DEATH STRANDING DIRECTOR'S CUT 17+

Official reviewer of Israel

So far for me it’s a great experience on the iPhone and Mac and I love the game.
Couple of problems I encountered so far & things I didn’t like:
1. On iPhone, the game doesn’t stay long in the background - Every time when I get a message on my iPhone and then exit and come back to the game, I have to sit through the annoying non-skipable launch screen & loading screens again instead of jumping right back to the game.
2. On Mac, the mouse controls aren’t suitable for the Apple Magic Mouse (there is no solution in game for the absence of the missing middle click button - which means I can’t plan routes for Sam because of that, or mark waypoints on the map).
3. On Mac, the keyboard’s keys’ names are for windows keyboard and not a Mac keyboard. For example, instead of showing me “hold OPTION key to hold Sam’s breathe” it shows me “hold CTRL” even though on Mac it is the OPTION key that you need to hold.
4. On iPhone, I would love it if the resolution was a bit higher. I understand that these are the most optimized graphic settings for the iPhone energy-consumption-wise, but at least give us the option to change that.
5. On the iPhone, I would love for a vibration feature using the iPhone’s Taptic Engine.
6. On the Mac, I initially couldn’t launch the game because apparently Game Center was off in the system settings. I think the app should notify the user of that instead of crashing upon launch.

Things I loved so far:
1. The seamless cloud saving feature between Apple devices - I can play on my Mac, close the app completely and switch to play my iPhone with the same save in matter of seconds. The syncing is so good. I wish you would also support syncing with a PS5 save as well - that would be amazing.
2. So far the touch controls on the iPhone are very convenient and fun to use, and the UI for them fits & blends well with the style of the game. Though I imagine it would be harder to use when using guns. Also, maybe consider adding an option to remove the right virtual thumb stick completely and use a touch and drag feature to move the camera around? (Like in resident evil: village and Minecraft) I find it more accurate.
3. I love the use of the iPhone’s gyroscope in this game.
4. I love that you’ve brought achievements to this game through Apple’s Game Center.
5. The game itself is so far amazing.

Please consider launching the upcoming Death Stranding 2 on Mac and iPhone as well 🙂

I edge to your games

Kojima san

A Masterpiece Unfolding - A Must-Play Experience

Title: A Masterpiece Unfolding - A Must-Play Experience

Review:

After spending just an hour with "Death Stranding," I find myself utterly captivated and compelled to share my early impressions. This title is not just a game; it's a groundbreaking experience that transcends traditional gaming boundaries.

From the moment I stepped into the shoes of Sam Porter Bridges, the protagonist, I was immersed in a world of unparalleled depth and beauty. The graphics are nothing short of breathtaking, with landscapes that evoke a profound sense of isolation yet beauty in desolation. The attention to detail in the environment, from the rugged terrain to the ever-changing weather, creates a palpable atmosphere that's rare in video games.

The gameplay mechanics introduced in the first hour hint at a complex and rewarding system. The concept of connecting a fractured society through deliveries is innovative and provides a fresh take on the action genre. It's not just about the destination but the journey, navigating challenging terrains, and overcoming obstacles that stand in your way.

The controls are intuitive and responsive, especially considering I'm playing on a Mac with an Xbox controller. This setup works flawlessly, allowing for a seamless gaming experience that feels both natural and engaging.

Kojima's storytelling prowess is evident from the get-go. The narrative is intriguing, with just enough mystery to keep you yearning for more. Characters are introduced with depth and nuance, promising complex relationships and character development as the story unfolds.

The sound design and score further enhance the immersive experience, with atmospheric sounds that make the world feel alive and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack that elevates every moment.

In summary, "Death Stranding" is shaping up to be an exceptional title, rich in narrative depth, gameplay innovation, and visual splendor. It's a game that challenges the norms, offering a unique experience that's both thought-provoking and deeply entertaining. If the first hour is anything to go by, players are in for an unforgettable journey. Highly recommended for those seeking more than just a game, but an experience that pushes the boundaries of storytelling and gameplay.

Developer Response ,

Hi Porter! Just wanted to say a huge thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a fantastic review. We really do appreciate it. Keep on keeping on!