Read this Death Stranding guide to find out if there is combat in the game. Including the combat gameplay features, using weapons, & sneaking around, and more!
Table of Contents
Useful Articles To Know Death Stranding
Is There Combat In Death Stranding?
Combat Focuses On Restraining Or Avoiding

Yes, there is combat in Death Stranding. However, the focus of the game is not to defeat enemies but to avoid or restrain them so you can go about your mission's objectives.
Avoid Human Combat To Prevent Cargo Damage

Since the goal of the game is to deliver precious cargo to various locations, damaging them will be detrimental to your objectives. This is why combat is supposed to be generally avoided.
Check Out What Is Cargo Here!BT Fights Lead To Another Area

When you encounter BTs or Beached Things, it's best to avoid them or use special maneuvers like holding your breath so they won't be alerted of your presence. If they find you, you'll be dragged into another area for a fight.
Check Out How To Deal With BTs!Change Difficulty If Combat Is Hard
In Death Stranding, you can choose between 4 difficulty settings - Very Easy, Easy, Normal, and Hard. If you're having a hard time dealing with Mules and BTs, adjusting the difficulty can help you progress the story.
Check Out Difficulty Settings Here!How Does Combat Gameplay Work?
Scan Area For Enemy Location & Headcount

The best way to start or avoid combat is to know where your enemies are and how many you'll need to face. This can be done by scanning the area before exploring.
Drop Cargo Or Lessen It To Avoid Being Spotted

Once you have a better view of the location or area you want to explore, drop the cargo you are carrying a distance away from the fight. This prevents damage to your cargo when delivering it.
Check Out What Is Cargo Here!Restrain Human Enemies With Weapons & Gadgets

Weapons such as the Bola Gun & the Strand, a sort of rope, can be used to restrain foes. Doing so will not cause them harm and will let you go about your business without any disturbance.
Check Out The Weapons List Here!Hand-To-Hand Combat To Down Human Foes

When you're close enough to an enemy, you'll get prompts on how to move in hand-to-hand combat. Knocking foes down will prevent them from attacking you but be careful of damaging your cargo.
Sneak Past Or Keep Away From BTs

When you encounter BTs, follow your button prompts to keep them from being alerted of your presence. You can also use weapons against them but it's best to sneak past or stay away from them.
Bola Gun Can Be Used On BTs

Sam has a unique property in his bodily fluids that can be used against BTs. You can use the Bola Gun to keep them restrained and away from you.
BTs Can Drag You Into Other Area

If you get caught in the clutches of the BTs, you'll be dragged off into another location to face a dangerous foes. Unless you're prepared to face the monster, it's recommended to keep away from BTs.
Use Vehicles To Make Quick Escape

If you're overwhelmed by enemies, locate a near vehicle to make a quick escape. This ensures that you'll keep your cargo integrity intact.
Check Out All Vehicle List!