Key Takeaways
1. Hideo Kojima aims for unique experiences in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach, seeking to spark debate despite positive initial feedback from playtesters.
2. Playtests are essential for identifying bugs and gauging audience reaction; more testers are enjoying the sequel compared to the original.
3. The first Death Stranding received mixed reactions, with criticisms focused on slow gameplay and long periods without action.
4. Early previews of Death Stranding 2 suggest improved gameplay, including more exciting elements and a wider variety of vehicles.
5. Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is set to release on June 24th as a PS5 exclusive.
Publishers are constantly searching for games that can attract a wide audience. In contrast, Hideo Kojima has focused on different goals while creating Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. In a recent interview with Edge Magazine, which was summarized by Video Game Chronicle, Kojima shared that playtesters are reacting to the sequel in a more positive manner. Unlike the first Death Stranding, which received mixed reactions, many testers are now praising this follow-up. Interestingly, Kojima expressed a desire for the early reviews of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach to be more critical.
Purpose of Playtests
Playtests are crucial for spotting bugs and understanding how a broader audience might feel about a game. In the interview, Kojima mentioned that only four out of ten players liked the original Death Stranding. He didn’t provide specific numbers, but he stated that significantly more testers are enjoying Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. This positive feedback could be good news for Sony, but Kojima’s intent is to create a game that stirs up more debate. He aims to deliver unique experiences, even if some gamers find the gameplay or atmosphere unappealing.
Mixed Reactions to the First Game
Despite some concerns, Death Stranding had a solid average review score of 82 on Metacritic. However, critics and players who disagreed with the general opinion voiced strong reactions. A frequent criticism was the lengthy periods without any significant events. Early previews of Death Stranding 2 suggest that the gameplay is now more exciting. Furthermore, instead of just walking around, players will have access to a broader array of vehicles.
It’s unlikely that Sony shares Kojima’s deep concern about the overwhelmingly positive feedback on his new project. Even if the reviews for Death Stranding 2 turn out to be more mixed, the first game was a commercial hit, drawing in over 20 million players. Strong acclaim will likely motivate more gamers to dive into Kojima’s intriguing yet fulfilling universe.
Upcoming Release Date
Initially planned as a PS5 exclusive, Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is scheduled to release on June 24th.
Source:
Link