Death Stranding 2 reviews: Critics hail game as 'Best of the Year' as Hideo Kojima's game becomes early GOTY candidate
Hideo Kojima's latest project, Death Stranding 2, has debuted to enthusiastic reviews, with critics applauding its ambitious design, refined gameplay systems and thought-provoking narrative.
The sequel builds on the unconventional framework of the original 2019 release, expanding its combat mechanics and narrative scope while retaining its signature surrealism.
Reviewers have noted that the new entry introduces significantly more tactical depth, leading some to describe it as Kojima's most Metal Gear-like work in years — albeit filtered through the distinct tonal lens of Death Stranding.
Despite these enhancements, Death Stranding 2 reportedly preserves much of the eccentricity and emotional weight that defined its predecessor. Reviewers praised its thematic maturity and cinematic boldness, describing it as both a technical evolution and a spiritual continuation of the original.
IGN awarded the game 9/10, calling it 'a remarkable achievement in creativity' and highlighting its deepened storytelling and greater variety in gameplay.
Reviewer Simon Cardy commended Kojima's ability to deliver a layered and emotionally resonant experience while indulging in his characteristic surrealism.
At Eurogamer, Lewis Gordon rated the game 4/5, acknowledging that although the sequel leans more heavily on combat and action than the original, it still embodies Kojima's unique voice.
He suggested that the additional gameplay features may dilute some of the quiet, meditative elements of the first game, but argued that the core message of human connection in an isolated world remains intact.
Game Informer echoed that sentiment, scoring the game 8.75/10. While noting some uneven pacing and dialogue delivery, the review praised the game's mechanical improvements and its willingness to explore complex ideas through its sprawling narrative.
Elsewhere, Digital Trends described Death Stranding 2 as a 'deliberate continuation' that attempts to smooth the original's rough edges without losing its philosophical core.
Its 4/5 review observed that the game 'oscillates between serious societal reflection and total absurdity,' calling it a work of 'gonzo storytelling that's hard to dismiss.'
Originally announced in 2022, Death Stranding 2 reunites players with Sam Porter Bridges, portrayed by Norman Reedus, who delivers a more emotionally nuanced performance this time around.
The game remains exclusive to PlayStation at launch, though a PC version is widely expected to follow, likely mirroring the delayed rollout of the first instalment.
While not every review was without reservation — some noted occasional pacing issues and over-explained plot elements — the overall consensus positions Death Stranding 2 as a bold, genre-blurring sequel that cements Kojima's reputation for pushing boundaries.
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