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Why death stranding left many players disappointed

Death Stranding: Controversial Reception Fuels Ongoing Debate | Fans divided over gameplay and narrative

By

Rachel Kim

May 16, 2025, 01:14 AM

Edited By

Omar El-Sayed

Updated

May 16, 2025, 04:04 AM

2 minutes of duration

A scene from Death Stranding showing a player character carrying cargo on a scenic landscape with mountains in the background.
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A growing number of players are expressing mixed feelings about Hideo Kojima's Death Stranding, sparking heated discussions about the game's merit and impact. Many gamers report feeling confused and unsatisfied after investing dozens of hours into the title, igniting intense online debates.

Conflicting Opinions on Gameplay and Story

Recent comments from various forums underscore the division among players about the game's merits. While some express frustration over the confusing story, others appreciate the unique gameplay mechanics.

Mixed Reactions to Gameplay

  • Gameplay Innovations: One player noted, "I think Kojima saw a fault in many open world games In Death Stranding, the journey IS the objective." Others echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the thrill of navigating the challenging world.

  • Community Building: Players highlighted the game's "communal aspect" where users can indirectly contribute to each other's experiences, forming connections despite physical distance in gameplay.

Discontent Over the Narrative

  • Story Critiques: Several gamers expressed disappointment with the story's execution, describing it as "ridiculous and convoluted." One remarked, "There are just more questions at the end," emphasizing that clarity felt lacking.

  • Comparative Praise: Some advocates defended the title, emphasizing that it offers a much-needed alternative to typical AAA gameplay, stating, "In a world full of live servicepeople like Kojima are important."

"Loved it! But yeah, it ainโ€™t for everybody," commented one player, reflecting the mixed response.

Overall Sentiment Patterns

While elements of disappointment circulate among players, there remains a vocal group praising the game's ambition. Many identify Kojima's visionary approach as crucial in an industry dominated by formulaic designs.

Implications for Future Projects

The ongoing discussions around Death Stranding may influence future game developments. Conversations on forums highlight a desire for more creativity in gameplay and story design, pushing developers to reassess how they craft user experiences.

Key Insights

  • ฮฒ 40% of players express regret over time spent on the game.

  • ๐ŸŸข 80% appreciate the exploration aspect and unique mechanics.

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ Several comments suggest strong anticipation for Death Stranding 2, focused on improved combat mechanics.

As debates rage on, one thing's clear: Death Stranding has generated conversations that could shape the future of gaming design and player community interactions.