Death Stranding 2 Review – Kojima’s Second Coming

Hideo Kojima is back. Death Stranding 2 was released on June 26, 2025 exclusively on PlayStation 5, and it brings us back to a post-apocalyptic world with a strange and sad energy unlike any other game. If you’re wondering what is Death Stranding about, this Death Stranding 2 review will tell you everything.

What is Death Stranding 2?

Death Stranding 2 is a direct sequel to the 2019 cult hit. It’s a semi-open-world, thematically heavy, psychological action game starring Norman Reedus, aka Sam Porter Bridges. The game is packed with symbolism, emotion, and a complex storyline that goes even deeper than the first game.

If you’ve never played the first game and are wondering “will Death Stranding 2 require you to play the first game,” the answer is – it’s recommended, but not required. The game offers enough context for new players, although knowing the first game will greatly enhance the experience.

Death Stranding 2 Campaign Length and Story

Death Stranding 2’s campaign length is around 35–45 hours, if you focus only on the main missions. If you want to see all the secrets and side missions, the game is much longer. So how long is Death Stranding 2 campaign? Then the game will easily go to 60+ hours.

The story is again strange and emotional. It all starts with Lou. Many people think “is Lou a girl Death Stranding”, which is technically correct – Lou is a girl and she plays a big role in the game’s plot, as a symbol of hope.

The game’s theme is about loss, connection, the border between life and death. Kojima again combines science fiction, political allegory and philosophy. That’s why the Death Stranding 2 plot summary is difficult to reduce to a few lines.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Kojima has improved a lot. Movement is more precise, stealth and combat have become less uncomfortable.

• New weapons and skills have been added
• Locations are more diverse
• Side-quests are better structured

Death Stranding 2’s open world exploration is much more lively. Traces of other players scattered along the roads are also preserved – in the classic Asynchronous Multiplayer style. However, the most interesting new mechanics are related to tarot-like choices – which make the decisions you make actually shape the future version.

Graphics and Atmosphere

The Decima Engine once again shows its power. The game’s environments – from icy ancient mountains to futuristic cities – are detailed. The lighting, rain, mud and silence of the world create such an atmosphere that Death Stranding 2’s visual design and atmosphere are the best part of the game.

The soundtrack is also back – Low Roar, Silent Poets and Kojima’s own compositions create an audio experience that will remain in the memory.

Death Stranding 2 Characters and Performance

Norman Reedus returns as Sam Bridges. But the most interesting were the new roles of Elle Fanning and Troy Baker. The chemistry of the cast works perfectly and the animation of the characters is done as if you were watching a movie.

Death Stranding 2 characters and cast are even more diverse and emotional. Many of the supporting characters become unforgettable.

Should you play Death Stranding 1 before playing Death Stranding 2?

This was one of the most popular questions: do you need to play Death Stranding 1 before 2? Simply put – no, but you will know who BB is, why Sam is walking halfway around the world, and who the Bridges are.

The game explains most of it well, but those who have played the first part will understand many of the plot signals and details more deeply.

Performance on PlayStation 5

Death Stranding 2 is technically nearly flawless on PS5. The 60FPS is stable, the lag is minimal, and the dual-sense haptics work wonderfully.

I’m particularly impressed with how the controller conveys the pain of your knees, the weight, and the mud. Technically, this is one of the best PS5 exclusives to date.

Kojima’s Evolution and the Game’s Worth

Is Death Stranding 2 Worth Playing on PS5? In short: Yes. But not for everyone. If you’re looking for “slick action,” you won’t find it here. But if you want a game that makes you think, makes you feel emotional, and immerses you in a unique world, then Death Stranding 2 is for you.

Kojima Productions’ Death Stranding sequel isn’t just a sequel—it’s Kojima’s work for his loyal fans. And at the same time, it’s a psychological journey tailored to new players that represents a different path in gaming.

Death Stranding 2 vs. Death Stranding

Where Kojima’s first game was an experiment, Death Stranding 2 is a dynamic and stable show.

• The environments are more alive
• The mechanics are refined
• The plot is deeper

Death Stranding 2’s connection to the first game is obvious, but new themes are also introduced. Lou, as a character, is now a more active agent in the story. Kojima doesn’t repeat himself, but continues to expand on the idea.

Death Stranding 2 – The Final Conclusion

This game is simultaneously shocking, slow-paced, and deeply human. The best moments in Death Stranding 2 can be a simple conversation in an abandoned hut or a soaring shot of a winter sky – but each one has meaning.

If you want Death Stranding 2 full story explained – it’s best to play it yourself. This game is about emotion, not text.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

Final Rating:

Death Stranding 2 is a bold, heavy, and deep sequel. As rarely happens in gaming, this game is not just fun, it’s an experience.

Rating: 9.3/10

Kojima is once again doing what others dare not. And he’s great at it.