Various gaming outlets have published previews of DS2: On The Beach. Journalists spent approximately 25–30 hours with the game (about 40% of the campaign) and report that the developers have managed to make the sequel simultaneously more accessible, richer in content, and more ambitious in scale.

Critics compare the difference between the first and second Death Stranding to the leap from Breath of the Wild to Tears of the Kingdom. The core gameplay remains the same, but everything has become deeper and more varied: new mountain, forest, and desert biomes have been added, and Sam will travel to Mexico and Australia.

The world feels more alive—animals roam the landscapes, and NPCs with celebrity likenesses appear frequently. Dynamic day-night cycles, storms, and earthquakes have been introduced. Combat has been refined: more weapons, monster projections, and holographic grenades are now available.

Journalists agree that Death Stranding 2 offers significantly more gameplay options. Stealth can now transition into full-blown action, and if neither appeals, players can avoid conflict entirely. The original felt like a "hide-and-seek" experience because Kojima wanted players to fight less. After hearing feedback, he has expanded the arsenal in the sequel.

  • The story takes place 11 months after the first game’s ending
  • Fragile founded Drawbridge, an organization expanding the chiral network to other countries
  • A major incident occurs at the end of the prologue, stranding Sam in Australia, where he must once again unite a fractured nation—this time on a new continent
  • Twelve new skills have been added, influenced by the player’s playstyle
  • Sam can absorb "memories" to enhance his abilities as a porter, fighter, stealth operative, or technician. Since memories are limited, players must choose upgrades carefully
  • A new faction—the Armed Survivalists—attacks with lethal weapons
  • A new creature, the Watcher, hunts Sam with near-inescapable grabs, reminiscent of Metal Gear Solid guards

The story progresses faster, with a recap of the first game and an in-game glossary. Vehicles like motorcycles and customizable transports unlock earlier. Backpacks, gear, and even vehicles can now be upgraded. And Kojima’s signature soundtrack is always within reach via an in-game music player.

Death Stranding 2: On The Beach releases on June 26.

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