After years of hype, Hideo Kojima’s latest mind-bending odyssey is finally out. But as is typical for the gaming auteur’s unique work, there’s tons you need to know before embarking on this epic adventure. Here are OGN’s tips for getting started on Death Stranding.
You start the game as Sam Bridges, but note that a few hours into the experience, you’ll switch over to the sword-wielding soldier Raiden for the remainder of the storyline.
As you try to balance several packages on your back using the shoulder triggers, try not to think too hard about how this game could have been Silent Hills instead.
If you ever find yourself stuck, press the L3 button and the next time you fall asleep, Hideo Kojima will appear to you in a nightmare and help guide you through the experience.
Keeping track of the story’s overt references to Trump and a fractured America will help remind you that escapism is a lie and no video game can save you from our hellish reality.
To keep track of the story, take note when you meet Heartman, Deadman, and Die-Hardman, which are just some of the actual character names landed upon during a four-year development process.
Anytime you find yourself not enjoying the storyline, we recommend being less of an idiot. The problem is not the game; it’s you.
With that said, you can safely take a bathroom break at 1:31:58 in the first cutscene without missing much.
Keep your eyes peeled for an Easter egg cameo appearance from Hideo Kojima’s childhood friend, a 70-pound granite boulder.
Make sure to care for the “BB”—or Bridge Baby—strapped to your chest by giving him 3 to 4 ounces of formula every two hours, making sure he gets three naps a day, changing diapers as needed, soothing him by singing softly, and making steady contributions to his 529 college fund.
Finally, never forget that gaming is about the emotions you experience and not the buttons you press, or some bullshit like that.
