Content warnings have become more common in movies, TV, and video games, helping prepare viewers for sensitive topics.
But Death Stranding 2: On the Beach does not offer any such warnings, even though difficult scenes appear early in the game. Many players and critics feel this is a missed opportunity and could harm the very people the story hopes to reach.
In the opening hours of Death Stranding 2, players see the main character Sam Bridges return home to find his adopted daughter Lou missing.
The story quickly turns tragic as Lou appears to die, leaving Sam in deep despair. The game then shows Sam attempting suicide, scenes that are intense and emotional. These moments happen with no warning to the player.
Critics say that moments like these, while carefully written and performed, could be distressing to some players—especially those who have faced similar real-life struggles. While stories that explore grief and trauma can create empathy and understanding, unexpected exposure to this content might retraumatize some people.
Content warnings do not have to be intrusive. Good examples from other games, like Inkle’s Expelled, allow players to find content information on the menu if they wish. Others, such as Cyberpunk 2077, added warnings later through updates after players requested them.
Fans and reviewers are now urging Kojima Productions, the studio behind Death Stranding 2, to add similar warnings. A simple, optional notice would help more players enjoy the story while feeling safe. As content warnings become a standard part of entertainment, many hope Death Stranding 2 will add them as well.
Kojima Productions has not commented yet, but players are waiting to see if an update will address these concerns.
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