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InDeath Stranding,the boss fights that Sam encountered, even on the highest difficulty level, were often incredible visual set-pieces that put spectacle above challenge. This was not a bad thing, as it was clearly a well-planned design choice by Kojima Productions. However, inDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach,many of the boss fights are meant to provide a considerable challenge, especially when playing at the Brutal difficulty level. This is apparent from the moment Sam faces the Giant BT, and continues into thegiant red mechanical octopus/squid –we eventually learn it’scalled theKraken Ghost Mech– which is the focus of this guide. Here, we’ll show you how to use the limited resources Sam has available todefeat the Kraken Ghost Mech inDeath Stranding 2: On the Beach.
How to Beat the Kraken Ghost Mech in DS2
Encountering the Kraken Ghost Mech:
TheKraken Ghost Mechis an early-game boss that feels like it could exist both in the world ofDeath Stranding,and the world of Hideo Kojima’s other legendary franchise,Metal Gear Solid.It is especially reminiscent of a very particular era of Kojima bosses, when specific components could be targeted and destroyed. This mechanic is central to theKraken boss fight.
You’ll encounter the Kraken Ghost Mech duringOrder 12: Investigate the Unusual Tar Currents near F1.This order begins at the Musician, and ends outside West Fort Knot, which is known as F1. As you approach the fort, you’ll see strange plumes and drops of tar rising up towards the sky. Be careful not to approach until you are 100% ready for the fight.
The Kraken Ghost Mech is significantly harder whenplaying on Brutal difficulty. We fought it at this level, and were killed by a single attack more than once. If you are playing at this difficulty level, plan to bring plenty of Blood Packs and Cryptobiotes.
Kraken Ghost Mech – Weak Spots:
You’ll notice as soon as the Kraken is revealed, that several parts of its body are marked with orange light. Specifically, the orbs that act as points of articulation on the Kraken’s tentacles, the two larger orbs that are found on the underside of the body, and the light that acts as a face. These are all the key weak points Sam should aim for. Successfully hitting these areas will cause significantly more damage.
With the tentacles specifically, you may cause serious damage by destroying the orbs. The best way to do this is with a shotgun. Assault rifles, while capable of holding far more ammo, are much weaker overall. WIth only a few well-placed shots, we were able to destroy several tentacles.
Kraken Ghost Mech – Defense:
While the Kraken’s main attack is to simply flail its tentacles, it has a few special attacks that are heavily telegraphed. The first is a massive three-arm slam or swipe. You’ll know this is coming when you see the Kraken lift three of its tentacles in perfect unison. When it occurs, pay close attention to the timing of the swipe, as it can be hard to get right.
When it swings its arms towards you, you’ll need toDodge.Dodging inDeath Stranding 2will be your primary defense against attacks. To perform a dodge/evasion, hold down L2 with a weapon equipped, then press X, and use the stick to point you’d like to dodge towards.
The Kraken is also capable of holding itself up on its tentacles, pointing the back end of its body towards the sky, then slamming its body down into the ground. When this occurs, make sure to dodge at the last second once again. Dodging truly is the answer to most attacks here. When the body slams into the ground, it will sit still for several moments, leaving it vulnerable to attack.
Kraken Ghost Mech Fight Prep – Death Stranding 2
Because the Kraken fight takes place at the end of an order, you’ll have to ensure you’re prepared for it before you leave the Musician. You can find items along the way, but it’s better to bring what you can with you when you leave. If you prepare properly, you won’t need to bring too much.
Before accepting Order 12, attempt to reach the three-star connection level with the Musician. This will unlock the Shotgun [MP] Lv2, which is the best early weapon to use against the Kraken, in our experience. If you do not want to take the time to unlock this weapon, the Shotgun [MP] Lv1 will suffice.
Backpack:
Consider using these Backpack Customization options, at minimum:
Bringing as much extra ammo as you can will enable you to bring fewer weapons. If you attach more than two, you can bring a single shotgun to last you the entire fight.
APAS Enhancements:
At this point in the game, you won’t have a huge range of combat skills to choose from, but there are a couple that will help. There is a skill from the Porter section. Use the following:
With these items, you should be more than prepared to take on the Kraken Ghost Mech.
