Death Stranding 2 system requirements are good news for gamers trapped between aging PCs and skyrocketing hardware prices, and there's even a 'portable preset' for playing on handhelds
PC Gamer
by Andy Chalk February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Death Stranding 2’s PC system requirements are good news for gamers with aging hardware or limited budgets, offering a relatively accessible experience while still allowing for optimizations. The minimum specs require a 64-bit OS (Windows 10/11), 16GB of RAM, an Intel Core i3-10100 or AMD Ryzen 3 3100 processor, and either an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 or AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT GPU. While the game demands a hefty 150GB of SSD storage, its flexibility in performance settings ensures it can run smoothly on lower-end systems at 1080p and 30fps, though better hardware will naturally enhance visuals and frame rates.
The game also introduces a "portable preset" for handheld devices, hinting at potential compatibility with devices like the Steam Deck. Port developer Nixxes has included various upscaling technologies—such as Nvidia DLSS 4, AMD FSR4, Intel XESS 2, and Guerrilla’s Pico upscaling—to help players maximize performance without sacrificing visual fidelity. These tools allow for dynamic resolution scaling and frame generation across supported GPUs, catering to a wide range of hardware setups.
For those with high-end systems, Death Stranding 2 offers a "very high" preset at 4K/60fps, requiring an Nvidia RTX 4080 or AMD RX 9070 XT GPU, paired with a powerful CPU and ample storage. The game’s PC version also supports ultrawide displays, including the ability to play in 21:9 aspect ratio on 16:9 monitors—a feature that will also be added to the PS5 version. These options, combined with flexible performance settings, make Death Stranding 2 a versatile title for both casual and hardcore gamers.
The release of Death Stranding 2 on PC marks an important moment in gaming, offering players affordable entry points while catering to high-end hardware enthusiasts. Its system requirements and features emphasize accessibility and adaptability,
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Originally published on PC Gamer on 2/24/2026
