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Death Stranding: Director's Cut

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Death Stranding: Director's Cut
Item: Death Stranding: Director's Cut
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2021

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, Single Player

AvailableSep 24, 2021

PlatformPlayStation 5, PC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperKojima Productions

Overview

From legendary game creator Hideo Kojima comes a genre-defying experience, now expanded and remastered for PS5 in this definitive Director's Cut. Experience an extended storyline through new missions in an expanded area. Make use of additional weapons and vehicles, take on new enemy types and explore new locations such as the Firing Range and Racetrack, featuring extra missions and minigames. Stay connected with other players from around the globe.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

80%

Mixed (50-79)

18%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of Death Stranding: Director's Cut has garnered a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the game's narrative for being captivating, engaging, and thought-provoking. Critics like Areajugones and But Why Tho?? highlighted the excellent storytelling and world-building by Hideo Kojima, emphasizing the depth and complexity of the narrative. Atomix also commended the game for combining deep science fiction with fantasy and paranormal elements, offering a unique and innovative storytelling approach. Additionally, critics such as GameSpot and GameByte appreciated the game's focus on themes like human connections, societal roles, and the value of adversity, providing players with a rich and immersive storytelling experience. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns about the story elements of Death Stranding: Director's Cut. Attack of the Fanboy and Checkpoint Gaming felt that the new story content was lacking in significance and felt tacked on, with issues like few cutscenes and a half-baked reveal. COGconnected criticized the story for being repetitive, filled with pseudoscience, and poorly paced at times, which may have hindered the overall narrative experience for some players. Critics like GameGrin found the story lacking and uninteresting, with themes that broke the immersion of the post-apocalyptic world, leading to a sense of boredom and disinterest in the characters and plot development. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the story of Death Stranding: Director's Cut is mixed. While some reviewers praised the game for its deep narrative, engaging storytelling, and thematic richness, others raised concerns about pacing issues, repetitive elements, and a lack of significant new story content. The game's ability to provoke thought, evoke emotions, and offer a unique post-apocalyptic experience was acknowledged by several critics, such as Digitally Downloaded and TheGamer. However, differing opinions on the execution of the story, character development, and pacing indicate that the narrative experience in Death Stranding: Director's Cut may resonate differently with players based on their preferences for complex, unconventional storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics are divided on Death Stranding: Director's Cut story. Some praise its captivating narrative and thematic richness, while others criticize pacing issues and lack of significant new content. The game's deep storytelling and immersive world-building by Hideo Kojima are highlighted positively, but concerns about repetition and uninteresting elements are also raised. Overall, opinions vary on the game's ability to engage players in its post-apocalyptic world and thought-provoking themes.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

61%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Death Stranding: Director's Cut are quite varied, with both positive and negative aspects highlighted. Several critics praised the new additions and enhancements brought by the Director's Cut, such as new tools, equipment, and missions that add depth and variety to the gameplay experience. Critics like WellPlayed and GameSpot appreciated the introduction of new gadgets like the Evolve Stabiliser, Cargo Catapult, and Buddy Bot, as well as the inclusion of Metal Gear-esque stealth missions, which provided players with new and interesting ways to complete deliveries and engage with the world. Additionally, Screen Rant commended the unique gameplay loop of Death Stranding, further elevated by the integration of the PlayStation 5's exclusive capabilities like the DualSense controller's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, enhancing immersion. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay in Death Stranding: Director's Cut. Metro GameCentral and GamingBolt criticized the core gameplay for being boring, frustrating, and at times too easy, with the new additions potentially making the game less challenging and interesting. Shindig and Player 2 found the core gameplay loop of delivering orders to be repetitive and lacking long-term challenge, despite the mechanics like cargo management and dealing with enemies adding some depth. The Games Machine mentioned that some fans raised concerns about the new content diluting the original experience and making the game too easy, indicating a potential divide among players regarding the impact of the Director's Cut on the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed reception of the gameplay in Death Stranding: Director's Cut. While some critics appreciated the strategic and immersive elements of the gameplay, as highlighted by Jeuxvideo.com and Dexerto, others found certain aspects to be tedious or lacking in long-term engagement. The introduction of new tools, missions, and enhancements was generally well-received for adding variety and depth to the gameplay experience, but concerns were raised about potential drawbacks such as making the game too easy or repetitive. Ultimately, the gameplay of Death Stranding: Director's Cut seems to offer a unique and polarizing experience that may appeal more to players looking for a strategic and immersive journey, while potentially alienating those seeking more traditional gameplay challenges.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics are split on Death Stranding: Director's Cut gameplay. Some praise the new tools and missions for depth and variety, while others find core gameplay boring and easy. The addition of new content divides opinions, with concerns about diluting the original experience. Overall, the game offers a unique and immersive experience, but may not appeal to those seeking traditional gameplay challenges.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

90%

Mixed (50-79)

10%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics overwhelmingly praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Death Stranding: Director's Cut, particularly on the PlayStation 5 platform. Critics like Android Central, Areajugones, and COGconnected highlighted the outstanding visuals, 4K resolution, HDR support, and the utilization of DualSense features, which enhanced the overall immersive experience. The game's graphical facelift showcased the capabilities of the PS5, with improved texture quality, character models, and environmental details, as noted by Hardcore Gamer and Guardian. The enhanced presentation with 4K visuals, reduced load times, and improved spatial audio on PS5, as mentioned by Impulsegamer and MGG, further contributed to the game's cinematic appeal. The stunning natural landscapes, realistic lighting, detailed models, and weather effects were commended by Shindig for adding to the atmospheric immersion. While the majority of critics praised the Graphics and Visual Design of Death Stranding: Director's Cut, there were a few dissenting voices. CGMagazine pointed out jagged visuals and framerate dips that detracted from the otherwise wonderful art direction, recommending the PS3 version over the PS5 port. Metro GameCentral also noted that while the graphics were improved on the PlayStation 5, the difference was not significant. These criticisms suggest that there were some technical issues and discrepancies in graphical quality that affected the overall experience for a minority of reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Graphics and Visual Design of Death Stranding: Director's Cut. The game was lauded for its stunning visuals, detailed assets, enhanced graphical fidelity, and immersive feedback, making it a worthwhile investment for PS5 owners, as noted by Malditos Nerds. The game's graphical enhancements, improved mechanics, and overall visual appeal were highlighted by GameMAG and KeenGamer, emphasizing the game's status as one of the most visually impressive titles on the PS5. With the majority of critics praising the game's graphics and visual design, it is evident that Death Stranding: Director's Cut successfully delivers a visually stunning and immersive experience that captivates players and showcases the technical prowess of the PlayStation 5 platform.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics rave about Death Stranding: Director's Cut graphics on PS5, praising stunning visuals, 4K resolution, and DualSense features for an immersive experience. While some mention minor technical issues, overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting enhanced visuals, detailed assets, and cinematic appeal. A must-have for PS5 owners, showcasing the platform's technical prowess and cementing its status as one of the most visually impressive titles.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

87%

Mixed (50-79)

13%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The Sound Design and Music of Death Stranding: Director's Cut have received high praise from the majority of critics, with many highlighting the exceptional quality of the soundtrack and immersive audio experience. Areajugones commended the game for having one of the best video game soundtracks, emphasizing its importance in creating an immersive atmosphere. Atomix noted the deep and immersive atmosphere enhanced by the Tempest 3D AudioTech, adding a new layer of depth to the audio experience. GameByte praised the sound design for enhancing the feeling of wonder during gameplay, with music playing a significant role in elevating the overall experience. Additionally, GamingTrend mentioned the great licensed songs and new tunes added, contributing to the immersive audio experience. On the flip side, a few critics expressed minor concerns or suggestions for improvement regarding the sound design and music of Death Stranding: Director's Cut. GamingTrend mentioned the lack of a portable music player for in-game music as a drawback, impacting the overall experience for some players. MGG highlighted that while the use of DualSense controller vibrations enhanced immersion, it could become repetitive over time. These criticisms, however, were relatively minor compared to the overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of Death Stranding: Director's Cut. The enhanced audio quality, immersive 3D spatial audio, and integration of the DualSense controller's haptic feedback have been widely praised for elevating the gameplay experience. Critics such as Hardcore Gamer and KeenGamer specifically noted the atmospheric soundtrack and how it complemented the visuals, creating a cohesive and immersive world for players to explore. The seamless incorporation of sound effects, music, and haptic feedback into the gameplay has been lauded for enhancing immersion and emotional engagement. In conclusion, the majority of critics agree that the sound design and music in Death Stranding: Director's Cut are standout features that significantly contribute to the overall quality and immersive nature of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics are raving about the exceptional sound design and music of Death Stranding: Director's Cut, praising the atmospheric soundtrack, immersive audio experience, and integration of haptic feedback. While minor criticisms were raised, the overwhelming consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of reviewers highlighting these elements as standout features that elevate the gameplay experience.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

62%

Mixed (50-79)

38%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The Voice Acting in Death Stranding: Director's Cut has received a mix of positive and negative feedback from critics. Many reviewers praised the performances of the cast, with Atomix noting top-tier performances from actors like Norman Reedus, Mads Mikkelsen, and others, contributing to the game's narrative and character depth. Impulsegamer also highlighted the engaging performances delivered by the all-star voice actors, adding depth to the characters and storylines. Additionally, God is a Geek mentioned fantastic performances from Mads Mikkelsen, Margaret Qualley, and Léa Seydoux that elevated the story, with the rest of the cast providing solid performances. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the Voice Acting of Death Stranding: Director's Cut. But Why Tho?? mentioned that despite excellent performances from the cast, there were instances of unavoidably cheesy dialogue. COGconnected specifically highlighted Norman Reedus as the weak link in voice acting, while other actors like Tommie Earl Jenkins, Lea Seydoux, and Troy Baker delivered strong performances. Shindig also noted that while the ensemble cast delivered strong performances, the character of Amelie was not as likeable, and her bond with Sam could have been better developed. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the Voice Acting in Death Stranding: Director's Cut leans towards the positive side. The performances of top-tier actors like Mads Mikkelsen and Léa Seydoux were widely praised for adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. However, there were some criticisms directed towards Norman Reedus' performance and certain aspects of the dialogue. Despite these minor issues, the majority of critics appreciated the stellar performances delivered by the cast, contributing to the immersive experience of the game's story. Jeuxvideo.com's mention of the high level of performance and realism in the voice acting, particularly in cutscenes, reflects the overall sentiment of the critics towards the Voice Acting in Death Stranding: Director's Cut.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics have mixed feelings about the voice acting in Death Stranding: Director's Cut. While many praised top-tier performances from actors like Norman Reedus and Mads Mikkelsen for enhancing the narrative, some pointed out cheesy dialogue and Reedus as a weak link. Overall, the majority of critics appreciated the stellar performances from the cast, despite minor issues, contributing to an immersive storytelling experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

82%

Mixed (50-79)

15%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of Death Stranding: Director's Cut on the PlayStation 5, the majority of critics were highly impressed with the enhancements brought to the game. Many reviewers praised the improved visuals, smoother gameplay experience, faster loading times, and stable performance on the PS5. Critics like COGconnected and GameSpot highlighted the rock-solid frame rates and virtually eliminated load times, showcasing the technical prowess of the PS5. Additionally, the integration of the DualSense controller's features, such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, was lauded by critics like GameMAG and Push Square, further enhancing the immersive experience on the platform. On the flip side, there were a few critics who pointed out some technical issues with the PS5 version of Death Stranding: Director's Cut. CGMagazine mentioned jagged visuals and framerate dips, recommending the PS3 version over the PS5 port. Shindig noted that the Quality mode can struggle during boss fights, impacting the gameplay experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus among critics who played on the PS5 was overwhelmingly positive, with the vast majority praising the technical performance and improvements brought by the Director's Cut version of the game. Across all gaming platforms, including the PC version, the overall sentiment among critics regarding the technical performance of Death Stranding: Director's Cut was highly positive. The majority of reviewers commended the game for its enhanced visuals, stable performance, faster loading times, and utilization of platform-specific features like the DualSense controller on the PS5. Critics like Meristation and NME highlighted the improved frame rates and loading times, while Jeuxvideo.com praised the stable performance on PC with support for various resolutions and high frame rates. The consensus among critics underscores the technical achievements of the Director's Cut, with transformative upgrades and immersive experiences being key takeaways for players across different platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics overwhelmingly praised Death Stranding: Director's Cut for its impressive technical enhancements on the PlayStation 5, including improved visuals, smoother gameplay, faster loading times, and the integration of DualSense controller features. While some critics mentioned minor issues like jagged visuals and framerate dips, the general consensus was highly positive, with reviewers lauding the game's technical performance across all platforms, highlighting stable performance, enhanced visuals, and immersive experiences.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

33%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of several critics regarding the replay value of Death Stranding: Director's Cut showcase a mix of positive and negative perspectives. Critics like GameByte, GameMAG, and We Got This Covered highlight the positive aspects of the game, emphasizing the new tools, missions, and gameplay mechanics that enhance the replay value. GameByte specifically mentions the unique gameplay mechanics and online interactions that contribute to the game's overall replayability. Additionally, critics such as Impulsegamer and Player 2 appreciate the additional content and modes that provide a lengthy gameplay experience, catering to both new players and veterans. On the other hand, some critics express concerns about the limited replay value offered by the Director's Cut. Attack of the Fanboy and Metro GameCentral suggest that returning players may not find compelling reasons to revisit the game after completing the new story segment or experiencing the added content. Worth Playing criticizes the thin content additions in the Director's Cut, focusing mainly on visual and performance upgrades rather than substantial new features that enhance replayability. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards the Director's Cut of Death Stranding offering some degree of replay value, albeit with varying degrees of success. While some critics like TheGamer and God is a Geek appreciate the new missions and features that enrich the core gameplay experience, others like Checkpoint Gaming and Metro GameCentral feel that the additional content may not justify the cost for all players. The game seems to cater more towards fans of Kojima's storytelling and those who enjoy exploring different gameplay mechanics and interactions, rather than solely focusing on enhancing replay value for all types of players.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics have mixed feelings about Death Stranding: Director's Cut replay value. Some praise new tools and missions enhancing replayability, while others criticize limited reasons for returning players to revisit the game. The consensus suggests varying success in adding replay value, catering more to fans of Kojima's storytelling and unique gameplay mechanics rather than all players seeking enhanced replayability.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

92%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The majority of critics praised Death Stranding: Director's Cut for its enhanced visuals, improved gameplay features, and the addition of new content. PCMag highlighted the fine upgrade for PS5, recommending it for both fans of the original and new players. The Guardian commended the game's near-photorealistic visuals and astonishing moments, while GameByte appreciated how the Director's Cut refined the game to offer a fascinating experience. Jeuxvideo.com lauded the technical enhancements, engaging story, and immersive experience on PC, considering it a definitive edition of Hideo Kojima's masterpiece. On the negative side, some critics found Death Stranding: Director's Cut to have shortcomings, such as monotonous gameplay and a lack of substantial new content. Player 2 mentioned that while the story and world were strong points, they were overshadowed by the tedious core elements. GameStar felt that the added content failed to justify the price for existing owners, and Checkpoint Gaming noted that the lack of substantial new content held back the Director's Cut from reaching its full potential. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment leaned towards positive feedback from the majority of reviewers. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Death Stranding: Director's Cut is a very good game, recommended for both newcomers and fans of the original. TheGamer celebrated it as a bizarre masterpiece that delivers on its ambitious vision, while PlayStation Universe hailed it as the ultimate version of Kojima's masterwork. The general sentiment is that the Director's Cut offers an immersive and enhanced experience, with improvements that enrich the gameplay and storytelling. While there were some reservations about certain aspects like gameplay monotony and lack of substantial new content, the overall verdict remains overwhelmingly positive, with the majority of critics endorsing the game as a worthwhile and definitive version of Death Stranding.

TL;DR

Critics mostly praised Death Stranding: Director's Cut for its enhanced visuals, new content, and refined gameplay. Some critics, however, criticized its monotonous gameplay and lack of substantial additions. Overall, the consensus is that it's a recommended game for both new players and fans of the original, offering an immersive experience with room for improvement.

MONSTER

Reviews

129 reviews found

100

TheGamer

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Death Stranding Director's Cut is praised as a bizarre masterpiece that delivers on its overarching ambition in a bold, uncompromising way, deserving to be celebrated.

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100

But Why Tho?

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Death Stranding Director’s Cut is an easy recommendation for anyone looking for a creative and enjoyable experience.

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100

Areajugones

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly recommends Death Stranding Director's Cut, especially for those who have not played the original on PS4. The Director's Cut is seen as an improved version of an already exceptional game.

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100

Screen Rant

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Death Stranding Director's Cut delivers an incredibly pertinent story, with more content than ever before, and takes advantage of the PlayStation 5's DualSense capabilities. It is considered the definitive version of the game.

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100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Oct 19, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Director's Cut of Death Stranding is highly recommended, especially for those who enjoyed the original game.

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100

NME

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Director's Cut is recommended as the best way to experience the game, with quality-of-life improvements, enhanced visuals, and plenty of additional content for both new and returning players.

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100

Digitally Downloaded

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review praises Death Stranding as a unique and excellent experience, contrasting it with the rest of the AAA industry.

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MGG

PlayStation 5

Sep 23, 2021

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review states that Death Stranding: Director's Cut is an atypical and divisive adventure that holds up well, especially with the optimizations on the PS5. It recommends the game to those who haven't played the original, but suggests that repurchasing may not be necessary for those who have.

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Jeuxvideo.com

Mar 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Death Stranding Director's Cut on PC delivers all the qualities of the PS5 version with added flexibility. The game is praised for its technical enhancements, engaging story, complex gameplay, and immersive experience. It is considered a definitive edition of Hideo Kojima's masterpiece, offering a polished and versatile experience for players.

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God is a Geek

Mar 29, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The review recommends the Director's Cut upgrade for PC gamers who loved the game before, but suggests starting a fresh save. It also states that Death Stranding is utterly unique and well worth it for fans and those who missed it.

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