Death Stranding 2: On The Beach

The majority of critics praised Death Stranding 2: On The Beach for its emotional depth, philosophical themes, and narrative cohesion. Many highlighted its exploration of connection, loss, and human resilience, with reviewers like The Times noting the "emotional complexity and beautiful writing" as Sam navigates a post-apocalyptic world. GameBlast commended the game’s focus on "emotional themes and character relationships," while LevelUp celebrated its "cohesion, emotional depth, and resolution of previous plot threads." The narrative’s emphasis on personal growth and societal rebuilding resonated strongly, with Combo Infinito calling it "dense, emotional, and courageous" and Gadgets 360 appreciating its "unique approach" to themes like grief and fragmentation. Critics also praised the game’s ability to balance Kojima’s signature surrealism with grounded storytelling, as noted by Zoomg and Radio Times, who highlighted its introspective exploration of legacy and human connection. The final act was frequently lauded for its poignancy, with Console-Tribe acknowledging its "brilliance" despite earlier criticisms. However, some critics pointed to structural and thematic flaws. Console-Tribe criticized the story’s "lack of originality" and "underdeveloped characters," while Multiplayer.it found the narrative "fragmented, disorganized, and less coherent" than its predecessor. Others, like Everyeye.it, argued that the climax felt "anticlimactic" and riddled with plot holes, while Stevivor critiqued the game’s handling of colonialism and lack of indigenous representation. Pacing issues also emerged as a concern, with Arabhardware noting the "familiarity that undermines novelty" and Gamer Guides pointing to "infantilizing portrayals" of certain characters. Additionally, some reviewers felt the story leaned too heavily on Kojima’s eccentricities, with Gamereactor Spain mentioning an "irregular rhythm" and Everyeye.it calling parts of the narrative "forced." These critiques often centered on the game’s ambition outpacing its execution, though many acknowledged the creative risks taken. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among critics was overwhelmingly positive. The majority recognized Death Stranding 2 as a significant improvement over its predecessor, with its emotional resonance and thematic richness outweighing its flaws. Gaming Nexus called the final act "powerful," while IGN Benelux praised its "compelling narrative" that unfolds gradually. Even critics who noted issues, like Console-Tribe, acknowledged the game’s "brilliant" conclusion, reflecting a shared appreciation for its ambition and emotional impact. While some found the story's complexity overwhelming or uneven, many saw it as a bold, thought-provoking experience that deepened the series’ exploration of connection and existentialism. As Gadgets 360 noted, the narrative’s "emotional depth" and "unique approach" solidified its place as a standout entry in Hideo Kojima’s oeuvre, with most critics agreeing that Death Stranding 2 succeeds as both a sequel and a standalone story.

The gameplay of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach has been widely praised for its significant improvements over the original, with many critics highlighting its refined mechanics, enhanced variety, and deeper engagement. Reviewers like Console-Tribe and PlayStation Universe emphasized smoother movement, better combat systems, and more diverse missions that elevate the experience beyond the first game’s repetitive delivery loop. The Times noted the game’s engaging mix of delivery tasks and action elements, while GameBlast praised improved route planning and customization options. LaPS4 and NoobFeed highlighted intuitive menus, strategic combat, and tools like the coffin board, which add layers of depth. The Social Strand System, a core feature, was lauded for fostering cooperative infrastructure-building (Gadgets 360) and asynchronous multiplayer interactions (Cloud Dosage). Gamer Guides and Eurogamer Portugal commended tighter mechanics, dynamic environments, and the day/night cycle, which enhance immersion. Overall, critics consistently framed DS2 as a more polished and accessible iteration of its predecessor, with SomHráč.sk noting reduced frustration through systems like APAS and TierraGamer celebrating its shift from simple delivery to combat and exploration. Despite these positives, several critics pointed out persistent issues that detract from the experience. Arabhardware and Stevivor criticized the core “delivery simulation” loop as still tedious, with Combo Infinito and LevelUp noting repetitive deliveries and underwhelming enemy AI. Destructoid and Multiplayer.it highlighted clunky combat mechanics and a lack of focus on action, while Gamereactor Spain and Shacknews pointed to inconsistent vehicle handling and overly easy sections that dilute tension. Too Much Gaming and Kakuchopurei mentioned the reduced impact of BT encounters and the loss of vulnerability that defined the original. Additionally, INVEN and SECTOR.sk noted that while new tools like monorails and the DHV Magellan improve mobility, later stages risk monotony. These critiques suggest that while DS2 refines its predecessor’s systems, it struggles to fully escape the tedium of its core gameplay loop. The overall consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Death Stranding 2: On The Beach represents a substantial evolution of the series’ gameplay. Console-Tribe, The Times, and Gamer Guides all emphasized how the game’s improvements—ranging from combat overhauls to enhanced accessibility—make it more engaging than its predecessor. While some critics, like Destructoid and Multiplayer.it, acknowledged flaws in specific mechanics, these were often framed as minor drawbacks rather than deal-breakers. The balance between exploration, delivery, and combat was widely praised (GamingBolt, IGN Benelux), with many noting that the game’s focus on player agency and creative problem-solving keeps it fresh. Even critics who pointed out repetition or technical issues (Arabhardware, Stevivor) acknowledged the game’s broader strengths, reinforcing the sense that DS2 is a significant step forward for the franchise.

The overwhelming consensus among critics is that Death Stranding 2: On The Beach delivers a visually stunning and technically impressive experience, with its graphics and visual design hailed as a masterpiece. Reviewers consistently praise the game’s ability to render diverse environments, from the rugged Australian wilderness to post-apocalyptic cities, using the Decima Engine to create photorealistic details. Saudi Gamer highlights the "depiction of nature, including earthquakes, sandstorms, and fires," while Console-Tribe applauds the "new Australian environments" and Yoji Shinkawa’s art direction, which blends desolation with melancholy. GameBlast and LaPS4 emphasize the PS5’s capabilities, noting immersive landscapes, dynamic weather effects, and lifelike facial animations that elevate the cinematic quality. The game’s attention to environmental storytelling—such as the "evocative natural environments" described by Gadgets 360 or the "vivid realism" of Mexico and Australia in Qualbert.com’s review—further cements its reputation as a visual triumph. Critics like IGN Turkey and Eurogamer Portugal also commend the game’s atmospheric elements, from Peter Jackson-inspired camera work to the seamless integration of weather systems that enhance immersion. While the majority of reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some critics point to minor shortcomings. Cloud Dosage notes that "visuals largely recycle elements from the first game," with landscapes beginning to feel repetitive over time, while Everyeye.it mentions technical issues like screen space reflections and popping artifacts. INVEN acknowledges that performance mode sacrifices frame rates for graphical fidelity, and Multiplayer.it, though praising Yoji Shinkawa’s art direction, does not address specific performance metrics. Additionally, some reviewers, such as Arabhardware, compare the game’s technical polish to Horizon Forbidden West, suggesting it falls slightly short in certain areas. However, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the widespread acclaim, and many critics frame them as isolated issues rather than significant flaws. For instance, NoobFeed notes "minor issues like limited DualSense feedback," but still calls the visuals a "next-gen triumph." The overall consensus among critics is that Death Stranding 2: On The Beach sets a new benchmark for visual design in gaming, with its technical and artistic achievements widely celebrated. Nearly every review highlights the game’s ability to leverage the PS5’s power through the Decima Engine, creating environments that feel both alive and meticulously crafted. Critics like Push Square and IGN Turkey describe it as "the best-looking game on the platform," while others, such as GameBlast and Combo Infinito, emphasize its cinematic fidelity and emotional impact. Even with minor critiques about repetition or technical imperfections, the overwhelming sentiment is one of admiration for the game’s ambition and execution. As Gamer Guides notes, the "world feels alive and ever-changing," a testament to the team’s dedication to creating an immersive, visually rich experience that solidifies Death Stranding 2 as a landmark title in visual design.

The Sound Design and Music of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach received widespread acclaim, with critics highlighting its immersive and emotionally resonant qualities. Multiple reviewers praised the soundtrack’s integration into gameplay, noting that artists like Woodkid, Low Roar, and Ludwig Göransson contributed tracks that enhanced the game’s introspective and cinematic tone. For instance, Console-Tribe emphasized the “perfect Italian voice acting” and emotional impact of the ending theme, while GameBlast lauded the ambient textures and strategic silence that deepened immersion. The in-game music player, as noted by PlayStation Universe, added a layer of customization, allowing players to curate their experience. LaPS4 and LevelUp highlighted the seamless blend of original tracks (e.g., Woodkid’s compositions) with licensed songs, creating a “dynamic audio adjustments” system that responded to gameplay. Critics like IGN Turkey and Eurogamer Portugal praised the soundtrack’s ability to amplify the game’s contemplative atmosphere, with some calling it “exceptional” (Destructoid) or “haunting and memorable” (Gaming Nexus). The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback and spatial audio, as noted by CGMagazine and Stevivor, further elevated the auditory experience, making the world feel more alive. While the majority of reviews celebrated the soundtrack, some critics pointed to minor shortcomings. COGconnected and Combo Infinito noted that the emotional impact of the music fell slightly short of the original game’s iconic moments, with the latter mentioning a “slightly reduced” emotional resonance. Cloud Dosage and Dexerto critiqued specific issues, such as the repetition of songs during mission endings, which they felt diminished the sense of accomplishment. Additionally, Everyeye.it mentioned that some tracks suffered from abrupt cuts, disrupting the flow of certain sequences. While these critiques were relatively minor, they underscored a general consensus that while Death Stranding 2’s audio design was strong, it didn’t quite reach the same heights as its predecessor in terms of narrative integration and emotional weight. Overall, the critical reception of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach’s Sound Design and Music was overwhelmingly positive, with most reviewers emphasizing its atmospheric depth, technical innovation, and emotional resonance. Critics like GameBlast, LevelUp, and Qualbert.com highlighted how the soundtrack and soundscapes enhanced immersion, while others, such as IGN Benelux and MKAU Gaming, celebrated the eclectic mix of licensed tracks and original compositions. Even those who noted minor flaws—like COGconnected’s comparison to the first game or Dexerto’s critique of repetition—acknowledged the overall excellence of the audio design. The consensus was clear: Death Stranding 2’s music and sound design were a standout element, contributing significantly to its unique identity as a contemplative, emotionally rich experience. As Multiplayer.it noted, the soundtrack “enhances immersion” through dynamic elements like Drawbridge jingles, while critics across the board agreed that it played a vital role in shaping the game’s enduring impact.

The majority of critics praised the voice acting in Death Stranding 2: On The Beach for its emotional depth, authenticity, and cinematic quality. Many highlighted the standout performances of Norman Reedus as Sam, Léa Seydoux as Mysterious Woman, and Troy Baker as Higgs, with GameBlast noting Reedus’ “nuanced portrayal” and Console-Tribe emphasizing the “expressive range” of actors like Baker and Elle Fanning. The integration of motion capture and voice work was frequently lauded, with LaPS4 praising the “cinematic quality” of performances and SomHráč.sk highlighting the “attention to animation, expressions, and narrative themes.” Critics also celebrated the cast’s ability to convey introspective and philosophical tones, as noted by PlayStation Universe, which called the voice acting “exceptional,” and GameBlast, who felt it aligned perfectly with the game’s “introspective tone.” The Spanish dubbing and other language options were similarly praised, with LevelUp noting the “top-tier” emotional resonance of characters like Rainy and Higgs. While most reviews were overwhelmingly positive, a few critics pointed to specific shortcomings. Saudi Gamer criticized the protagonist’s minimal dialogue as “repetitive and unengaging,” while Arabhardware found Reedus’ performance “flat and unconvincing,” likening it to an “anime trope.” Too Much Gaming echoed this, noting that Reedus’ portrayal felt like he was “playing himself” rather than fully embodying Sam. Additionally, some reviews mentioned that minor characters or stand-ins occasionally lacked the same level of emotional weight, as noted by LaPS4 and others. A few critics also pointed to the surreal nature of the narrative creating dissonance in performances, though this was a rare critique compared to the overall praise. Despite these isolated criticisms, the overwhelming consensus among critics was that Death Stranding 2: On The Beach features exceptional voice acting that significantly enhances its storytelling. The cast’s ability to bring emotional nuance to even eccentric characters—such as Troy Baker’s Higgs or Elle Fanning’s Tomorrow—was repeatedly highlighted, with IGN Turkey and GamingBolt calling the voice cast “star-studded” and “memorable.” While a few reviewers felt certain performances fell short, the majority emphasized how the voice acting elevated the game’s themes of connection and resilience. As noted by Critical Hits and Dexerto, the performances were often described as “career-best,” contributing to an immersive and emotionally resonant experience. The near-universal acclaim for the voice work underscores its importance in shaping the game’s narrative impact, even amid minor critiques.

The technical performance of Death Stranding 2: On The Beach on the PlayStation 5 is overwhelmingly praised by critics, with nearly universal acclaim for its stability, optimization, and visual fidelity. Reviewers like GameBlast highlight smooth frame rates and advanced facial animations, while LaPS4 notes minimal frame drops despite minor physics issues. NoobFeed and Zoomg commend the game’s ability to maintain 60fps without significant hiccups, with Use a Potion emphasizing strong performance on the PS5 Pro. The Decima engine is lauded for its capabilities, as noted by WellPlayed and CGMagazine, who praise seamless transitions and near-zero load times. Combo Infinito and GamingBolt highlight consistent frame rates and efficient handling of complex environments, while Qualbert.com points to 120fps support with VRR. Even critics like Malditos Nerds and SECTOR.sk note smooth DualSense integration and stable performance, underscoring the game’s technical polish on PS5. Despite these positives, several reviewers point to minor technical drawbacks that detract from the experience. LaPS4 and LevelUp mention physics issues like slipping on slopes and repetitive mission design, while Zoomg notes brief freezes during interactions. ani-game.com criticizes inconsistent vehicle handling and UI clutter, and Shacknews highlights navigation challenges in water/tar and potential offline difficulties. TechRadar Gaming points to occasional audio glitches, and Everyeye.it mentions screen artifacts and popping. INVEN and Eurogamer Portugal note performance trade-offs between graphical modes, with some preferring 30fps over 120fps for stability. NoobFeed also critiques the lack of robust DualSense feedback, while Destructoid and Shacknews mention clunky combat mechanics and boss fights that feel underwhelming. These issues, though minor, reflect areas where polish could be improved. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Death Stranding 2: On The Beach delivers exceptional technical performance on PS5, with only minor flaws overshadowing its strengths. Over 90% of reviews highlight smooth gameplay, stable frame rates, and excellent optimization, positioning it as a standout title for the console. While issues like physics inconsistencies, UI design, and occasional freezes are noted by critics such as LaPS4, ani-game.com, and Shacknews, these are largely seen as minor blemishes on an otherwise polished experience. The game’s ability to leverage the PS5’s hardware—through features like fast SSD loading and VRR support—further cements its technical achievements, as praised by Qualbert.com and GamesCreed. For most reviewers, including Too Much Gaming and Invader, the technical performance is a major selling point, enhancing immersion and reinforcing Kojima’s vision without significant hindrance.

The majority of reviewers highlight strong positives for Death Stranding 2: On The Beach’s replay value, emphasizing its innovative systems and engaging mechanics. Critics like NoobFeed and LaPS4 praise the game’s varied missions, side tasks with narrative depth, and exploration incentives, which encourage players to revisit the world. Combo Infinito and DBLTAP note that parallel deliveries, hidden content, and open-world design create a sense of discovery, while NextGen Player and Multiplayer.it highlight asynchronous social systems like the Social Strand, where player contributions shape the environment. TierraGamer and La Orden del Pixel stress the wealth of side missions and community-driven features, such as vehicle customization and player-built structures, which extend gameplay beyond the main story. Even Qualbert.com acknowledges substantial post-game content, with players spending hours on exploration and uncovering hidden details. These elements collectively suggest a game that rewards patience and curiosity, offering diverse ways to engage with its world. However, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may limit replayability for some players. Arabhardware and Stevivor criticize the repetitive core mechanics, arguing that the delivery loop becomes monotonous over time, while INVEN notes predictable structures and mid-game tedium could deter long-term engagement. TechRadar Gaming and GamingBolt mention that the game’s lack of innovation in its gameplay loop might leave fans of the original feeling stagnant, and Kakuchopurei acknowledges that while online interactions and route experimentation add variety, they don’t fully offset repetitive tasks. Destructoid and Everyeye.it also suggest that the replay value is somewhat dependent on player interest in the game’s themes, with some finding the narrative less compelling for multiple playthroughs. These critiques highlight a tension between the game’s ambitious systems and its potential to feel formulaic. Overall, the consensus among critics leans toward moderate to high replayability, tempered by mixed reactions to its mechanics. While many praise the game’s social features, exploration incentives, and depth (e.g., Gaming Nexus, SECTOR.sk, COGconnected), others like Arabhardware and Stevivor express skepticism about its long-term appeal. The game’s replay value seems to hinge on player preferences: those who enjoy open-world experimentation, cooperative systems, and narrative-driven exploration (as noted by NoobFeed, La Orden del Pixel, and Qualbert.com) are likely to find it rewarding, while others may struggle with repetition. Despite these divides, the majority agree that Death Stranding 2 offers enough unique content and systemic depth to justify multiple playthroughs, even if not all critics view it as a standout example of replayability.