Unfortunately, this cinematic masterpiece won't be for everyone because of the package it's presented in. Playing both Death Stranding games is a long and expansive journey. I also don't think the game grabs the player as quickly as it needs to in order to keep them hooked for the adventure that follows. That being said, I can't see a world where the average gamer finishes both games and doesn't think they were some of the most interesting and unique experiences gaming has to offer.

Staying away from specific story elements, I'd like to do my best to describe what kind of story this is so that you can decide if it's up your alley. Death Stranding is much more than meets the eye. If you are familiar with Kojima, you probably could have guessed that. No, this game isn't just about delivering packages. It's complex (convoluted at times), mysterious, emotional, and brutal. I can't help but feel there was a huge emphasis on making the player feel a wide range of emotions. It does this extremely well. I had a great time experiencing the story and piecing things together as I went. It's a masterclass in storytelling and sets the bar extremely high.

Death Stranding is simple on the surface but as deep as an ocean. The simple side is the gameplay. Delivering cargo safely is the name of the game. I found it extremely enjoyable and even relaxing at times. Hurdles along the way come in the form of battling diverse terrain and different... adversaries. With many ways to complete different tasks, I rarely felt bored, even though sometimes I was performing multiple menial tasks. The gameplay breaks up the dense story in a near-perfect balance.

It's honestly awe-inspiring how thought-out and well-written these games are. I can't recommend them enough. But that is how the best games are made, not for the masses, but for the few who are willing to see things through to the end.