Death Stranding 2 review: A storytelling masterpiece from Hideo Kojima

Kojima delivers a ‘GOTY’ contender

Hideo Kojima has just delivered a masterpiece sequel, which instantly became one of the favourite games of 2025. Death Stranding 2 delivers the same experience as its predecessor but with more creativity, action and engaging story.

I was always a fan of Kojima from the Metal Gear games and now I am a fan of Kojima for the Death Stranding games. Let’s check out our review and whether this game is worth buying or not.

It's very safe to say that Sir Hideo Kojima has delivered a 'GOTY' contender and masterpiece sequel! Death Stranding 2 is a must-play game on PS5, especially on PS5 Pro 💕 #DeathStranding2 Review: 10/10 pic.twitter.com/fvWLtOXfQE

— KN Gaming (@khelnowgaming) June 23, 2025

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach has mindblowing graphics

The Decima engine really shone and Death Stranding 2 is mindblowing when it comes to visual graphics and even on performance. It runs well without any hiccups on PlayStation 5.

According to Digitalfoundary, it runs really good on PS5 Pro, both on Performance and Quality mode. You won’t even notice the little difference between these modes.

The trademark Kojima’s focus on unhinged is still here with expanded gameplay ideas. Overall, this is still the Death Stranding that relies on delivering the goods. We have new locations this time: Mexico and Australia.

This is the game that will give you a true experience of the new-gen PS5 console, with its amazing worldbuilding, backgrounds and visuals.

Also Read: Does Death Stranding 2 offer early access? Release date, pre-load, size & more

Me next weekend playing DEATH STRANDING 2 pic.twitter.com/YWZoQkD8Xz

— Pyo 5️⃣ (@mrpyo1) June 20, 2025

Small spoiler on how the game starts!

Now, those who have played the first game will get instantly familiar with the Death Stranding 2 gameplay and the story.

We are still doing deliveries, and Kojima has not shaken up any gameplay core for the sequel; however, there are still many notable changes and excellent additions.

This time it will feel more mechanically dense, diverse and a fresh experience. Now, those who didn’t enjoy the first Death Stranding game due to a walking simulator type feel, there is a pretty good chance that you won’t enjoy this one as well.

This game picks up a few months after the events of the first game. Sam Porter and former baby bridge Lou are hiding from the UCA.

But after meeting with Fragile, Sam will be roped back into a mission that will take him on a long track of deliveries and missions to reconnect the world.

Also Read: Is Death Stranding 2 coming to PC? What we know so far

Memorable characters & acting

Death Stranding 2 also boasts a huge cast that has delivered a memorable performance in this game. The facial mocap, animation and acting skills are just on point.

The cutscenes and dialogues between the characters will truly provide a Hollywood movie experience for the players.

My favourite was none other than Neil, who is played by an Italian actor, Luca Marinelli. His role is pretty important to the story and Kojima really delivered with the storytelling.

Everyone has done an amazing job and made the story more immersive and interesting.

I liked Death Stranding 2 more than the original.Starts off feeling samey but quickly reveals fun gameplay improvements that I think big fans will dig.The story is (mostly) paced much better than the OG. Sam is cooler, has more agency. CRAZY STUFF HAPPENS.Nice & weird, just… pic.twitter.com/EdntMNkwOV

— Jake Baldino (@JakeBaldino) June 23, 2025

Improved and more combat

Yes, this time we have more combat, which will involve more stealth action, which might be similar to Metal Gear games.

Even though the game still relies heavily on transporting and delivering goods in Mexico and Australia, you will frequently face more BTs and Bandit outposts.

The combat feels much smoother and better than the first game. I loved using the tranquilizer sniper, which is a new weapon in this game.

Overall thoughts and review score

Let’s keep this short and say that this might go toe to toe with Clair Obscur Expedition 33 and Kingdom Come Deliverance 2 for the Game of the Year.

The story is emotional and excellent, amazing graphics and breathtaking visuals, more and better combat than the previous game, while still keeping the core Death Stranding gameplay mechanics.

This is a must-play game on PS5 and the first exclusive to drop this year from Sony.

However, I must warn you that if you still didn’t like or hate the first game because it feels boring and you don’t like delivering goods, then you should not buy this.

Our Review Score: 10/10

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