Death Stranding 2 Gameplay Length Revealed

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach has arrived on PS5, taking players on an expansive journey across Australia as Sam Porter Bridges works to connect another continent to the Chiral Network. But exactly how long does this odyssey last? Below, we share playtime reports from IGN's team members, along with their gameplay priorities.

Simon Cardy - Senior Editor

I completed Death Stranding 2's main story in 34 hours, primarily focusing on critical path missions while completing about a dozen optional objectives. While side activities provide helpful upgrades, the sequel streamlines traversal compared to the original - though later campaign sections still present challenging combat encounters and demanding deliveries. Post-credits, I've spent an additional 10 hours fully connecting Australia and Mexico while working toward five-star facility ratings. As a completionist, I'll keep returning to tackle remaining missions.

Matt Kim - Senior Feature Editor

My playthrough reached credits at 38 hours, with most time spent on main story missions. Hideo Kojima's more restrained approach to cutscenes kept the focus on gameplay. Though I dabbled in side content, there's plenty remaining for a potential 100% completion run - perhaps even a platinum trophy pursuit.

How Does Death Stranding 2 Compare to Other Kojima Titles?

Here's how Death Stranding 2's runtime measures against Kojima's previous works (based on HowLongToBeat averages):

• Metal Gear Solid - 11.5 hours
• Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty - 13 hours
• Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater - 16 hours
• Metal Gear Solid 4: Guns of the Patriots - 18.5 hours
• Metal Gear Solid 5: The Phantom Pain - 45.5 hours
• Death Stranding - 40.5 hours
• Death Stranding 2: On the Beach - 37.6 hours (IGN average)

Nick Limon - Executive Producer

My completion time reached 41 hours as I thoroughly explored Mexico and Australia while rebuilding infrastructure. Though I didn't fully reconnect Australia, I networked most regions and focused on upgrading relationships with Preppers using gear that complemented my playstyle. The sequel offers more compelling side content than its predecessor, making me eager to continue my journey.

What's your Death Stranding 2 approach? Planning thorough exploration or a focused story playthrough? Share your thoughts below!