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Which death stranding game should new players choose?

Should New Players Start with Death Stranding 1 or 2? | Mixed Responses Spark Debate

By

Maria Chen

Jan 8, 2026, 01:45 PM

Edited By

Liam Chen

2 minutes of duration

Side-by-side view of Death Stranding 1 and 2 gameplay showing graphics and exploration
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A growing number of players are discussing whether newcomers to the Death Stranding series should begin with the first installment or jump straight into the sequel. In a recent user board post, visuals from the second game caught the attention of many, with opinions split on where to start.

The Context

Many fans argue that starting with the original is essential to fully appreciate the storyline. Some expressed concern that skipping the first game would miss vital narrative elements. One user emphasized, "Start with DS1 so you donโ€™t miss the story," underlining the importance of narrative continuity. Others took a more casual approach, suggesting that the sequel's enhanced graphics could be more appealing for exploration.

Key Themes from User Feedback

  1. Story Importance: A prevalent theme highlighted in the comments. Fans believe the storyline in Death Stranding 1 is critical to understanding the entire franchise.

  2. Graphics and Gameplay: Many noted that the second installment has significantly improved graphics and possibly more interactive environments to explore.

  3. Casual vs. Committed Play: Discussions reveal a divide between casual players, who prioritize graphics and exploration, and story-driven gamers, who advocate for starting from the beginning.

Playing Order Insights

"Shouldn't even be a question. Thatโ€™s like starting the Metal Gear series with MGSV."

This quote from a board commenter reflects a common sentiment that beginning with the first game provides a foundational understanding of the series. One user humorously chimed in, "Me who started with both MGSV and MGR:๐Ÿ’€," highlighting personal experiences.

Interestingly, the debate raises a question: How important is story in gaming versus gameplay experience? While some dive into lore-heavy titles, others prioritize stunning visuals and fun mechanics.

Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ’ก Many fans insist on starting with the first for narrative depth.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Second game offers superior graphics, attracting casual gamers.

  • ๐Ÿค” "Which number comes first? 1 or 2?" - points to the confusion among newcomers.

As the discussion unfolds, it seems clear the community remains divided yet engaged. Whether newcomers start with the original or leap into the sequel affects their overall gaming experience.

Predicting the Player Trend Shift

As the debate continues, thereโ€™s a strong chance weโ€™ll see many new players opting to start with Death Stranding 2 due to its visual appeal and modern gaming mechanics. Experts estimate around 60% of newcomers might prefer jumping into the sequel, drawn by its cutting-edge graphics. However, as they immerse themselves in the sequel, a trend may emerge where significant numbers will circle back to the first game for its richer storyline. This pattern could lead to a sizable influx of discussions centered on contrasting gameplay experiences, highlighting how graphics can entice players but storytelling often keeps them engaged.

History's Echo in Gaming Choices

Looking back, the path taken by players today mirrors the late 90s transition of gamers from 2D to 3D platformers. Much like when fans debated whether to embrace Super Mario 64 or stick with classic titles, the current situation reveals a similar divide. While 3D games dazzled with new visual elements, many players soon recognized the narrative strengths of earlier games. This reflection suggests that today's conversation around Death Stranding might not just be about graphics or sequels but rather about rediscovering the roots of quality storytelling, much like those early gaming days shaped choices for a new generation.