Death Stranding vs Marvel's Spider-Man 2

• 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: None (Single-Player Only)
• Setting: Marvel's New York City (Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn)
• Platforms: PlayStation 5
• Unique Feature: Play as both Peter Parker & Miles Morales, Web Wings Traversal, Symbiote Powers, Expanded NYC Map, Seamless Character Switching.

• 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)

• Peter Parker / Spider-Man (AI - when playing as Miles): During certain missions or open-world encounters when the player is controlling Miles, Peter will fight alongside him as an AI-controlled companion, using his unique abilities, gadgets, and web-swinging.
  Human (Superpowered)
• Miles Morales / Spider-Man (AI - when playing as Peter): Similarly, when the player is controlling Peter, Miles will often assist as an AI companion, utilizing his Venom Powers, camouflage, and web-swinging.
  Human (Superpowered)
• Temporary Story Allies (e.g., Wraith, MJ, Ganke - contextual): In specific story missions, other characters like Wraith (Yuri Watanabe) might fight alongside the Spider-Men. MJ provides intel and participates in stealth/investigation segments. Ganke offers remote tech support.
  Human

• 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.

• Spider-Bots: Small, spider-shaped robots hidden throughout all boroughs of New York City. Collecting them all unlocks a unique cutscene related to the Spider-Verse. They emit a pulsing signal when nearby.
• Marko's Memories (Sandman Crystals): Orange crystals containing fragmented memories of Flint Marko (Sandman). Found in specific areas related to Sandman's past. Collecting them completes a side story about his attempts to reconcile with his daughter.
• Photo Ops: Specific landmarks or scenes in New York City that Peter or Miles can photograph for a news/social media feed. Highlights iconic NYC locations and slice-of-life moments.
• Prowler Stashes: Hidden caches of technology and resources left by Aaron Davis (The Prowler) for Miles. Each stash requires solving a light environmental puzzle or using specific traversal abilities to access.
• EMF Experiments (Emily-May Foundation): Scientific research stations set up by the Emily-May Foundation (run by Harry Osborn). Peter must complete mini-games or tasks at each station, such as analyzing plant DNA, flying a drone through targets, or testing new technologies.
• Unidentified Targets (Kraven's Drones): Kraven's hunter drones flying specific routes. Spider-Man must chase them down using Web Wings and perform an aerial takedown to retrieve their data.
• Hunter Blinds & Bases: Kraven's hidden observation posts (Blinds) and larger fortified bases. Clearing these out involves defeating waves of hunters and destroying their equipment, weakening Kraven's presence in a district.
• Tech Crates (Common & Rare): Chests containing Tech Parts (common) and Rare Tech Parts (rarer, often in more hidden or guarded locations). Used for upgrading gadgets and Suit Tech.
• FNSM App Requests (Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man App): Minor side activities and requests from citizens accessed via an in-game app, such as stopping petty crimes, rescuing civilians, or helping with small tasks.

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

• Dual Protagonists
• Symbiote Saga
• Mentorship & Partnership
• Responsibility
• The Darkness Within
• Hunter vs. Prey
• Balancing Personal Life & Heroism
• Legacy
• Protecting New York City
• Alien Threat

• 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.

• Web-Shooters (Standard): Traversal/Utility/Combat
  Core tool for web-swinging, zipping, and creating web lines. Used in combat to web up enemies, pull objects, or perform web strikes. Both Peter and Miles have them.
• Gadgets (Web Grabber, Upshot, Ricochet Web, Concussion Burst, etc.): Tactical/Crowd Control
  A variety of unlockable and upgradable gadgets shared by both Spider-Men. Examples: Web Grabber pulls multiple enemies together, Upshot launches enemies into the air, Ricochet Web bounces between targets.
• Peter's Spider-Arms: Melee/Special Attacks (Peter Parker)
  Mechanical arms deployed from Peter's suit (inspired by Iron Spider). Used for powerful area-of-effect attacks, parrying heavy attacks, and extended melee combos.
• Peter's Symbiote Abilities (Symbiote Strike, Symbiote Punch, Symbiote Surge, etc.): Melee/Special Attacks (Peter Parker - Symbiote Suit)
  When Peter is bonded with the Venom symbiote, he gains access to aggressive tendril-based attacks, enhanced strength, and a powerful 'Symbiote Surge' mode. These replace his Spider-Arm abilities while the suit is active.
• Miles's Venom Powers (Venom Punch, Venom Smash, Venom Jump, Chain Lightning, Galvanize, etc.): Bio-Electric Melee/Special Attacks (Miles Morales)
  Miles's unique bio-electric abilities. Used for stunning enemies, powerful area-of-effect attacks, enhanced jumps, and chain attacks. Consumes Venom Power meter, which recharges.
• Miles's Camouflage (Invisibility): Stealth Ability (Miles Morales)
  Miles can turn temporarily invisible, allowing him to perform stealth takedowns, escape combat, or reposition. Consumes Camouflage energy.
• Fists & Feet (Melee Combat): Close Quarters
  Both Spider-Men engage in acrobatic hand-to-hand combat, incorporating punches, kicks, dodges, and aerial attacks, often integrated with web abilities.

• 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.

• Spider-Suits (Various for Peter & Miles): Players unlock and can equip a large variety of Spider-Suits for both Peter Parker and Miles Morales. In Marvel's Spider-Man 2, suits are primarily cosmetic. Suit Powers from the first game are now integrated as unlockable abilities or tied to Suit Tech upgrades. Many suits come with multiple 'Suit Styles' (color variants) that can be unlocked.
• Suit Tech Upgrades (Health, Damage, Focus, Traversal): Players use Tech Parts and Rare Tech Parts to purchase universal Suit Tech upgrades. These upgrades are divided into categories (Health, Damage, Focus, Traversal) and provide passive stat boosts or enhancements that apply to whichever suit Peter or Miles is currently wearing. This system replaces individual suit powers from the first game.

• 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).

• Peter Parker's Spider-Suits: A wide array of unlockable suits for Peter, including his Advanced Suit 2.0, Classic Suit, Symbiote Suit, Iron Spider-inspired suits, movie suits, and original designs. Most suits are cosmetic, with abilities tied to Suit Tech. Many have multiple unlockable Suit Styles (color variants).
• Miles Morales's Spider-Suits: A diverse collection of unlockable suits for Miles, including his Upgraded Suit, Classic Suit, TRACK Suit, movie suits (Into the Spider-Verse, Across the Spider-Verse), and original designs. Like Peter's, these are primarily cosmetic with unlockable Suit Styles.
• Suit Tech Upgrades: Universal passive upgrades for Health, Damage, Focus, and Traversal that apply to both Spider-Men regardless of the suit equipped. Purchased with Tech Parts and Rare Tech Parts.
• Civilian Attire (Contextual): During certain story segments where Peter or Miles are not in their Spider-Man suits, they wear civilian clothing. This is not directly customizable by the player.

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.

Marvel's Spider-Man 2 features an expanded open-world New York City, roughly twice the size of the map in the first game. It includes all of Manhattan from the previous titles, plus two new boroughs: Queens (Peter's home borough, featuring residential areas like Astoria) and Brooklyn (Miles' home borough, featuring areas like Williamsburg and Coney Island). The map is incredibly detailed, with seamless transitions between boroughs via bridges or web-swinging/gliding. Traversal is significantly enhanced with the addition of Web Wings for gliding and Slingshot Launch for rapid forward momentum.

• 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.

• Web-Swinging & Web-Zipping: Primary Traversal (Player Mechanics)
  The core method of movement for both Spider-Men. Involves swinging on webs attached to buildings, web-zipping to points for bursts of speed, and point-launching for precise aerial maneuvers.
• Web Wings: Aerial Gliding Traversal (Player Mechanics)
  A new traversal tool allowing Peter and Miles to deploy glider-like wings to soar through the city, utilizing wind tunnels found between buildings for sustained flight and increased speed. Complements web-swinging.
• Slingshot Launch: Traversal Launch (Player Mechanics)
  Allows Spider-Man to create a web slingshot between two points and launch himself forward at high speed across large distances or up onto tall buildings.
• Wall-Crawling & Wall-Running: Traversal (Player Mechanics)
  Both Spider-Men can crawl and run on almost any vertical or horizontal surface, allowing for versatile navigation of New York's architecture.
• Civilian Vehicles (Cars, Trucks, Buses, Taxis - Environmental): Environmental Props / Occasional Interaction
  The city is filled with civilian vehicles. While the Spider-Men don't typically drive them for extended periods (unlike GTA), they can land on them, use them as platforms, or interact with them during combat (e.g., webbing them up, throwing them with Symbiote powers).
• Enemy Vehicles (Hunter Transports, Armored Vehicles - Contextual): Hostile Vehicles
  Kraven's Hunters and other factions may use armored transports or other vehicles during specific missions or encounters. These are typically targets for Spider-Man to disable or destroy rather than pilot.

• 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.

• Peter Parker / Spider-Man: Protagonist
  The original Spider-Man, now more experienced but struggling to balance his personal life, teaching career, and superhero duties. He gains and battles the influence of the Venom symbiote.
• Miles Morales / Spider-Man: Protagonist
  The newer Spider-Man, now more confident and skilled. He balances being a hero with his school life and family, and supports Peter while also dealing with his own unique challenges and powers.
• Mary Jane 'MJ' Watson: Ally / Journalist / Peter's Partner
  An investigative journalist at the Daily Bugle and Peter Parker's romantic partner. She is resourceful and often assists the Spider-Men with her reporting skills, also featuring in some playable stealth/investigation segments.
• Harry Osborn: Supporting Character / Friend / Eventual Venom Host
  Peter's childhood best friend, who returns after being away for experimental medical treatment for a terminal illness. He is seemingly cured by a symbiotic suit, which eventually leads to him becoming Venom.
• Venom (Symbiote & Harry Osborn): Main Antagonist
  The alien symbiote combined with Harry Osborn, driven by a desire to 'heal the world' through extreme measures, becoming a powerful and destructive force.
• Kraven the Hunter (Sergei Kravinoff): Main Antagonist
  A legendary and highly skilled hunter who comes to New York City seeking the ultimate challenge by hunting super-powered individuals, including both Spider-Men and various villains.
• Dr. Curt Connors / The Lizard: Antagonist (Initially) / Supporting Character
  A scientist who transforms into the monstrous Lizard. Kraven hunts him, and the Spider-Men try to cure and save him.
• Ganke Lee: Ally / Miles's Best Friend / 'Guy in the Chair'
  Miles's best friend and tech-savvy confidant who provides support and mission assistance from behind the scenes.
• Rio Morales: Supporting Character / Miles's Mother
  Miles's mother, a city councilwoman dedicated to her community. She is aware of Miles's identity as Spider-Man.
• Norman Osborn: Supporting Character / CEO of Oscorp / Harry's Father
  The influential and often morally ambiguous head of Oscorp, desperate to save his son Harry from his illness.
• Yuri Watanabe / Wraith: Supporting Character / Vigilante
  Former NYPD captain, now operating as the violent vigilante Wraith, seeking her own form of justice. Interacts with Spider-Man during 'The Flame' side story.
• Various other supporting characters and minor villains: Cameos, Side Quest Characters, Civilian NPCs
  Includes characters like J. Jonah Jameson (podcast host), Danika Hart (podcast host), Felicia Hardy/Black Cat, Tombstone, Flint Marko/Sandman (via memories), Martin Li/Mister Negative (briefly), and others who populate the city or feature in side content.

• 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 Missions (Peter & Miles)
  A series of narrative-driven missions that progress the central storyline involving Kraven the Hunter's 'Great Hunt,' the emergence of the Lizard, and the arrival and impact of the Venom symbiote. Missions often involve playing as either Peter or Miles, and sometimes feature them working together. These include major boss battles and cinematic set pieces.
• FNSM App Requests (Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man App)
  Short side activities and requests from citizens of New York, accessed via an in-game app. These can involve stopping petty crimes, rescuing civilians, helping with local problems, or unique character interactions. Contributes to district progress.
• Hunter Blinds & Bases
  Kraven's forces establish hidden Blinds (observation posts) and larger fortified Bases throughout the city. Spider-Man must locate these, defeat the hunters stationed there, and destroy their equipment to weaken Kraven's control over a district.
• EMF Experiments (Emily-May Foundation)
  Peter Parker helps Harry Osborn with scientific experiments for the Emily-May Foundation. These involve mini-games like analyzing plant DNA by splicing genes, flying a drone through targets to collect bee data, or testing new sustainable technologies. Rewards XP and Tech Parts.
• Marko's Memories (Sandman Crystals)
  Collect crystalized sand fragments containing memories of Flint Marko (Sandman). Piecing these memories together reveals a touching side story about his attempts to connect with his daughter. Rewards XP.
• Photo Ops
  Locate specific landmarks or scenes in New York City and take a photograph as either Peter or Miles. These highlight iconic NYC locations and moments of city life. Rewards XP and district progress.
• Prowler Stashes (Miles Morales)
  Miles discovers hidden caches of technology and resources left by his uncle, Aaron Davis (The Prowler). Accessing each stash requires solving a light environmental puzzle or using specific traversal abilities. Rewards Rare Tech Parts.
• Unidentified Targets (Kraven's Drones)
  Track and chase down Kraven's hunter drones using Web Wings and aerial maneuvers to perform an aerial takedown and retrieve their data. Rewards XP and Tech Parts.
• Cultural Museum Missions (Miles Morales - Stolen History)
  Miles helps recover stolen musical instruments and artifacts for the cultural museum in Harlem, learning about different cultures represented in New York.
• The Flame Side Story (with Wraith)
  A multi-part side story where Spider-Man (Peter or Miles) teams up with Yuri Watanabe, now the vigilante Wraith, to investigate and stop a dangerous pyromaniac cult known as The Flame.
• Brooklyn Visions Academy Missions (Miles Morales)
  Side quests related to Miles's school life at Brooklyn Visions Academy, often involving helping fellow students or dealing with issues on campus.
• Symbiote Nests
  After the symbiote invasion begins, nests appear throughout the city. Spider-Man must infiltrate these dangerous, pulsating areas, destroy symbiote hearts while fending off waves of symbiote enemies, and escape before the nest collapses.

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 (10 unique suits - 5 for Peter, 5 for Miles, additional Photo Mode items, 2 skill points), and Collector's Edition (SteelBook display case, 19-inch statue featuring both Spider-Men battling Venom, all Digital Deluxe content).

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.

Insomniac Games has released free updates including New Game+, new suits, mission replay, and accessibility features. Larger story DLC or expansions have not been officially announced as of mid-2024, but are a possibility based on past Insomniac titles.

• 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: Can I switch between Peter Parker and Miles Morales freely?
  A: Yes, in the open world, players can seamlessly switch between controlling Peter Parker and Miles Morales via the FNSM app on their phone. Each character has their own set of specific story missions and some unique side activities, but many open-world tasks can be completed by either.
• Q: What are Web Wings?
  A: Web Wings are a new traversal mechanic in Marvel's Spider-Man 2. Both Peter and Miles can deploy these glider-like wings while airborne to soar through the city, utilizing wind tunnels for increased speed and covering large distances much faster than just web-swinging.
• Q: How do the Symbiote powers work for Peter?
  A: When Peter Parker acquires the Venom symbiote, he gains access to a new set of aggressive, tendril-based combat abilities and a 'Symbiote Surge' mode (similar to a rage mode) that significantly enhances his power. These abilities replace his Spider-Arm skills while the Symbiote Suit is active in the story.
• Q: Are there different boroughs of New York City to explore?
  A: Yes, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 expands the map to include not only Manhattan (from previous games) but also Queens and Brooklyn, effectively doubling the size of the explorable open world.
• Q: Does Marvel's Spider-Man 2 have multiplayer?
  A: No, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 is a single-player only experience, focusing on the individual stories and cooperative dynamic of Peter Parker and Miles Morales within the narrative.
• Q: Will there be DLC for Marvel's Spider-Man 2?
  A: Insomniac Games has not officially announced major story DLC in the vein of 'The City That Never Sleeps' for the first game or 'Miles Morales' as a standalone. However, they have released free updates with new features and suits. Future content is possible but unconfirmed.

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 Insomniac Games' proprietary engine, Marvel's Spider-Man 2 showcases stunning visuals on the PlayStation 5. It features incredibly detailed character models, lifelike animations, a densely populated and realistic New York City, and advanced lighting and reflection effects (including extensive ray tracing options for reflections and shadows). Offers various graphics modes (Fidelity for max visuals/RT at 30FPS, Performance for 60FPS with dynamic resolution/less RT, and modes for 120Hz displays with VRR).

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 John Paesano, featuring heroic orchestral themes for both Spider-Men, intense action cues, and emotional character motifs. The soundtrack dynamically shifts with gameplay. Sound design is immersive, with distinct web-swinging sounds, impactful combat effects, unique sounds for Symbiote and Venom powers, and the bustling ambience of New York City.

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 clean and dynamic HUD displaying health, Focus meter (for finishers/healing), gadget/ability cooldowns, and contextual prompts. A mini-map aids navigation. The main menu provides access to the map, missions, character (skills, suits, gadgets), collectibles, and settings. The FNSM App is used for side activities and requests. Photo Mode is robust.

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, building on Insomniac's previous efforts. Includes customizable controls, extensive subtitle and caption options, options to simplify QTEs, aim assist, options for puzzle timing, high contrast modes for shaders, audio cues for collectibles and combat, gameplay speed modifiers (slow down game speed), and more.

• 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

• CONSOLE EXCLUSIVE (PlayStation 5). PC System requirements are HIGHLY SPECULATIVE, assuming a future PC port similar in demand to other high-fidelity Sony exclusives. An NVMe SSD would be mandatory for a PC version.
• Laptop Performance Note: If ported to PC, laptop models of listed desktop GPUs will require comparable performance, very high TGP (Total Graphics Power), and excellent cooling. **This would be an extremely demanding title on PC, requiring top-tier laptop hardware for high settings, especially with ray tracing.**
• Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Maximum TGP will be absolutely crucial.
• Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Exceptional cooling needed for demanding visuals and fast-paced action.
• Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Strong CPU performance needed for the dense open world and fast traversal.
• Laptop Consideration: R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM (DDR5) would be essential.
• Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus would be critical.
• Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: PS5 supports various graphics modes (Fidelity/Performance). A PC port would likely include DLSS, FSR, and XeSS.
• Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing (Reflections, Shadows), Texture Quality, Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Crowd/Traffic Density, and Hair Quality would heavily impact performance on PC. The game utilizes extensive ray tracing on PS5.
• Game Name: Marvel's Spider-Man 2

• 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: PS5 supports various graphics modes (Fidelity/Performance). A PC port would likely include DLSS, FSR, and XeSS.
• Key Settings Impact: Ray Tracing (Reflections, Shadows), Texture Quality, Level of Detail, Shadow Quality, Crowd/Traffic Density, and Hair Quality would heavily impact performance on PC. The game utilizes extensive ray tracing on PS5.

• 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 will be absolutely crucial.
• Cooling Thermals: Exceptional cooling needed for demanding visuals and fast-paced action.
• C P U Power Limits: Strong CPU performance needed for the dense open world and fast traversal.
• R A M Speed Dual Channel: Fast dual-channel RAM (DDR5) would be essential.
• M U X Switch Optimus: Using a MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus would be critical.