Despite all the trailers released by Hideo Kojima, fans are still wondering how the actual gameplay of Death Stranding works. Fortunately for you, we now have a better understanding of what it will be like to actually play Death Stranding.
Following the collapse of civilization, Sam Bridges – played by actor Norman Reedus – must find a way to save everyone from the so-called “brink of extinction.” The game’s title basically refers to supernatural events occurring after a series of mysterious explosions. Affected areas are said to be invaded by otherworldly creatures, all of which threaten to kill all life on the planet. As Sam, your goal is to save everyone in the wasteland.
Now that you know what the game’s story is, it is time to understand what you are really going to do while playing. As suggested on the official gameplay section of Death Stranding's site, you will be tasked to deliver cargo. “Protect your supplies from wild bandits, and stay safe from the terrifying Beached Things… or face failing those who depend on you,” the site says.
Death Stranding particularly emphasizes the terrain, and it is going to be packed with many obstacles which you need to overcome. Your goal is to find a route through all of these supernatural elements, which, according to the trailers, are capable of altering the surrounding landscape.
Interestingly, the game will offer online functionality, although it will not necessarily be a typical co-op. Instead, it will offer asynchronous gameplay where you can “send supplies, share safe houses and walk in the footsteps of fellow couriers to reunite civilization.”
Another interesting feature Kojima is adding to the game is that Death Stranding does not come with the usual "Game Over" fail state. So, if you are defeated, you will re-appear in what the game calls “an upside-down realm.” And yes, this is something that you can always escape from.
“Choose your combat methods carefully," the site warns. "As killing your foe is almost never the solution – and every death carries a consequence.”
It seems the “mailman game” joke is right after all. But hey, at least, you are a mailman escaping with a baby-bridge pod and trying to get away from Mads Mikkelsen.
Death Stranding will arrive in PS4 on November 8.
