Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, Kojima surpasses himself

With Death Stranding 2: On The Beach, Hideo Kojima continues his exploration of the concept of connection, expanding the narrative and mechanical universe of his most divisive title, first released in 2019 on PS4 and then arrived over the years on almost all platforms. If the first chapter had amazed for its originality and audacity, this sequel manages the rare feat of perfecting the formula without distorting its spirit. The result is a more fluid, articulated and engaging experience.

The story picks up a few months after the conclusion of the first game. Sam Porter Bridges and Lou live isolated in Mexico, far from the dangers of the reconnected world. But the quiet is destined to end: Fragile, played once again by Léa Seydoux, entrusts Sam with a new assignment that will take them to Australia, where another continent is waiting to be connected to the global network. The tone remains typical of Kojima: cryptic, ambitious, at times redundant, with narrative sequences that sometimes exceed twenty minutes, but capable of offering a cohesive narrative, full of suggestions and intense moments. It is not only the video game medium at the service of the narrative, but also the opposite: the narrative of Death Stranding 2 is as excellent as its gameplay.

In terms of gameplay, Death Stranding 2 retains the structure of its predecessor: deliveries, cargo management, environmental obstacles and asynchronous interactions with other players. However, it is precisely the variations around this core that make the difference. As in the first game, the fundamental pivot of the gameplay is to carry packages from one end of the world to the other, but the introduction of new transport options, more versatile tools and an improved combat system, now more dynamic and rich, makes each mission less repetitive and more rewarding. The stealth component also benefits from a more realistic artificial intelligence: enemies are no longer omniscient and react more consistently to the player's behavior.

One of the most surprising aspects is the impact of the environment. Landslides, floods, earthquakes, sandstorms and other natural events are not simple background elements, but credible obstacles that radically alter the planning of deliveries. Weather forecasts can help, but often the unexpected forces you to improvise, giving a sense of danger and authenticity that enriches the experience. The boss fights, although spectacular on a visual level, do not represent a revolution compared to the first chapter. They are well made, of course, but tend to follow known patterns: evade attacks, strike, resist. However, at least one sequence in particular remains impressed which, for artistic direction and intensity, marks one of the peaks of the game.

In addition to the main story, secondary missions abound, some of which are enriched by noteworthy mini-narrative arcs. The stories of the pizza chef, the ghost hunter and the fisherman, for example, offer interesting ideas and memorable moments. It is easy to get lost in the loop of "one last mission and that's it", only to discover later that you have been playing for hours. Technically, Death Stranding 2 excels. The game world is vibrant and changing, the artistic direction maintains Kojima's authorial imprint, and the audio department is among the most refined of the generation. The soundtrack alternates original songs and licensed tracks, with Ludvig Forssell and Woodkid leading an atmospheric and touching soundscape, in perfect harmony with the atmospheres of the game.

The cast, once again, is up to the task. Norman Reedus returns as Sam with his usual intensity, but it's the new faces that really shine. Our Luca Marinelli, as the enigmatic Neil, gives one of the most successful performances in the game, while Shioli Kutsuna brings emotional depth to a complex and fascinating character. Troy Baker, omnipresent in the gaming landscape, also returns with an incisive and charismatic performance. Ultimately, Death Stranding 2: On The Beach is not a simple sequel, but a coherent and conscious evolution of a unique project. It does not revolutionize the genre it helped create, the so-called strand game, but refines it, expands it and makes it more accessible. It is a title that confirms Kojima's visionary talent, capable of combining reflection, action and experimentation in a work that is unlike anything already seen.

Format : PS5 Publisher : Sony Interactive Entertainment Developer : Kojima Productions Rating : 10/10