a specific vantage point to 'align' the totem, triggering a vision and sometimes rewarding an Ancestor Skill or skill points.
• Windswept Kites & Dolls: Lost Na'vi kites or dolls, often caught in high, hard-to-reach places or hidden within environments. Collecting them typically grants Na'vi Favor with a specific clan and sometimes lore.
• RDA Data Recorders / Audio Logs: Found primarily in or around RDA facilities and crash sites. These provide audio logs or text entries that offer insight into RDA operations, personnel, and their views on Pandora and the Na'vi.
• Bellsprigs: Unique plants that, when touched, permanently increase the player's maximum health. Found in various hidden or guarded locations.
• Aeolian Wind Flutes: Musical instruments that need to be played correctly (following a simple rhythm mini-game) to receive a reward, often Na'vi favor or a cosmetic item.

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

• Indigenous Culture
• Environmentalism
• Anti-Colonialism
• Resistance
• Connection to Nature
• Identity
• Bio-Luminescence
• Alien Worlds
• Corporate Greed
• Warfare

• 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.

• Na'vi Bows (Shortbow, Longbow, Heavy Bow): Ranged (Stealth, Precision, Hunting)
  Craftable bows with varying draw speeds, power, and effective ranges. Can use standard arrows, specialized arrows (e.g., explosive, electric, poison), and are crucial for hunting wildlife cleanly (for better resources) and stealth takedowns.
• Na'vi Spear-thrower: Ranged (Heavy Damage, Anti-Armor)
  A powerful, short-to-mid-range weapon that launches heavy spears. Effective against armored RDA units, AMP suits, and large, aggressive fauna. Slower reload but high impact.
• Na'vi Staff Sling: Ranged (Explosive, Utility)
  Launches crafted grenades or proximity mines. Useful for area denial, destroying RDA equipment, and dealing with groups of enemies or vehicles.
• RDA Assault Rifles: Firearm (Automatic, Versatile)
  Standard human firearms scavenged or looted from RDA forces. Offer sustained fire and are effective against RDA personnel and less armored targets. Can be modded.
• RDA Shotguns: Firearm (Close Quarters, High Damage)
  Powerful close-range firearms, ideal for breaching RDA interiors or dealing with charging enemies. Different types (pump-action, semi-auto) available.
• RDA Grenade Launchers: Firearm (Explosive, Anti-Vehicle)
  Heavy RDA weapon that fires explosive rounds, effective against AMP suits, vehicles, and fortified positions.
• SID (System Interrogation Device): Tool/Non-Lethal
  A Na'vi tool used to hack RDA technology, disable security systems, override turrets, and gather intel. Can also be used to overload certain RDA weak points.

• 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.

• Na'vi Gear (Head, Chest, Waist, Arm, Leg pieces): Players craft and equip various pieces of Na'vi gear made from Pandoran flora, fauna, and scavenged RDA materials. Each gear piece provides health bonuses and specific perks (e.g., increased damage with bows, better stealth, resistance to elements, more resources from gathering). Gear has quality tiers and can be enhanced with mods (crafted or found). Different Na'vi clans offer unique gear designs and associated perks, encouraging players to earn Favor with them.
• Cosmetic Customization: Beyond stat-boosting gear, players can customize their Na'vi's appearance with body paints, hairstyles, and decorative elements. Some gear pieces also have a strong visual identity tied to their clan of origin or purpose.

• 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).

• Na'vi Gear & Outfits: Players can equip various pieces of Na'vi clothing for the head, chest, waist, arms, and legs. These are crafted from materials found on Pandora (animal hides, plant fibers, bones) and scavenged RDA tech. Gear provides stat bonuses (health) and perks. Appearance varies significantly based on the clan design (Aranahe, Zeswa, Kame'tire) and quality. Players can also apply different body paints, hairstyles, and adornments for further cosmetic customization.
• Ikran & Direhorse Gear: Players can customize their Ikran and Direhorse with different saddles, decorative patterns, and streamers, which are mostly cosmetic but some might offer minor gameplay benefits or are tied to clan favor.

Player progression involves earning Skill Points by completing quests and activities, which are spent across five skill trees: Survivor (health, stealth), Warrior (Na'vi weapon proficiency), Hunter (RDA weapon proficiency, gathering), Maker (crafting, cooking), and Rider (Ikran and Direhorse abilities). Ancestor Skills are powerful, unique abilities learned by connecting with Sarentu ancestors at specific locations. Gear (clothing, weapons) is crafted using resources gathered from Pandora's flora, fauna, and RDA tech, and can be improved with mods and designs from different Na'vi clans. Na'vi Favor with clans unlocks better gear and recipes.

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.

The Western Frontier is a vast, new continent on Pandora, divided into three primary regions: the Kinglor Forest (lush rainforests, home to the Aranahe clan), the Upper Plains (windswept grasslands, home to the nomadic Zeswa clan), and the Clouded Forest (misty, enigmatic woodlands, home to the secretive Kame'tire clan). Each region has distinct biomes, flora, fauna, and RDA facilities. The world is designed for vertical exploration, utilizing Ikran flight and Na'vi agility.

• 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.

• Ikran (Mountain Banshee): Na'vi Aerial Mount
  The player's primary mode of aerial transportation after bonding with one. Allows for fast travel across Pandora's vast and vertical terrain, engaging in aerial combat with RDA aircraft, and accessing remote locations. Customizable.
• Direhorse (Pa'li): Na'vi Ground Mount
  A six-legged, horse-like creature used for swift ground travel, particularly effective in open plains and forests. Can be called by the player. Customizable.
• RDA AMP Suit (Various models like 'Combat Exo'): RDA Mechanized Walker (Enemy/Occasional Player Use)
  Armored Multi-Purpose suits used by RDA soldiers. Heavily armed and armored. While primarily enemies, there might be rare instances or specific mission contexts where the player can hijack or briefly utilize one, or parts of one.
• RDA Samson / SA-2 Samson Tiltrotor: RDA Air Transport/Gunship (Enemy)
  Twin-rotor aircraft used by the RDA for troop transport and air support. Common aerial threat.
• RDA Ground Vehicles (Buggy, APC, Trucks): RDA Ground Transport/Combat (Enemy)
  Various wheeled vehicles used by the RDA for patrols, troop deployment, and resource transport. Often targets for Na'vi attacks.

• Ikran (Mountain Banshee): Leonopteryxen (Banshee)
  Aerial Mount, Combat Ally, Key for Exploration
• Direhorse (Pa'li): Equidirus (Direhorse)
  Ground Mount, Fast Traversal
• Thanator (Palulukan): Thanatora ferox
  Hostile Apex Predator, Extremely Dangerous
• Hammerhead Titanothere ('Angtsìk): Titanotheris hammercephala
  Large Herbivore, Territorial, Can be Hostile if Provoked, Hunting Resource
• Viperwolf (Nantang): Caniferratus costatus
  Hostile Pack Predator
• Sturmbeest (Talioang): Bovindicum monocerii
  Large Herbivore, Herd Animal, Hunting Resource, Can Stampede
• Soundblast Colossus (Fwampop): Unknown, new creature
  Large, possibly territorial creature, source of unique resources.
• Various other Flora and Fauna: Numerous unique Pandoran species (e.g., Hexapede, Prolemuris, Stingbat, various fish and insects)
  Ambient Wildlife, Hunting/Gathering Resources, Some may be hostile or defensive.

• 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.

• Player Character (Na'vi Protagonist): Protagonist (Sarentu Clan)
  A young Na'vi of the lost Sarentu clan, abducted as a child by the RDA for 'The Ambassador Program' (TAP). Awakens 15 years later to a changed Pandora, must rediscover their heritage, master Na'vi skills, and unite the clans against the returning RDA threat. Customizable gender and appearance.
• John Mercer: Main Antagonist (RDA Executive)
  The head of the RDA's operations in the Western Frontier and the overseer of the TAP. A ruthless and cunning corporate leader focused on exploiting Pandora's resources at any cost, viewing the Na'vi as an obstacle.
• Angela Harding (Alma): Supporting Character (Former RDA Scientist)
  An RDA scientist who was part of TAP and had a more compassionate view of the Na'vi. She helps the player escape and later joins the Resistance, providing intel and a link to the human perspective.
• So'lek: Supporting Character (Aranahe Warrior)
  A skilled and stoic warrior of the Aranahe clan. Initially wary of the player (due to their RDA upbringing), he becomes a key ally and mentor, teaching them Na'vi ways and fighting alongside them.
• Priya Chen: Supporting Character (Resistance Leader)
  A leader within the human Resistance movement fighting against the RDA. Works with the Na'vi clans and provides the player with access to RDA weaponry and intelligence.
• Various Clan Leaders & Members (Aranahe, Zeswa, Kame'tire): Supporting Characters
  Leaders and notable members of the different Na'vi clans the player interacts with, each with their own culture, traditions, and perspectives on the RDA conflict and the player's role (e.g., Ka'nat of the Aranahe, Nesim of the Zeswa, Anufi of the Kame'tire).

• 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.

• Main Story Campaign (The Sarentu Legacy)
  A series of narrative missions following the player Na'vi's journey of rediscovering their lost Sarentu heritage, uniting the Na'vi clans of the Western Frontier (Aranahe, Zeswa, Kame'tire), and leading the resistance against the RDA's exploitation under John Mercer. Involves key story beats, character development, and major assaults on RDA strongholds.
• Clan Contribution Quests (Na'vi Favor)
  Side missions and activities undertaken for the various Na'vi clans. Completing these tasks (e.g., hunting specific animals, clearing RDA pollution, finding lost clan members, participating in rituals) earns Na'vi Favor, which unlocks access to better gear designs, recipes, resources, and progresses clan-specific storylines.
• RDA Facility Sabotage & Liberation
  Infiltrate and destroy various types of RDA industrial facilities (e.g., Gas Harvesters, Mining Operations, Hydro-Extractors). This typically involves disabling security systems, fighting RDA forces (including AMP suits and aircraft), and triggering a catastrophic sabotage. Destroying these facilities heals the surrounding Pandoran environment and weakens RDA presence.
• Ancestor Skill Quests
  Discover locations linked to powerful Sarentu ancestors. By connecting with these sites (often involving environmental puzzles or finding specific viewpoints via Sarentu Totems), the player unlocks unique and potent Ancestor Skills that provide significant gameplay advantages.
• Exploration & Discovery Activities
  Various activities focused on exploring Pandora, such as finding Bellsprigs (to increase max health), Sarentu Totems, Windswept Kites/Dolls, investigating RDA research stations, or discovering unique flora and fauna for the Hunter's Guide. These reward XP, skill points, resources, or lore.
• Resistance Field Lab Quests
  Missions given by Resistance scientists at field labs, often involving research, sample collection, or disrupting specific RDA technological operations. These can reward unique gear or crafting components.

Features seamless drop-in/drop-out two-player online cooperative play for the main story campaign and all open-world activities. Players can explore Pandora together, complete quests, attack RDA bases, and share progression. No competitive multiplayer modes.

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.

Available in Standard, Gold, and Ultimate Editions. Gold Edition includes the Season Pass (two story packs: 'The Sky Breaker' and 'Secrets of the Spires'). Ultimate Edition includes the Gold Edition content plus the Ultimate Pack (cosmetic items like the Sarentu Heritage cosmetic pack and Sarentu Hunter equipment pack) and a digital artbook/soundtrack.

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: 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.

• Q: Is Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora connected to the James Cameron movies?
  A: Yes, it is set within the official Avatar canon, taking place in a new region of Pandora (the Western Frontier) roughly concurrent with the events of 'Avatar: The Way of Water.' While it features a new story and characters, it respects and expands upon the established lore, flora, fauna, and themes of the films.
• Q: Do I need to have seen the Avatar movies to play the game?
  A: While familiarity with the movies will enhance appreciation of the world and lore, the game is designed to be accessible to newcomers, introducing key concepts about Pandora, the Na'vi, and the RDA through its narrative.
• Q: Is the game first-person or third-person?
  A: The game is primarily played in first-person when on foot. However, it switches to a third-person perspective when riding mounts like the Ikran or Direhorse, and during certain cinematics or interactions.
• Q: How does combat work? Can I only use Na'vi weapons?
  A: Combat features a dual system. Players can utilize traditional Na'vi weapons like bows, spear-throwers, and staff slings, which are often better for stealth and hunting. They can also use scavenged RDA firearms like assault rifles and shotguns, which are more effective against RDA technology and armored units. Players can switch between these styles fluidly.
• Q: Is there crafting and gathering in the game?
  A: Yes, crafting and gathering are core gameplay mechanics. Players gather resources from Pandora's diverse flora and fauna, as well as scavenge RDA tech. These materials are used to craft and upgrade weapons, gear, ammunition, and cook food for temporary buffs. The quality of gathered materials can affect the stats of crafted items.

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.

Powered by the latest iteration of the Snowdrop Engine, the game delivers stunning, highly detailed visuals of Pandora. It features dense, bioluminescent environments, realistic weather systems, incredibly detailed character and creature models, and advanced lighting and particle effects. Supports ray-traced global illumination, reflections, and shadows on PC and current-gen consoles for enhanced realism.

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.

Original score composed by Pinar Toprak, capturing the wonder, danger, and cultural richness of Pandora, blending orchestral themes with tribal and ethereal elements. Sound design is critical, with rich ambient sounds of Pandora's unique flora and fauna, distinct weapon effects for both Na'vi and RDA tech, and immersive environmental audio. Features Na'vi language dialogue.

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.

Immersive first-person HUD with contextual information. Na'vi Senses highlight interactive objects, resources, enemy weaknesses, and trails. Menus for inventory, crafting, skills, map, and journal are intuitively designed. Minimalistic on-screen elements to enhance immersion in Pandora's world.

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.

Offers a wide range of accessibility options, including customizable controls (full remapping), various subtitle options (size, background, speaker names), colorblind modes, aim assist, adjustable difficulty, options to reduce motion sickness (e.g., reduce camera shake), audio cues, and more. Co-pilot mode allows two controllers to act as one.

• 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

• Official system requirements from Ubisoft. Performance can vary depending on specific hardware, settings, and background applications. An SSD is required. The game supports AMD FSR and DLSS upscaling technologies. Ray tracing features (shadows and reflections) are available and demanding.
• Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs may work if their performance is comparable, but TGP (Total Graphics Power) and cooling are critical. **Modern high-end laptop GPUs (NVIDIA RTX 3070 Mobile / RTX 4070 Mobile and above) are needed for enjoyable experiences at higher settings and resolutions. This is a demanding title.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance in demanding titles like this.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR 2 and 3 with Frame Generation) and NVIDIA DLSS Super Resolution (DLSS 2 and 3 with Frame Generation).
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing Quality, Shadow Quality, Volumetric Clouds, Environmental Detail, and Texture Quality heavily impact performance. Using FSR/DLSS is recommended for higher resolutions/settings.
• Game Name: Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora

• 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.

• Upscaling Tech: Supports AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR 2 and 3 with Frame Generation) and NVIDIA DLSS Super Resolution (DLSS 2 and 3 with Frame Generation).
• Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing Quality, Shadow Quality, Volumetric Clouds, Environmental Detail, and Texture Quality heavily impact performance. Using FSR/DLSS 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 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.

• G P U T G P: Maximum TGP is crucial for performance in demanding titles like this.
• Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent severe thermal throttling.
• C P U Power Limits: Laptops with sustained high CPU power limits will perform better.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus is highly recommended for optimal framerates.