Positive Death Stranding 2: On the Beach reviews during playtests are concerning Hideo Kojima

Publishers are always on the hunt for games with mass appeal. However, Hideo Kojima has had far different priorities when developing Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. In an Edge Magazine interview summarized by Video Game Chronicle, the Japanese game designer notes how playtesters are responding to the sequel differently. While Death Stranding caused divisive reactions, more testers are praising the follow-up. Ironically, Kojima wishes early Death Stranding 2: On the Beach reviews were more negative.

Playtests exist to identify bugs and gain insight into how larger audiences will respond to a game. In the interview, Kojima explains how only four out of ten players enjoyed Death Stranding. Without citing percentages, he claims that far more testers approve of Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. While this is encouraging for Sony, Kojima aimed to make a more controversial game. His priorities are to create unique experiences, even if some players find the gameplay or atmosphere off-putting.

Despite warning signs, Death Stranding reviews averaged a respectable 82 at Metacritic. Still, critics and gamers who disagreed with the consensus had strong reactions. Some common complaints were the long stretches without anything eventful happening. Death Stranding 2 previews suggest that the game is now more action-packed. Also, instead of walking aimlessly, players can access a wider selection of vehicles.

It's doubtful that Sony is as concerned as Kojima with the glowing impressions of his latest project. Even if Death Stranding 2 reviews end up more mixed, the first title was a sales success, attracting over 20 million players. Universal acclaim will encourage more gamers to explore Kojima's mystifying but rewarding world.

Initially a PS5 exclusive, the Death Stranding 2: On the Beach release date is set for June 24th.