Beyond Death Stranding 2: This Week’s Must-Play Lineup

It’s hard to open any gaming forum or scroll through social feeds this week without seeing one title above all others: Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Hideo Kojima’s follow-up to his divisive 2019 adventure has fans buzzing, but the late-June release calendar is richer than a single blockbuster. From tense co-op puzzles to a landmark sci-fi horror remaster and bite-sized mobile RPGs, there’s a lot worth exploring beyond Kojima’s latest spectacle.

Death Stranding 2: Why It Matters

When the original Death Stranding arrived, its unconventional “package delivery” gameplay and film-style presentation split players—but it undeniably pushed narrative-driven design into new territory. With On the Beach, Kojima Productions appears to be amplifying that ambition. Trailers hint at expanded traversal mechanics, deeper combat encounters and more of the surreal storytelling beats that earned the first game both admiration and eye-rolls. Whether you loved or loathed the original, this sequel seems poised to spark fresh debates on what AAA storytelling can achieve.

Other Standouts You Can’t Ignore

• How 2 Escape: Lost Submarine – This indie co-op puzzle game builds on the “one player sees, one player acts” formula popularized by We Were Here and similar titles. Expect tight communication challenges as you guide teammates through a sinking vessel.
• System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster – Originally launched in 1999, this seminal sci-fi horror/title influenced a generation of immersive sims. Nightdive Studios’ update brings modern visuals, quality-of-life improvements and controller support, making it accessible for newcomers and a nostalgia trip for veterans.
• Persona 5: The Phantom X – Atlus’ mobile spin-off aims to capture the turn-based combat and stylish storytelling of the main series in bite-sized encounters. Fans of Japanese RPGs will want to see how the Phantom Thieves operate on handheld screens.
• Marvel Mystic Mayhem – This casual action title offers quick, touch-friendly battles featuring characters from the Marvel Universe. Ideal for on-the-go sessions when you need a superhero fix in minutes.

Release Window and Platforms at a Glance

Title	Release Window	Platforms
Death Stranding 2: On the Beach	Late June 2024	PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, PC
How 2 Escape: Lost Submarine	Late June 2024	PC, Consoles
System Shock 2: 25th Anniversary Remaster	Late June 2024	PC, Consoles
Persona 5: The Phantom X	Late June 2024	iOS, Android
Marvel Mystic Mayhem	Late June 2024	iOS, Android

Balancing Blockbuster Hype with Hidden Gems

Big-budget releases like Death Stranding 2 will dominate conversations, but weeks this stacked are a chance to diversify your playlist. Devote time to Kojima’s latest vision, but carve out just a few hours for an under-the-radar puzzle, a piece of gaming history or a quick mobile diversion. You’ll come away with fresh perspectives—and plenty to discuss at your next gaming session.