It is difficult to summarize the Death Stranding adventure in a few words, and even if we secretly hope that our test of the game will convince you to at least take an interest in Kojima's title, it is quite obvious that the game will divide the players. However, for all those who have had the great idea of embracing post-apocalyptic deliveries with Norman Reedus, here is a guide to read before launching Death Stranding on your PS4 in order to get the best out of the experience.
Online mode
Playing Death Stranding offline will probably bring an additional challenge since you will no longer rely on the constructions of other players, but you will also cut yourself off from many very interesting features. We strongly suggest that you stay online throughout your game, especially since the title does not require a PS+ subscription to enjoy its asynchronous multiplayer.
Make standard deliveries
Death Stranding's delivery and preparation interface is very complete, but it will take you some time to adapt. Thus, as soon as you can, complete standard deliveries. This will allow you to increase your rank with the shelter managers and to unlock new equipment.
Humanitarian goals
This may come up again and again throughout this guide: don't rush the main mission and enjoy each new area of the map connected to Bridges by helping other players, which will allow you to collect precious likes, but also new connections with other Porter players. To do this, go out empty handed and scan the field for cargoes that other players have lost during a fall or fight. We will have the opportunity to come back to this, but embrace the concept of the game fully and help others, it will make the experience even more rewarding.
The devil is in the details
It's one of the little pleasures of Death Stranding. The world is full of details and there are even some 'hidden' gameplay mechanics that the game won't bother to explain to you. We won't say this enough: take your time test new features as soon as you can. Remember death is never a fatality, so you might as well test this concept to the core by trying to run down a hill with a transport cart as a hoverboard, for example.
A bit of reading
As you meet the people of the world, they will send you many messages and emails of support, often containing valuable information. Concepts overlooked by the scenario will be explored in these correspondences. Landing in the shelter after a good delivery session is often the best time to take a break and get up to speed on late conversations and messages.
Break the fourth wall
For example, go catch the lyrics of the songs played in the game. Everything in the world of Death Stranding is connected: its universe, its gameplay, its music... Don't hesitate to explore new ways to understand the latest Kojima as a whole.
Being familiar with the old Kojima games is a bonus.
To understand how Death Stranding is a result of everything the creator has done before, it is better to have a good knowledge of his old productions. Don't worry, it's not essential either, but Metal Gear Solid fans should have this "little something extra" that will help them better understand the different messages that Death Stranding is trying to convey.
The best experience is on PS4 Pro
The game runs very well on PS4, but for being able to experience the adventure with the PS4 Pro / 4K screen combo, the visual added value is very real. Death Stranding is beautiful on all types of screens, but if you are already equipped with 4k and you plan to buy a PS4 for the release of Death Stranding, we recommend you get a PS4 Pro instead.
