Death Stranding is a game that takes some time to get going. The first 10 hours can be a bit of a slog, and while the gameplay is fun, it doesn't necessarily invite you to come back after a game session. However, once you push past this initial hump, the game opens up and becomes a truly enjoyable and rewarding experience.
One of the standout features of Death Stranding is the way it makes you feel like you're actually traversing difficult terrain. The game's mechanics simulate the weight and balance of the packages you're carrying, and the landscape is often treacherous and challenging. This creates a real sense of accomplishment when you successfully make a delivery, and adds to the feeling of immersion in the game world.
The characters in Death Stranding are another highlight. They're well-written and endearing, and the story they inhabit is intriguing and satisfying. The game does a great job of slowly revealing information and building tension, and by the end, you'll likely find yourself invested in the fate of the characters and the world they inhabit.
Finally, the cooperation mechanic in Death Stranding is engaging and makes you feel less alone in your journey. Despite playing as a lone courier, you can leave helpful items and structures for other players, and they can do the same for you. This creates a sense of community and shared experience, even though you're all playing in separate instances.
Overall, while the first 10 hours of Death Stranding may be rough, the game is ultimately a fantastic and unique experience. Its sense of challenge and accomplishment, compelling story and characters, and engaging cooperation mechanics make it a game worth playing for anyone interested in something a bit different.