Death Stranding: Everything You Need to Know

It’s safe to say if you’re reading this, you don’t know that much about the next PlayStation game Death Stranding. No one really knows about this game, heck, even I don’t know that much about Death Stranding. But that’s the selling point, right? Game designer Hideo Kojima has made a name for himself in the industry as the man who made Metal Gear Solid, a game series that’s riddled with twists and mystery. His new game is no different.

Despite being announced more than three years ago and releasing in a week, there is only about an hour of gameplay floating around online. Even though the marketing has been cryptic so far, there is actually some solid information if you know the right place to look. Lucky for you, reader, I’ve done the work and put all of this information together for you! Make sure to keep reading as I break down everything you need to know about Death Stranding before its launch.

What even is this game?

Death Stranding is the next game from Metal Gear Solid creator Hideo Kojima, but more importantly this is the first game he’s releasing with his new studio, Kojima Productions. After publisher Konami removed Kojima from his own series, he left to create Kojima Productions where he could make the types of games he wanted to make. Enter Death Stranding. The game was announced at E3 in 2016 as coming to PS4 and PC, yet shortly after, the game was re-branded as a PS4 exclusive game (although we now know that it will arrive on PC next summer).

Even though the game is still a mystery, the overall plot for the story has been detailed in recent trailers. Players take control of Sam Bridges, a deliveryman of sorts who must navigate through otherworldly threats and obstacles in order to connect the world through “strands”.

Gameplay will consist of exploring an open world and engaging in various stealth-action encounters. It should also be noted that this game features in-depth simulation mechanics that players must take into consideration, such as: maintaining equipment weight, sleep, and even urination. (Yes, I know that last one is real, I couldn’t make this stuff up). Be sure to check out the video below to see some of the gameplay for yourself.

What is a “Strand Game” and do I need PlayStation Plus in order to play?

To answer the first question: Kojima claims that a Strand Game combines action with social connections to explore a totally new experience. To answer the second question: no, you do not need a PlayStation Plus subscription to play the game. While no one is expecting a multiplayer mode, there was some confusion regarding how online integration would actually work since it is a key feature of the game. Players will be able to interact with one another through these so-called strands that work similar to online features in the Dark Souls/Bloodborne games. Player can leave behind objects and messages for other players to come across, and they will be given the option to report whether the object/message was useful or not.

What’s the deal with that baby?

Perhaps one of the most known facts about the game is also the most mysterious, the infamous baby from the reveal trailer. A recent trailer revealed those babies are called “BB’s” (Bridge Babies) and they are the only thing that lets players sense enemies known as “BT’s” (Beached Things). They live on a completely different astral plane, yet for some reason they still have the ability to attack Sam during his deliveries.

How and when can I get this game?

Death Stranding will release on PlayStation 4 November 8, 2019 (that’s pretty much a week away!). However, if you don’t have a PS4 or simply prefer to play games on PC then you’re in luck. The game will release on Windows PC Summer 2020. Despite the console release being published by Sony, the PC port will be published by 505 Games.

Death Stranding can be pre-ordered right now at most major retailers (Amazon, Walmart, GameStop, etc.) for $59.99. If you’re into collectibles there are also multiple collector’s editions available, but act fast because those tend to sell quickly.

Are you excited for Death Stranding to release? If so, we are too! You can watch the launch trailer below, and be sure to check back for all the Death Stranding coverage in the coming weeks.