On June 24th, the highly anticipated Death Stranding 2 will be available in its early access version, which is also the final product intended by Kojima Productions for all players. It's crucial to note that this early access version is indeed the same as the standard release, set to launch just two days later. Therefore, pre-ordering this edition does not grant players an actual early gameplay experience; rather, it is designed to mislead consumers into thinking they're getting a head start.
This pricing strategy raises several eyebrows. Players who opt to pay the standard price of $70 for the game will find themselves waiting two additional days to access the same content available in the early access edition. This marketing tactic appears questionable as it offers a temporary incentive to spend more on what is essentially the same product. In reality, early access might be more of a financial trap than an exclusive opportunity.
Considering that Death Stranding 2 is a story-heavy game, there are legitimate concerns that plot spoilers will proliferate online once the early access version is released. Players will have access to the complete narrative, which raises the potential for spoilers to be shared widely, potentially ruining the experience for those who choose to wait for the standard edition. This aspect is particularly troubling for fans who value the immersive storytelling that characterizes the Death Stranding franchise.
This trend of offering early access for a premium price is not unique to Death Stranding 2. A glance at the pre-order section on the PS Store reveals several other titles employing similar tactics. Games such as Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4, Atomfall, Forza Horizon 5, The First Berserker: Khazan, DOOM: The Dark Ages, Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater, and Hell Is Us all provide early access options for players willing to pay extra. The underlying message seems to be that consumers are not merely paying for an early play experience but are instead paying to avoid starting their gaming journey late.
As the gaming industry evolves, the tactics surrounding early access releases are becoming increasingly complex. While Death Stranding 2 represents a significant entry in the gaming world, it also highlights the potential pitfalls of pre-order culture and the implications for narrative-driven games. Players are advised to consider the value of their investment carefully and to be aware of the broader trends that might influence their gaming experience.
