Death Stranding 2: Top Unlocks Guide

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach expands the delivery simulation with deeper traversal mechanics, tougher enemies, and a vast chiral network to build. Unlocks are key to surviving harsh terrains and intense encounters, primarily obtained by connecting preppers and facilities to the network and raising star levels. This guide details the most impactful rewards, their locations, and strategies to acquire them early.

Mastering the Chiral Network Basics

Progress hinges on linking bunkers, preppers, and distribution centers. Each connection grants initial rewards, but boosting to 3-5 stars unlocks premium gear. Focus on high-traffic routes in Mexico and Australia first for quick stars via lost cargo recovery and sub-orders.

• Connection Levels: 1★ for basics, 3★ for mid-tier, 5★ for elite items.
• Star Farming: Deliver lost cargo, complete sub-orders, and maintain high delivery ratings.
• Priority Areas: Start in Mexico post-BT boss, then Australia hubs.

Essential Early Vehicles for Exploration

Vehicles transform long hauls into efficient runs. Prioritize these to cover Mexico’s deserts and Australia’s rugged landscapes without constant cargo juggling.

The Tri-Cruiser shines right after the first major boss, enabling free exploration and rapid connection grinding. Pair the Off-Roader with its cannon for anti-Mule defense during deliveries.

Backpack and Carrying Upgrades

Maximize loadouts with these expansions. They reduce fall risks and increase haul limits, crucial for star farming.

• Chiral Antigravity Device: Government’s Base at 2★ – floats extra cargo, perfect for hilly Australia.
• Large Spare Ammo Container Lv1: Government’s Base 3★ – sustains prolonged fights.
• Large Grenade Pouch: Ghost Hunter at 4★ – via chronobiologist sub-order; amps explosive tactics.
• Backpack Cover (Lv1/Lv2): Fisherman near F5 East Distribution Center – weatherproofs gear.
• Floating Carrier Lv1/Lv2: West Fort Knot at 1★/3★ – aerial cargo support for tough terrain.

These turn you into a walking warehouse. Rush Government’s Base upon Australia arrival for antigravity – it halves effective weight on steep inclines.

Combat Gear: Weapons That Dominate

From stealth takedowns to BT shredding, top weapons come from key connections. Stock silenced options for Mules and heavies for otherworldly foes.

Link the Musician early for Shotgun [MP] – its Lv2 upgrade devastates groups. Floating Sentries handle static defenses, freeing you for deliveries.

Skeletons and Exoskeletons for Power

Skeletons boost speed, strength, and stability. They’re progression milestones.

• Battle Skeleton Lv1: Western Environmental Observatory post-Order No. 012 – combat focus.
• Boost Skeleton: Early prepper hoods – speed bursts for time-sensitive runs.
• Stabilizer: Never fall on slopes; essential for snowy peaks.

Battle Skeleton unlocks post-bandit clear, synergizing with weapons for boss prep. Stabilizers prevent cargo wipes on Australia’s hills.

Traversal and Survival Tools

Boots, hoods, and gadgets make journeys forgiving.

• Trekking Boots: Basic upgrade for grip; grab first.
• Otter Hood / Peko Hat: Weather resistance and stealth bonuses.
• Auto Rez Device: Revives post-death, vital for risky routes.
• Motion Scanner: Government’s Base – spots threats early.

Otter Hood excels in rain-slicked paths, while Auto Rez buys second chances against Mules.

Advanced Tactics: Melee and Secret Buffs

Melee gets overlooked but packs punches with secrets. Near pizza chef Mule camps, recover cargo for insane buffs – boosts damage output massively.

Custom Electric Rod and EX Grenades from PC Gamer tips round out arsenals for BT-heavy zones.

Region-Specific Strategies

Mexico Focus

Post-Order 006, Tri-Cruiser unlocks mobility. Hit F5 East for backpack covers and fisherman rewards. Recover pizza cargo for melee edges.

Australia Power Plays

Government’s Base first: scanner, antigravity, ammo. Then West Fort Knot for fast travel and carriers. Musician and Lone Commander for firepower.

Fast-Track Progression Tips

1. Link all starters immediately.
2. Farm stars with sub-orders and lost cargo.
3. Prioritize vehicles > backpacks > weapons.
4. Use skeletons for efficiency runs.
5. Revisit Mexico via West Fort Knot post-Order 012.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I unlock the best weapons early?

Connect Lone Commander for Tranq Sniper and Musician for Shotgun. Boost to 3★ for upgrades.

What’s the top vehicle?

Tri-Cruiser for Mexico exploration; Off-Roader for later versatility.

Best backpack upgrade?

Chiral Antigravity Device – carries more without strain.

Can I miss unlocks?

No, but delay hurts progression. Revisit anytime via network.

Melee secrets worth it?

Yes, pizza cargo buffs make close combat viable.