The Ringer-Verse ‘Death Stranding 2' and the First Half of 2025 in Games | Button Mash
Jun 27, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Justin Charity, a Senior Staff Writer and Kojima enthusiast, and Matt James, Ringer’s Deputy Art Lead, delve into 'Death Stranding 2's' unique narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics, including its whimsical themes. They also share insights on the challenges of adapting fighting games like 'Street Fighter' into films. The duo constructs their personal top-10 lists of the year's best games, reflecting on the rise of indie titles and the future of gaming, creating excitement for what 2025 has in store!
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Fatherhood Reflected in Death Stranding
- Justin Charity relates his experience with fatherhood through playing the first Death Stranding game.
- He humorously notes the absence of realistic details like poop, relating gameplay to carrying a newborn.
Unique Exploration Mechanics
- Death Stranding's unique exploration gameplay blends hiking with delivery mechanics.
- The game's terraforming and innovative traversal tools like zip lines make it distinct among open world games.
Walking as Complex Mechanic
- Death Stranding has mastered capturing a post-apocalyptic world feeling lonely yet strangely beautiful.
- The walking mechanic is complex and integral rather than tedious, elevating the gameplay.