Kinda Funny Gamescast: Death Stranding Review (2025)
Release Date: May 21, 2025
Introduction
In the May 21, 2025 episode of Kinda Funny Gamescast: Video Game Podcast, hosts Tim Gettys, Greg “GameOverGreggy” Miller, Blessing Adeoye, and Andy Cortez delve deeply into their experiences and insights surrounding the highly anticipated release of Death Stranding 2. The episode focuses primarily on their comprehensive marathon stream of the original Death Stranding game, providing listeners with an in-depth analysis of both gameplay and narrative elements.
The Death Stranding Marathon Stream
The podcast kicks off with Tim and Greg reminiscing about their extensive marathon stream dedicated to playing Death Stranding. The hosts recount their commitment to completing the game live, emphasizing the unique challenge of syncing their in-game actions with physical activity—namely, Tim walking on a treadmill to mirror Sam Porter Bridges' deliveries within the game.
Tim shares the initial skepticism they faced from fans who believed he hadn't played the game since its original release in 2019:
"People are like, you didn't play this in 2019, Roger. I couldn't with everybody else." ([00:40])
Despite these doubts, the hosts highlight their dedication to bringing fresh perspectives to the game years after its debut, aiming to rekindle interest and provide valuable content ahead of the sequel’s release.
Gameplay Mechanics and Storyline
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the core mechanics and storytelling of Death Stranding. Greg praises the game's open-world design and the freedom it offers players:
"It's a true open world, and you choose how you want to go and attack it." ([14:20])
Both hosts explore the innovative features such as building roads, using ziplines, and the integration of online elements where players can interact indirectly by utilizing structures built by others. This aspect not only enhances the gameplay experience but also reinforces the game's central theme of connection.
Greg reflects on his initial reluctance to engage with the game's slower pace but eventually appreciating its depth:
"I did play it, and I said, I love this game." ([01:30])
Tim echoes Greg's sentiments, emphasizing the sandbox nature of the game and how it caters to their content creation style:
"It's the ultimate sandbox of go. Whatever you want to do." ([14:20])
Characters and Story Insights
The hosts delve into the intricate character development and narrative arcs that Death Stranding offers. They highlight the performances of key characters, particularly Mads Mikkelsen's portrayal of Die Hardman and Heartman’s poignant backstory.
Greg expresses admiration for Heartman's character:
"Heart Man's my guy, for sure. I could watch an entire movie about Heartman." ([29:34])
Tim delves into the emotional depth of characters like Fragile and Mama, discussing their tragic backstories and how they contribute to the overarching narrative of isolation and connection:
"They have created this world that feels so effortless." ([19:03])
The conversation also touches upon the game's thematic exploration of connection, loss, and the human condition, reinforcing why the game resonated deeply with both hosts.
Criticisms and Ratings
While the hosts are largely enthusiastic about Death Stranding, they do voice specific criticisms. Greg points out pacing issues and moments where the narrative felt repetitive:
"He over explained a lot of things that I don't think we needed to." ([28:22])
Both Tim and Greg discuss the integration of traditional boss fights into what is essentially a walking simulator, expressing that these segments felt out of place and detracted from the game’s unique appeal:
"Boss fights are not very good. They became a chore." ([42:40])
Despite these critiques, the overall ratings reflect a high level of appreciation. Greg assigns the game a 9 out of 10, citing its innovative design and emotional storytelling:
"Death Stranding a nine out of ten. Capital A Amazing game." ([55:01])
Tim concurs with a slightly lower but still positive rating of 8.59 out of 10, commending Kojima's unique vision and the game's ability to offer a memorable experience:
"It's a great Kojima title that I love and I will think about forever." ([56:49])
Food Marathon
A unique and entertaining segment of the podcast covers the extensive food ordered during their marathon stream. The hosts humorously rank their culinary choices, sharing both successes and culinary missteps.
-
Chili's
Roger crowns Chili's as the top contender, praising the variety and taste despite a minor hiccup with the sliders arriving "butt naked" ([62:15]). -
Red Robin
Coming in second, Red Robin received mixed reviews. While the burgers were too greasy and underwhelming, the inclusion of classic items like egg rolls was appreciated:
"Red Robin is above Denny's, below Chili's." ([68:31])
- Denny's
Ranked third, Denny's was marked down due to the disappointing experience with their Grand Slam breakfast:
"The Grand Slam was a totally 4 out of 10." ([65:11])
- Corn Dogs
The least favored, corn dogs were criticized for poor execution and lackluster taste, despite creative attempts to enhance them:
"It should be the dog surrounded by cheese. That's a true half and half." ([69:50])
The food ranking segment not only provided humor but also highlighted the challenges of sustaining such a long streaming session.
Audience Interactions and Future Content
Interacting with their passionate audience, Tim and Greg responded to super chats and viewer comments, encouraging fans to engage with future content surrounding Death Stranding 2. They announced plans to dissect the sequel’s trailers in-depth and explore additional lore to better prepare for its release:
"We will make that a separate piece of content. Sometime between now and Death Stranding 2, me and Roger will sit down and kind of go frame by frame." ([71:11])
Additionally, they teased future marathon streams and potential new game content, maintaining an engaging and community-focused approach.
Conclusion
Wrapping up the episode, Greg and Tim reiterated their enthusiasm for Death Stranding despite its minor flaws. They expressed anticipation for the sequel and the continued exploration of Kojima’s evolving universe. The hosts emphasized the memorable experiences shared during their marathon stream, both in gameplay and in camaraderie, solidifying Death Stranding as a standout title in their gaming repertoire.
"Playing through this with you, Roger, was an experience, right? I really love the idea of this game." ([56:50])
As they sign off, the anticipation for Death Stranding 2 remains high, promising more engaging discussions and in-depth reviews in future podcast episodes.
Note: All quotes are attributed with their respective timestamps for reference and context.