Characters That Should Stay Out of Death Stranding 2

Summary

Mama should stay gone for the sequel to honor her emotional story.
Lockne’s space goal doesn’t fit with Death Stranding 2‘s direction.
Cliff Unger’s conclusion should remain, making room for new characters.

In the game titled Death Stranding, Sam’s adventure through the nation is marked by an array of distinct characters he encounters. Some of these characters played significant roles in the main storyline alongside Sam, while others were stationed at different UCA outposts to provide side missions. Regardless, each character felt individualistic and offered subtle clues about their past, environment, and temperament. This resulted in a compelling narrative that lingered in players’ minds even after they finished watching the closing credits.

With the upcoming sequel, there’s likely curiosity among fans about which characters will rejoin Sam on his journey. Although Fragile is confirmed to feature in some capacity, other characters may not return. This isn’t necessarily a problem as not every character needs to make a comeback. Some characters might have concluded their storylines from the first game, and it would be beneficial for the sequel to carve out its unique path with fresh faces. Here are the characters that fans should not expect to see in this sequel by Kojima.

Warning! Spoilers Ahead!

1. Mama

A Clever Story That Ended

Mama was a highlight of the first game
Her story came to a fitting end

Mama was an extraordinary tale Sam became involved with during his initial game where he aimed to reconnect her with her sister, Lockne. Regrettably, her link to her Biotechnical entity had to be cut, causing her demise and leaving one of the most poignant moments throughout the entire game.

Bringing her back would seem like breaking faith with the emotional impact and undermine the thematic significance of her reconciliation with her sister, as it is where her story should remain.

2. Lockne

She’s Gone To The Stars

Another fitting end alongside Mama
Her goal doesn’t line up with the rest of the story

In the next installment, the storyline could follow Lockne, Mama’s twin sister, if Mama is no longer part of it. Although Lockne is alive in the real world at the game’s end, she has moved away from her association with Bridges. Now, her focus is on achieving and fulfilling the shared dream that she and Mama had: to reach space.

In the next game, it wouldn’t be fitting for Lockne to be a player. Her new aspirations don’t seem compatible with what Death Stranding 2 appears to be about. Since this game isn’t set in space, she should merely be referenced at most.

3. Cliff Unger

A Main Antagonist Should Stay Behind

Would feel like a redo of the first game’s story
Sam moved past his relationship with Unger

In the game, Cliff Unger frequently emerged as a significant adversary for the protagonist, Sam, causing him various problems. Initially, it appeared that Cliff was pursuing Lou, the BB that Sam possessed, but this wasn’t entirely accurate. Instead, Cliff was actually trying to save his own son, Sam, who had been captured by Bridges at the time of Cliff’s death.

The resolution significantly heightened the emotional impact of the game’s conclusion, marking Unger’s long-awaited reunion with Sam. It’s a touching ending, and introducing Unger again might seem insincere. Instead, it would be more rewarding for players to encounter a fresh character that enriches Sam’s narrative; avoid resurrecting something they’ve previously experienced.

4. Heartman

Not Getting His Family Back

Another interesting story that saw Heartman reach a fitting conclusion
His story fits the original story perfectly

In the thrilling world of the initial game I was immersed in, Heartman was another unforgettable character I encountered. His unique condition left him lifeless for three minutes every 21, only to be revived by an AED, creating these brief yet poignant moments. During those moments when my own consciousness waned, he would journey to the tranquil Beach, seeking solace and hopefully reuniting with his loved ones who were cruelly taken in the voidouts.

In my gaming world, as I find myself at a crossroads, I come to terms with the fact that I can’t reclaim what was lost – my family. Instead, I choose to channel my energy into the here and now. It was quite poignant how the game delved into the essence of The Beach and the shared grief experienced by its inhabitants. This particular storyline fits perfectly in the first installment, and if the sequel intends to forge a new path, then perhaps it’s time for Heartman to stay put.

5. Bridget Strand

The Catalyst Of The Story Should Stay Behind

Her identity as a puppet of sorts should be the end of her story
She was a catalyst for Sam to begin his journey, nothing more

In the beginning, it was Bridget Strand who ignited my journey, persuading me to traverse the country in search of rescuing her daughter, Amelie. Just following this life-altering event, Bridget took her final breath, leaving behind a mystery about her true identity – a revelation that later unveiled she was none other than Amelie herself. This heart-wrenching disclosure not only set my adventure in motion but also marked the irreversible departure of Bridget from this world.

Bridget’s tale has reached its end, as it wasn’t particularly extensive from the start. Considering players are aware that she was merely a vessel for the sixth extinction entity, it would seem odd for her to reappear again. Instead, attention is now centered on Amelie, who embodies that entity; Bridget has lost significance.

6. Die-Hardman

Let Him Wallow

His arc was a tragic story with an end that fits his actions
Let another character take his spot

In the initial game, it became clear that Die-Hardman was a rather tragic figure. Players uncovered the fact that he had not only worked alongside Cliff Unger but also played a part in Unger’s death and the subsequent concealment of this fact. By the end of the game, he stands as a shattered individual, grappling with his past deeds and inner demons.

It’s best that his story remains concluded. There’s no need for players to witness his demise or transformation; simply keeping Die-Hardman in a state of perpetual torment due to his actions seems fitting. Introducing new characters instead of prolonging this arc would be more appealing.

7. Wandering MC

A Fun Cameo, Nothing More

Seeing Conan in the game was a fun thing, but had no substance
Bringing him back would be beating a dead horse

It was quite entertaining to stumble upon television host Conan O’Brien, a renowned late-night figure, making a surprise appearance in the initial game. His presence added a touch of humor for players who happened to come across him within the game world. However, his cameo wasn’t particularly profound and didn’t impact or influence the overall progression of the game.

If this character were to reappear, it might seem out of place and contrived. It wouldn’t seem organic and could instead appear as an attempt to reintroduce his character artificially. Perhaps it’s best to leave the cameo in its original game and not bring him back.

8. The Chiral Artist

Found Love In A Hopeless Place

Finding love with the Junk Dealer should be it for her
A nice side story that was just that

In “The Chiral Artist,” Sam aided the protagonist in finding her romantic interest, the enigmatic Junk Dealer. As the narrative unfolded, it became apparent that the Junk Dealer had a part in the protagonist’s parents’ demise, which ultimately caused them to momentarily part ways before reconciling.

This tale beautifully illustrated love thriving even in a dismal setting, providing a welcome respite from the melancholy that suffuses the game. In essence, it’s perfect as it is; allow them to enjoy their happiness without introducing any further conflicts for them to surmount.

2025-02-13 08:35