Death Stranding 2: On the Beach marks Hideo Kojima’s full leap onto the PS5, and it showcases his team’s ability to push boundaries. The game’s open world spanning Mexico and Australia is rich with story content and side missions. However, some locations offer critical upgrades that can drastically improve your journey. Here’s a descending list of the top 7 places you should prioritize early in the game and why each one matters.
7. West Fort Knot (F1)
Why it matters: Unlocks fast travel.
Reaching West Fort Knot (F1) during the twelfth main mission brings a big boss battle and introduces Olivia Westbury. The most important takeaway? Access to the DHV Magellan, the game’s fast travel system. Although you can’t use it for deliveries without getting penalized, it makes navigating between Mexico and Australia far more efficient.
6. Western Environmental Observatory
Why it matters: Begin highway construction
After your visit to The Government’s Base, head to this facility next. Overrun by bandits, it’s the perfect test site for the Tranq Sniper Rifle you might’ve acquired earlier. Once cleared, the Western Environmental Observatory enables highway construction, a mechanic borrowed from the first game, and gives you access to gear like exoskeletons to boost traversal.
5. The Lone Commander
Why it matters: Get stealth weaponry
Above The Government’s Base lies The Lone Commander’s hideout—non-essential to the story, but well worth your time. Navigating through the BT-infested terrain is tough, but your reward is the Tranq Sniper Rifle, a powerful non-lethal weapon perfect for dealing with bandits and hostile zones early in the Australian region.
4. The Government’s Base
Why it matters: Lighten your load
Upon arriving in Australia, you’ll make first contact at The Government’s Base, a bunker operated by Old Oz. As you develop your connection with him, you’ll unlock the Chiral Antigravity Device, which reduces the weight Sam carries—extremely helpful for navigating Australia’s more rugged terrain.
3. The Bokka
Why it matters: Gain better boots
Located south of Villa Libre, The Bokka offers unconventional wisdom and practical upgrades. Stick with his missions to unlock the Trekking Boots, which last longer than Sam’s standard footwear, reducing the need to constantly print new boots on extended delivery runs.
2. The Artist Compound
Why it matters: Unlock customization
After unlocking the Tri-Cruiser, take a detour to visit The Artist, slightly northeast of the C1 South Distribution Center. Helping Lauren Tsai here unlocks cosmetic options for Sam, the Tri-Cruiser, and Dollman. While not game-changing, personalization adds flair to your adventure.
1. Former Geophysical Research Lab
Why it matters: Unlocks your first vehicle
Your first priority should be reaching the Former Geophysical Research Lab by following the story through Ciudad Nudo Norte, Villa Libre, and C1 South Distribution Center. Here, you unlock the Tri-Cruiser, your first vehicle, which drastically reduces travel time and makes backtracking easier across Mexico.
By visiting these locations in this descending order, you’ll unlock valuable upgrades that can ease your delivery challenges, improve your mobility, and enhance your overall gameplay experience in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach.
Mrinal Kumar Aka (Natsuki)
Admin/AuthorMrinal Kumar, also known as Natsuki Hanae, is the founder and admin of CodexLogs.com, where he covers the latest in tech, gaming, and politics. With a background in commerce and economics, he blends analytical insight with a passion for digital trends to keep readers informed and engaged.