Death Stranding 2: On the Beach Review
Which of Hideo Kojima’s games have you played?
Hideo Kojima Games Tier List
Hideo Kojima Games Tier List
Snakes and Ladders
The stealth gameplay in *Death Stranding 2* initially seems simple, involving crouching in grass and performing silent take-downs. However, the arsenal expands, revealing more complexity. The tranquilizer sniper rifle, for example, is quite satisfying for picking off bandits. While it may not reach the level of *Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain*, moments evoke similar feelings.
This installment offers more flexibility in how to approach combat, which makes it more engaging than the original. Familiarity with different methods is vital, since confrontation is unavoidable in various forms. Overall, combat is much improved and more entertaining.
Using Dollman, a small drone, to scout enemy outposts is a fun and valuable asset, as he marks and identifies targets. The puppet floats above the enemies unnoticed, helping you feel like you’re getting away with something. Enemies evolve throughout the game; knowing their weaknesses and armor is crucial. This makes the action varied, and the same tactics will not always be effective.
Even when plans go wrong, it’s just as fun as when they go right. This creates an engaging and entertaining dynamic.
A perfectly planned attack with a tranq dart is rewarding; however, scrambling after a missed shot adds excitement. Stealing a vehicle to run over an enemy is enjoyable, as is using a turreted off-roader. *Death Stranding 2* has an approach to combat that was not there in the original. It offers a power fantasy, which increases the fun.
Enemy AI isn’t the sharpest, but this enables some “playing with your food” moments. Normal difficulty wasn’t challenging until the end. The increased toolset, including gun and grenade types, allows for a good pace. As Sam is an experienced porter, the game reflects this by making you feel more powerful. It emphasizes the journey rather than replaying sections or failing missions. Boss battles can even be skipped if desired. However, they offer some of the game’s most interesting spectacles, like a tentacle mech, which make the experience more memorable.
Life’s a Beach
Set 11 months following the original, *On the Beach* opens with Sam seeking a peaceful life with Lou. That dream is quickly shattered. The story takes many twists and turns, with many surprises. It is a tale thick with intrigue as secrets are uncovered with many concepts. The themes range from personal to global and touch upon modern life and how technology infects our existence.
Viscosity plays a role in the story. Tar, sludge, oil, and blood are all encountered. It is a tale thick with intrigue as secrets are uncovered with many concepts. There is a strong sense that digital existence eats away at our souls, and physical interactions are precious. Kojima is bristling with thoughts about how AI can never replace art and personal expression. This is forced on us despite its impossibility.
There’s commentary on gun culture and the obsession with advanced weaponry. Kojima has been writing about these for decades; these themes are still relevant. The storytelling shines through, without becoming bogged down by the sci-fi aspects of the game. These elements blend seamlessly together.
The theme of connectivity weaves all disparate parts together. It explores how we connect with each other and with our past. It asks what we hold onto and what we let go. Neil resembles Solid Snake, a character Kojima has cut ties with since leaving Konami. *Death Stranding 2* almost serves as a memorial for the beloved operative. It emphasizes the importance of moving on.
While the character names are subtly named, they possess nuances that reveal themselves at frequent intervals. Facial twitches and tears reveal depth. The motion and performance-capture tech is amazing, and this allows every pore to show.
Norman Reedus is great as Sam Porter Bridges and anchors the story with a calm demeanor. Sam can be impenetrable, but he serves as a vehicle for the story. Lea Seydoux is great as Fragile. Elle Fanning is fantastic as Tomorrow, and the Red Samurai is extremely cool. Yoji Shinkawa’s character design is top-notch; he adds beauty to the world.
Troy Baker as Higgs steals every scene. He brings an operatic edge, and there is a chilling mask and electric guitar. The roles match the grandeur of the story. There is not a single poor performance within the cast. For all the cargo in the world, the characters’ emotional baggage weighs the heaviest. This pressure builds to a jaw-dropping final sequence.
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