Death Stranding 2: On the Beach by Kojima Productions finally releases on June 26, 2025, on the PlayStation 5. Eager fans around the world can’t help but await the official launch time. Sony’s confirmed a worldwide launch at the same time – i.e., the title releases at midnight in each region’s time zone. In real time, we’re talking about a 4:00 AM UTC launch on June 26 (midnight for New York City). Below, we detail the exact launch time by region, plus key details on editions, preload, and fan hype leading up to launch day.
Release Date and Global Launch Timings
Kojima Productions and Sony have officially revealed that Death Stranding 2 launches on June 26, 2025. The standard edition launches at 12:00 AM local time for each region (equivalent to 4:00 AM UTC on the 26th). In real terms, that means:
|
Region |
Time Zone |
Local Release Time |
Release Date |
|---|---|---|---|
|
New York, USA |
EDT (UTC–4) |
12:00 AM |
Thu, June 26, 2025 |
|
Los Angeles, USA |
PDT (UTC–7) |
9:00 PM |
Wed, June 25, 2025 |
|
London, UK |
BST (UTC+1) |
5:00 AM |
Thu, June 26, 2025 |
|
Berlin, Germany |
CEST (UTC+2) |
6:00 AM |
Thu, June 26, 2025 |
|
Mumbai, India |
IST (UTC+5:30) |
9:30 AM |
Thu, June 26, 2025 |
|
Tokyo, Japan |
JST (UTC+9) |
1:00 PM |
Thu, June 26, 2025 |
|
Sydney, Australia |
AEST (UTC+10) |
2:00 PM |
Thu, June 26, 2025 |
These are the official launch dates based on Sony’s global rollout schedule. Sam Bridges navigates the outback of Australia in Death Stranding 2: On the Beach. Globally, the game launches at midnight local time on June 26 (see table above for details by region).
Platform-Specific Release Times
- Preorders & Preload: Preorders for Death Stranding 2 opened in mid-March 2025. Preload on PS5 was formally announced by Sony. Preordering lets gamers download the game in advance and have it right at their fingertips on launch day. (Check in the PlayStation Store and in your PS5’s library for the preload button.)
- Early Access Editions: Both the Collector’s and Digital Deluxe versions include a 48-hour early access. In essence, those who buy those versions can start playing on June 24, 2025.
- Physical vs. Digital: The digital versions will automatically be released on the dates above. Physical disc copies should start working at local time midnight (retailer varies), or you can install from disc when you get it. In either case, be on the lookout for a similar schedule.
- Console Requirements: Death Stranding 2: On the Beach is a PS5 exclusive title (not launching on PS4 or PC at launch time). That game does have PlayStation 5 Pro Enhanced features, meaning improved graphics and performance on PS5 Pro hardware. Beyond that, the launch date does not change for any of the PS5 consoles.
Digital Deluxe Edition unveiling for Death Stranding 2.
Both the Deluxe and Collector’s editions are bundled with a 48-hour early play time and additional in-game content bonuses. Standard edition players have to wait for the official June 26 release at local time midnight.
Launch Countdown and Fan Reaction
With the date finalized, excitement is gathering at a rapid pace. Sony and Kojima Productions have had a countdown on streaming and social media services to keep fans’ eyes focused on the fact that Death Stranding 2 is almost here. Official PlayStation pages published a one-week countdown promo video, and Kojima took to Twitter to hype the launch. Meanwhile, fan communities across Twitter, Discord, Reddit, and streaming platforms are buzzing. Memes, fan art, and theory videos are spreading as players anticipate returning to Sam Bridges’ world. Many fans are planning launch-day livestreams, watch parties, or simply refreshing the store at midnight. The overall reaction is overwhelmingly positive – after years of hype, gamers can’t wait to finally play the official release on June 26 (and early on June 24 if they have a Deluxe/Collector edition). Countdown (UTC+0):
Fragile (and her Dollman companion) await adventure in Death Stranding 2. Fans on social media are sharing screenshots, fan art, and countdowns as the global launch day draws near.
Final Checklist Before Launch
Make sure you’re ready to hit the ground running on launch day! Here’s a quick checklist:
- Pre-order & Preload: Ensure you’ve pre-ordered your preferred edition (especially if you want early access). Download the game in advance via the PlayStation Store so it’s fully installed by launch.
- Console Updates: Update your PS5 to the latest system software before June 26. This avoids last-minute updates or patches when the game goes live.
- Free Up Space: Death Stranding 2 is a large next-gen game. Clear enough storage space on your console so the install goes smoothly, even if you have to download updates.
- Internet & Power: A stable internet connection is needed at startup (for any launch-day updates and online features). Charge your DualSense controller or plug it in to avoid low-battery interruptions.
- Time Zone Check: Double-check your local launch time (see table above) and set an alarm if you plan to play right at midnight.
- PlayStation Plus (Optional): PS Plus isn’t required to play Death Stranding 2 (it only has asynchronous online features), but make sure your PSN account is set up if you use it.
- Enjoy the Journey: Watch or listen to the official soundtrack, trailers, or recap of the first game to get pumped. Everything is set – the final stretch is all hype and anticipation!
