Death Stranding 2 Beginners Guide - 25 Pro Tips & Tricks (July 2025)
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach launches on June 26, 2025, and if you're like me, you're probably equal parts excited and overwhelmed by what awaits in Kojima's latest masterpiece. After spending considerable time researching the game's mechanics and gathering insights from early previews, I've compiled the ultimate beginners guide to help you navigate the apocalyptic landscapes of Mexico and Australia like a pro.
Whether you're a returning porter or completely new to Sam Bridges' world, these tips will transform your delivery experience from frustrating stumbles to smooth, efficient journeys. Let's dive into everything you need to know to succeed in Death Stranding 2.
Table of Contents
1. Master the Art of Cargo Management Early
The single most important skill in Death Stranding 2 is learning how to properly manage your cargo. Here's the golden rule: always use the Auto-Arrange feature before setting out on any delivery. Simply hold Triangle in the cargo management screen (or use the shortcut: hold up on D-pad, then right, then Triangle) to automatically distribute weight evenly across Sam's body.
This feature intelligently places:
- Heavy, delicate items at the bottom of your backpack
- Smaller cargo on your shoulders and leg attachments
- Weapons on your tool rack for quick access
- Grenades in dedicated pouches
Remember, an unbalanced load isn't just inconvenient – it actively drains stamina faster and makes you more likely to trip. I learned this the hard way when I tried to stack everything on Sam's back and couldn't see my BT scanner through a massive tower of boxes!
2. Don't Skip the Story Recap (Even Veterans Should Watch)
From the main menu, you'll find a recap video that summarizes the first game's events. Even if you played Death Stranding 1, I highly recommend watching it. The video focuses on the broad strokes without spoiling major plot twists, making it perfect for refreshing your memory about Sam's original journey from sea to shining sea.
3. Leave Mexico Quickly for Better Gear
Unlike the first game's slower pace, Death Stranding 2 gets you into the action fast. You'll receive your first gun and vehicle within the initial missions! My advice? Push through the Mexico section quickly to reach Australia, where the game truly opens up with better equipment and more interesting terrain.
4. Essential Pre-Mission Checklist
Before every delivery, pack these critical items:
- Extra Boots (at least one spare pair)
- Container Repair Spray (protects against Timefall damage)
- Ladders (for cliff climbing and river crossing)
- PCC (Portable Chiral Constructor for shelters/generators)
- Blood Bags (4+ for BT encounters)
Pro tip: Check the shared locker before fabricating – other players often donate exactly what you need!
5. Leverage the APAS Enhancement System
Death Stranding 2's new APAS system acts like a skill tree for Sam. The game-changer? You can swap skills freely without any cost. Before combat missions, equip weapon accuracy perks. For long treks, switch to balance and stamina enhancements. This flexibility means you're never locked into bad choices.
6. The Scanner is Your Best Friend (But Use it Wisely)
Your Odradek scanner reveals:
- Terrain difficulty ratings
- Lost cargo locations
- BT positions when stationary
- Enemy locations
However, at night, the scanner's light attracts bandits! Tag enemies from a distance before activating it in hostile territory. Regular scanning (R1) should become second nature – I pulse it every 30 seconds while traveling.
7. Running From BTs is Actually Viable Now
Here's a controversial tip that'll save you hours: you don't always need to fight BTs. When your Odradek starts spinning orange and you see those black strands in the sky, sometimes the best strategy is to simply sprint through. Fighting the massive tar bosses takes forever and often damages your cargo more than a quick escape would.
8. Master Vehicle Battery Management
Vehicles appear much earlier in Death Stranding 2, but they're battery hogs. Key tips:
- Avoid boosting (L3) unless absolutely necessary
- Driving through water drains battery faster
- Plan routes near generators or charging stations
- Keep an Extra Battery accessory for emergencies
I once got stranded halfway to a delivery point because I boosted the entire way – don't be like me!
9. Take Advantage of Night Missions
Counterintuitively, nighttime is often the best time for combat missions. Enemies have reduced visibility, making stealth approaches much easier. Just remember to wear appropriate colored suits:
- Yellow for sandy/desert areas
- Dark colors for rocky terrain
- White for snowy regions
10. Chiral Crystals Reduce Weight (Seriously!)
This hidden mechanic blew my mind: collecting Chiral Crystals actually reduces your cargo weight incrementally. While each crystal's effect is minimal, gathering them throughout your journey provides a noticeable weight reduction over time. Plus, they're everywhere – those glowing gold plants are impossible to miss.
11. The Otter Hood Changes Everything
One of Death Stranding 2's best early-game items is the Otter Hood, obtained from The Inventor (that tricky island facility). This adorable accessory lets Sam swim like an otter, preventing him from being swept away in deep rivers. It's a game-changer for water crossings!
12. Prioritize These Stats for Leveling
Focus on leveling these key stats first:
- Carry Capacity - Each level adds 10kg capacity
- Balance - Reduces stumbling on rough terrain
- Delivery Volume - Unlocks better rewards
- Bridge Link - Improves online features
Level Carry Capacity by keeping your load in the yellow zone during deliveries – you'll progress faster than with lighter loads.
13. Don't Neglect Side Deliveries
While I recommended rushing through Mexico, once in Australia, complete side deliveries religiously. They unlock:
- Exclusive equipment (often better than story rewards)
- Cosmetic items like the Otter Hood
- Hidden preppers with unique gear
- Valuable crafting materials
Some of the game's best equipment comes from random preppers, not the main story!
14. Online Features Are Essential
Death Stranding 2's asynchronous multiplayer isn't just a nice extra – it's core to the experience. Other players' structures can save you hours:
- Bridges over difficult rivers
- Rope anchors on cliffsides
- Generators in remote locations
- Parked vehicles ready to use
Always play online unless you specifically want a challenge. The game is designed around this shared world concept.
15. Understanding Environmental Hazards
Death Stranding 2 introduces new weather dangers beyond Timefall:
- Sandstorms - Reduce visibility and push you off course
- Earthquakes - Can topple cargo stacks
- Avalanches - Instant cargo burial
- Wildfires - Spread rapidly, forcing detours
Check weather forecasts at terminals and plan alternate routes when severe conditions are predicted.
16. Combat Has Been Completely Overhauled
Unlike the first game, Death Stranding 2 encourages more aggressive playstyles. You get weapons early and combat feels more refined. Key combat tips:
- Headshots with Bola Guns instantly knockout enemies
- Throwing cargo at enemies is surprisingly effective
- Stealth takedowns are now possible (and satisfying)
- Blood grenades create clouds that coat regular bullets with Sam's blood
17. Your First Boss Fight Strategy
The giant BT boss in Order 6 looks terrifying but is actually quite manageable:
- Look for Blood Bags dropped by tar bodies
- Use your scanner to find abandoned weapons
- Focus on the glowing weak points
- Don't panic – the arena provides everything you need
18. Private Room Features You're Missing
Private rooms aren't just for rest. Always:
- Drink ALL three energy drinks (+25% stamina capacity)
- Use the toilet (creates EX grenades)
- Shower to remove Chiral contamination
- Check BB's stress levels
- Access VR training for weapon practice
These small actions compound into major advantages over time.
19. Route Flexibility is Key
Never feel locked into your planned route. The game actively encourages detours when you spot:
- Smoother terrain alternatives
- Player-built structures
- MULE postboxes (always hack these!)
- Lost cargo clusters
Some of my best discoveries came from taking the "wrong" path.
20. Secure Your Cargo Tower
When cargo stacks get uncomfortably tall:
- Drop your backpack (Triangle)
- Equip the Strand rope
- Select "Tie down cargo"
This prevents the wobbling tower effect and dramatically improves stability, especially useful for those maximum capacity runs.
21. The Social Strand System Matters
The new Social Strand System acts like an in-game social feed, highlighting:
- Opportunities you might have missed
- Popular routes other players are taking
- Structure locations worth visiting
- Warning about dangerous areas
Check it regularly – it's like having thousands of scouts reporting back to you.
22. Equipment Degradation is Real
Everything degrades in Death Stranding 2:
- Boots wear out (always carry spares!)
- Weapons lose effectiveness
- Structures decay over time
- Vehicles need maintenance
Build the habit of checking equipment condition before long journeys. A broken boot mid-delivery is a nightmare scenario.
23. Boss Fights Don't Require Perfect Preparation
Worried about boss encounters? Don't overprepare. The game provides ample resources during battles:
- Weapons appear from defeated tar bodies
- Blood bags spawn regularly
- Arena design favors the player
Focus on learning patterns rather than stockpiling resources.
24. Fast Travel Exists (Sort Of)
While not traditional fast travel, Death Stranding 2 offers:
- Zip-lines for connected areas
- Cargo catapults for long-distance shots
- The DHV Magellan mobile base
- Return journeys on established routes
Building infrastructure on your first trip makes return journeys exponentially faster.
25. Embrace the Journey, Not the Destination
My final and most important tip: Death Stranding 2 rewards patience and observation. This isn't a game to rush through. Take time to:
- Appreciate the stunning Australian outback
- Experiment with different equipment combinations
- Help other players by building useful structures
- Explore off the beaten path
The magic of Death Stranding happens in those quiet moments between destinations, when you're alone with your thoughts and the haunting landscape.
FAQs: Your Burning Death Stranding 2 Questions Answered
Q: Do I need to play Death Stranding 1 first?
A: While DS2 includes a recap video, I strongly recommend playing the first game. The story is a direct continuation, and you'll miss crucial context about characters, mechanics, and the world without that foundation. Check out our guide on whether you should play Death Stranding 1 before DS2 for a detailed breakdown.
Q: How long is Death Stranding 2?
A: Based on early reports, expect 40-50 hours for the main story, with completionist runs potentially exceeding 100 hours when including all side content and infrastructure building.
Q: Can I play Death Stranding 2 offline?
A: Yes, but you'll miss the core experience. The asynchronous multiplayer features – seeing other players' structures, shared lockers, and helpful signs – are integral to the game's themes of connection and cooperation.
Q: What's the best starting difficulty?
A: Normal difficulty provides the intended experience. You can always adjust later, but starting on Normal lets you learn mechanics without excessive punishment while maintaining meaningful challenge.
Q: Are there missable items or quests?
A: Most content remains accessible throughout the game. However, some time-sensitive deliveries and special rewards for S-rank completions can be missed. The game clearly marks time-sensitive orders.
Q: How important is stealth vs combat?
A: Both are viable! DS2 significantly improves combat mechanics, making aggressive playstyles more rewarding than in the first game. Choose based on your preference and situation.
Ready to Become a Master Porter?
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is shaping up to be one of 2025's most unique and ambitious games. These 25 tips should give you the confidence to tackle anything Kojima throws your way, from BT bosses to precarious mountain paths.
Remember, every legendary porter started with their first stumbling steps. Take your time, help other players when you can, and don't forget to enjoy the journey. The wasteland of Death Stranding 2 is harsh, but with these tips in your arsenal, you're ready to reconnect humanity one delivery at a time.
Want more gaming guides and tips? Be sure to bookmark OfZenAndComputing.com for the latest strategies, reviews, and gaming news. See you in the wasteland, fellow porters!
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach launches exclusively on PlayStation 5 on June 26, 2025, with PC version likely to follow based on the first game's release pattern.