Death Stranding vs Ghost of Tsushima

• 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: 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).

• 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)

• 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: 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.

• 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.

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

• 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

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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).

• 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 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.

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.

• 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.

• 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 / 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.

• 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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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: 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 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.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

• 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 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 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 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 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: 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.